Things to do in Kota Tinggi

More about Kota Tinggi

Things to do in Kota Tinggi

A town, as well as a district in the state of Johor, Malaysia, Kota Tinggi is particularly known for its historical significance as the birthplace of the Johor Sultanate, as well as its natural attractions like the breathtaking Kota Tinggi Waterfalls and the Johor River decorated by the stunning fireflies.

Kota Tinggi is one of the popular tourist destinations in Malaysia that offers a glimpse into Malaysia’s past with its historical tombs and landmarks. As for the nature enthusiasts, you might also want to visit this lovely town where you get to enjoy the breeze of beautiful waterfalls, where visitors can swim in the refreshing pools at the base, or sail through the river while being surrounded by the twinkling fireflies. Kota Tinggi will surely leave you with a remarkable impression. 

Top Things to Do in Kota Tinggi

Kota Tinggi is a fabulous city located in Malaysia that houses so many activities, attractions and things to experience in the area. Here is the list of things that you can do during your trip to Kota Tinggi. 

1. Explore the Adventure Waterpark @ Desaru Coast

Begin your water journey with Adventure Waterpark @ Desaru Coast which is filled with a diverse range of water slides, a massive wave pool, and a unique surf simulator which makes it the perfect destination for families and adventure seekers alike. From thrilling rides to a relaxing lazy river, the park has everything to cater for all visitor's needs and preferences. 

2. Kayaking Through the scenic Lebam River

Hop on your exciting kayak experience through one of the most serene rivers in Malaysia, the Lebam River. Invite your friends and family to a sailing journey through the Lebam River while enjoying the passing by wild animals like ducks, herons, kingfishers, and if you are lucky enough, you might also be able to take a glimpse into an otter in action. 

3. Embark on a memorable Firefly River Cruise 

Experience the rare chance, which can even be said a once-in-a-lifetime chance to sail along the Johor River while being surrounded by the magical species of thousands of sparkling fireflies at their brightest. Travel under the stars, and watch as the fireflies fly along the way offering a chance to have a great family bonding experience and memories during your trip. 

4. Birdwatching experience in the Desaru area

For those of you who are nature enjoyers, get your birdwatching experience in the Desaru area and discover over 90 species of birds living in Desaru. Book your own trip with Traveloka and join on the trip for a more intimate and private experience with your family and friends, and create numerous memories with a breathtaking backdrop of nature while getting to know more about the fascinating species of birds explained by your own guide. 

5. Get to know the Pristine Desaru Beach

The popular beach resort town in the Kota Tinggi district of Johor, Desaru Beach is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters, and a variety of water sports and activities are available to experience in the area including jet skiing, parasailing, and the thrilling banana boat rides. If you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate yourself, then Desaru Beach is the perfect option for you. 

6. Have a serene Walk at the Tide Pool

Still at Desaru Beach, where you can wander through the wonder of the intertidal zone through the tide pool walks. During the low tide, the Desaru Coast would come alive with various marine creatures showing themself in front of your eyes. Discover a variety of marine creatures like limpets, barnacles, sand anemones, rock crabs and many others. If you would like to, Traveloka provides you with a package that allows you to fully explore Desaru Beach in a package. 

7. Gain insight into the Desaru Riverside Garden 

Get to know various greens and flowers living within the lush Desaru Coast, and get your own guide that will explain everything about the plants living in the area along with their significance to the ecosystem. During your exploration, you might also get the chance on the Coppersmith Barbet and Sunda-pygmy Woodpecker nestling among the trees and flowers peeking around blending with the surroundings. 

