Things To Do
in Kulai

Kulai is a bustling town located in the state of Johor, Malaysia, known for its rich cultural heritage and rapid development. It serves as an important transit point for travelers heading to the nearby city of Johor Bahru and Singapore. The town features a blend of urban and rural elements, showcasing traditional Malay architecture alongside modern amenities.

Visitors to Kulai can enjoy local delicacies, vibrant markets, and a variety of outdoor activities set against a backdrop of lush greenery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Kulai
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kulai Wet Market to experience the local culture and grab breakfast at one of the food stalls.

afternoon
:

Head to the Johor Premium Outlets for shopping, where you can find branded goods at discounted prices.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Malaysian dinner at Restoran Taman Palm before taking a leisurely stroll around the nearby parks.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Chinese Temple in Kulai for a dose of local culture and history.

afternoon
:

Explore the serene surroundings of Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest for a nature hike and picnic.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local night market, where you can sample a variety of street food and shop for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3 - $5
Coffee at a café$2 - $4
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$15 - $30
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5 - $20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Proximity to Johor Bahru and Singapore for additional travel opportunities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barriers may exist for non-Malay speakers.
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Boleh saya dapatkan menu?" - Can I have the menu?
  • "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Kulai

Visit one of these nice places.

Kulai Chinese Temple

A beautifully decorated temple featuring traditional Chinese architecture, ideal for capturing stunning photographs.

Gunung Pulai

A scenic mountain with lush surroundings, offering breathtaking views and great opportunities for landscape photography.

Johor Premium Outlets

The modern architecture and vibrant shopping environment make it a perfect spot for capturing the essence of contemporary Malaysia.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kulai

Kulai offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich cultural diversity of Malaysia.

Kulai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Lemak

A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, fried crispy anchovies, peanuts, and hard-boiled egg.

Must-Try!

Mee Rebus

A popular noodle dish served with a spicy, savory gravy, often topped with boiled eggs and bean sprouts.

Roti Canai

A flaky Indian-influenced flatbread, typically served with dhal or curry.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kulai Night Market

A vibrant market that opens every Saturday, offering a wide range of street food, snacks, and local delicacies.

Kulai Food Street

A stretch lined with food stalls serving various Malaysian dishes, perfect for an evening stroll and sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kulai experiences a tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging between 24°C to 32°C throughout the year. The wet season occurs from November to February, with heavy rainfall, while the dry season from March to October sees less precipitation. Visitors should be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the rainy season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common, but it's best to wait for the other person to initiate.

Dress Modestly

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Remove Shoes

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain establishments like temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kulai is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. It is advisable to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest hospitals or clinics.

Tipping in Kulai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Malaysia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for street food and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (March - October)

Expect fewer rain showers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Rainy Season (November - February)

Frequent rain and thunderstorms; travelers should be prepared for wet conditions.

Festive Season (Eid, Chinese New Year)

Experience vibrant celebrations with local festivities, decorations, and special food offerings.

Hot Season (April - August)

Temperatures can soar, so it's best to stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Nightlife Guide

Kulai at Night

Kulai's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a few local bars and eateries offering a relaxed atmosphere. Night markets are popular, where visitors can enjoy local street food and mingle with locals. For those looking for live music or a vibrant atmosphere, nearby Johor Bahru offers a more dynamic nightlife scene.

Hiking in Kulai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Pulai Trail

A popular hiking trail leading to the summit of Gunung Pulai, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Kulai Nature Park

A serene park with well-marked trails suitable for hiking and nature walks, ideal for families and beginner hikers.

Airports

How to reach Kulai by plane.

Senai International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Kulai, this airport serves domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kulai is moderately walkable, with many amenities and attractions within walking distance, especially in the town center. However, some areas may require a vehicle to reach, particularly those outside the central region. Sidewalks are available but may not be consistently maintained, so caution is advised while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay Community

The predominant ethnic group in Kulai, contributing to the local culture, traditions, and cuisine.

Chinese Community

A significant minority in Kulai, known for their influence on local businesses, festivals, and culinary offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A widely played sport in Malaysia, with many local clubs and facilities available for practice and tournaments.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular pastime, with local matches frequently held and many community teams participating in leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kulai can become congested during peak hours, particularly near commercial areas and markets. Public transportation options are limited, but local buses operate on certain routes. Many residents rely on cars or motorcycles for commuting, so be prepared for busy roads during rush hour.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kulai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Halal Options

Most restaurants in Kulai offer halal food, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Vegetarian Dishes

There are several vegetarian options available in local restaurants, but it’s advisable to ask for modifications if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kulai is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and travelers. The Kulai Medical Centre is a well-known facility offering various medical services. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to know the location of nearby healthcare facilities.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide