Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Johor Bahru, founded in 1855 by Temenggong Daing Ibrahim and developed by Sultan Abu Bakar, is Malaysia's southern gateway, linked to Singapore by the Causeway across the Johor Strait. The city holds important royal heritage including the Istana Besar and the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, built between 1892 and 1900 in Victorian-Moorish style. It has become a family holiday base thanks to theme parks, waterfront malls and easy access to Desaru and Kukup. For Indian visitors, the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is a major draw, its interiors covered in around 300,000 glass pieces.
Last updated: 19 Aug 2026
Places to visit
- Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple
- Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and Istana Besar grounds with the Royal Abu Bakar Museum
- Johor Bahru City Square and Danga Bay waterfront
- Puteri Harbour with Hello Kitty Town area and Sanrio attractions
- Johor Zoo and the Johor Old Chinese Temple
- Austin Heights Water and Adventure Park
- Day trips to Desaru Coast and Kukup fishing village
Unique Aspects
- Strong Indian food scene along Jalan Meldrum and in Little India
- Cross-border day trips to Singapore via the Causeway or Second Link
- Affordable shopping malls compared with Singapore prices
- Firefly watching at Kota Tinggi and Sungai Lebam nearby
Things to do
- Temple and mosque visits
- Theme park and water park days with children
- Seafood dining at Lido and Kukup
- Shopping at City Square, Mid Valley Southkey and Johor Premium Outlets
- Golf and beach time at Desaru
Festivals & Events
- Johor Bahru Chinese New Year Chingay Parade (February or March)
- Thaipusam and Deepavali at the Glass Temple and Little India
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri open houses and royal ceremonies
- Sultan of Johor's birthday celebrations in March
Best Time to Visit
March to September for drier weather; the northeast monsoon brings heavy rain from November to January
Weather Conditions
Hot and humid year-round, 25 to 33 degrees Celsius, with high humidity and frequent short downpours
Accessibility
Senai International Airport is about 30 km from the city with flights from Kuala Lumpur. The ETS and intercity trains and express buses connect from KL in about 4 to 5 hours. Grab is widely available and the Causeway crossing to Singapore takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on immigration queues.
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 days, longer if combining theme parks and Desaru
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light breathable clothes, sandals plus one pair of walking shoes, sun protection, umbrella, and a scarf or long skirt or trousers for mosque and temple visits
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try Johor laksa, mee rebus, otak-otak and Kukup seafood. South Indian and Tamil restaurants near Jalan Meldrum serve banana leaf meals. Buy Johor batik, dodol, kaya and duty-free chocolates.
