Did you know that unlike countries located in the Northern and Southern hemispheres, where only certain constellations appear for a few months, Malaysia is blessed with views of all the constellations in the sky throughout the year? Our strategic location on the equator makes our beloved home ground the perfect place to stargaze!
Whether you choose to go glamping or for a quick night drive to these locations, we can confirm that these stargazing spots in Malaysia will leave you starry-eyed from the ethereal beauty of the universe far, far away.
SARAWAK
Tanjung Datu National Park, Kuching
The small but verdant Tanjung Datu National Park sits at the westernmost tip of Sarawak and prides itself as a rainforest by the sea. The untouched nature of the landscape allows for rare natural phenomena to happen here. The uncommon Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower, grows along the hiking trails, and pollution is little to none that live corals are abundant near the shore. If you’re in luck, you can even score a night’s stay at the park’s headquarters and camp under the stars!
Bario, Kelabit Highlands
Coined as the land of a hundred handshakes, Bario is the homeland of the indigenous Kelabit tribe. The mountainous range of the highlands of Bario make an ideal location for cultivating rice, but there’s a lot more that Bario has to offer. You can fully immerse yourself in the Kelabit culture here, from longhouse homestays to the annual Kelabit food festival, Pesta Nukenen. Of course, its seclusion from the city is a plus point, and you can easily spot the Milky Way from July onwards on a clear night.
SABAH
Kudat
At the northernmost point of Borneo, you’ll find the coastal town of Kudat. Pitch a tent at Secret Place Cafe & Camping situated at Tanjung Simpang Mengayu, also known as the tip of Borneo – we guarantee that you’ll be on a sensory ride with the heavenly view of a sky full of stars amidst the calming sounds of the waves.
Kundasang
The idyllic town of Kundasang is located at the foot of Mount Kinabalu, which also happens to be Malaysia’s highest point. At 6,200ft above sea level, Kundasang is blessed with cooling weather all year round, and is well-known for its vegetable markets. Other than petting the Friesian cows at DESA Dairy Farm (currently closed to visitors) or sipping tea at Sabah Tea Garden, you can consider yourself booked for the night as you suit up in your warmest down jacket to be in awe of the constellations that twinkle above.
SELANGOR
Sekinchan
With its vast paddy fields offering an unobstructed view of the sky, it’s no wonder that many people flock here to escape the stresses of city life. We highly recommend staying the night at any hotel that comes with a view of the paddy field because you get to stargaze in the comfort of your own room!
Pantai Bagan Lalang
More commonly known as Sepang Gold Coast, Pantai Began Lalang as its originally known, is located only an hour away from Kuala Lumpur. Other than its outstanding sunset views, this is one of the nearer spots from the city to get a view of the stars at night by the beach.
Kuala Kubu Bharu Dam, Hulu Selangor
Also known as Sungai Selangor Dam, this hidden water dam is nestled atop a Hulu Selangor hill, and a favourite amongst stargazers and astrophotographers. Right next to Pertak Dam, there’s also a lookout point perfect for whipping out your folding chairs to just lounge and stargaze.
PAHANG
Fraser Hill
On a night where the skies are clear, consider yourself lucky to be able to see the view of the Milky Way at Fraser’s Hill with your naked eyes. Thanks to the township’s elevation of up to 4,790ft above sea level, you can take a stroll through the iconic Tudor-styled town at night and set your blanket or chair down almost anywhere for a dreamy experience.
TERENGGANU
Pulau Gemia, Marang
This private island, located off the coast of Terengganu, is a tranquil place to experience rural beach living at a marine park, and a hotspot for astrophotography enthusiasts and snorkellers. The island is located at the northern end of Pulau Kapas and has only one beach resort, Gem Island Resort, where you can book your stay for a splendid night beneath the stars as the sea gently laps at your toes.
Pantai Teluk Bidara, Dungun
Further down Terengganu’s coastline is the more accessible Pantai Teluk Bidara, a secluded public beach next to Tanjong Jara Resort. Do take note that the amenities here are not well-kept. However, it makes up for its shortcomings with a glorious view. You’ll be much better off staying at the neighbouring coastal resort with its own private beach with the same sea and sky views.
PERAK
Kuala Sepetang
This fishing village in Kuala Sepetang is home to the now-dismantled Port Weld Station, the first railway station built in Peninsular Malaysia. Kuala Sepetang is stationed where the mouth of Sungai Sepetang merges with Malacca Strait, making it an ideal location for stargazing due to its expansive geographical landscape. While you’re in this state, you can also arrange a private excursion with MareCet to catch a glimpse of Indo-Pacific dolphins!
MELAKA
Padang Pasir Klebang
Known for its cascading white dunes, Padang Pasir Klebang is a must-visit! Although located in a pretty secluded spot (you might want to wear a pair of good walking shoes) with no proper signage, it’s worth a visit in the nighttime, where the skies light up with shining stars. With the dunes standing majestically amidst the backdrop of the starry sky, you might mistaken yourself to be trudging through the Arabian Desert.
