19 Best Natural Hot Springs in Malaysia in 2024

Parents, Feeling tired? 

Then a trip to a natural hot spring in Malaysia will undoubtedly help relax those tensed muscles & dissolve your worries away – after long days of work & kids!

Hot springs are natural wonders in Malaysia and are scattered throughout the country from Peninsula to East Malaysia. We might not be home to any volcanoes but we’re close enough to benefit from them in the form of thermal springs.

Soaking in a hot spring not only benefits the mind and soul, but it also reportedly carries healing properties for skin problems and infections thanks to the high mineral contents of the waters. 

You can choose to check in to a lavish hot springs resort or a budget-friendly public hot springs for a quick soak. Heck, you can even make it a fun, natural weekend getaway with your kids.

Here in this article, I will share the 19 best natural hot springs in Malaysia to soak your worries away. If you don’t know where to go, here are my top recommendations:

Best Natural Hot Springs in Malaysia (Luxury): The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Best Natural Hot Springs in Malaysia (Mid-Range): Beacon Resort

Best Natural Hot Springs in Malaysia (Budget):  Poring Hot Spring

DISCLOSURE: Some links in this section are affiliate links, and if you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission for my child’s education fund. I only recommend products or services that I genuinely believe may help you and other readers.

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To make it easy for you, here is a map of Malaysia that’s labeled based on my list of the best natural hot springs in Malaysia.

  • Green: Luxury Natural Hot Springs in Malaysia
  • Blue: Mid-Range Natural Hot Spring in Malaysia
  • Purple: Budget-Friendly Natural Hot Springs in Malaysia

Best Natural Hot Springs In Malaysia (Luxury)

Luxury hot springs in Malaysia offer a variety of accommodations and easy access to their hot springs pools for guests. Some of these hot spring pools are public and some are private. 

Lavish hot spring resorts in Malaysia offer private onsen Malaysia experiences to their patrons. Thus, making a weekend getaway to unwind and relax a successful affair. 

1. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, (Perak)

Yoohoo Parents, looking for a fancy getaway or a trip to reignite those marital romances? ❤️‍🔥

Then spend a night in this 5-star luxury hot spring hotel, which will welcome you & your partner for a lifetime indulgence!

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is enchanting, lavish hot springs resort in Ipoh, Perak. 

This 22.7-acre resort can be the perfect family holiday for you & your family. You can soak in some of the best geothermal pools in Malaysia and explore stunning limestone caves (estimated 260 million years old!) 

There are 3 types of villas for guests to choose from:

  • Garden Villa
  • Lake Villa
  • Water Villa

Note: This hot springs resort only accommodates adults and guests 12 years old of age and above.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Luxury stay with an outdoor hot tub and private pools
  • You can meditate and do yoga in their crystal caves!
  • Has plenty of in-house activities such as yoga, spa treatments, and fine dining experience
  • If you’re on a day trip and looking for a quick dip in a luxury hot spring pool on your way back home, then consider taking a day pass for RM 336.00 (USD 78.55) per person 

What you need to know:

Address:Ipoh, Perak
Best For:Couple & friends outing who wants to enjoy a private hot springs
Operating Hours:Open 24 hours (Daily)
Fee: RM 1265 (USD 295.71) per night 
Cool Part About This Place:* have a romantic dinner in a cave
* Have plenty of instgrammable photos
* Lots of pampering spa sessions you can try
* Beautiful & calming ambiance

2. Sunway Lost World Of Tambun: Hot Springs and Spa (Perak) 

The Lost World Hot Springs and Spa are located within The Lost World of Tambun, a water park known for its thrilling water rides. However, what most people did not know is that this resort is home to some hidden gems – their natural hot tubs!

There are 12 natural hot springs in this resort in which Geyser of Tambun became their highlight attraction. The Geyser of Tambun will blow your mind as it can shoot up an eruption of hot water 40 feet into the sky 🤯. 

I highly recommend the best time to visit this hot spring pool is at night as you’ll be able to view the pools illuminate beautifully ✨. 

The hot spring pools are open daily from 6.00 pm – 11.00 pm and the entrance ticket starts at RM 47.00 (USD 10.99) per person.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • The hot springs are located within The Lost World of Tambun Waterpark 
  •  (you can also get the bundle admission tickets with its themed water park)
  • Spend a night here and you can get 2 complimentary tickets to its night park with Hotspring + breakfast. 
  • You get to surround yourself with historical limestone cliffs (date back to 400 million years!!)

What you need to know:

Address:Ipoh, Perak
Best For:For families who want to enjoy nice hot springs after a long day in a water theme park!
Operating Hours:6.00 pm – 11.00 pm (Daily)
Fee: Hotspring Night Park Fee: RM 47.00 (USD 10.99) per person
Standard Rate per night: RM434 (USD 97) with 2 complimentary night park tickets!
Cool Part About This Place:* Has 12 natural hot springs to choose from!
* Enjoy the illuminated hot spring pool at night (as though you’re in the world of Avatar!) 
* Has a petting zoo (great for kids)

3. The Yanne Onsen Hotel (Pahang) 

Welcome to Malaysia’s first hot spring hotel that offers Japanese-style indoor onsen pools with beautiful sakura decor to enjoy (A similar popular concept to Japanese onsen-themed hotels + swimwear attire); The Yanne Onsen Hotel

Compared to most Japanese onsens, this onsen hotel in Malaysia allows guests to enjoy the hot spring pool without taking any clothes off and is conveniently located near the famous Genting Highlands which is just a one-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur. 

Spend a night at this hotel in one of their suites, where you will get complimentary 1-hour access to their hot spring pool or body massage with their modern, comfy rooms.

This Malaysia onsen hotel offers up to 5 themed pools that you can enjoy;

  • Sakura Onsen Pool: Salt water pool, surrounded by sakura tree
  • Nano Bubble Pool: Hot Spring Jacuzzi Pool
  • Zaisu Onsen: 
  • Aquifer Recharge: In-ground jacuzzi pool
  • Wading Pool: Great for small kids

If you only want to come here for just the hot spring pool, don’t worry! They do offer an entry fee of RM188 (USD 42) per hour. 

(Quite a deal, though if I were you, I would rather spend a night here for their free complimentary session as there are plenty of things you can do up in Genting Highlands)

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Nearby other family-friendly attractions such as Genting Highland Theme Park
  • Has several pools to try (and has a small kids pool!)
  • They even offer foot & body massage treatments!
  • Complimentary hot spring session for an overnight stay!

What you need to know:

Address:Genting Highland, Pahang
Best For:Those who prefer to enjoy the hot spring pool indoor!
Operating Hours:8.00 am – 10.00 pm (Daily)
Fee: Hotspring Only: RM 188 (USD 42) per entry
Standard Room: RM653 (USD 147) per night
Cool Part About This Place:Near other family-friendly attractions such as:
* Genting Highland Theme Park
* Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm
* Garden Farms By Radiant

4. Kireina Genting Villa (Pahang

Do you like studio ghibli or Japanese aesthetic stay (i.e. Muji)

Now this is truly one of the most unique hotels in Malaysia, where you will get to stay in ryokan-style rooms with a private outdoor jacuzzi pool (a blend of somewhat modern yet natural hot spring experience)

Again, this Japanese-style stay is also located at Genting Highlands; with cool, chilly weather, making it one of the nicest settings for a hot tub session. Some guests have highlighted that the tub takes a while to get heated.

So, while waiting for the tub to be ready, go ahead and enjoy their beautiful landscape as well as discover a Totoro Statue nearby!

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Nearby other family-friendly attractions such as Genting Highland Theme Park
  • Has a private outdoor hot tub per room (great for family!)
  • Has a nearby cafe to enjoy your meal with hot drinks in Genting’s chilly weather!

