Why visit Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands is a hilltop resort in the Titiwangsa mountains, on the border of Pahang and Selangor. Sitting well over a kilometre above sea level, it is far cooler than Kuala Lumpur, and cloud often drifts right through the resort. That fresh air, together with a dense cluster of hotels, theme parks, malls and Malaysia's only licensed casino, makes it one of the most popular trips from the capital.
It is almost entirely a resort destination, so think of it as an entertainment hub in the clouds rather than a nature retreat. Families, groups of friends and first-time visitors to Malaysia tend to enjoy it most.
Top things to do in Genting Highlands
Awana Skyway cable car
The cable car glides from Awana station on the lower slopes up to SkyAvenue at the summit, passing over thick rainforest. On a clear morning the hills roll away towards Kuala Lumpur.
Chin Swee Caves Temple
A Taoist temple set into the hillside, with a tall pagoda and wide views over the valley. The Awana Skyway stops here, so it is easy to visit on the way up or down.
Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park
Rides and games under one roof inside SkyAvenue, so mist and rain never spoil the day. A good choice for younger children.
Genting SkyWorlds
The outdoor theme park at the top of the hill, with themed zones and bigger thrill rides suited to older children and adults. Some rides may pause in heavy rain.
SkyAvenue and live shows
A large mall at the summit with restaurants, shops and regular live entertainment. It is the natural place to eat, shop and warm up between rides.
Casino de Genting
Malaysia's only licensed casino. Entry is restricted to adults and a dress code applies, so families usually split up for an hour while others explore the mall.
Getting there
The drive from central Kuala Lumpur takes around an hour, depending on traffic, with the final stretch winding up through the forest. Most visitors travel by private transfer or coach to Awana station and ride the Skyway to the top. Buses also run from Kuala Lumpur's main terminals for independent travellers.
Many itineraries combine Genting with a stop at Batu Caves, the limestone cave temple just north of the city, which fits neatly on the way. Our Kuala Lumpur travel guide covers the caves in more detail.
How long to stay and when to go
A full day is enough for the cable car, the temple and one theme park. Stay a night if you want to try both parks or catch an evening show. Weekends, school holidays and festive periods get very busy, with long queues for the Skyway, so choose a weekday where you can.
Genting is cool all year and often misty or wet, especially in the afternoon, and the cable car can pause during thunderstorms. Pack a light jacket even if Kuala Lumpur feels hot.
Tip: Head up early. Queues are shorter in the morning and the views from the cable car are usually clearer before the afternoon cloud builds.
How to fit it into your trip
Genting is the easiest add-on in Malaysia because it works as a day trip from Kuala Lumpur, and almost every package we run includes it. The Malaysia tour package from India sets aside a full day for the Highlands and the cable car before flying on to Langkawi, while the tour package from Kuala Lumpur pairs Genting with Batu Caves in a single day.
Adding Genting to your holiday? Tell us your travel dates and group size and we will plan the day around you.
Get a free quoteTravelling with children? The five-day itinerary on our Malaysia package price page follows the Genting day trip with a day at Sunway Lagoon theme park. Use the Malaysia trip cost guide to budget for rides and extras.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Genting Highlands as a day trip from Kuala Lumpur?
Yes. It is around an hour each way by road, and a full day comfortably covers the cable car, Chin Swee temple and one theme park. Stay overnight if you want more time.
How cold is Genting Highlands?
It is noticeably cooler than Kuala Lumpur and can feel chilly in the evening or when the mist rolls in. A light jacket or long sleeves is enough for most travellers.
Is Genting Highlands suitable for children?
Very much so. The indoor park suits younger children whatever the weather, and the outdoor park has bigger rides for teenagers. The casino is for adults only.
When is the best time to visit?
Weekdays outside school holidays are the quietest. Arrive in the morning for shorter queues and clearer views, as cloud and showers often build later in the day.
Is the cable car included in your packages?
Our standard itineraries with a Genting day trip include a cable car ride. Theme park tickets vary by package, so tell us which park you would like and we will confirm what is included.
