This hilltop resort in Malaysia's Titiwangsa Mountains has a cool climate, theme parks, and a casino. It's accessible by cable car from Kuala Lumpur.
Genting Highlands, a mountain resort town in Malaysia, sits at an elevation of 5,700 feet in the Titiwangsa Mountains. This entertainment hub includes casinos, theme parks, and hotels, all set in a cool mountain climate. Ride one of the world's fastest cable cars, try your luck at Sky Casino, or enjoy the Skytropolis Funland indoor theme park. The surrounding mountains also have strawberry farms and hiking trails for those seeking outdoor experiences.
Theme Parks and Entertainment
Genting Highlands has several exciting theme parks. At Skytropolis Funland, an indoor theme park, you'll find numerous rides for all ages, including fast-paced roller coasters, family-friendly carousels, and interactive games. Genting Snow World creates an artificial winter wonderland where you can enjoy snow activities and sledding, even in tropical Malaysia. The Arena of Stars, a 5,000-seat amphitheater, hosts concerts and performances by international artists throughout the year.
Cable Car Systems
Two cable car systems take you to the resort. The Genting Skyway, a 3.38-kilometer journey, gives you wide views of the surrounding rainforest. The newer Awana Skyway, launched in 2016, has glass-floor gondolas for a more thrilling ride. These cable cars serve as both transportation and activities, allowing you to see the lush mountain landscape from above.
Casinos and Nightlife
Genting Highlands is the only place in Malaysia where casino gambling is legal. The Sky Casino, also known as Casino De Genting, is the largest in the resort, with a wide range of table games and slot machines. The casino's modern design and active atmosphere draw both casual players and serious gamblers. For evening entertainment, visit Cloud 9, a popular nightclub known for its neon pillars and music selection, including R&B, hip-hop, and live performances.
Hotels and Accommodations
The resort has accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. The First World Hotel, with over 7,300 rooms, once held the Guinness World Record for the largest hotel in the world. For a more luxurious stay, choose the Crockfords or Genting Grand. The Theme Park Hotel, formerly known as the Highlands Hotel, is close to the resort's main areas. Sheltered walkways, escalators, and underground tunnels connect these hotels, making it easy to explore the entire complex regardless of weather conditions.
Natural Areas and Outdoor Activities
Genting Highlands also has natural areas to explore. At the Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm, Malaysia's largest strawberry farm, you can pick fresh strawberries and eat strawberry-themed treats. For hiking, trails in the surrounding Titiwangsa Mountains let you explore the tropical rainforest. The nearby Chin Swee Caves Temple, a Taoist temple set against misty mountains, gives you a cultural and spiritual experience in nature.
How to Get There and Best Time to Visit
Genting Highlands is about 55 kilometers northeast of Kuala Lumpur. You can reach the resort by car, bus, or taxi from the capital city in approximately an hour. The resort has cooler temperatures than the lowlands, ranging from 15°C to 26°C. While you can visit year-round, the period from March to September typically has less rainfall, making it better for outdoor activities. However, misty conditions are common throughout the year, which can sometimes limit visibility but add to the mountain resort atmosphere.