What you need to know:

Address:Genting Highland, Pahang
Best For:Japanese aesthetic stay with ryokan-styled rooms
Operating Hours:Open 24 hours (Daily)
Fee: From RM 600.00 (USD 134.06) to RM 750 (USD 167.58) per night
Cool Part About This Place:* Instagrammable modern Japanese aesthetic stay
* Surrounded by lush, greenery landscape to relax your eyes and mind
* Near Genting Premium Outlet if you need to go shopping

Best Natural Hot Spring In Malaysia (Mid-Range)

If you feel that spending $$$ for an overnight stay in a natural hot spring is a bit out of budget or you want to save some money

Don’t worry, I got you!

There are plenty of options you can explore for this segment.  

5. Cholo-Cholo Hotspring (Selangor)

If you’re looking for a quick private hot spring session with your family in Selangor, then this hot spring spot should be on your radar for your upcoming family trip!

It is surrounded by beautiful natural forests and camping grounds for guests to enjoy. Plus, this hot spring spot is very near Genting Highlands. 

One of the notable features about this place is that they offer public & private hot spring pools that fellow patrons can choose from! This is a highly recommended hot spring location for families.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Plenty of pool sizes you can choose 
  • Has a few private hot spring pools with private toilets and showers that you can enjoy with your family!
  • Has nearby restaurants that you can enjoy after

What you need to know:

Address:Batang Kali, Selangor
Best For:Private yet affordable hot spring session for a big group of friends & family.
Operating Hours:8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
Fee: Public Pool: RM10 (adult) & RM5 (kid) per entry 
Private Pool (Max 20 pax): RM80-RM120 (USD 18 – 27) per hour, depending on the pool type.
Cool Part About This Place:* Located within the city center
* Has an indoor pool to chill inside (in case of rainy weather!)
* Cozy, comfy rooms!

6. FELDA Residence Hot Spring (Perak)

Did you know Perak is home to several hot spring resorts in the country?

This natural hot springs resort located in Sungkai, Perak is well-known as FELDA Residence Hot Spring.

If you plan to have your family vacation here, enjoy the natural view of a well-tended landscape and durian orchard as this resort is located within an oil palm plantation. 

When a guest books a room at this hotel, the guest gets unlimited access to their private natural hot spring pools. The price for a room starts at RM 229.00 (USD 53.53) per night

If you don’t feel like spending a night, they even have a day pass access to the hot spring pools, here’s the entrance fee that will be charged for every entrance: 

  • RM 15.00 (USD 3.51) for adults
  • RM 12.00 (USD 2.81) for children under 12 years old
  • RM 8.00 (USD 1.87) for senior citizens 
  • RM 5.00 (USD 1.17) for handicapped or disabled 

This is certainly one of the best mid-range hot springs in Malaysia for the family!

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Surrounded by a green view of an oil palm plantation
  • Private jacuzzi provided in their villa option
  • Small mini waterpark to entertain your kids (making it another great option for family)

What you need to know:

Address:Sungkai, Perak
Best For:Hot springs with a scenic view of a well-tended oil palm plantation and durian orchard
Operating Hours:8.00 am – 6.00 pm (Every day except Friday & Public Holiday)8.00 am – 10.00 pm (Friday)
Fee: 1-night stay: RM229.00 (USD 52.00) per night

Day pass: 
Adult: RM 15.00 (USD 3.51)
Kids under 12: RM 12.00 (USD 2.81)
Senior citizen: RM8.00 (USD 1.87)
Disable: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17)
Cool Part About This Place:All hotel guest gets free access to their hot springs pools and a mini waterpark 

7. Ayer Hangat Village (Langkawi)

Ayer Hangat Village Langkawi is a complex devoted to promoting Langkawi’s hot springs. The place is located 14 km away from the town of Kuah. This hot spring is famous for its unique three-tiered hot spring well.

The hot spring is full of salt water which is an unusual occurrence for thermal springs. The complex even provides a  jacuzzi for extra relaxation which you can get for extra charges.  

Since the pandemic, the place was transferred under new management and is currently under facility upgrade. Keep an eye on their page for future announcements. 

 This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Affordable entrance fee
  • Located inside a Malay Village complex where you can watch cultural performances like traditional music and dances being performed

What you need to know:

Address:Langkawi, Kedah
Best For:Saltwater hot spring experience
Operating Hours:9.00 am – 6.00 pm (Daily)
Fee: Adult: RM 15.00 (USD 3.52)
Children under 5 years old: RM 10.00 (USD 2.35)
Cool Part About This Place:One of the only 3 saltwater hot springs in the world

8. KSL Hot Spring Resort (Johor)

KSL Hot Spring Resort is one of the renowned hot spring resorts in the country which is also Johor’s first ecologically friendly resort and spa.

Established in 2018, the resort boasts 3 indoor hot springs pools with a built-in sauna and a spa that operates 24 hours daily. This resort also provides an outdoor playground for your kids to spend their time.

This resort is situated within the city of Johor Bahru, which makes it one of the easy-access hot spring premises in the country as most hot springs in Malaysia are located out of town, usually near the forest or recreational park. 

During the evening, let your kids go wild and run freely over at the nearby Danga Bay Beach near the resort. When you fully utilize your kids’ energy this way, they will sleep easily that night!

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Easy access to the hotel as it was located in the city.
  • Nearby shopping malls 
  • Has an outdoor playground for your kids

What you need to know:

Address:Johor Bahru, Johor
Best For:Hot springs experience in the city
Operating Hours:Open 24 hours (Daily)
Fee: From RM 122.00 (USD 28.52) per night
Cool Part About This Place:* Located within the city center
* Has an indoor pool to chill inside (in case of rainy weather!)
* Cozy, comfy rooms!

9. Beacon Resort (Selangor)

Did you know that Malaysia is also home to one of the health-conscious villas with an aesthetic combination of a Japanese + Greek style holiday resort? This hidden gem was established by Madam Mary Chen (Founder of Beacon Hospital)

Located within the tropical forest of Hulu Selangor, this resort can be regarded as one of the best family-friendly natural hot spring resorts in Malaysia because it covers all aspects of wellness within its facilities.

Spend a night here and you will be able to enjoy their breathtaking turquoise-hot spring pool along with 2 hot & cold hydrogen pools, a thrilling jungle trekking, pure essential oil aroma pain and enjoy healthy & organic 4 meals throughout your stay!

While this exotic resort looks fresh and welcoming, one of the best things that I really like about this place is that they offer plenty of inclusive family-friendly activities such as:

  • hiking
  • fish feeding
  • essential oil treatment 
  • riverside BBQ
  • spa detox, massages 
  • onsen hot spring session 

and many more!

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Plenty of inclusive family-friendly activities (great for a family holiday!)
  • They have plenty of accommodation-style to choose from Japanese dormitory style to exclusive “Santorini-inspired” villa
  •  Surrounded by the natural river with beautiful forest landscape 
  • Has wellness treatment + adventurous outdoor activities + kid-friendly facilities

What you need to know:

Address:Kalumpang, Hulu Selangor, Selangor
Best For:Wellness resort with adventurous outdoor activities that are kid-friendly all in one place!
Operating Hours:8.30 am – 6.30 pm (Monday to Friday)
Fee: From RM300.00 (USD 67.02) to RM660.00 (USD 147.45) per night depending on the number of pax

The resort required each guest to add on packages for meals and facilities:
Adult: Start from RM100.00 (USD 22.34) – RM300.00 (USD 67.02)
Children: Start from RM70.00 (USD 15.64) – RM200.00 (USD 44.68)
Cool Part About This Place:* You can choose and get to enjoy both hot & cold hydrogen pools for your onsen pool
* They even have a Durian orchard to enjoy! (Make sure to come during the Durian season to enjoy the best durian)

Best Natural Hot Springs In Malaysia (Budget)

So, if budget is a priority then, I’m happy to share these budget-friendly natural hot springs in Malaysia (though most are public parks and communal pools.)

Do note that most of these pools are available as day-pass access and not for overnight stays; still, a perfect choice for families who are looking for a quick dip!

Be aware that it can get pretty crowded on weekends and public holidays so you might want to properly plan your visit to avoid an immensely large crowd and avoid dipping together under someone’s armpits (yikes!)

