Flights to Malaysia

With its rich culture, colonial architecture, myriad of festivals, spellbinding landscapes and pristine beaches, Malaysia is at the epicentre of a truly Asian experience. Thanks to its two different weather zones, the weather remains supportive of tourism all year long. Kuala Lumpur, the capital and the largest city, is a fabulous melting pot of modern and traditional, impressing you with its range of spectacular architectural marvels. The island of Langkawi is thronged by couples looking for a romantic time amongst its turquoise blue waters, intact jungles and world-class resorts. The state of Penang exuberates a historic charm whereas Genting is the city of unending entertainment.

Etihad, KLM, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, British Airways and Qatar Airways are some of the airlines selling tickets for flights to Kuala Lumpur from Heathrow - the most popular air route between the two countries. Top Malaysian airports for UK flights include: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (45 kilometres south of Kuala Lumpur city centre), Penang International Airport (main airport in northern Malaysia) and Kota Kinabalu International Airport (serves the city of Kota Kinabalu and the entire west coast of Sabah).

A number of airlines operate flights to Malaysia from Heathrow in London, the Manchester Airport, the Edinburgh Airport and other key UK airports. British Airways and Malaysia Airlines operate direct, non-stop flights between London Heathrow and Kuala Lumpur. Non-stop Malaysia flights from the UK can take around 13 hours. Connecting flights, usually with a stopover in an Asian city, can take well over 14 hours.

• The federation of Malaysia is a monarchy located in the Southeast Asia. The capital city of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, also the largest city and the official language of the country is Bahasa Malaysia. English is widely recognized. The currency of Malaysia is Malaysian Ringgit

• A majority of population either practises Islam (61.3%) or Buddhism (19.8%). Some of the popular Malaysian holidays include 'Hari Merdaka' or Independence Day (31st August), the Labour day (1st May), King's birthday (first Saturday of June), Malaysia Day (16th September) and the New Year holiday. Besides, the state recognises ethnic festivals like Ramadan, Islamic New Year, Chinese New Year, Wesak (Buddha's birthday) as well as Deepavli (a Hindu festival)

• The British Nationals do not need a visa before arrival in Malaysia. For extending the 3-month visa given on arrival, the nationals can contact the British High Commission's office in Kuala Lumpur. Check FCO for detailed and up to date entry requirements for British passport holders.

• Some of the popular destinations of interest to travellers from UK are Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, Penang Islands, Mount Kinabalu and Sipadan Islands amongst others.

November - February: Malaysia is a perfect destination to visit around the year as the monsoon divides the country into two regions - east coast and the west coast. The east coast experiences heavy rainfall between November-February which makes these months the best time to visit Penang and Langkawi areas near the west coast.

March, April, September and October: The shoulder months of March, April, September and October are perfect to visit the entire country. Check out deals on Travel Trolley as several discounted flights are available from London to Kuala Lumpur at this time.

The weather on the east coast starts to brighten up and the west coast is still preparing for the months of heavy rainfall ahead. Tourists are few, weather is not at its worse and prices of hotels and accommodation are less during this time. You can be a witness to the celebrations of the Chinese New Year in March.

May- August: The months from May-August are perfect to visit the east-coast areas for the UK travellers. The weather is sunny, the outdoor activities are aplenty and the schools are closed for summer holidays. The prices in this area, however, might be at their peak and it is advisable to book in advance. Do check Travel Trolley for peak season holiday offers.