Tucked in the misty peaks of the Titiwangsa range, just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands has long been a favorite escape for Malaysians looking for a breath of cool mountain air and a bit of fun.
Often called the “Malaysian City of Entertainment“, this hilltop retreat is packed with theme parks, casinos, clubs, shopping malls, concert venues — you name it. There’s pretty much something for everyone, whether you’re here to chase thrills or just chill.
For most Malaysians, Genting isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s part of growing up. Nearly everyone has some memory tied to this place: riding the carousel as a kid, going on a first ‘independent’ trip with college friends, or bringing your own children here for the very first time.
It’s where fun meets fresh air. Come with me as I show you why this mountaintop retreat has been winning hearts for decades.
Fun Facts About Genting Highlands
- Genting Highlands is situated approximately 1,800 meters above sea level. On a clear night, it can be seen from Kuala Lumpur and looks like a majestic kingdom in the sky!
- Genting Highlands was developed by local entrepreneur Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong in the late 1960s, who turned it from an unexplored hilltop into one of the world’s most successful casino resorts. He soon became the 3rd richest man in Malaysia.
- The economy of Genting Highlands is primarily driven by tourism and hospitality. The resort complex features hotels, casinos, theme parks, shopping malls, and entertainment venues, attracting millions of visitors each year.
- Additionally, Genting Malaysia Berhad, the company behind Genting Highlands, operates various leisure and hospitality businesses both domestically and internationally.
- The Genting Skyway cable car is one of the longest cable car rides in Southeast Asia, spanning 3.38 kilometers.
- The presence of casinos within Genting Highlands has sparked debates about the social and moral implications, especially in a Muslim country.
- In 2019, Genting Malaysia was involved in a $1 billion dispute with Disney and Fox after the U.S. companies pulled out from a deal to build a Fox World theme park in Genting Highlands.
Best Time to Visit Genting Highlands
Generally, the months of March to September are considered the best time to go due to the dry season. Temperatures are mild and there is little rainfall. However, during this time, visitors can expect larger crowds and longer queues at attractions, particularly on weekends and public holidays.
For those who prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, the months of October to February offer a more tranquil experience. However, it’s important to note that this period coincides with the rainy season, which is not ideal for the outdoor theme park, as it will be closed during rain. The mountain roads leading to Genting Highlands can also be treacherous when there is heavy rain or mist.
How to Go to Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands does not have its own airport; the only way to get there is by land. The most common route is from Kuala Lumpur, but there are also direct buses from other major cities in Malaysia including Penang, Ipoh, Malacca, and Johor Bahru.
By Car
The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands takes approximately one hour via the Karak Expressway. The winding roads offer scenic views of the surrounding mountain range and greenery. If you’re driving, make sure your vehicle is in good condition for the uphill climb and the steep descent.
You can either drive all the way up to Genting Highlands, or stop at the cable car base station at Gohtong Jaya and continue by cable car.
By Bus
For those without private transportation, several bus services operate to Genting Highlands from various locations in Kuala Lumpur and beyond.
The buses depart from major bus terminals in Kuala Lumpur, such as KL Sentral, Pudu Sentral, TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan), Terminal Putra LRT Gombak, and Jalan Pekeliling. There are also direct buses from Klang, Shah Alam and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA1 & 2). The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Bus fare is around RM10.
Genting Skyway Cable Car
Express buses will only take you up to Awana Bus Terminal, and you will have to continue the rest of the way on the Genting Skyway cable car.
If you’re driving, you can also opt to park at the base station and take the cable car to the summit. One of the longest cable car ride in Southeast Asia, with a length of 3.38 kilometers, the Genting Skyway ride offers breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy and surrounding mountains.
Ticket price for a one-way journey in a normal gondola is RM11 per adult, and RM32 per adult for the glass-floor gondola. It’s advisable to check the operating hours and weather conditions before planning your ride.
With a Tour
A more convenient alternative is to take a shared or private tour from one of the many tour providers. Some may include theme park tickets and/or excursions to other attractions along the way such as Batu Caves. Private tours typically include pickup and drop-off at your hotel.
How to Get Around in Genting Highlands
If you’re planning to see other attractions beyond the resort complex, driving offers the most flexibility and convenience. However, do note that parking can be limited and roads can be congested during peak periods.
You don’t have to worry about transportation within the resort complex, as the shopping malls and theme parks are connected by sheltered walkways and escalators. Shuttle bus services are complimentary for in-house guests and run hourly from Resorts World Awana to Awana SkyCentral / Genting Highlands Premium Outlets and vice versa.
