Things to do

Top Things to Do in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru

Are you planning for a fun and exciting vacation? In that case, you must visit Johor Bahru. The capital of Johor, Johor Bahru, is situated at the southern tip of the Malaysian Peninsula. It is the gateway to the island nation of Singapore. There are many interesting things to do in Johor Bahru. One can easily explore the city conveniently by hopping on a bus at JB Sentral. 

Johor Bahru has a rich history shaped by a mix of cultural influences. It was originally founded as Tanjung Puteri in 1855, after the Johor Sultanate came under the rule of Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim and was renamed Johor Bahru in the year 1862. 

The city offers an equatorial climate with moderately consistent temperatures. You can expect a considerable amount of rain and moderate humidity throughout the year here. The temperature is around 26 to 28 degree Celsius, making it a perfect vacation spot. 

Things to do in Johor Bahru

Some of the best things to do in and around Johor Bahru are –

Hakka Heritage Gallery

Most of us have heard of Hakka as a type of noodles. However, the word describes a group of people with cultural roots in provinces with Hakka speaking people in China. The Hakka Heritage Gallery will surely leave you spell bound with its ingenious mix of functionality and culture. The colour combination of the interiors is something you should look forward to. 

You will discover old typewriters, rattan furniture, and farming tools that go way back while exploring the Hakka Heritage Gallery. There is a nominal entrance fee amounting to $1.25 per person. It is advised to call the facility in advance before your visit. One can easily book a bus online ticket from Kuala Lumpur to Kampung Bekok to reach this place. 

Istana Bukit Serene

The Istana Bukit Serene was the official home of the Sultan of Johor that you must visit while travelling on the Sukdai freeway. This place is sure to grab your eyeballs. 

The place was strategically designed to keep the Sultan safe and provide him with a clear view of the enemy. It gives a bird’s eye view of Singapore, which the Japanese army used to gain an edge over their enemy during World War 2. This place is not entirely accessible to the general public. However, the gardens surrounding this beauty is definitely worth the visit. 

If you are looking for a cool picture to put on your social media profiles, don’t wait anymore. One can easily book online tickets for buses from all popular cities, including Kuala Lumpur, Batu Pahat, KLIA, Singapore, etc., to Johor Bahru. 

Pulai Waterfall

If you like exploring natural scenic places or walking around trees and gardens, you will surely love the Pulai Waterfalls. Well, the adrenaline junkies will surely have a lot to explore, but even if you aren’t one, you will love this place. The journey from the foothills to the base of waterfalls usually takes around 2 hours and makes for an exciting trek. The area is surrounded by thick and beautiful tropical trees that will compel you to explore more. 

It also offers an interesting swimming experience so don’t forget to bring your swimming costumes.

Johor Zoo  

Zoos are always an interesting place to visit if you are a wildlife enthusiast. All you have to do is spend $0.5 as an entry fee. 

The expansive grass fields are a delight to watch. Tiger, Monkeys and Flamingos, you will find them all here. In addition to this, you can also meet plenty of indigenous animal species. The animals at this zoo are well-preserved and kept inside healthy spacious enclosures. 

You can opt for the online bus booking process to go to Johor Bahru from some of the most reputed operators on redBus.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The glittering Hindu temple of Sri Rajakaliamman is made up of thousands of beautiful glass pieces that give a glowing aura. The story behind this unique architecture goes long back to Guru Bhagawan Sittar’s visit, who was awestruck by a glowing light from 2 miles away during his visit to Bangkok. This light was reflected from a temple that was built from glass pieces. 

This phenomenal artwork has been made using 300000 colourful pieces of glass. The entry fee for this marvellous architecture is a mere $2.5. 

Sultan Abu Maker Mosque

If you are a fan of traditional architecture and appraise the classics like the Victorian-Moorish architecture from the 19th century, you have to see the Sultan Abu Maker Mosque. It’s a delight for all architecture lovers. You will be surprised to know that the Sultan Abu Maker Mosque can house up to 2000 worshippers at a time. 

It presents a phenomenal view of the surroundings, including the silhouette of Singapore. You can peacefully pay your respects in the mosque and enjoy the epitome of serenity in this place. 

Legoland

It is impossible to avoid this exceptional theme park that Malaysia has to offer. Johor Bahru has one of the most interesting theme parks in the South-East Asian region that will keep you and your children hooked for hours. The water parks, roller coasters and other fun rides attract both adults and children alike. You will never get bored in Legoland because there are plenty of things you can do inside this place. 

CMCO Update

The Movement Control Order is a government measure in Malaysia that was introduced to control the spread of the deadly Coronavirus. It has been updated time and again depending on the situation and the new requirements. The latest one that came into effect on March 5 is CMCO (Conditional Movement Control Order). The cities that are under the updated CMCO measure include Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang and Johor. As per this update – 

  • Inter-district travel has been allowed by the government
  • Inter-state travels are still not allowed
  • Hours for the opening of permitted businesses are limited(6 AM to 12 AM)
  • Hand sanitisers, thermometers, record book, etc. mandatory for business premises
  • 1-metre social distancing policy in dine-in restaurants for the customers
  • Public transport is allowed with rules in place

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Hi, I’m Pooja

Pooja is a blogger at redBus. You will find her watching a film, animating, doodling or cooking, when she is not writing.