10. Hulu Tamu Hot Spring (Selangor)

Located about 7 km from Batang Kali town in the Hulu Selangor district of Selangor, this hot spring has several facilities as well as a fruit orchard (that you can explore and indulge during its harvesting period)

In fact, this hotspring is located across another hotspring; Cholo-Cholo Hotspring. Making this a great and cheaper option for those who are on a budget!

The hot spring pool is divided into 2 sections, one with natural hot spring water and the other one with cooler water options that are suitable for swimming and paddling. 

The water hole is flanked by a gorgeous garden with bursts of green, giving visitors a feel of paradise. 

The place is open 24 hours daily except on Thursday for pool maintenance. 

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Affordable entrance fee
  • Well-equipped public facilities
  • Free Parking

What you need to know:

Address:Batang Kali, Selangor
Best For:A quick dip after hiking in Batang Kali or a quick stop before going up to Genting
Operating Hours:Open 24 hours daily except Thursday for pool cleaning
Fee: Adult: RM 3.00 (USD 0.70) 
Children under 12 years old: FREE
Cool Part About This Place:* Several choices of hot springs pools to choose from
* It’s pretty clean and newly upgraded by the district council.
* Surrounded by plenty of camping sites

11. Sg. Lalang Hot Spring Semenyih (Selangor)

Sungai Lalang Hot Spring Semenyih is one of the most famous hot springs in Selangor among the locals. (which is practically a hidden gem!)

The hot spring opened daily for 2 sessions:

  • Morning Session : 6.00 am – 10.00 am 
  • Evening Session: 4.30 pm – 10.00 pm

They do close their facility during mid-day as it can get extremely hot which may result in heat stroke! (It’s good that they are mindful of the guests!) Once you’re done, take a shower after (it’s advisable to bring along your own toiletries)

The entrance fee for this natural hot spring is considerably affordable even for travelers (Great for those who are traveling on a budget!)

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • The place is easily accessible and good for a quick dip in the hot water.
  • Ample parking spaces and well-kept facilities for a public place.
  • One of the best budget-friendly spots for natural hot springs in Selangor

What you need to know:

Address:Semenyih, Selangor
Best For:Taking a quick dip in a hot spring pool
Operating Hours:6.00 am – 10.00 am and 4.30 pm – 10.00 pm (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Malaysians
* Adult: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17)
* Teen (13 – 17 years old): RM 3.00 (USD 0.70)
* Kids (under 12 years old): RM 2.00 (USD 0.47) 

Non-Malaysians
* Adult/Kids: RM 6.00 (USD 1.41) 
* DisabledAdult/Kids: RM 1.00 (USD 0.23)
Cool Part About This Place:* Has 2 pools you can choose
* Has decent facilities such as a gazebo, washroom, and shower area
* Pets are allowed to be in the place but no pets are allowed in the pool (obviously!)

12. Selayang Hot Spring (Selangor)

Selayang Hot Spring is located near Batu Caves and has been a popular attraction among locals for years. The Selayang Springs are believed to have healing properties in treating skin ailments. (Partly, thanks to the natural mineral from the hot spring water!)

The Selayang Springs has 4 different pools that differ in temperature. Most visitors would usually collect the water in their buckets to wash with the water. Though, most locals would use this hot spring pool for a quick rinse.

Here’s the good news: entrance to the hot springs is free and this hot spring is open 24 hours daily…but visitors are required to pay for parking.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Budget-friendly as the entrance is free. 
  • Well-equipped facilities for public places such as toilets and stalls selling snacks. 

What you need to know:

Address:Batu Caves, Selangor
Best For:Quick rinse from a hot spring 
Operating Hours:Open 24 hours (Daily)
Fee: FREE (Visitors need to pay for parking only. )
Car: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17) 
Motorcycle: RM 2.00 (USD 0.47)
Cool Part About This Place:* A popular attraction among the people of Selayang for nearly 4 decades
* Not the most aesthetic but it is one of the cheapest spots for a natural hot spring in Malaysia.

13. Jasin Hot Spring (Malacca)

Jasin Hot Spring was founded in the 1880s by a Singaporean businessman named Tan Kim Tean. This makes this hot spring one of the oldest hot springs in Malaysia. The hot spring originally served as a public bathing house.

