KL to Siem Reap Overland via Thailand two weeks +/- suggested Itinerary

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derekcommonground
derekcommonground

Hey all,

I will be in KL for a few days at the beginning of May and then I've got about two weeks to get from KL to Siem Reap (time is flexible, can spend longer if needed), so I was thinking of spending about a week in Malaysia after leaving KL, with at least a few days in Penang. I'm a budget traveler as I'm out for about six months and trying to stretch it. I'm interested in train travel, interesting cities, good food (vegetarian) as well as some light hiking/trekking and nature stuff if it is really spectacular.

So I was thinking of splitting the time between Malaysia and Thailand, though I'm not super interested in beaches/party stuff so I'm not sure how interesting southern Thailand would be compared to Malaysia. I may stop off in Hat Yai and then head straight for Bangkok. Any suggestions along the way?

Edited by derekcommonground
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nathalie2
nathalie2

Penang is amazing and for many (myself included) the major highlight of Peninsular Malaysia. Georgetown is a fascinating city with a great mix of malay, chinese, indian and western culture. Its also great for food.

I have never been to Hat Yai, so cant advice on that. Southern Thailand is indeed mostly about beaches. If you want to include another "non beachy" place in Malaysia, my choice would be Melacca. I would also allow at least 3 days for Bangkok, which is an amazing city. And in the surrounding area, there is the former capital Ayuttaya and Kanchanaburi which is surrounded by beautiful nature. And on the way from Thailand to Siem Reap you could also include a couple of days in Battambang or Pnohm Penh.

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derekcommonground
derekcommonground
In response to #1

Thanks, I will most likely spend the majority of my Malaysian section in Grorgetown, and definitely giving Bangkok a few days.

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bigal1
bigal1
In response to #1

There is far more than just beaches in southern Thailand especially if you include the 5 southern most provinces.

I would not recommend Had Yai itself as a destination unless you are a fan of big cities but having said that I spend a very enjoyable day there a week ago but I was with Thai friends and we had a car

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westwood
westwood

I wouldn't plan the time in Malaysia too much. People get the mindset of "I must spend xx days". You mightn't like Penang. I know of pople who dont like Malaysia at all.

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