GEORGE TOWN: Imagine getting up close to feed and bathe elephants, then learning about wildlife conservation.
Or spending the day with Orang Asli communities, experiencing their way of life and sampling traditional dishes.
Perhaps even glamping in tranquil rainforest surroundings, far from the usual tourist trails, with campfires and front-row seats to the Milky Way at night.
These are just some of the off-the-beaten-track adventures showcased at the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia happening at Gurney Paragon Mall in Penang from Friday to Sunday (Oct 31 to Nov 2).
The event brings together 54 exhibitors, including travel agencies, hotels, resorts, theme parks, tourist attractions, homestay operators, destination specialists and others from across the country.
There are also craft producers and heritage cuisine offerings.
Together, they offer Malaysians new and refreshing ways to rediscover their homeland.
Unlike conventional travel fairs that focus on international destinations, this carnival spotlights unique experiences hidden within the country’s mountains, rainforests, marine parks and small towns.
Orophile Adventure and Tours promoter Mohd Syafiq Shahpudin said cultural, eco and adventure tourism are steadily gaining popularity among locals seeking new experiences.
He said their educational elephant packages at the Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve in Temerloh, Pahang, allowed city folk to discover and appreciate the wonders of nature.
“The reserve is one of the oldest and most biodiverse areas in Peninsular Malaysia, having been gazetted in the 1920s.
“It only opened for eco-tourism three years ago and remains a relatively new offering on the market,” Syafiq said at the carnival’s opening day on Friday.
Those who wish to experience the traditional way of life would enjoy their Ulu Cheka heritage day trips hosted by indigenous Che Wong families in the Jerantut area of Pahang.
“Guests will get to stay in their actual homes, partake in traditional activities and enjoy meals with the community. It promises to be an eye-opening experience,” Syafiq added.
For those craving a taste of the wild without roughing it out, glamping offers the perfect middle ground.
One can immerse in nature and enjoy the rainforest soundscapes, wrapped in cosy linen or taking part in curated outdoor activities.
This is what awaits at glamping sites like Tingkat Valley, just 20 minutes outside of Ipoh, Perak, which is offering exclusive deals with up to 70% off normal rates.
“For this carnival, we have book-now-stay-later packages where guests only need to pay RM100 up front and the rest upon check-in, valid until November 2026.
“We have different tents catering to everyone, from couples to families and even corporate team building. Glamping offers all the comforts of a normal hotel but with a unique nature backdrop.
“You can escape the city but remain close enough to explore its attractions,” said Tingkat Valley content creator Dhiya Anisah Abdul Halim.
Many other exciting packages await at the three-day carnival, an ongoing collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Star Media Group to boost local travel ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
The Penang roadshow is the fourth in a series of six, following earlier ones in Pahang, Selangor and Sarawak.
It is open from 10am to 10pm daily until Sunday and features other exciting activities such as heritage food sampling, cultural dance performances and lucky draws.
The lucky draws happen at 1pm, 5pm and 9pm daily and offer great prizes such as Touch ‘n Go credit, travel organiser kits, backpack, Bluetooth earbuds, neck pillows and portable fans.
Visitors only need to scan a QR code, fill in their particulars and answer a simple question to be in the running.
So, whether you are planning your next holiday or simply looking for exciting adventures with family and friends, stop by the carnival and check out the best that Malaysia has to offer.
