India, July 21 -- Tucked in the heart of Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is not quite the highlands, not quite the coast, and not quite the jungle. But the best part is that the capital is within easy reach of all three. In a couple of hours or less, you can find yourself navigating tea plantations, cruising past centuries-old Dutch ruins, spotting glowing fireflies by moonlight, or feasting on seafood by the Straits of Malacca.

If you're looking to escape the city's skyscrapers and touristy hubbub, here are some destinations close to Kuala Lumpur that make for a rewarding day trip.

Day trips from Kuala Lumpur: Where to go Melaka Day trips from Kuala Lumpur Melaka Jonker Street, Melaka | Image credit: The Simple Travel/Unsplash Once a...