Kulai or Desaru: Which is the Best Weekend Getaway From Singapore?

The school holidays are approaching! This means that many Singaporeans are most likely planning their next trip for a holiday getaway. If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, instead of the usual JB hotspots, this time round, why not discover the hidden gems of Kulai and Desaru – two hidden gems nestled in the southern state of Johor, Malaysia.

From conquering towering mountains to exploring vibrant villages and splashing down thrilling water slides, Kulai and Desaru promise an unforgettable adventure.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s embark on a journey through these hidden gems and discover the many wonders they have to offer. Your next unforgettable adventure awaits!

Also read: Johor Bahru Sightseeing: 13 Cool Hidden Gems in & Near JB to Explore for the School Holidays 

Things to do in Kulai and Desaru

Kulai – Hike the Gunung Pulai mountain

You haven’t seen all of Kulai until you have reached the summit of Gunung Pulai mountain. Literally. Sitting 654 metres above sea level, Gunung Pulai Mountain offers a beginner-friendly hike for travellers seeking to fuel their wanderlust. Be prepared to feast your eyes on the marvellous view of the lush greenery and the surrounding mountains sitting in the backdrop for a picturesque moment. Along the way, if you spot a three-fingered leaf, count yourself lucky to be graced by the presence of a Malaysian leaf frog! 

If you think it couldn’t get any better, don’t forget to check out the Gunung Pulai Waterfall on your way down! Rest your legs in the water for a relaxing time or even take a cool dip in the waters! Whichever you choose, the Gunung Pulai Waterfall is more than a sight to behold; the calming waters are the perfect antidote to your fatigue. 

Kulai – Embrace the fullness of nature at Rainforest Treehouse

Looking for a place to stay in Kulai that is away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than the Rainforest Treehouse, a secluded eco-resort nestled at the base of Gunung Pulai. There, you’ll find Sunset Treehouse, an eco-friendly accommodation that seamlessly blends the natural elements and the comforts of modern living to provide the ultimate treehouse experience. Trade the city’s fast-paced living for a slow one at this serene oasis. This idyllic hideout is the perfect place to find your inner peace. Look out! There’s even a spacious netting on the highest floor to catch the last spark of light in the form of a mesmerising sunset before night befalls. 

Kulai – Step into a cultural oasis at Putuo Village

Located in Kulai, Putuo Village is a fascinating destination offering a glimpse into Chinese culture and heritage. For the culture buffs, immerse yourself in the local life amidst a significant Chinese community and a unique blend of traditional customs, delicious cuisine, and serene surroundings. The centerpiece, Putuo Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, is a must-visit with its ornate architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Visit the bustling Putuo Village Market for a variety of fresh produce, traditional Chinese snacks, and handcrafted souvenirs. 

For the history buffs, hop over to Putuo Village Cultural Center. Here, a cultural journey awaits into the rich history and culture of the Chinese community through exhibitions and performances. For a leisurely stroll, the Putuo Village Park offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil ponds. Don’t miss out on sampling yummy local delicacies like Dim Sum and Bak Kut Teh!

Kulai – Level up your IG game at Kelapa Sawit Wall Art

Can’t get enough of the rustic beauty in Putuo Village? You can get more of it when you explore the vibrant and colourful Kelapa Sawit Wall Art! From abstract art, and portraits of iconic figures, to traditional murals, this place is a photogenic heaven for creatives and photographers. More than just an art space, Kelapa Sawit Wall Art is a testament to the artistic identities of locals, weaving their personal stories into a wonderful display of colourful tapestry across walls.

Desaru – Go on a serene kayak at Lebam River

Trade the hiking poles for a paddle and raft your way through the murky waters to uncover the natural wonders of Lebam River. A short fifteen minutes drive from Desaru Coast, Lebam River is the destination for a popular outdoor adventure activity: kayaking. With each paddle, experience the flow of time as you traverse the water bodies amidst rich and lush mangrove forests. 

Desaru – Spot fireflies at Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

Kota Tinggi Firefly Park is a place like no other. Here, you can see how nature reveals its beauty in the blackness of night. Prepare to immerse your five senses as you sail a river cruise to witness a nightly spectacle of fireflies. This place is a creative playground for children to spark their imaginations about the wonders of nature at night. As the fireflies light up, watch the trees emerge from the shadows for an awe-inspiring light show! You can even light up (not with fireflies) a wishing lantern with you and your loved ones for an all-year-round display of gratitude!  

Desaru – Splash through aquatic playgrounds at Adventure Waterpark

Looking for a cool escape from the tropical heat that takes you on a thrilling adventure? Dive right into the heart of Desaru’s adventure paradise at Adventure Waterpark! Located on scenic Desaru Coast, the Adventure Waterpark is a place for family fun and building special memories with your loved ones. With multiple water zones, each one crazier than the last, you’ll never run out of adrenaline to fuel a day full of excitement!

