Places Of Interest In Genting Highlands: Things To Do And Activities

A short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, you’ll find Genting Highlands. In this Places Of Interest in Genting Highlands article, I will share all the details you need to know.

Genting Highlands, It’s a picturesque little city sitting among KL’s mountains, a cool and comfortable retreat from the typical Malaysian heat. Thanks to its many recent developments and unique offerings, Genting Highlands has become a popular weekend getaway for both Malaysian and International tourist.

The Founding of Genting Highlands

In the early 1960s, Lim Goh Tong, a Malaysian businessman of Chinese descent, came up with the idea of developing a hill resort where Malaysians could escape the heat of the lowlands. He envisioned a place that combined leisure, entertainment, and nature, offering a respite from urban life.

Lim discovered the potential of the Genting Sempah area while working on a hydroelectric power project. He found that its elevation, cool climate, and proximity to Kuala Lumpur made it an ideal spot for his hill resort vision. Recognizing the potential for tourism and revenue, development would begin, clearing out massive swathes of uncharted jungle and building the necessary infrastructure.

Lim sought and eventually secured a casino license from the Malaysian government. Genting Highlands officially opened in 1971, with the initial offering including a hotel and the casino. The resort expanded rapidly in subsequent years, adding more hotels, entertainment venues, dining options, and other attractions. Nowadays, it’s a fantastic place for a day trip or quick getaway.

Shopping Malls in Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands offers a variety of shopping experiences for its visitors, from branded outlets to unique boutiques. Over the years, the shopping scene in Genting has grown, offering more choices and catering to various budgets and preferences. It’s one of the main activities available here, so if you’re planning on going to Genting, we hope you’re looking forward to some shopping!

1. Sky Avenue

Serving as the central hub of Genting, Sky Avenue is a modern and vibrant shopping mall featuring a mix of international and local brands. It offers a diverse range of shops, from high-end luxury brands to popular high-street labels. Apart from shopping, Sky Avenue also has numerous dining options, entertainment attractions, and the mesmerizing SkySymphony light and sound show.

Sky Avenue’s design is both modern and functional, with spacious corridors, ample natural light, and thematic sections. The mall is directly connected to the Genting Highlands Resort, making it easily accessible to visitors staying within the resort. Additionally, it’s linked to the Awana SkyWay station, allowing easy transportation between the lower lands and the highlands.

Many of Genting Highlands attractions and theme parks sit within Sky Avenue, including the ever-popular Ripley’s Adventureland. Several bars, lounges, and entertainment venues within Sky Avenue cater to those looking to unwind and enjoy the night. Live performances, DJ nights, and themed parties are frequent, as well as events during holiday seasons.

2. First World Plaza

Located adjacent to the First World Hotel, First World plaza has an array of shops, eateries, and attractions. The mall is well-known for its colorful and playful interior, which features replicas of famous global landmarks and thematic sections, giving visitors a feeling of walking through different parts of the world.

What sets First World Plaza apart from other malls in Genting are its entertainment options. The Skytropolis theme park brings a refreshed and revitalized indoor amusement park experience with many rides and attractions. SnowWorld offers a chilly environment with real snow, making it a unique attraction in the region. Other attractions include a cineplex, a bowling alley and an arcade.

Similar to Sky Avenue, First World Plaza also hosts a variety of events, performances, and festivals, especially during major holidays. The mall has long been a favorite spot for visitors to Genting Highlands due to its mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Its location, directly connected to the massive First World Hotel, ensures that it remains a bustling hub of activity.

3. Genting Highlands Premium Outlets (GPO)

Located a short distance away from the main resort area, GPO is an open-air shopping mall inspired by the Premium Outlets chains found in the U.S. Commonly known as the Premium Outlets, the mall is unique, standing out from its contemporaries on Genting Highlands. Featuring over 150 designer brands, the outlets frequently feature markdowns on prices, making it great for bargain hunters.

The shopping center is designed in an open-air, village-like setting. It’s pedestrian-friendly with clean walkways, benches, and some covered areas. It makes for a unique vibe, one that’s more relaxed and interesting compared to the more common mall feel of the other malls in Genting. We also must highlight GPO’s food court, which is one of the better and more affordable dining options around.

