Best Historical Places in Malaysia is something that will show you and teach you a completely unique site of this country. But don’t think these historical places will only teach you about history! These remarkable places are not only rich with history but also have elegant architecture and archaeology.
What makes Malaysia a favourite is because of its blend of different cultures and traditions from all over the world that it acquired ages ago. That’s what makes Malaysia’s historical places so special and spectacular. These historical destinations will speak to you about the past as well as the present of this country.
If you have enthusiasm about history and architecture, then these 16 Best Historical Places in Malaysia is certainly for you.
The 16 Best Historical Places in Malaysia
1. St. Paul’s Church
Located at the hilltop of St. Paul’s hill, the St. Paul’s church was built by the Portuguese as a place of worship. After the Dutch invaded Malacca, it was turned into a burial ground. It was built in 1521 and is the oldest church in Southeast Asia.
After 5 century, what remains of the church are its walls with engraved tombstones, St.Francis Xavier’s statue and a bell tower. Even though what remains of the church are its ruins, it continues to harbour its classic architectural features.
There are souvenir stores located near St. Paul’s church complex, which is mostly crowded by tourists that want little trinkets for their visit to the church. Activities for tourists may vary from clicking pictures to taking a stroll around the church.
Address: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Malacca
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Entry fees: Free
2. Bukit Cina
Malaysia’s history is heavily influenced by different cultures from all around the world. And Bukit Cina is an example of that. Also known as the Chinese Hill, Bukit Cina is a cemetery that stretches over 3 hills. It is a vast cemetery that is the largest and oldest burial ground of Melacca’s Chinese community outside of China, with over 12,500 graves.
According to facts, this property was a wedding gift by the Sultan of Malacca, Sultan Mansur Shah, to his daughter. In the later years, it became a Chinese dominated region. Although primarily a graveyard for the Chinese community, it also includes 20 Muslim tombs. This is a sign of the rich culture that was present and still is present in Malaysia. Melaka has been listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical sites like Bukit China.
Whilst it is a cemetery, it is also an excellent place to take a walk or even exercise. The cemetery is surrounded by woods and a serene natural setting to calm your mood. And if you continue walking a little bit more, you’ll see the Melaka river, which is less than 1 km away. The river holds a transcendent beauty because of its scenic view. The locals suggest a cruise ride through the river to witness more of its beauty.
Address: Jalan Puteri Hang Li Poh, Bukit Cina, 75100 Melaka
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Entry fees: Free
3. Melaka Sultanate Palace
A tour of historical places is incomplete without visiting a palace. Melaka Sultanate Palace is a historical gem in Malaysia. Although it is a replica of the original 15th-century palace of Sultan Mansur Shah, it continues to bear the same majestic demeanour as the original one. The original palace was destroyed after it was struck by lightning shortly after Sultan Mansur Shah took over the throne.
The replica of the palace was built again in 1985 as a museum. It was built with the traditional techniques and building materials that were taken from a text of the 16th-century. Unlike the original palace, the wooden replica was built without any nails. Even so, the palace still carries the striking look that it had earlier.
The museum houses many antique artefacts, traditional costumes, weapons, jewellery and art. These items depict the 15th-century era and its culture. The museum has three galleries that depict the local legends through dioramas. The sculpture of the sultan’s headdress is amajor depiction of 15th-century art and is one of the major highlights of the museum.
Other than the museum, the garden also holds a mystical view. It’s breezy and beautiful, with the palace in the background. Imagine how the pictures will turn out to be once you come and visit the palace !!
Address: Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka
Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 09:00 am-06:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
Entry fees: RM3.00 (locals) | RM5.00 (foreigners) | RM2.00 (children)
4. Kampung Kling Mosque
Kampung Kling Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia. It is situated in Jalak Tukang Emas, most commonly called “Harmony Street” because of the street’s coexistence of temples and mosques. It is an 18th-century mosque with a mixture of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Arabic architecture. The mosque is a triple-tiered pyramid-like building.
It was first built in wood and later rebuilt with bricks. The mesmerising architecture also shows hints of modern designs. The influence of so much architecture makes the mosque one of its kind.
The mosque’s history is heavily influenced by so many cultures. In fact, it was named after the neighbourhood’s history with the Southern Indians that were called Klings in Malay.
