Top 10 Motorbike Routes in Malaysia

Epic Road Trips for Bikers in Southeast Asia
Malaysia is a paradise for motorbike lovers. With its diverse landscapes—from misty mountains and dense rainforests to pristine beaches and charming countryside—riding through Malaysia offers thrilling adventures and unforgettable sights. Whether you’re cruising coastal roads or navigating twisty highland passes, these are the Top 10 Motorbike Routes in Malaysia that every road trip enthusiast must experience.
1. Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands – A Highland Escape
Route: KL → Tapah → Ringlet → Tanah Rata
Distance: ~200 km | Duration: 3–4 hours
Experience a scenic ascent into the cool, green hills of Cameron Highlands. Choose the more adventurous Tapah route for winding jungle roads and waterfalls, or take the smoother Simpang Pulai road for sweeping curves and tea plantation views.
Route Highlights:
- Lata Iskandar Waterfall
- Bharat Tea Estate
- Mossy Forest
Tips: Ideal for mid-level riders; watch for sharp bends and foggy patches.
2. Penang to Langkawi via Alor Setar – Ride to the Islands
Route: George Town → Butterworth → Alor Setar → Kuala Kedah → Langkawi Ferry
Distance: ~160 km + ferry | Duration: 3 hours + ferry time
Ride from the vibrant streets of Penang through scenic paddy fields to Kuala Kedah, then hop on a ferry to Langkawi. Enjoy the relaxing countryside before arriving at Langkawi’s beaches and winding island roads.
Route Highlights:
- Alor Setar Tower
- Rice fields of Kedah
- Langkawi Sky Bridge (once on the island)
Tips: Book ferry slots for bikes early; best traveled during dry months.
3. Kuantan to Kuala Terengganu – Coastal Tranquility on Route 3
Route: Kuantan → Cherating → Dungun → KT
Distance: ~250 km | Duration: 4–5 hours
Ride along Malaysia’s East Coast where ocean meets jungle. This peaceful route boasts beautiful beaches, quiet fishing villages, and traditional Malay architecture.
Route Highlights:
- Cherating Beach
- Rantau Abang
- Crystal Mosque, Kuala Terengganu
Tips: Perfect for a two-day ride with a beach overnight stop.
4. Fraser’s Hill via Kuala Kubu Bharu – The Biker’s Playground
Route: KKB → The Gap → Fraser’s Hill
Distance: ~130 km | Duration: 2–3 hours
A legendary twisty route for thrill-seekers. With over 60 bends and cool weather, this is a favorite weekend loop. Best done early morning to avoid traffic.
Route Highlights:
- Sungai Selangor Dam
- The Gap rest stop
- Fraser’s Hill colonial town
Tips: Narrow roads require caution; avoid during heavy rain.
5. Genting Highlands via Batang Kali – A Quick Thrill Ride
Route: Ulu Yam → Batang Kali → Genting
Distance: ~40 km | Duration: 1.5 hours
This steep, adrenaline-pumping ride is ideal for a short getaway from Kuala Lumpur. Take in the mountain views as you ascend towards the entertainment capital of Malaysia.
Route Highlights:
- Chin Swee Temple
- Genting Premium Outlets
- Mountain mist panoramas
Tips: Not beginner-friendly; ride on weekdays to avoid weekend congestion.
6. East-West Highway (Gerik to Jeli) – Through the Rainforest
Route: Gerik → Tasik Banding → Jeli
Distance: ~125 km | Duration: 2–3 hours
Known as the “Trans-Borneo-style” road of Peninsular Malaysia, this route cuts through untouched rainforest and skirts Lake Temenggor.
Route Highlights:
- Royal Belum Rainforest
- Tasik Banding Bridge
- Wildlife sightings
Tips: Be alert for wild elephants; fuel up before starting.
7. Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang (Sabah) – Borneo’s Best Ride
Route: KK → Tamparuli → Kundasang
Distance: ~100 km | Duration: 2 hours
A high-altitude ride towards Mount Kinabalu. Crisp air, stunning views, and native Dusun villages make this one of Sabah’s most scenic rides.
Route Highlights:
- Nabalu Handicraft Market
- Kinabalu Park
- Desa Dairy Farm
Tips: Start early to catch sunrise over the mountain range.
8. Mersing to Desaru (Johor) – A Sunny Coastal Cruise
Route: Mersing → Kota Tinggi → Desaru
Distance: ~140 km | Duration: 2.5 hours
Soak up Johor’s coastline with swaying palm trees and golden beaches along the way. This leisurely route is great for solo or group rides.
Route Highlights:
- Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum
- Desaru Beach
- Fruit plantations
Tips: Bring sunscreen and stop for local tropical fruits.
9. Ipoh to Pangkor via Lumut – Island Hopping on Two Wheels
Route: Ipoh → Batu Gajah → Lumut → Pangkor
Distance: ~90 km + ferry | Duration: 2 hours
Explore Perak’s heritage and coastal charm before taking a short ferry ride to Pangkor Island, where motorbikes are common transport.
Route Highlights:
- Kellie’s Castle
- Lumut Waterfront
- Pangkor beaches and seafood
Tips: Pangkor Island allows small bikes; check ferry schedules.
10. Melaka to Tangkak via Gunung Ledang – Folklore Meets Forests
Route: Melaka → Jasin → Gunung Ledang
Distance: ~60 km | Duration: 1.5 hours
Ride from Melaka’s heritage city to Johor’s highest mountain, Gunung Ledang. A mystical ride surrounded by legends and nature.
Route Highlights:
- Ayer Keroh forest roads
- Gunung Ledang National Park
- Sagil waterfall
Tips: Combine the ride with a short jungle trek.
Final Thoughts
From mountain trails to breezy coastlines, these top 10 motorbike routes in Malaysia showcase the country’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. Whether you’re touring Peninsular Malaysia or exploring Borneo, these road trips offer thrilling escapes for every rider. Remember your gear, check your fuel, and ride safe!