For those staying in Resorts World Genting or visiting the main hilltop area, there are regular shuttle services that connect the resort with GPO. The Awana SkyWay cable car service also has a station connected to GPO, meaning you can seamlessly travel between Sky Avenue and GPO.

Theme Parks in Genting Highlands

Outside of its casinos and cool weather, Genting Highlands is most well-known for its large number of theme parks. Genting’s theme parks are fantastical in nature, featuring insane concepts with excellent execution. They’re all almost magical experiences that you can’t find anywhere else in Malaysia, so if you’re looking for a fun time especially with family, check these out.

1. Genting SkyWorlds

Genting SkyWorlds is the highlight of any visit to Genting Highlands. Initially conceptualized as the 20th Century Fox World, difficulties with Disney’s acquisition of the property led to a heavy rebranding effort. Clearly, this hasn’t had an effect on the actual quality of the park however. Genting SkyWorlds remains as the crowning achievement in Genting, and one of the best theme parks in Malaysia.

Genting SkyWorlds is divided into multiple zones, each one based around movie properties. There are areas dedicated to franchises like Ice Age, Planet of the Apes, Rio, Epic and more. Every one of these is heavily customized to provide visitors with a memorable experience. The work put into these scenes and areas is evident in the sheer experience you get taking in the carefully constructed environments.

The rides and at Genting SkyWorlds are also top-notch, providing the thrills you’d expect from a high-quality theme park. Between the many different rides, the vendors within the theme park itself and the wonderful environments, Genting SkyWorlds stands as one of the greatest theme park experiences in Malaysia. You absolutely don’t want to miss out on this if you visit Genting.

2. Skytropolis Funland

One of the more established theme parks in Genting Highlands, Skytropolis Funland is a memorable experience. It’s a modernized and reimagined version of the old Genting Highlands indoor theme park. Skytropolis Funland offers a mix of rides and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. From family-friendly rides to thrilling attractions, there’s a little something for everyone here!

By and far the best part about Skytropolis Funland are the rides available. One of the highlights of any visit is the Copper Express, an indoor roller coaster that’s not too intense, making it suitable for families. Other funfair staples also make an appearance here, including attractions like bumper cars, a ferris wheel and the Sky Tower which provides a panoramic view of the entire park.

Once you’re done with the rides, you can head over to the Gaming Zone, featuring a ton of different arcade games. These range from classics arcade games from the 80s and 90s, all the way to modern games. New additions are constantly added to Skytropolis Funland too, and you can’t miss out on the many different vendors available throughout the park.

3. SnowWorld

Want to experience snow in Malaysia? Then you’re in luck, as SnowWorld Genting is one of the only places in the country that looks to recreate the experience of being in a winter wonderland. The entire park is kept at temperatures between -4°C to -6°C, keeping the entire park frozen at all times. The walls of SnowWorlds insulate the area, keeping this cold temperature consistent.

A significant portion of SnowWorld is dedicated to its snow play area, where visitors can participate in activities like building snowmen, tobogganing, or simply enjoying a snowball fight. One of the highlight attractions is the Snow Slide, where visitors can slide down a snowy slope. Once you’re done traipsing through the cold, visit the Warm House, a designated warmer area in the park.

Walk through SnowWorld, and you’ll come into contact with its many zones. These include the Winter Downtown, a European-inspired sector filled with fitting architecture and snow. There’s the World Heritage portion with snowy landmarks from across the world, and a section featuring intricate ice sculptures and ice art. Do keep in mind you’ll need to rent clothing to stay warm when you visit.

4. Ripley’s Adventureland

Ripley’s Adventureland in Genting Highlands is one of the entertainment attractions within the Resorts World Genting complex. It’s inspired by the famous Robert Ripley brand, which is known globally for its “Believe It or Not!” franchise. The park is made up of multiple different smaller parks, each one with its own specialty to help it stand out from the rest.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium is the heart of the park, featuring its weirdest collection of exhibits. It’s a perplexing mixture of bizzarre items, fascinating historical facts and cultural unique showcases. Some of the most fun exhibits are the ones that allow you to experience optical illusions, adding a layer of interactivity you don’t often get.

The Jurrassic Research Center is another highlight, featuring life-sized replicas of various dinosaurs. The attraction itself has a little story going on, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience. The 4D Trick Art Museum and Infinity Maze are more relaxing showcases of art, and it caps everything off with Zombie Outbreak, a horror-themed interactive attraction.

