Johor Bahru

Located on the southern tip of Southeast Asia, Johot Bahru was formerly known as Tanjung Puteri. The city is the capital of Johor, which is and one Malaysia’s most developed states. This is an area of great natural beauty, ranging from the stretch of water between Malaysia and Singapore known as the Straits of Johor to mighty mountains, tropical rainforests and sparkling waterfalls.

There is a large causeway linking Malaysia to Singapore and many people pass through Johor Bahru on the way to ‘the garden city’. However, for those who take the time to explore, Johor Bahru is full of natural and cultural delights.

A great way to get an idea of the natural beauty of this area is by climbing Mount Ophir. At 1,276 meters this is the highest point in the area and provides fantastic views across the city and the Straits of Johor.

There are a large number of interesting buildings to explore and top of the list should be the ornate Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and the Royal Palace Museum. The nearby communities of Kukup village and Muar town are good places to visit to gain an insight into traditional Malay life.

Beach bunnies should hop on over to the collection Desaru beaches and islands that lay to the south, among which Pulau Dayang island is probably the most popular. The clear blue waters around this island are excellent for snorkelling and diving, while sunbathing, swimming and boat trips are also popular pastimes.

A great day trip destination is the Endau Rompin National Park, where you will have the chance to wander through pristine tropical rainforest and perhaps spot the Sumatran rhinoceros. You will also find the pretty Kota Tinggi waterfall, which is a good place to cool down after trekking through the forest.