Kuala Lumpur: Genting Highlands Tour with Awana Cable Car

Introduction

Our review of the Genting Highlands Tour with Awana Cable Car offers an honest look at what travelers can expect from this popular day trip. Although we haven’t personally taken the tour, the experience promises a blend of scenic views, cultural stops, and entertainment options that many find worth the price.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the breathtaking cable car ride over lush rainforests gives an immersive start. Second, the chance to visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple combines spirituality with striking architecture. Lastly, the opportunity to explore gourmet shopping, gaming, and theme parks at the highlands makes it a full-on adventure.

A possible consideration is the lack of detailed guidance during some parts of the trip, as some reviews mention vague directions and longer-than-expected durations. This tour best suits those who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and lively entertainment—perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded mountain getaway.

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Key Points

• Scenic cable car ride offers panoramic jungle views and photo opportunities.
• Chin Swee Caves Temple provides a peaceful cultural stop with impressive architecture.
• Flexible itinerary with options for shopping, gaming, and theme parks.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a full day of activities.
• Guide service is generally well-regarded, but some travelers experience communication hiccups.
• Multiple departure times allow for flexibility in planning your day trip.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The journey begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle picking you up from Kuala Lumpur, typically around 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM. The 45-minute drive takes you through the scenic outskirts of Kuala Lumpur—think lush greenery and mountain views—setting the tone for a relaxed day.

The Cable Car Experience

Once at the Genting Skyway station, you’ll hop aboard the Genting Skyway Cable Car, which is a major highlight. During the 15-20 minute ascent, you’ll glide over rainforest canopies, capturing some stellar photos of the verdant landscape below. Reviewers love this part—“Soaking in the panoramic jungle views” seems to be a common phrase. The cable car is smooth, with large windows allowing for unobstructed views, making it a calming and visually rewarding start to your highland adventure.

Chin Swee Caves Temple

Midway, you’ll stop at the Chin Swee Caves Temple, a peaceful spot perched on a hilltop. The temple’s intricate stone carvings, nine-story pagoda, and serene gardens make it a highlight for many visitors. Travelers mention it as “a spiritual sanctuary with stunning architecture,” and a place to relax and soak in the mountain air. The temple grounds are well-maintained, and the spiritual atmosphere gives a break from the bustling attractions below.

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Arrival at Genting Highlands

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll find a lively environment packed with options. The Casino de Genting is a major draw for those interested in gaming—it’s one of the largest land-based casinos in Asia, offering a variety of table games and slot machines. For families or thrill-seekers, the indoor theme parks—Genting SkyWorlds (admission at your own cost) and Skytropolis—are filled with rides, shows, and immersive experiences.

Shopping and Dining

If shopping is your thing, the Genting Highlands Premium Outlets hosts over 150 brands with discounts on luxury and designer labels. Many reviews highlight the quality of shopping for branded goods at attractive prices, making it a worthwhile stop for fashion lovers. Food options are equally varied, with everything from street food stalls to upscale restaurants offering diverse cuisines—perfect for a quick snack or a sit-down meal.

Additional Experiences

While the core itinerary is flexible, some travelers mention that their tours included visits to Batu Caves—a site not originally advertised but added as part of a shared tour. If you have specific plans, this can be a surprise or a drawback depending on your preferences, as seen in reviews where visitors felt the extra stop lengthened the trip unexpectedly.

How the Tour Operates

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided by a professional driver. The driver details are communicated via WhatsApp the night before, which travelers find helpful for planning. The two-way cable car ticket is included, allowing a seamless ascent and descent.

Most travelers spend around 4-5 hours at Genting Highlands, but actual duration can vary depending on traffic and group size. Some reviews mention that delays—such as waiting for late guests—can extend the day, so flexibility is key. The tour is designed to be straightforward and accessible, with the option to reserve and pay later, adding convenience.

Authentic Experiences and Common Praise

Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the overall value of the experience. For instance, Elena mentions, “It was a really great day,” highlighting the friendly guide and the variety of activities.

Food and shopping receive positive remarks too. Amir praises the mall design and food variety, while others note that the cable car ride alone is worth the price. Such feedback indicates that the tour offers a good balance of relaxation, entertainment, and cultural exposure.

Considerations and Tips

• Vague guidance during the trip has been noted; travelers should stay alert and communicate clearly with guides, especially when visiting multiple stops.
• Be prepared for potential delays or longer trips, as some reviews mention extended durations due to group dynamics.
• Dress comfortably and bring a jacket—the highlands can be cooler than Kuala Lumpur.
• Download WhatsApp ahead of time to receive timely updates on driver and tour details.
• As admission to SkyWorlds Theme Park is at your own expense, plan accordingly if rides or attractions are a priority for you.
• The price of $28 per person offers solid value, considering the cable car ride, transportation, and guided service.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour caters well to travelers seeking a cost-effective, all-in-one day trip to Genting Highlands. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy scenic views, cultural sites, shopping, and entertainment without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. The flexible schedule and range of activities suit families, couples, or friends looking for a fun escape from the city.

However, if you prefer a more personalized experience or want to avoid longer-than-expected days, you might want to check the detailed itinerary or consider private options. The tour offers a good mix of highlights but relies on group logistics, which can sometimes lead to delays or surprises.

The Sum Up

The Genting Highlands Tour with Awana Cable Car provides a well-rounded, budget-friendly option for anyone eager to experience the best of Malaysia’s highlands in a single day. It combines scenic beauty, cultural significance, and entertainment, all with the convenience of guided transportation.

If you’re after a lively, varied day with memorable views and the chance to shop designer brands or try your luck at the casino, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable with some flexibility and enjoy a lively group atmosphere.

For travelers wanting a straightforward, value-packed adventure that covers natural scenery, cultural highlights, and fun attractions, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to stay flexible, communicate clearly, and enjoy the journey up to the mountain’s cool, breezy heights.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.

What time does the tour depart?
Tour departures are typically at 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM, giving you options to fit your schedule.

Do I need to buy tickets for the cable car?
No, the two-way Awana Cable Car ticket is included in the price, allowing for a seamless ride to and from Genting Highlands.

Can I visit the theme parks?
Theme park admission (Genting SkyWorlds or Skytropolis) is not included, so plan to purchase tickets separately if you wish to visit.

Is there a cultural or spiritual stop?
Yes, the Chin Swee Caves Temple is a highlight for those interested in cultural and spiritual experiences, offering peace and scenic views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a jacket for the cooler highland climate, and a camera for photos are recommended.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in a variety of activities including shopping, sightseeing, and entertainment.

Embark on this highland adventure to enjoy Malaysia’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and world-class entertainment—all in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: