From Kazakhstan to Java, M’sians are exploring new travel horizons

Petaling Jaya: Malaysians are expanding their travel horizons beyond traditional shopping and beach holidays, according to data from travel platform Traveloka. Destinations featuring mountain adventures, ancient temples, and cultural experiences have caught the attention of Malaysian travelers. Searches for Almaty, Kazakhstan's former capital, within the country surged 106% year-on-year during Q3.

Accommodation bookings from Malaysia to Magelang and Yogyakarta, Indonesia's Central Java, also increased, reflecting an interest in the region's cultural landmarks.

Almaty, situated amidst the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, presents a unique mountain escape with leafy boulevards, lively cafés, cultural attractions, and easy access to natural surroundings. Visitors can explore Ile-Alatau National Park, bathe at the turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake, and partake in winter sports at Shymbulak. The city's markets, museums, and distinct food culture offer a taste of Central Asian traditions and Russian influences. Malaysian passport holders can visit Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 30 days.

Meanwhile, Java's ancient Buddhist temple of Borobudur, a Unesco World Heritage Site, attracts travelers with its tiered structure and intricate stone carvings. Built during the eighth and ninth centuries, the monument intricately represents Buddhist cosmology. Close by lies Prambanan, Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex, adorned with towering spires and elaborate stone carvings detailing the Ramayana epic.

While Yogyakarta and parts of Central Java face dry conditions and wildfire risks, other areas experience concentrated haze.