8. Enjoy the beautiful Kota Tinggi Waterfalls

Nestled among the lush greenery of Kota Tinggi, Kota Tinggi Waterfalls is located right on the foot of Gunung Muntahak, where it offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

The waterfalls consist of several cascading tiers, creating a breathtaking backdrop with pristine water creating a perfect place for you to have a refreshing dip. The area is known for being rich in biodiversity, with lush rainforests and diverse wildlife surround the area 

9. Get around the Firefly Valley Leisure Park

Kota Tinggi is known for its beautiful fireflies that can be seen in some specific place and time, including the Firefly Valley Leisure Park where the place is already known for its enchanting firefly displays, especially during the breeding season. Witness hundreds and thousands of fireflies fleeing around you illuminating the dark sky, and riverbanks, creating a breathtaking magical atmosphere that you rarely get to experience anywhere else

10. Hop on Kota Johor Lama Museum

Kota Johor Lama Museum which is also known by the name ‘Old Johor Fort Museum’ is a historical site nestled in Kamping Johor Lama of Kota Tinggi districts allowing visitors to take a glimpse into the past, showcasing the history and culture of the region. 

The site originally acted as the administrative centre of Old Johor City which played a crucial role in the past, and now it become one of the most visited museum housing the remains of the OldJohor Fort, artefacts like pottery tools and weapons giving a glimpse into the dail life and customs of the people living in the area. 

11. Visit the Desaru Fruit Farm

Another popular tourist attraction in Kota Tinggi that you should consider visiting, Desaru Fruit Farm is a vast 180-acre land offering a unique and educational experience for visitors all ages. Depending on the season, you might have the opportunity to pick your own fruits, such as rambutans, durians, and mangostees as well as taste them first-hand. 

12. Observe Crocodiles at Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm

One of the largest crocodile farms in Peninsular Malaysia, housing thousands of crocodiles of various sizes. Get up and close to these magnificent creatures from hatchlings to massive adults. Witness the feeding time when the crocodiles are being fed raw chicken and other delicacies right in front of your eyes. If you're lucky enough, you might also be allowed to hold a baby crocodile under the watchful eye of experienced handlers. 

13. Hiking through the Gunung Muntahak

Tighten your shoes and get ready to hike through the majestic mountain of Muntahak which will offer a rewarding experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The trails offer a mix of gentle slopes and steeper sections, passing through the lush rainforest complete with the wildlife living within the area. 

14 Learn the history of Fishing at Muzium Nelayan Tanjung Balau

A unique and fascinating museum in Kota Tinggi, Muzium Nelayan Tanjung Balau. It is a museum that is dedicated to preserving the rich history and heritage of traditional Malay fishermen, where you will be welcomed by the vast collections of traditional fishing tools, including nets, traps, and boats and learn about the unique techniques used by the local fishermen to catch their daily catch. 

15. Visit the local Markets 

There are so many local market available to visit for free in Koa Tinggi, allowing visitors to indulge themself in the local culture, take a sample of delicious street food, and purchase fresh produce. Take the example of Pasar Awam Kota Tinggi where you can find everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to spices and herbs, or Pasar Kemboja where you can find a wide variety of delicious street foods, such as satay, nasi lemak, and rojak and many others. 

Best Restaurants in Kota Tinggi

1. Red Diamond Seafood

Seafood enthusiasts, you need to visit the Red Diamond Seafood restaurant at least once during your trip to Kota Tinggi. The restaurant would serve you with the freshest seafood, and delicious dishes at affordable prices that will satisfy both of your palettes and save your wallet at the same time.

2. Hassan Mohammad Ong Seafood Restaurant

Another seafood restaurant that you should add to your list, is that it serves visitors with a variety of dishes from Chinese cuisine to local cuisine with high-quality ingredients producing delicacies in the shapes of grilled fish, steamed fish, and many others. Expect to find Chinese dishes like stir-fried vegetables, and chicken rice with local cuisines like otak-otak and mee goreng. 

3. Tadpole Cafe

The popular dining spot in Kota Tinggi that is known for its unique concept and diverse menu, Tadpole Cafe is a dining place suitable for all ages serving a range of dishes from Western to local Malaysian Cuisine. The cafe is quite unique with a creative interior design decorating your dining experience, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere complete with menus like pasta, pizzas, burgers to locale favourite nasi lemak and tori canal, and even creative drinks from fruit teas to speciality coffees. 

4. Yap Fong Noodle House

The legendary eatery, Yap Fong Noodle House is one of the top options that you need to savour in Kota Tinggi where it is known for serving authentic noodle dishes, complete with a nostalgic ambience with its traditional decor and old-school vibes. Don't miss their signature noodles that have run from generation to generation made using time-tested recipes passed down through the family. 

