If an Indian traveller has pictures in his/her head of enjoying teh tarik in Kuala Lumpur, going island hopping in Langkawi or just wandering through colourful street markets under the tropical sun, then probably the question that comes first on his/her mind when planning the trip is: Do Indians need a visa for Malaysia? The brief answer is yes with a few nice exceptions depending on the kind of stay and the travel plan.
Malaysia is among the top destinations for Indians honeymooners, families, solo travellers, and foodies and the country is very hospitable to tourists. Here is a thorough travel guide where I will take you through everything that you must know, and sprinkle some local insights and real, life travel tips. So, lets start!
Malaysia Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Let me have a quick rundown of the entry requirements for Indian passport holders before you pack your bags.
Visa
In most cases, Indian citizens require a visa to travel to Malaysia for tourism, business, transit, or study. Malaysia offers a few visa pathways like the tourist visa (single / multiple entry), eVisa, and visa on arrival (VOA) in limited cases (for certain transit passengers only). Most Indian travellers apply for a Malaysia eVisa, which is quick, simple, and completely online.
Official website or locally registered agents are your only options when looking for the Malaysia E-Visa. The main entry points such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport will accept the E-Visa.
Pro Tip: Start your visa application at least 2–3 weeks before travel dates to allow time for processing, document updates, or unforeseen delays — because the last thing you need before a holiday is paperwork stress!
Passport
To apply for a Malaysian visa, your Indian passport must have at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into Malaysia. That means if you’re travelling on 15th April, your passport should not expire before 15th October.
Also, keep a few blank pages ready in your passport for entry/exit stamps — it’s a small detail that travelers often overlook.
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)
In recent years, Malaysia introduced the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) — a mandatory pre-arrival form that every visitor must complete online before landing in the country. It collects basic travel details, contact address in Malaysia, and health information if required.
You must submit the simple, free MDAC 72 hours before arrival.. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation — save it on your phone or take a screenshot, because immigration may ask for it.
Stay Allowed
A standard Malaysia eVisa typically allows Indian travellers up to 30 days of stay in the country. This is perfect for a long weekend trip to Kuala Lumpur, a 10-day family vacation, or a beach-to-jungle escape around Peninsular Malaysia.
If you need a longer stay — for work, study, or other purposes — you’ll want to explore other visa options or extensions through Malaysian immigration services.
Validity
The eVisa validity period typically ranges from 3 months to 6 months from the date of issue. This means you must enter Malaysia within the validity window, but once inside, your actual allowed stay is governed by the number of days stamped at entry (usually 30 days for tourism).
Remember that regulations concerning visas may be amended, hence it is better to re, check the information on the official Malaysian immigration website or at the nearest Malaysian consulate/visa centre before your travel.
Places You Cannot Miss Out On
Malaysia is a treasure house of great views and landmarks, a mixture of a rich cultural heritage, the modern cityscapes, beautiful beaches, and greenery at a glance. The following are the places you definitely should include in your itinerary.
Batu Caves
Batu Caves, a famous Hindu shrine located just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur, is the most recognizable one outside India. Towering limestone hills, vibrant murals, and a giant golden statue of Lord Murugan greet visitors at the entrance. The 272, number colourful steps leading to the caves might make you short of breath, but the beautiful views and the peaceful atmosphere at the top justify the effort. Pro tip: Go in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowd, and be sure to watch the mischievous monkeys that come down to welcome or chase the tourists.
KLCC Park
Right in the middle of Kuala Lumpur, the KLCC Park is a calm and tranquil area next to the Petronas Towers. This is a great destination to chill out after touring the hectic city, the green grass, water fountains, running paths, and tree, lined walkways all contribute to an ideal setting for a sunset walk or having a picnic.
Escape Penang
Kuala Lumpur is far more than a city alone, it is a whole experience. Kuala Lumpur is far more than a city alone, it is a whole experience. No matter if you are travelling with your children, friends, or as a couple, Escape Penang promises you a day filled with laughter, cheers, and unforgettable memories.
Petronas Twin Towers
A trip to Malaysia would not be considered complete if you do not see the Petronas Twin Towers which at one time were the world’s tallest buildings and now serve as the symbol of Malaysia’s futuristic skyline. Take a trip to the Skybridge and observation deck to see some spectacular views of Kuala Lumpur extending beyond the horizon.
Legoland
Calling all families and LEGO lovers! LEGOLAND Malaysia in Johor Bahru is a fantastic world of innovation and vibrancy. With rides, LEGO, themed attractions and interactive exhibits, it is a playhouse that adults like just as much as kids.
