Set on the banks of the Johor River, Kota Tinggi is a bustling town on the road that connects Johor Bahru with Mersing. It was here that the Sultanate of Johor was established in the 16th century, with the tomb of its last ruler among the town’s most important cultural attractions.
Things to do in Kota Tinggi
For insight into the rich history of the Sultanate of Johor, visit the Kota Tinggi Museum, which occupies a two-storey building in the town’s north-east. In addition to antique weaponry and artefacts, you’ll find artwork depicting the region throughout history. Cultural activities such as dance performances are regularly held at the museum.
In the nearby village of Kampung Makam is the Sultan Mahmud Mangkat Di Julang Mausoleum. It was here that Sultan Mahmud was murdered in the 17th century while laying a curse that some believe still persists to this day. Admire the mausoleum’s minaret and the Masjid Sultanah Rogaiyah before visiting the nearby Horned Cat Mausoleum.
A short drive north of Kota Tinggi will take you to a picturesque cascade that tumbles along the Sungai Pelepah River at the base of Gunung Muntahak. Photograph the 36-metre-high drop or enjoy a swim in one of the shallow pools at its base. The Kota Tinggi Waterfall lies along the edge of the Gunung Panti Recreational Forest, which is traversed by numerous hiking trails. From the summit of Gunung Panti, there are magnificent views across the mist-covered surrounding forest.
Getting around Kota Tinggi
Kota Tinggi is around 40 minutes’ drive from the centre of Johor Bahru and 45 minutes from Senai International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Regular buses connect from Johor Bahru to Kota Tinggi and the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.