Information
Landmark: Genting HighlandsCity: Pahang
Country: Malaysia
Continent: Asia
Genting Highlands is a popular hill resort located in the state of Pahang, Malaysia, about 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) above sea level. Known for its cool climate, entertainment options, and scenic beauty, Genting Highlands has been a favorite getaway for both locals and tourists for decades. The resort is often referred to as the "City of Entertainment" due to its range of attractions, which include casinos, theme parks, shopping malls, and restaurants.
Overview
- Location: Genting Highlands is situated about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur, making it easily accessible by car or bus. The drive from Kuala Lumpur takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour via the Genting Highlands Highway.
- Climate: The highlands enjoy a cool, temperate climate year-round, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This makes it a refreshing retreat from the heat of the lowlands.
Major Attractions in Genting Highlands
1. Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park
- One of the newest attractions in Genting Highlands is the Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, an outdoor theme park offering a wide range of rides and attractions for all ages. The park features various themed zones inspired by popular movies and characters, providing visitors with a fun and immersive experience.
- Some key highlights include:
- Movie-themed rides: Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides based on popular movie franchises.
- Interactive shows: The park offers live performances and interactive shows that are perfect for families.
- Roller coasters and simulators: For adrenaline seekers, the park has roller coasters and motion simulators.
2. Resorts World Genting
- Resorts World Genting is the heart of Genting Highlands, featuring a large integrated resort that combines accommodation, entertainment, dining, and shopping.
- Genting Casino: One of the main attractions is the Genting Casino, one of the largest in Malaysia. It offers a range of table games, slot machines, and poker for those looking for entertainment in a luxurious setting.
- Hotels: The resort has a wide range of accommodations, including luxurious options such as the Genting Grand Hotel and more affordable hotels like First World Hotel, which boasts the title of the world's largest hotel by the number of rooms.
- Shopping and Dining: The resort features multiple shopping malls, such as SkyAvenue Mall, and a variety of restaurants offering everything from local delicacies to international cuisines.
3. Chin Swee Caves Temple
- A prominent landmark in Genting Highlands, the Chin Swee Caves Temple is located on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The temple is dedicated to Chin Swee, a Chinese deity believed to protect people from evil forces and natural disasters.
- The temple is also known for its large statue of Buddha and its 9-story pagoda. It’s a peaceful and spiritual spot to visit, with serene surroundings perfect for meditation and reflection.
4. Awana SkyWay Cable Car
- The Awana SkyWay Cable Car is one of the most exciting ways to reach the peak of Genting Highlands. The cable car ride offers spectacular views of the rainforests and mountainous terrain.
- The journey from the base station to the Genting SkyStation takes around 10 minutes.
- There are glass-floor cabins available for an even more thrilling experience, allowing passengers to see the forest canopy below.
5. Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm
- For a more nature-oriented experience, visitors can explore the Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm, located near the peak. The farm offers strawberry picking, where visitors can pick their own fresh strawberries directly from the plants.
- The farm also has a café where visitors can enjoy strawberry-based treats such as strawberry ice cream, strawberry jam, and strawberry cakes.
6. Snow World
- Snow World is an indoor attraction in Resorts World Genting, providing a winter wonderland experience in the tropical climate of Malaysia. The facility features snow sculptures, ice slides, and snowball fights, making it a popular spot for families and children.
7. The VOID (VR Experience)
- For those interested in virtual reality (VR) experiences, The VOID offers a cutting-edge, immersive VR adventure where visitors can experience thrilling simulations and futuristic environments. It's a great activity for tech enthusiasts and those looking for a different type of entertainment.
Shopping and Dining
1. SkyAvenue Mall
- SkyAvenue Mall is a major shopping center in Resorts World Genting that features an extensive range of international and local brands, boutiques, and stores. Visitors can find everything from high-end fashion to electronic gadgets, accessories, and souvenirs.
- The mall also offers a variety of dining options, with both fine dining restaurants and casual eateries. Visitors can enjoy a range of cuisines, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western dishes.
2. Genting Premium Outlets
- For bargain hunters, Genting Premium Outlets offers a selection of outlet stores selling discounted products from well-known international brands. The shopping experience here is perfect for those looking to purchase high-quality goods at lower prices.
How to Get There
1. By Car
- Genting Highlands is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Kuala Lumpur, and visitors can easily reach it by car. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, and the road is well-maintained with clear signage. The Genting Highlands Highway is the main route to the resort.
- Visitors can also park at various points around Resorts World Genting and the surrounding attractions.
2. By Bus
- There are regular buses that travel from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands. The bus journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and buses are available from terminals such as KL Sentral and Titiwangsa. The buses stop at Awana Station, where visitors can take the Awana SkyWay cable car up to the resort.
3. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing
- Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available for those who prefer a more direct and comfortable option. The fare from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands typically costs around RM 80-100 one way, depending on the location and traffic.
Why Visit Genting Highlands?
- Entertainment for All Ages: Genting Highlands offers a wide range of entertainment options, from exciting theme parks and casinos to shopping malls and virtual reality experiences.
- Cool Climate: The cool, refreshing climate of the highlands provides a welcome escape from the heat of the lowlands, making it a popular destination year-round.
- Scenic Beauty: The resort is located amidst lush forests and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal place for nature lovers.
- Family-Friendly: With a variety of attractions, including theme parks, strawberry farms, and indoor snow experiences, Genting Highlands is an ideal destination for families.
- Convenient Location: It is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway.
Conclusion
Genting Highlands offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, shopping, or dining. With its combination of cool climate, scenic views, and an array of entertainment options, it’s no wonder that Genting Highlands remains one of Malaysia’s most popular hill resorts. Whether you're visiting for a theme park experience, a casino getaway, or simply to enjoy the fresh air and nature, Genting Highlands is a destination that provides endless possibilities for fun and relaxation.