The mosque provides robes for both men and women; it is required to put them before entering the mosque. Even a guide is provided to keep visitors company by informing them more about the history of the Kampung Kling Mosque.
Address: Jalan Tukang Emas, Melaka 75200
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours. Best to visit in the morning and afternoon
Entry fees: Free
5. Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Kuala Lumpur
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is one of the most famous historical places that anyone can ever visit in Malaysia. Located in the famed Chinatown area of Kuala Lumpur, it is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur.
The temple was heavily influenced by Dravidian architecture. The temple is considered a symbol of the divine power of God and is believed to radiate positive energy. The Tamil worshipped Goddess Mariamman, and it is their belief that she acts as their protector in an unknown land.
The temple is rich in Indian and Hindu culture. The temple showcases its rich culture during the festivals of Diwali and Thaipusam, in which there is a long procession to the Batu Caves carrying containers of milk to offer to Lord Muruga. It is an example of the encouragement of multiple cultures in Malaysia.
Address: Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Daily 06:30 am-12:00 pm | 04:00 pm-09:00 pm
Entry fees: Free
6. Penang Snake Temple
Previously known as the Temple of the Azure Cloud, Penang Snake Temple is aChinese temple that was built in remembrance of Chor Soo Kong, a Buddhist priest and healer. He was a snake lover and so decided to create a sanctuary for them. The temple wasconstructed in 1805 and is the residence of Wrangler Pit Vipers. These snakes are de-venomed and de-fanged, which makes them totally safe (apparently).
The temple has many interesting features, such as a giant incense burner, whose incense spreads through the main prayer hall and puts various snakes into sleep so that they don’t harm the visitors. It also has a small exhibit area that keeps harmless pythons and cobras. There are also snake shows held every Saturday and Sunday.
Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Bayan Lepas Industrial Park, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: Daily 07:00 am-07:00 pm
Entry fees: Free
7. Kuan Yin Temple
Malaysia never fails to amaze you with its lavish history and culture, and Kuan Yin Temple is an example of that. The temple was built by Chinese immigrants in honor of Kuan Yin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy. According to legends, the Goddess of Mercy had a very tragic life until she was turned into a goddess.
The temple carries a dignified Chinese styled structure. And why shouldn’t it? After all, a total sum of 4,000 Spanish dollars was invested in building that temple. Even though the temple has been rebuilt twice, once in 1895and then again in 1982, the temple didn’t let go of its majestic appearance. The royal structures captivated its visitors every time they visited.
The deities are presented in one single hall so that visitors can see all of them together. It’s easier that way for visitors. The Chinese New Year is the most celebrated festival here, and the crowd is proof of that. The temple has food stalls so that visitors can take a break and eat after spending their time in the temple.
Address: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: Daily 05:00 am-06:00 pm
Entry fees: Free
8. Hang Tuah’s Well
Malay history isn’t only about cultures; it’s also about many notable legends and stories. Hang Tuah’s story is one such. Hang Tuah was a brave and extremely loyal warrior. He had built a well for his personal use. It is believed that after he died, his spirit returned in the form of a white crocodile that supposedly lives in the well.
The crocodile isn’t visible to everyone but only to those that have a kind and pure heart. The well has also seemingly grown in size and supposedly has healing powers.
The place may be known for its magical well, but it does have several shops and eateries where visitors can buy souvenirs and also snack on something while touring around the village.
Address: Kampung Duyong, 75430 Malacca
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Entry fees: Free
9. The A’Famosa Fortress
The Portugueses’ influence in the Malay culture didn’t stop itself into only St. Paul’s Church. They also influenced the A’Famosa Fortress. The fortress is one of the oldest surviving European architecture in Southeast Asia.
The Portuguese had built it in 1511 to collect their rewards and as a shelter. Soon the fort was expanded and turned into a colony for the Portuguese. When the fort landed in the hands of the British, they decided to demolish it, but thankfully, they re-thought and decided to not demolish a few parts of the fort and later, it was renovated.
The fort is mostly visited by avid history lovers who want a glimpse of the exquisite Portuguese architecture.
Address: Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Entry fees: Free
10. Fort Cornwallis
Anyone who visits Malaysia knows that they have to visit Fort Cornwallis at least once. They need to have this place listed on their to-do list. The fort was built in George Town, Penang, to keep the city safe from pirate attacks.