Casinos in Genting Highlands

The casinos in Genting Highlands are among the main attractions that draw visitors from all around Asia and beyond. They are owned and operated by the Genting Group under its Resorts World Genting brand, and have been around since the inception of Genting Highlands. Both offer a unique experience, and seeing how they’re the only casinos in Malaysia, they’re a must-visit.

Do keep in mind you need to be at least 21 years of age to enter the Casino. Locals will need to provide identification, while foreign tourists must show their passports. Muslims are not allowed into either casino in any capacity, and will be told to leave at the door. Please remember to gamble responsibly!

1. Genting Casino

The first and original Genting Highlands casino, and still going strong even to this day. Genting Casino has long been the centerpiece of entertainment in Genting Highlands since its inception. It sits closer to the older hotels like Genting Hotel and the Maxims, reflecting its nature as an older casino. Despite that, you wouldn’t be able to tell from its facilities and game selection.

Genting Casino offers a variety of table games, electronic games, and slot machines. You can find popular games like Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack here, as well as almost any other game you could imagine. Do keep in mind that the Genting Casino has a dress code, not allowing people in casual wear from entering the premises.

Compared to the Sky Casino, Genting Casino has a classic design and ambiance, reflecting its history as one of the older establishments in Genting Highlands. It doesn’t have as many facilities and offerings as its newer counterpart, but it remains an important symbol of Genting Highlands and a representation of its history as a whole.

2. Sky Casino

The Sky Casino is located in Sky Avenue, a newer establishment, which is closely connected to the First World Hotel, making it easily accessible for visitors staying there. It’s strategically located to make it easier for visitors far from Genting Casino to still be able and enjoy some gambling. It’s also evident immediately that Sky Casino is a bit more premium than its older counterpart.

Sky Casino is vast and modern, boasting state-of-the-art gaming facilities. It offers a wide range of table games, electronic games, and an extensive number of slot machines ljust ike Genting Casino. What’s different however is how the casino is divided into different gaming sections, including premium sections for higher rollers.

The casino features a contemporary design with intricate details, creating a luxurious gaming environment. Digital displays, thematic zones, and a sophisticated lighting system enhance the ambiance of the area. In case you’re hungry, the casino also features dining outlets within its premises, allowing gamers to take breaks without having to leave the casino.

Other Attractions in Genting Highlands

Outside of the aforementioned malls and theme parks, Genting also features a slew of other attractions. Most of these are fun to visit while you’re on your way up or down from Genting. They’re all wildly different experiences than what Genting is typically known for, so if you’re looking for a change of pace, these might interest you.

1. Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm

Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm is a popular attraction located near the main Genting Highlands resort area. Like with Cameron Highlands, the cool atmosphere of Genting makes it an ideal location for strawberry planters. Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm is also, as the name implies, a leisure area, making it well suited for relaxing activities like picnics.

Visitors can walk through the strawberry farms, learn about the cultivation process, and even participate in strawberry picking when in season. Besides strawberries, the farm also grows other hydroponic crops like lettuce, herbs, flowers, and more. The flower gardens are especially picturesque, the beautiful and carefully maintained landscapes making for great photo backdrops.

There is a café on the premises where visitors can enjoy strawberry-themed treats, fresh juices, and other light snacks. Don’t miss out on the strawberry sundae or strawberry smoothie! Finally, there’s also an insect corner showcasing a variety of different insects. The farm is conveniently located near Gohtong Jaya, which is en route to the top, so pay a visit if you’re interested!

2. Chin Swee Caves Temple

Perched on a 28-acre plot of rocky forested land, the Chin Swee Caves Temple is located about 4,600 feet above sea level. The elevated location offers panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and, on clear days, even of the capital city, Kuala Lumpur. Built by the late Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Lim Goh Tong, who is also the founder of Genting Highlands. It took 18 years to construct and was opened in 1994.

The temple features traditional Chinese architectural styles. With its intricate carvings, statues, and other artworks, the temple is a showcase of artistry and devotion. The temple is dedicated to Reverend Chin Swee, revered for his ability to summon rain and drive away evil spirits. It’s become a hallmark location in Genting Highlands, one that you need to experience on your way up.