City Tours That Are a Must Try
Whatever your preference be the antique charms or the contemporary delights, these city tours let you taste Malaysia in a way that will be forever engraved in your memory.
Ten Wonders of Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is not only a city but also a vibe. A well, planned Ten Wonders tour can have as its itinerary the historic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Merdeka Square, the secret alleyways of Chinatown, the Central Market, etc. By visiting these places, you get to see colonial architecture, vibrant cultural centres, food streets, and colourful residential areas all of that, one famous landmark after another.
Penang Hill & Temple Tours
The cultural gem of Malaysia is Penang, and its tours of the hills and temples offer you an experience different from the usual beaches and cafes. Take the funicular up to Penang Hill, revel in the panoramic views over the island, and see spiritually peaceful places of worship such as Kek Lok Si, a Buddhist temple that is among the largest in Southeast Asia. A great mixture of stunning natural beauty and spiritual calm makes it a sort of mini, pilgrimage with an exciting element of adventure.
Kuala Lumpur — Itself a Paradise
Kuala Lumpur is vibrant, chaotic, and has such amazing contrasts that you would hardly believe it. When you take a guided city tour, you get to experience the whole spectrum of the city starting with the excitement and hustle of the markets as well as the street food stalls with all their amazing smells, then going onwards to shopping at the most exclusive places and to finding artsy corners. Every corner has a story and the street, in fact, every street, has a flavour that you will never forget.
Genting Highlands and Batu Caves with Cable Car
One day, trip combo that is often tipped as a favourite from KL is Genting Highlands + Batu Caves. For a refreshing cool trip up the mountain, you can take a cable car ride at Genting Highlands and then get some fun at the theme parks and enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains. After that, you can head over to Batu Caves as a cultural touch. This way you manage to get a little bit of nature, adventure, and spirituality all at once.
Other Experiences That Are Worth Your Visit
Malaysia’s charm goes far beyond the landmarks, it is the unique experiences that one will remember long after going back home that make it so special.
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Birds like colorful parrots, magnificent hornbills and other exotic local species roam freely, making an extraordinary experience for bird lovers to get a close encounter with nature.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
A quick visit to Borneo takes you to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, a loving refuge for the orangutans that have been saved and are being reared for eventual release into the forest. One cannot help but be moved by the sight of these intelligent, gentle animals, and such a moment is both a lesson and an emotion that stays with you forever.
Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary
One can see the reflection of Malaysia’s dedication to the preservation of wildlife in the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary. Apart from gaining knowledge about elephant rescue, you can view these magnificent creatures having their bath, and if you wish, you can also have close dealings with these gentle giants but only under the guidance of the professionals. This is a unique and beautiful moment with nature, which most visitors consider their lifetime gift.
Let’s Explore and Do Some Adventure in Malaysia
Malaysia is not just a destination to explore the traditional sights; it also has a lot of thrills and action to offer. So, if an adrenaline rush is what you love, make sure these activities are on your to, do list.
ATV Jungle Ride
Feel the thrill of the jungle as you tear through rough paths, wet areas, and thick vegetation on an ATV.
This is an unfiltered and deeply engaging way to get to know the wilderness of Malaysia, and each of those jolts and splashes is like a stroke on the canvas of your next adventure chapter.
Buggy Ride
Are you keen to have another off, road thrill? Buggy rides offer you a chance to zigzag through tight forest paths, along rock walls, and on beautiful trails at fast speeds and with great style. It is simply great fun for those who are in for some adventure and scenic views go well with a thrill, don’t they.
Backcountry Cycling Can Be Really Fun
If you are a fan of pedal power rather than engine power, then backcountry cycling is a treasure for you. Leisurely cycling through country lanes, meeting traditional villages, and uncovering secret scenic spots far from the tourist crowds are some of the pleasures. Its peaceful, tough, and extremely gratifying what better way to get to know Malaysia than by stepping out of the city and into nature.
FAQ’s
Q: Is Malaysia arrival card free for Indians?
Yes, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is completely free for Indian citizens so you can travel stress free in Malaysia.
Q: What is required for Indians to enter Malaysia?
Travelers need a valid passport to travel in Malaysia and some other documents mentioned above so you can explore freely
Q: What is the best time to explore Malaysia?
The best time to visit Malaysia is between the of December to February. They are considered as pleasant time to explore.
Q: Can I travel by sea to Malaysia?
YES you can travel by sea to Malaysia but, only from Singapore , Thailand and Phuket so yes you can travel but it may consume a little more time then usual.
Q: What is the currency of Malaysia ?
The currency of Malaysia is Malaysian Ringgit also known as RM in short and you can easily get the exchange done at airports and other local shops.