The pools here were sourced by 3 natural alkaline hot springs wells with a temperature of 69°C (156.2°F). The water is collected and added to water to ensure proper temperature before being distributed into different pools. 

Aside from the hot spring, the place is also famous for attractions that range from a giant inflatable water park for young children.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Affordable entrance fee
  • Long operation hours for public hot springs
  • Well-equipped facilities
  • Separated hot springs pools for women

What you need to know:

Address:Jasin, Melaka
Best For:Kid-friendly public hot springs with inflatable water park
Operating Hours:9.00 am – 12.00 am (Daily)
Fee: Adult: RM 6.50 (USD 1.53)
Children under 12 years old: RM 4.50 (USD 1.06)
Senior citizen: RM 5.50 (USD 1.29)
Cool Part About This Place:Oldest natural hot springs in Malaysia

14. Gadek Hot Spring (Malacca)

Gadek Hot Spring or ‘Air Panas Gadek’ in Malay is one of 3 popular hot spring spots in Melaka. Here, naturally heated water from an underground source is channeled into several pools. 

One of the unique facts about Gadek Hot Spring’s pools is that the water contains hydrogen sulfide gas(which explains why the smell of rotten eggs).

It was rumored amongst locals that this hot spring was first discovered by the British soldiers during their years in Malaya

To avoid overcrowding, it is recommended to visit the place at night with fewer people compared to during the day. 

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Budget-friendly entrance fee.
  • The place is open 24 hours a day
  • Near Alor Gajah’s tourist attraction, A’Famosa Resort

What you need to know:

Address:Alor Gajah, Melaka
Best For:A quick dip in hot spring water 
Operating Hours:24 hours (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Adult: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17)Children 6 to 12 years old: RM 3.00 (USD 0.70) 
Cool Part About This Place:This hot spring pool was discovered by the English Soldiers during the British rule in Malaysia

15. Lubuk Timah Hot Spring (Perak)

Another hot spring located in the state of Perak, Lubuk Timah Hot Spring located just 15 km from Ipoh City. This is a hidden gem, enjoyed by most locals and the waters were once used for tin mining in the early 20th century. 

The Lubuk Timah Fall Recreational Center has plenty of pools & streams for visitors to enjoy. Once you’re done with your bath, cool yourself from the waterfall at this place.

Most commented that the hot spring pool is quite small and limited, so come early if you want the whole place to yourself.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Well-maintained public facilities
  • Free Parking
  • Plenty of activities are available such as horse riding and ATV rides. 
  • You can have a family picnic here by renting their available gazebos. 
  • Special pools for kids so parents can easily watch their kids. 

What you need to know:

Address:Ipoh, Perak
Best For:family who wants to enjoy an outdoor hot spring pool with other adventurous activities
Operating Hours:8.00 am – 7.00 pm (Daily)
Entrance Fee: Adult: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17) 
Children 3 to 11 years old: RM 3.00 (USD 0.70)
Senior citizen (more than 60 years old): RM3.00 (USD 0.70) 
Cool Part About This Place:* Previously a place for tin mining in the early 20th century
* Enjoy its scenic river, waterfall, and hot springs 
* You can do other outdoor activities such as horse riding, ATV riding, BBQ, and many more!

16. Ulu Legong Hotspring Recreational Centre (Kedah)

This is also one of Malaysia’s Northern best-kept-secrets, especially amongst the local community. This beautiful recreational center prides itself as one of the most popular attractions,  thanks to its well-kept facilities.

One particular thing I do like about this place is that they have 5 pools that you can choose from, 3 pools for the general public, 1 for children’s pool, and 1 for private usage (Pretty cool?)

Interestingly, this hot spring spot is open 24 hours daily and is most lively at night as locals find it a better time to enjoy the warm water after a long tiring day. 