It was built by the British East India Company in the 18th-century and named after the Governor-General of Bengal, Charles Marquis Cornwallis. The Fort was built as a British styled fort, similar to the ones made in India. Visitors will get to see statues, a gunpowder machine, a prison, and a chapel.
Fun fact: You’ll get to see tour guides dressed in historic British dress.
Address: Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinan
Opening hours: Daily 09:00 am-10:00 pm
Entry fees: RM15.00 (Locals) | RM30.00 (Foreigners)
11. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
You are definitely going to miss a huge part of your trip if you don’t visit the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Sultan Abdul Samad Building was built in 1897 to house the British colonial administration. Later on, it went on to serve as the federal court after Malaysia became independent in 1957.
The building stands out because of its distinctiveMoorish architecture. There are Moorish arches, two towers, and a clocktower with copper domes. What’s more striking is that the clocktower has a 1-ton bell that strikes every 30 minutes.
Sultan Abdul Samad Building plays a vital role in Malaysia’s history. It symbolises Malaysia’s independence and shows Malaysia’s strong country as an individual.
Address: Jln Raja, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Entry fees: Free
12. Kellie’s Castle
While all the other historical places that you’re touring have a really interesting history, there’s also Kellie’s Castle for you which has a very spooky and mysterious history. Kellie’s Castle was constructed by William Kellie Smith. He built it as a present to his wife but unfortunate for him as he died while it was still under construction.
Therefore, it has remained incomplete, and nobody made an effort to complete it. The Castle is an absolute beauty. Many movies such as “Anna and the King” and “Skyliners” were filmed in this location. However, its beauty isn’t what makes it mysterious. It has some kind of rumor that this Castle is haunted, but anyone still hasn’t confirmed it. But what harm will it do if you visit it once, even for the sake of the rumor?
Address: 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak
Opening hours: Daily 09:00 am-10:00 pm
Entry fees: RM10.00
13. Cheng Hoong Teng
Thought we were done talking about holy places? Nah. Cheng Hoong Teng is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Although the temple was initially built as a place of worship for the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, it later practiced Confucianism and Taoism.
The craftsmanship of Guangdong and Fujian heavily influences the temple’s architecture. Interestingly, this temple is that, unlike the usual Chinese temples, it does not have images of gods. However, dragons are used to illustrate the gods. The most awesome part of the temple is its curved roof. You’ll be awestruck when you see it in person.
Address: 25, Jalan Tokong, Kampung Dua, 75200 Melaka
Opening hours: Daily 07:00 am-07:00 pm
Entry fees: Free
14. Atkinson Clock Tower
We have talked a lot about Malaysia’s culture. Let’s talk about their famous landmark now. Atkinson Clock Tower is a prominent structure in Jesselton. It was constructed in 1905. Rainforest timbers were used to construct it, and that is what makes it very special.
It was renovated later and now is a favorite among tourists for its picturesque view. What’s remarkable is that it serves to keep the city’s time until today.
Address: Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Entry fees: Free
15. Birch Memorial Tower
You’ll never get tired of knowing that the British had their roles in almost most of the historical places in Malaysia. They have a history behind most of the historical places. As a matter of fact, the Birch Memorial Tower was built by them to commemorate James W.W. Birch.
It is a black and white structure that was built in 1909. The tower’s top portion has four whitewashed figures to represent the four qualities of the British government. There are also murals portraying the forty-four important figures from global histories, such as Shakespeare, Darwin, and many more. Even other than its exquisite history, it is a really good place to take a stroll.
Address: 31650 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: Daily 24/7
Entry fees: Free
16. Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan
You thought the Leaning Tower of Pisa was the only famous one? Hate to break it, but you’re wrong. The Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan is a left slanted 25.5m tall three-story tower. It sports a scenic view because of how evenly it is inclined. And you know what’s more enthralling? It is mostly referred to as TILT (Teluk Intan Leaning Tower). TILT to refer its even tilt.
Address: Lot 1&2, Komplex Menara Condong, Jalan Bandar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak
Opening hours: Daily 08:00 am-05:00 pm
Entry fees: Free
Now that you have an idea about which historical places in Malaysia you can visit make your trip to these places and take a gazillion of pictures to put them on your travel scrapbooks. Or even better, share your stories about visiting these places and pictures with us in the comment section below.