The temple can be reached by road or by taking the Genting Skyway cable car’s dedicated stop. Beautiful landscapes and gardens dot the temple, and the Sky Terrace on its 9^th floor gives a breathtaking view of the highlands. Experience the Chamber of Hell, depicting the ten chambers of hell as per Taoist beliefs, and then grab a drink at the temple’s uniquely designed Starbucks.

3. Awana Bio Park and Golf Course

Awana Hotel and its associated facilities, including the Awana Bio Park and Golf Course, have been significant attractions in the Genting Highlands for a long time. While the hotel itself is well-developed and comfortable, for people on the outside, it’s the other facilities like the Bio Park and Golf Course that stick out.

Awana Golf Course offers an 18-hole golf course situated 3,100 feet above sea level. The cool highland climate and challenging terrains make it a unique experience for golf enthusiasts. Set against the backdrop of lush rainforests, the golf course offers panoramic views, making it as much a visual treat as it is a sporting challenge. It comes with all the amenities you could want from a golf course.

The Awana Bio Park meanwhile is a sizable reserve of forest fit for nature treks. With a guide, you can immerse yourself in the cool, refreshing environment and experience the rich biodiversity of Genting’s natural beauty. The paths through Awana Bio Park are well-maintained, making them suitable for even beginners to jungle trekking.

Places to Eat in Genting Highlands

Genting offers a lot when it comes to food and drink, but a lot of it is made up of fast food and franchises. You need to dig a bit deeper to find the truly special eats available at Genting. Food at the main city area of Genting is fairly pricey, with things being more reasonable at the mid-highlands around Gohtong Jaya. We’ll be sharing a mix of these, covering as many restaurants as possible.

Places to Eat in Sky Avenue and First World Plaza

1. Dragon-i Peking Duck Restaurant (Non-Halal)

One of the highest rated restaurants in Genting Highlands. Specializing in peking duck, the restaurant serves up a wide variety of Chinese dishes such as braised pork and wanton noodles.

2. YáN @ Sky Avenue (Non-Halal)

A fairly new Thai restobar sitting in Sky Avenue. Serves up high-quality thai fare like pad kra pao, pad thai and tomyam, as well as various finger foods and alcohol.

3. SkyWorld Genting Restaurants (Halal)

If you’re in the SkyWorld Genting Theme Park, you’re in luck when it comes to food. Head over to the dining sidewalk towards the Golden Gate Garage and Classic Burgers stall. Golden Gate Garage serves excellent hotdog meals, while the Classic Burgers stall serves some of the best burgers in Genting.

4. Burger & Lobster (Pork-free)

Burger & Lobster Genting has been a Genting mainstay for a long time, and it’s no surprise why. The restaurant only serves lobsters, lobster rolls and burgers, along with some desserts. If you’re looking for a burger, avoid Five Guys and go for this joint, or the one above!

5. Ah Guang Lamb Pot (Non-Halal)

Ah Guang Lamb Pot serves excellent hotpot, fitting perfectly with the cold Genting weather. Rich stock, a variety of toppings and the BBQ dishes make it a great experience.

6. The Laughing Fish by Harry Ramsden (Pork-free)

The ever popular Laughing Fish by Harry Ramsden has been a Genting mainstay for a long time. Serving up Fish and Chips and other British pub fare, it’s a good if you’re craving something western.

7. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Lounge (Pork-free)

Another famous Genting mainstay, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Lounge comes courtesy of the popular chef Wolfgang Puck. There’s a strict dress code and prices are high, so keep that in mind when you visit.

8. Mie Grand Seafood Restaurant (Non-Halal)

Sitting off the beaten path, Mie Grand Seafood Restaurant requires either a car or a hotel shuttle to get to. They serve classic Chinese-style dishes, at a lower price compared to those in SkyAvenue and First World Plaza.

Places to Eat in Genting Highlands Premium Outlet

1. GPO Food Court (Various)

You can’t go wrong with the Genting Highlands Premium Outlet food court. There are a plethora of different dishes to choose from, and you’re bound to find something you’ll like here.

2. Muhibah Kitchen (Halal)

Genting is shockingly lacking in Mamak food, which is where Muhibah Kitchen comes in. Serving classic Mamak fare like maggi goreng, roti canai and tandoori chicken, they’re also a lot more reasonably priced compared to other restaurants in Genting Highlands.