Plus they also have chalets & dorm facilities (great for those who prefer to stay overnight and maximize their hotspring pass). Here are some of their room options: 

  • Private Deluxe Cabin Room: RM 300.00 (USD 67.00) per night
  • Pool View Chalet: RM135.00 (USD 30.46) per night

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Well-maintained public facilities
  • Spacious and clean
  • There are nearby restaurants for people to eat at after your hot spring session (some even open up to 3 am!
  • They have overnight private cabin options you can choose from!
  • Kids playground for your little ones to enjoy!

What you need to know:

Address:Baling, Kedah
Best For:family who wants to enjoy an outdoor hot spring pool with other adventurous activities
Operating Hours:24 hours daily!
Entrance Fee: RM5 per entry for hotspring pass
Cool Part About This Place:* Can be a bit crowded at night
* Plenty of facilities & restaurants open late at night (up till 3 am /4 am)
* If you have some time, try hiking the nearby Gunung Baling (a quick 24-minute drive!) 

17. La Hot Spring, (Terengganu)

La Hot Spring or La Hot Spring recreational park is located in Hulu Terengganu remote area about 28 km from Jerteh, Terengganu. 

This recreation center is a go-to destination for residents every weekend and public holiday to soak the stress away and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The hot water at these hot springs shoots out from a hill slope and flows directly into a pool. Moreover, the hot water underground also seeps through the cracks and creates a pool with a temperature ranging from 50°C – 75°C (122°F – 167°F). The water contains natural sulfur which is said to have healing properties for skin problems.

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • The entrance is free
  • Well-equipped public facilities
  • Since this place is located inside a recreational park, you can take your kids for a picnic and also jungle trekking

What you need to know:

Address:Jerteh, Terengganu
Best For:Healing properties as the hot spring water contain natural sulfur 
Operating Hours:9.00 am – 6.00 pm (Daily)
Fee: FREE (Visitors need to pay for parking only. 
Car: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17) 
Motorcycle: RM 2.00 (USD 0.47)
Cool Part About This Place:Visitors have the opportunity to watch the hot water which shoots out from a hill slope, flow directly into a pool

18. Kampung Panchor Hot Spring (Sarawak)

Kampung Panchor Hot Spring is nestled quietly within the rainforest of Sarawak, enabling its visitors to enjoy nature while floating in a hot pool. 

Their hot spring pool is mostly covered with roofs, protecting guests from rain and harsh sunlight to its visitors. Aside from that, the place is also equipped with a changing room and toilets. (Thank goodness!)

The temperature of the water at Kampung Panchor Hot Spring is an average of 42°C. Take extra caution when you want to take a dip in the pool, especially with small kids. 

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • The place is located in the lush green view of forest and nature.
  • Affordable entrance fee!
  • If you don’t like crowds, then you will surely enjoy this natural hot spring.

What you need to know:

Address:Kuching, Sarawak
Best For:Soaking in hot springs surrounded by forest and nature. 
Operating Hours:6.00 am – 10.00 pm (Daily)
Fee: Adult; RM 5.00 (USD 1.17)
Children under 12 years old: RM 1.00 (USD 0.23)
Cool Part About This Place:*The place is located at Kampung Panchor Dayak and the hot springs are managed by the local communities
*A great place for introverts (very quiet)

19. Poring Hot Spring (Sabah)

Saving the best for last; if you have some time, do visit one of Malaysia’s best & popular natural hot springs: The Poring Hot Spring!

These hot springs got their name from the species of giant bamboo that grows abundantly within the area of Ranau, Sabah. (Pretty cool, right?)

Moreover, as this hot spring is situated in a clearing in the forest, you can go jungle trekking near the area before taking a dip in their hot sulfur bath. This hot spring operates daily from 8.00 am – 6.00 pm from Monday to Sunday. 

This is the best natural hot spring for you & your family because:

  • Located near two waterfalls which are Kipungit Waterfall and Langanan Waterfall.
  • An indoor bathtub is also available for those who prefer privacy.
  • You can go jungle trekking with your kids nearby the area before soaking in hot water. 
  • Unique feature: you can adjust the temperature and water flow according to your preferences.