Desaru – Zoom around on an ATV and Tour a Fruit Farm 

Ever dreamt of riding a vehicle legally without a license? The ATVs at Desaru Fruit Farm are calling out to you. Once you’re done taking a splash and going on twists and turns at the Adventure Waterpark, you might want to trade your pool caps for a helmet and take an ATV for a spin around Desaru Fruit Farm! Just don’t get too used to it as no one wants to see an ATV going down a highway. Also, stop by the Desaru Fruit Farm Shop to taste yummy local fruits that are freshly harvested!

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone looking to forge a core memory, riding an ATV at Desaru Fruit Farm is a fantastic way to combine adventure with nature and create lasting memories.

Things to eat in Kulai and Desaru

Kulai – Savour authentic Hakka food

Kulai is home to a sizeable population of Hakka people. This means that you’ll get plenty of opportunities to try authentic Hakka cuisine such as the famous Lei Cha, or Thunder Tea Rice. This unique tea is crafted by grinding a vibrant blend of herbal notes, leaves, and spices into a fine paste, creating a “thunderous” sound that gives the dish its name. Having your rice with tea may sound absurd, but this dish is packed with a flavourful punch that is both invigorating and nourishing and comes with many health benefits. Give this one-of-a-kind dish a chance the next time you’re in Kulai! 

Desaru – Dive into a seafood galore

While not known for a particular dish that makes it a cornerstone of why people would want to visit Desaru, everyone should know that seafood is incredibly popular in Desaru for all the good reasons. Being a coastal location, you can expect fresh catch from the sea that brings out the best flavours in some of your favourite dishes: grilled fish, prawns, seafood laska and curry. To enjoy a delectable selection of seafood items, you don’t have to go further than Desaru Beach. Imagine savouring the flavours of the sea against the backdrop of the picturesque golden sand beach. Your seafood galore can’t get any better than that!   

Shopping

Kulai – A shopper’s paradise at Johor Premium Outlets

For all you shopaholics out there, we know your trip isn’t complete without going on a shopping spree. Nestled in the heart of Johor, you’re just a short drive away from entering a shopping paradise at Johor Premium Outlets. This sprawling complex offers a leisure stroll as you explore over 150 stores. From designer fashion brands to premium goods, each store offers a treasure trove of irresistible deals. Aside from branded goods, there is a wide variety of dining options to satisfy your cravings. If you’re seeking a shopping experience that blends affordability with a world of brands, Johor Premium Outlets is your must-visit destination. 

Desaru – Shop till you drop at SKS City Mall

Although SKS City Mall might not be as well known as Johor Premium Outlets, this place is still a shopping oasis in its own right. Shopaholics – if you’re looking to do some shopping in Desaru, this shopping mall will cover all your needs and more. From must-get souvenirs to local snacks, or branded clothes, SKS City Mall is a one-stop premier shopping destination for all retail delights. A shopping spree is not your thing? How about a foodie spree for a change; embark on a diverse culinary journey, featuring a range of delicious food options from local favourites to international cuisines. On top of that, this place is also a hub for exciting entertainment, including movies, arcades, and more, making it a perfect family destination for loved ones to spend quality time together!

Accessibility

Kulai

Kulai is roughly 34km away from Johor Bahru. There are a few transport options to make your way to Kulai such as travelling by private car hire or public bus services. Travel time can take up to an hour depending on the traffic. 

Desaru 

Desaru is roughly 100km from Johor Bahru, which is quite a far cry from that of Kulai. Similar to Kulai, transport to Desaru is flexible. Due to the large distance, a popular choice is taking a ferry from Tanah Merah to Desaru Coast. However, if you like to go old-school, you can also choose to get there either by private car or by bus.

So, Kulai or Desaru? Choosing one would be difficult as both places offer compelling activities to let you experience the fullness of a short holiday getaway. Perhaps, if you’re looking to shop until you drop, then Kulai is the place to unleash your inner shopaholic when you visit Johor Premium Outlets. On the other hand, if you’re looking to soak up the sun and savour delicious seafood, Desaru Beach is calling your name. Ultimately, the best choice between Kulai and Desaru depends on your personal preferences and travel plans. 

Also read: Top 7 Animal Cafes in Johor Bahru: Where Pets and Pastries Meet

Watch out, a curveball coming your way: you could even consider travelling to both places! Kulai and Desaru are only 3 hours away from each other when you travel by bus or taxi. If you have time to spare, why not visit both places to get the best of both worlds? Whatever you choose, keep your eyes peeled as every corner promises thrilling adventures!  

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Featured image credit: (L-R) Google Maps; Howe Hoi via Canva Pro