5. Jade Garden Seafood Corner

Savour the ultimate seafood dishes at Jade Garden Seafood Corner located within a comfortable and fully air-conditioned banquet hall which is a perfect place for your precious family gathering. Get the taste of the high-quality ingredients from lobster to various kinds of shellfish dipped in special sauces hand-made by the restaurant. 

Best Hotel Recommendations in Kota Tinggi

1. Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa

Four-star luxurious hotel located right on the beachside, Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa is one of the top recommended accommodations that will leave your trip unforgettable.  With over 731 accommodations, the resort surely has anything you ever wished for from facilities like a refreshing pool to a fitness centre and recreation room for the kids. 

2. Four Points by Sheraton Desaru

Four Point by Sheraton Desaru is a modern and stylish hotel offering a comfortable and convenient stay for both business and leisure travellers. Be ready to be pampered by the hotel’s facilities including the restaurants serving a wide variety of dishes from international cuisine to local cuisine, bar, and beach shuttle for those of you who would like to have a trip to Desaru Beach. 

3. Tiara Desaru Residences

More budget hotels that will make you feel as if at home, Tiara Desaru Residence is the top option for budget-conscious travellers who would like to enjoy a comfortable stay while saving their budget. Enjoy the wide variety of facilities the hotels provide from an indoor or outdoor pool, beautiful garden, fitness centre, health club and many others. 

4. Amansari Hotel Desaru

Amansari Hotel Desaru is a hotel located in a  strategic location close to many popular attractions including the serene Desaru Beach, Surf Beach Tanjung Lompat, and         Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark. The rooms are also clean and comfortable with in-room facilities like a cable TV, minibar, shower, air conditioner and a private bathroom with a heater to make your stay more memorable. 

5. Desa Selatan Resort

Another budget hotel that will save your wallet and make your holiday more enjoyable is Desa Selatan Resort. The resort is one of the top affordable hotels which offers you a relaxing stay with various amenities and services including on-site facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and fitness centre as well as a friendly staff known for their warm hospitality and helpfulness. 

Travel Tips to Kota Tinggi

• Plan your visit, do your research and plan your visit beforehand on the best season and weather that you feel that would be the best for you. 
• Rent a Car, It is the most convenient way to explore Kota Tinggi along with its surrounding areas. But don't worry, there are still many other public transport available including buses and taxis.  
• Experience Local Culture, get to know Kota Tinggi’s culture by visiting the local markets that sell various kinds of souvenirs, and street foods authentic to the city.
• Savour Local Cuisine, don’t miss your opportunity to savour the delicate and flavourful local cuisines like Nasi Lemak, Satay, and Laksa Johor. 
• Accommodation, decide on what kinds of accommodation you would like to experience because Kota Tinggi provides a range of accommodation options including budget-friendly to luxurious resorts. 
• Stray Active and Explore, Enjoy various outdoor activities that ou can enjoy at Kota Tinggi including water sports at Desaru Beach or hiking through the HGunung Muntahak.
• Wildlife Encounters, Have your own wildlife encounter at Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm to see the majestic creatures close up. 
• Respect the Local customs, Dress modestly and be mindful of the local customs and traditions held in the area. 
• Bargain at the Market, If you happen to visit the local market, then be ready to bargain with the vendor to purchase the souvenirs you need at the best price. 
• Stay Hydrated, Bring yourself a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated, especially if you plan to do various outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Kota Tinggi

The best time to visit Kota Tinggi would depend on what you are looking for. But in general, the best time to visit would be during the Dry Season which usually falls around March and September when the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it the ideal period to fully enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing and exploring the natural attractions. 

From exploring the Gunung Muntahak to having your fun and exciting day at the exceptional Adventure Waterpark at Desaru Coast, you will find anything you want to do for your next visit to Kota Tinggi. If you would like to book accommodation, services, or flight tickets to Kota Tinggi soon, Traveloka is more than happy to help you in booking those tickets. Besides giving the best price, Traveloka also often gives numerous combos, discounts, and promotions! So don’t miss yours!