What you need to know:

Address:Ranau, Sabah
Best For:People who want to enjoy hot springs in Borneo forests
Operating Hours:8.00 am – 6.00 pm (Monday to Sunday)
Fee: Malaysian
18 years old and above: RM 10.00 (USD 2.34)
17 years old and below: RM 5.00 (USD 1.17)
12 years old and below: FREE
60 years old and above: FREE
Disabled: FREE

International visitor
18 years old and above: RM 50.00 (USD 11.69)
17 years old and below: RM 25.00 (USD 5.84)
Cool Part About This Place:Visitors need to cross a short suspension bridge over the Mamut River to reach the hot springs.

Tips For Your Hot Spring Session

Now that you’ve known all of the best natural hot springs in Malaysia, here are some helpful tips so that you and your family know the right way to do so and enjoy your hot spring session safely!

Important note: Hot spring water is known to have various therapeutic effects, though it contains sulfur (which some people might get an allergic reaction from). So, make sure to check your sulfate allergy to avoid any bad experiences in hot springs

Before The Session

When visiting a hot spring, ensure that you inspect the safety of the premises for yourself and your kids. Some hot springs are pretty crowded and some are isolated, something to look out for your kids – especially the little ones. 

  • Bring along a towel and a fresh set of clothes for you and your kids. 
  • Drink sufficient water before the session (because no one wants to be dehydrated during the session)
  • Do not enter a hot spring pool with a full stomach. If your family had a meal before the session, it is best to rest for 30 min to 1 hour before entering the bath as this can cause indigestion. 
  • Wash before getting in the pool, and make sure not to have any soaps over your body.

During The Session

Just before you jump in, try to dip the pool with your hands or feet, just to make sure the temperature is just right (especially if you are going with your kids) as it can be too hot for them. 

Once you’re able to soak yourself, it’s helpful to remember these tips/etiquette:

  • Slowly enter the pool; start with your feet and gradually enter up to your abdomen, so that your body will get used to the temperature of the hot spring pool.
  • Do not stay in the hot spring pool for too long (take a break every 10 – 15 minutes), to prevent overheating during the session.
  • Be mindful of your volume, don’t be too loud as it can disrupt other guests.

After The Session 

Probably you might be looking like a freshly boiled prawn after the session 🦐

Once you’re done with your session, be sure to rehydrate yourself and do these last few tips: 

  • Once you are out of the pool, gently wipe yourself dry so that the surrounding pool area does not get wet and slippery for other guests.
  • It is not advisable to take a bath immediately after getting out of the hot spring (so that your body can absorb all the mineral benefits from the hot spring pool). After 3-4 hours, you’re all good to enjoy a fresh bath.
  • Enjoy your rest and let the body temperature cool to the normal level.

FAQ

Yes, there are many hot springs in Malaysia! In fact, Malaysia has plenty of natural hot spring pools that are spread across the country, both in Peninsular and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak).

Hot springs in Malaysia were formed through tectonic activities. The sources of these hot spring pools are mainly located across Malaysia’s Banjaran Titiwangsa Mountain range with the average temperature of these pools at 80°C.

Yes, soaking in hot springs can be a great way to naturally detox your skin. Hot springs contain a rich source of sulfur where it’s beneficial in treating skin problems.  Moreover, thanks to the high amounts of silica in its water, hot springs also can help soften rough and dry skin such as the dry scalp.

Most commercial hot springs are usually fairly safe from the standpoint of carrying disease-causing organisms because most hot springs and waterparks as they usually have their own set of rules and regulations to keep the water at their place clean for visitors.

Ideally, don’t take a shower after you have finished bathing, because you don’t want to rinse off all the nutrients and mineral benefits that you have gained from your hot spring session. However, if you have extremely sensitive skin, then it is advisable that you rinse your skin with fresh water.

You will experience dehydration, fainting, and even burns if you spend too long in a hot springs pool. Ideally, try to take 10 to 15 minutes of breaks in between to enable your body temperature to adjust to normal.

    Conclusion

    Hope you enjoy my list of the 19 best natural hot springs in Malaysia for you to plan your next weekend gateway. After all, nothing beats soaking the stress away by taking a dip in a hot spring.

    I hope this list will help you plan your gateway and help you recharge before another busy, fast-paced city life.