3. Dapur Santai Yamch’a (Halal)

Serving Malay and Chinese Muslim food, Dapur Santai Yamch’a is a popular location for foodies. Their menu is vast, covering even some Peranakan dishes, so if you’re looking for halal fare, this is a good option.

4. Tarbush Restaurant (Halal)

Looking for Arabic cuisine? Then Tarbush Restaurant has you covered, with a plethora of Middle-Eastern dishes. Prices are slightl on the high end, but the food lives up to the prices and expectation.

5. DÔME (Halal)

DÔME needs no introduction for most people, as it’s a popular chain of cafes known for their coffee and food. Their outlet at Genting Highlands Premium Outlet is no exception in this regard.

Places to Eat in Gohtong Jaya

1. Restoran Ratha Raub (Halal)

Genting Highlands is severely lacking in good Indian food, which is where Restoran Ratha Raub comes in. Serving classic Indian food as well as their signature chicken curry, if you’re looking for a satisfying meal, then look no further than this.

2. Lamei Hotpot (Non-Halal)

Lamei Hotpot is one of many hotpot restaurants around Gohtong Jaya, but it’s one of the highest-rated. The location absolutely picturesque, with open domes available to eat in. You can’t go wrong with this location, it’s excellent.

3. Sangong Charcoal Hotpot (Non-Halal)

Like the previous restaurant, Sangong Charcoal Hotpot is another hotpot restaurant. This one offers a bunch of different options, as well as charcoal hotpot for a different but still exceptional experience.

4. Thai Tom Yam Seafood (Halal)

Thai Tom Yam Seafood is a classic Thai-style restaurant that’s halal and relatively affordable. The food here is also excellent, and the sheer number of options available mean there’s something for everyone here.

5. Dai Guan Hill (Non-Halal)

Dai Guan Hill is your typical Chinese restaurant, but it’s sat atop a hill at the back of Gohtong Jaya. You get to experience the cool, breezy air of Genting, whole overlooking the valleys and hills of the area. It’s a unique experience for sure!

When is the Best Time to Visit Genting Highlands?

Genting Highlands’ many attractions are surprisingly resistant to rainfall. Outside of the Genting SkyWorlds and Chin Swee Caves Temple, most Genting Highlands attractions can be experienced during the rain. Despite this, we still recommend visiting between March to September when there’s less rain for an easier time up. You also may want to avoid holiday seasons to avoid crowds.

How Many Days Do You Need In Genting Highlands?

The many attractions of Genting Highlands are brisk and simple, capable of being enjoyed within a small period of time. Genting itself is a small, condensing its highlights into a small and easily traversed area. These aspects make Genting Highlands perfect for a 1-day trip. Even at most, you’d need about three days to experience everything Genting has to offer, and nothing more.

Where to Stay in Genting Highlands?

It’s quite easy to find accommodation in Genting Highlands, though what you’ll want to pick is based on what you’re planning to do. Hotels at the top of Genting are more expensive than those on the way up, but they’re good if you’re planning to spend most of your day walking.

• Crockfords Hotel – A 5-star hotel with all the amenities you could want.
• First World Hotel – Relatively affordable 3-star hotel at the top of Genting.
• Genting Grand Hotel – Good quality 4-star hotel at the top of Genting.
• Resorts World Awana – Excellent 4-star hotel on the way up with tons of activities.
• Hotel Seri Malaysia – Affordable hotel at Gohtong Jaya
• Swiss-Garden Hotel – Great, affordable 4-star hotel further down Genting Highlands.
• GLAMZ at Genting – A fascinating glamping spot that’s an experience in of itself.

How Do You Get Around in Genting Highlands?

Most of Genting Highlands is surprisingly easy to traverse by foot. Thanks to the Genting SkyWay cable cars, you can practically travel between all of Genting’s biggest attractions by foot. Because of this, it’s perfectly reasonable to go to Genting by bus and enjoy the sights on foot. For the best experience however, we recommend a motorcycle or car.

Conclusion

Genting Highlands stands, a small highlands city, an attraction completely unlike anything else in Malaysia. Although it may share its cool, breezy environment with Cameron Highlands, that’s all they have in common. Genting’s heavily modernized, hyper-condensed city, many theme parks, rich biodiversity and lavish casinos means it’s a one of a kind of experience you need to see to believe.

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