So you are thinking about a quick weekend getaway from Singapore?
Can you guess one of the most popular destinations that does not require flying?
That is right—Genting Highlands, the mountain resort just a few hours away from our Little Red Dot!
Why Genting Highlands Makes the Perfect Weekend Escape
After spending Monday to Friday in Singapore's hot and humid weather, sometimes we all need that cool mountain air.
Genting sits at 1,800 meters above sea level with temperatures around 22°C, making it the perfect escape from our perpetual summer.
Plus, the Malaysian Ringgit makes everything so affordable for us Singaporeans.
Who else gets excited seeing prices and mentally converting them to realize how much we are saving?
Before You Go: Essential Trip Planning
Transport Options:
- Bus from Singapore to Genting (approximately 6-7 hours)
- Flight to KL + taxi/Grab to Genting (faster but pricier)
- Self-drive if you enjoy road trips (remember your Touch n Go card!)
Accommodation Tips:
- First World Hotel – super affordable but always fully booked
- Resorts World Awana – mid-range option with shuttle services
- Skyworld Hotel – For families with kids.
Remember to pack a light jacket or sweater because nights can get quite chilly.
I once went wearing only t-shirts and shorts and ended up buying an overpriced hoodie because I was freezing at night!
Day 1: Arrival & Settling In
Morning: Journey & Check-in
The journey from Singapore takes about 6-7 hours by bus, so best to leave early morning.
Try booking the 7am bus if possible, so you reach by early afternoon.
Pro tip: book your bus tickets at least two weeks in advance because weekend slots disappear faster than bubble tea during a 1-for-1 promotion!
Afternoon: Awana Skyway Cable Car
After checking in and freshening up, head straight to the Awana Skyway.
The glass-floor gondolas give amazing views of the lush rainforest below.
Taking photos here is mandatory for your Instagram feed, you know the rules!
Evening: SkyAvenue Mall Exploration
For dinner, explore SkyAvenue mall with its countless food options.
From Malaysian favorites to international cuisine, there is something for every budget.
Make sure to catch the SkySymphony show at the mall atrium—a free light and sound show that happens every hour from 4pm.
The floating balls changing colors and patterns are actually quite mesmerizing!
Day 2: Theme Parks & Attractions
Whole Day: Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park
Dedicate your morning to exploring Genting SkyWorlds, their newest theme park.
With 9 themed worlds and over 25 rides, this place keeps you entertained for hours.
Arrive early to beat the crowds because queues get crazy long by midday.
Anyone else feel like theme parks are the only place where adults can scream like children without judgment?
Evening: Dinner & Entertainment
Dining Options:
- Malaysian Food Street for local delights
- Burger & Lobster if you are feeling fancy
- Hot pot at Beauty in The Pot
After dinner, try your luck at the casino if you are feeling lucky.
Or catch a movie at the cinemas if gambling is not your thing.
Some of us just prefer to watch others lose money rather than losing our own!
Day 3: Nature & Leisure Before Heading Home
Morning: Shopping at Premium Outlets
Head down to Genting Highlands Premium Outlets for some serious shopping.
With brands like Nike, Adidas, and Coach offering 25-65% discounts, your wallet might feel lighter but your shopping bags will definitely be heavier.
Remember to leave some empty space in your luggage before the trip!
Afternoon: Chin Swee Temple
Before heading back, visit the Chin Swee Temple for some cultural experience.
The 9-story pagoda and giant Buddha statue are impressive sights.
Plus, the temple sits amid misty mountains, creating that mystical Chinese painting vibe.
Perfect for those who want more meaningful photos than just shopping bags and theme park rides.
Evening: Return Journey
Have an early dinner before catching your evening bus back to Singapore.
Most buses leave around 6-8pm, putting you back in Singapore before midnight.
Just in time to get some sleep before Monday comes crashing in!
Money-Saving Tips for Singaporeans
- Visit during weekdays if possible for lower hotel rates and fewer crowds
- Bring some snacks from Singapore because food at attractions can be pricey
- Buy the Genting package that includes accommodation and attraction tickets
- Keep some small Malaysian notes handy for toilets and small purchases
- Check Klook or Fave for discounted attraction tickets before your trip
What to Pack for Genting
- Light jacket or sweater for evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes (you will be doing a lot of walking!)
- Portable umbrella (mountain weather can be unpredictable)
- Power bank (all those theme park photos will drain your battery)
- Some Panadol (just in case the altitude gives you a headache)
Final Thoughts
A weekend in Genting Highlands gives you that perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and adventure without breaking the bank.
The best part? No need to take extra leave days since 3 days is just nice!
When people ask where you went over the weekend, you can casually say "just popped over to another country" like it is no big deal.
So when are you planning your Genting getaway?
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