Taxis and Grab are also readily available.
12 Top Things to Do in Genting Highlands
1. Enjoy thrill rides at the theme parks
Genting Highlands is home to two main theme parks:
The star of the show is Genting SkyWorlds Outdoor Theme Park, spread out over 26 acres with 9 uniquely themed zones and a total of 26 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, sky-high rides, and classic carnival games.
Opening hours: 11 am – 6 pm daily.
Meanwhile, Genting Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park provides a 400,000 sq ft climate-controlled haven filled with over 20 whimsical attractions, interactive games, and family-friendly entertainment.
Opening hours: 2 pm – 9 pm (Monday to Thursday), and 2 pm – 10 pm (Friday to Sunday).
2. Be amazed at Ripley's Adventureland
At Ripley’s Adventureland, you’ll step into a world where nothing is quite what it seems. Wander through mind-bending optical illusions, twisty mirror mazes, and quirky exhibits of oddities from all over the world. Your senses will get tricked — and you’ll love every second of it.
With a fun mix of the bizarre, the educational, and the just plain weird, this spot makes for an experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Opening hours: 10 am – 10 pm daily.
3. Shop at Genting Highlands Premium Outlet
Shopaholics, get ready — Genting Highlands Premium Outlets is your playground. With rows of designer brands, international labels, and generous discounts, it’s easy to lose track of time (and your budget). There’s no shortage of temptation here. You’ll find all the high-end fashion, statement accessories, and even household items you didn’t know you needed.
Opening hours: 10 am – 10 pm daily.
4. Try your luck at the casinos
With its reputation as a premier gaming destination in Southeast Asia, Genting Highlands’ world-class casinos offer everything from slot machines and electronic tables to classic card games.
The moment you walk in, the lavish atmosphere hits you immediately with its plush interiors and sophisticated ambience. Some come for the thrill of big wins, others just want to try their hand at something new. Everyone fits in.
And it’s not just about the games. You’ll find top-tier dining, live entertainment, and private lounges if you’re in the mood for something a bit more exclusive.
5. Admire butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland Genting
Conveniently located within Bandar Gohtong Jaya, Butterfly Wonderland Genting is a vast butterfly garden featuring over 100 species of these beautiful creatures, including Swallowtails, Lacewings, and the rare Rajah Brooke’s Birdwings.
Alongside the butterfly conservatory, visitors can explore the insectarium, the hummingbird aviary, and the aquarium. Additionally, the Butterfly Emergence Gallery offers an interactive experience that allows guests to witness the magical transformation of butterflies from chrysalis to their fully grown form.
Opening hours: 9 am – 7 pm daily.
6. Watch a live performance
Genting Highlands is more than just theme parks and casinos; it’s also a hub for live entertainment including concerts by global superstars, as well as dance, theater, and acrobatic shows. Within the resort complex itself, the Arena of Stars Genting is a state-of-the-art entertainment venue with a seating capacity of up to 5,000.
Big names like Sir Elton John, Aaron Kwok, John Legend, Kitaro, and Boyz II Men have all graced the stage here.
7. Indulge in an immersive cinematic experience
Movie buffs can catch the latest blockbusters at the cinemas located within the resort complex, offering state-of-the-art facilities including wider screens, and seats that use the latest motion technology — a two-axis configuration that can tilt you left, right, front, and back, with customizable intensity.
8. Pick strawberries at Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm
The Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm is an agritourism destination specializing in hydroponic strawberry farming. Located in Gohtong Jaya, the farm also features a lavender garden, flower nursery, shopping alley, and mini gardens lined with rose bushes.
When in season, visitors get to pick fresh strawberries, which will be weighed and charged accordingly.
Opening hours: 9.30 am – 6.30 pm daily.
9. Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple
Sitting on 28 acres of rocky, forest-covered hillside, this Taoist temple was built to honor the revered Reverend Master Chin Swee, who was famous for his rain-summoning powers and ability to ward off evil spirits.
Right at the entrance, you’ll find the temple’s centerpiece: a striking black statue of Chin Swee himself. It’s a popular photo spot, and honestly, it’s hard not to stop and take one.
Additionally, the temple also features a Guan Yin statue, a Buddha statue, a sky terrace, 10 chambers of hell, and a fairy bridge.
Opening hours: 8 am – 7 pm daily.
10. Learn about Bee Farming at Happy Bee Farm
Happy Bee Farm Genting provides visitors with an opportunity to explore beekeeping in Genting Highlands firsthand. Alongside its butterfly farm, cafe, and retail outlet selling bee products like bee pollen, royal jelly, propolis, and natural honey, the farm also hosts live demonstrations throughout the day.
