SOMETHING IN THE AIR: Malaysia pioneers durian tourism

Tourism Malaysia has unveiled an array of tourism packages that spotlight the destination’s famous – and notoriously smelly – fruit: the durian – called by some the “King of Fruits.” The new publication, “Durian Tourism Packages 2024/2025,” features 62 packages from 27 local tour operators across 12 Malaysian states, blending the renowned flavours of fragrant durians with entertaining activities.

Tourism Malaysia’s says its new publication, timed to coincide with the durian harvest season, is the only official guide to offer such durian tourism packages and caters perfectly to travellers seeking distinctive culinary experiences and meeting the increasing demand for durians.

According to a recent American Express Survey, 81% of respondents prioritize food experiences while travelling abroad. Additionally, Technavio projects that the global durian fruit market will grow significantly, reaching US$10.57 billion by 2028.

Tailored to a variety of travellers with diverse activities and price points, new packages for 2024 and ‘25 include:

  • Jom Pi Dusun: Relaxing day trip for local durian tasting, fresh honey, and traditional Malaysian lunch by the river.
  • Durian with Mother Nature Glamping: Three-day, two-night stay in a modern forest chalet, featuring durian Nasi Lemak and hot spring relaxation.
  • Genting Highlands & Durian: Full-day tour to Musang King Orchard in Raub, durian with coconut drink, and Skyway cable car ride to Genting Highlands.
  • Kuala Selangor + Sekinchan + Durian Tour: Two-day, one-night trip with eagle watching, firefly river cruise, Sky Mirror bioluminescent plankton, and homestay durian tasting.
  • I Love Durian Fullboard Package: Visit to Durian Man SS2 with Genting Highlands, Batu Caves, and Petronas Twin Towers.
  • Sehari D Dusun: One-day durian feast, river rafting, jungle trekking, and tree-top walk adventure.

“The launch of these packages highlights the increasing popularity of both the Malaysian durian fruit and food tourism,” says Akbal Setia, VP of Tourism Malaysia Americas. “Durian tourism thrives in Malaysia, particularly during the harvest season from late May to August. This trend underscores the fruit’s allure and cultural importance, with the new Tourism Malaysia packages offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in local traditions. Our destination’s new experiences also offer food lovers the chance to explore different states across Malaysia for our durian trails.”

Durians, with their pungent odor and thorny exterior, hold a special place in Malaysian culture. With “Durian Tourism Packages 2024/2025,” Tourism Malaysia invites tourists to participate in a new and trending cultural and gastronomic tourism wave.

For more info and Durian tourism packages, click HERE.