7 Luxurious Activities To Enjoy Along the Essence of Malaysia Route

Malaysia has plenty to offer in the way of luxurious escapes, which you can experience when you travel with the renowned Eastern & Oriental Express on the Essence of Malaysia route.

This luxury sleeper train takes you on a journey through the most beautiful places on Malaysia’s West Coast, from Singapore Woodlands to Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi Island and Penang.

Besides the gorgeous sights, you’ll also be treated to a specially curated itinerary of exciting activities. Keep reading to discover the seven luxurious activities in Malaysia you can’t miss out on if you truly want to experience the Essence of Malaysia.

Dine at Sky Restaurants and Rooftop Bars

The first stop on the route is Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant metropolis and capital city of Malaysia, where you can dine and drink at rooftop bars and restaurants with a stunning panoramic view of the city’s skyline as your backdrop.

Among the most popular spots to hit up here include Marini’s on 57, an Italian restaurant inside the Petronas Towers, and Heli Lounge Bar, a helipad by day and an upscale rooftop bar by night.

Luxury Shopping in Kuala Lumpur’s Sophisticated Malls

Treat yourself to the ultimate shopping experience during your luxury holiday in Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur’s many upscale shopping malls, such as Pavilion KL or Starhill Gallery.

These malls are meccas for high-end designer goods and haute couture boutiques. From luxury beauty to fashion to home goods, they have it all.

Go Island Hopping Around Langkawi Island

Langkawi is another area you’ll pass aboard the Essence of Malaysia journey. This archipelago consists of 99 stunning islands, many of which boast breathtaking white sand and emerald green and deep blue waters. If you love sandy beaches, you simply must book a private island-hopping tour here. It’s one of the best tropical luxury escapes Malaysia has to offer.

Many islands in Langkawi are popular with tourists because of their picture-perfect shores and waters. Pulau Dayang Bunting is known for its pristine freshwater lake, lush greenery and limestone rock formations.

Meanwhile, Pulau Beras Basah is a crowd-favourite for snorkelling and swimming thanks to its crystal-clear blue waters and fine, powdery sand along the beach.

Play Golf at a World-Renowned Luxury Course

Aside from beaches, Langkawi is also home to world-class golf courses. The islands are surrounded by lush, green rainforests, giving golfers a glimpse of both beautiful landscapes and a panoramic view of the sea as they play golf.

Arguably the best golf course in Langkawi is the 18-hole golf course at The Els Club Teluk Datai. The state-of-the-art, 47-hectare golf course has stunning views of the majestic Matchincang mountain range and blue-green waters of the Strait of Malacca.

Charter a Private Yacht to Watch the Sunset at the Beach

Another way to enjoy the sea in Langkawi is by chartering a luxury yacht for the afternoon to watch the sunset.

Imagine admiring the oranges, pinks and purples of the magnificent sunset sky in a private yacht complete with champagne and a full dinner cruise.

A holiday in an archipelago doesn’t get more luxurious than this! If you love chasing sunsets, it’s one of the activities in Malaysia you can’t miss.

Indulge in a Private Tour of Penang Island

Penang is yet another island along the Essence of Malaysia journey worth visiting. The island is home to George Town, a colourful, historic city dotted with Chinese shophouses, colonial architecture and modern, high-rise buildings.

Consider booking a private, exclusive tour of Penang’s most beautiful and historically significant sites. Visit mansions and museums celebrating Malay-Chinese culture, such as the Pinang Peranakan Mansion and the Khoo Kongsi Clan House.

The Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the country, is another breathtaking stop to your tour. Finish off your journey with a stroll along Penang Hill to take in the panoramic views of the island and the sea.

Eat at Michelin-Starred Restaurants in George Town

While there are many local eateries with delicious, authentic Malaysian food all around George Town, those who want a more decadent experience might want to dine in the city’s two Michelin-starred restaurants.

Auntie Gaik Lean's Old School Eatery serves sumptuous Peranakan dishes made from scratch, including gulai tumis (tamarind fish curry) and the classic nasi ulam (mixed herb rice). The restaurant is situated in a quaint, unsuspecting shophouse, reminiscent of life in the 1960s in Malaysia.

You can also try the European contemporary fine dining restaurant Au Jardin, which serves local and intercontinental food in a sleek and modern style. Highlights on their menu include fresh Penang oysters and cognac and hay-aged duck.

Don’t Miss These Activities in Malaysia On Your Luxury Rail Journey

The Essence of Malaysia route is perhaps the best luxury train Malaysia has to offer. With elegant, comfortable cabins and top-notch service, it’s a lavish sanctuary for any traveller passing by the country’s West Coast.

But the true beauty in taking this rail route is making the most out of your journey and enjoying the most posh, luxurious experiences along the way. From ritzy shopping and dining in Kuala Lumpur to seeing the finest, white-sand beaches in Langkawi to soaking in the culture of Penang with a private tour, there are tons to do along the route for those with a penchant for luxury.

Make sure to add your favourite activities above to your bucket list to make your trip on the Essence of Malaysia even more unforgettable. Want to explore more of Southeast Asia? Check out all of Entire Travel Group’s holiday destinations, from Singapore to Thailand and the Philippines.