These showcases allow guests to observe a bee colony’s activities through transparent encased panels, from constructing honeycombs to gathering pollen and nectar from the farm. An experienced beekeeper then demonstrates the harvesting of raw honey from beehives.
Opening hours: 9.30 am – 6.30 pm daily.
11. Get inspired at Lim Goh Tong Memorial Hall
The Lim Goh Tong Memorial Hall is a great place to get a glimpse into the life of Tan Sri Dato Seri (Dr.) Lim Goh Tong — the man behind the transformation of Genting Highlands from a quiet hilltop into a world-famous entertainment hub.
Wandering through the exhibits, you’ll follow his journey from humble beginnings as a small-time contractor to becoming the visionary founder of the Genting Group. It’s a story of grit, big dreams, and sheer determination, and it’s hard not to feel inspired.
Opening hours: 8 am – 10 pm daily.
12. Learn about local culture at SeniKome Peng Heng
If you’re curious about local culture, SeniKome Péng Hēng East Coast Arts & Cultural Centre is definitely worth a visit.
It showcases fascinating artifacts, colorful textiles, traditional games, and handcrafted items from Malaysia’s east coast, while also hosting family-friendly activities, exhibitions, live performances, and workshops throughout the year.
Opening hours: 12 pm – 7 pm daily.
How Long to Spend in Genting Highlands
The ideal duration to spend in Genting Highlands largely depends on your interests, preferences, and the activities you plan to indulge in.
Due to its proximity to Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands is a common day-trip destination from the capital city and other nearby areas. You can easily visit key attractions such as the theme parks, casinos, and temple within a day. Aim to arrive early in the morning to maximize your time as queues for the attractions can be long, and do plan your activities strategically to cover the highlights.
For a more leisurely experience, consider staying overnight to allow yourself more time for additional activities and entertainment options. With a longer stay, you also get to experience the nightlife, including live shows, concerts, and dining options within the resort.
However, if you’re a true gaming enthusiast, then by all means, stay for as long as your budget allows!
What Happens If It Rains?
For safety reasons, the outdoor theme park may have to temporarily close the rides during heavy rainfall or adverse weather.
However, if the bad weather goes on for an hour or more continuously, their Rainy Day Guarantee is activated, entitling you to a complimentary return ticket, valid for 12 months from the date of your original visit. Do check with them directly for further information and T&Cs.
Where to Stay in Genting Highlands
Resorts World Genting: The Genting Highlands resort complex features several hotels and resorts, catering to different budgets and preferences. These include:
Resorts World Awana: Another popular accommodation option in Genting Highlands that offers comfortable rooms and recreational facilities, such as a swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course, and tennis courts.
There are also plenty of guesthouses and serviced apartments available.
Practical Tips
- Be mindful of weather conditions, especially during the rainy season, and plan accordingly for any outdoor activities or transportation needs.
- Before planning your trip, check for events, festivals, or promotions happening in Genting Highlands during your intended travel dates.
- Weekends, holidays, and school vacations tend to be busier, with larger crowds, more traffic on the road, and longer queues at attractions. If possible, plan your visit during weekdays or non-peak hours to avoid congestion.
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak periods, to secure your preferred choice and enjoy any promotions or discounts available.
- If you plan to visit the casinos, remember to bring your passport or other valid identification, as entry is restricted to patrons aged 21 and above, and proof of age may be required. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the casino rules and regulations, including dress codes and gaming etiquette, to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free experience.
What to Wear in Genting Highlands
Due to its higher altitude, Genting Highlands enjoys cooler temperatures compared to Kuala Lumpur and other lowland areas. On sunny days, it can be quite warm outside. However, do bring a light jacket if you visit during the rainy season or in the evening.
Despite being a Muslim country, Malaysia is not ultra conservative, especially in urban and touristy areas like Genting Highlands. Therefore, shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are acceptable.
Read: What to Wear in Malaysia: How to Dress Appropriately for Malaysian Weather & Customs
Final Thoughts
Genting Highlands has long been a favorite getaway for Malaysians looking to escape the heat, enjoy some mountain air, and squeeze in a bit of theme park fun — without breaking the bank.
But it’s not just a local secret anymore. These days, Genting is also getting attention from international travelers looking for a destination that ticks multiple boxes, from scenic views to exciting rides and incredible shopping deals.
So if you’ve done all the must-do’s in Malaysia and want to end your visit on a high note, start planning your Genting escape — there’s plenty of magic waiting in the hills.
Have you been to Genting Highlands before? What has been your most memorable experience there? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.