Malaysia has carved a niche for itself in the world of quirky, "Instagrammable" tourism, and nothing exemplifies this better than its collection of Upside Down Houses (known locally as Rumah Terbalik). From the rustic charm of Sabah to the urban skyline of Kuala Lumpur, these gravity-defying attractions offer a mind-bending experience that challenges your sense of perspective.
Here is a comprehensive guide to the best Upside Down Houses in Malaysia and what makes each of them unique.
1. Rumah Terbalik, Tamparuli (Sabah)
The Pioneer of the Trend
Opened in 2012, the Upside Down House in Tamparuli, Sabah, holds the prestigious title of being the first upside-down house in Southeast Asia. Unlike many others that are modern or westernized, this one is deeply rooted in local culture.
The Vibe: It is designed as a traditional Sabahan kampung (village) house. The exterior features a classic porch and garden, while the interior is filled with authentic ethnic furniture and household items—all bolted to the ceiling.
Unique Feature: Because it is recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records, it maintains a strict "no photography inside" policy to preserve the mystery (though outdoor photos are encouraged).
Bonus Attraction: On the same site, you'll find the 3D Wonders Museum, which focuses on Sabah's indigenous culture and wildlife through interactive floor-to-ceiling murals.
2. KL Upside Down House (Kuala Lumpur)
The Urban Cottage
Located right at the base of the iconic KL Tower, the KL Upside Down House is a favorite for tourists exploring the capital's Golden Triangle.
The Vibe: This is a two-story "cottage" style house with a bright yellow exterior. It feels more like a modern suburban home.
Inside the House: It features a living room, kitchen, master bedroom, and even a nursery—all completely flipped. The attention to detail is impressive, right down to the food on the dining table and the toys in the kids' room.
Why Visit: It is arguably the most accessible for international travelers. After visiting the observation deck of the KL Tower, a quick stop here provides a fun, lighthearted contrast to the city's architectural grandeur.
3. Upside Down Museum, Penang (George Town)
The Photographer's Paradise
While many locations are single houses, the Upside Down Museum in Penang is a massive, multi-room interactive gallery located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Vibe: This museum takes the concept further by including not just a house, but also street scenes, cafes, and shops—all inverted.
The Experience: This is perhaps the most "service-oriented" location. The staff are trained to help you pose and will take photos for you using your phone or camera to ensure you get the perfect angle.
Pro Tip: This museum is extremely popular. To avoid long queues, try to visit on a weekday morning.
4. Upside Down House Melaka
A Quirky Addition to History
Located in the Melaka Raya area, near the famous Dataran Pahlawan mall, this attraction offers a fun break from the historical heat of the A'Famosa fort and Jonker Street.
The Vibe: A modern Malaysian family home. It is divided into five sections: living room, kitchen, bedroom, baby room, and bathroom.
Key Feature: The scale is very realistic, making the optical illusion more convincing when you flip your photos 180 degrees.
5. Upside Down House Langkawi (Rumah Terbalik)
Island Whimsy
Situated near the Langkawi SkyCab (Cable Car) area, this attraction adds a layer of surrealism to your tropical island vacation.
The Vibe: It uses recycled materials for much of its decor, giving it a slightly more rustic and eco-friendly feel compared to the sleek KL version.
Why Visit: It's a perfect "rainy day" activity when the Langkawi beaches or boat tours are out of commission.
How the Magic Works: A Visitor's Guide
To the naked eye, these houses look like a mess of furniture glued to the ceiling. However, the "magic" happens in your camera lens.
The Pose: You stand on the floor (which will eventually be the "ceiling"). You might pretend to reach for a floating chair or balance on a "hanging" lamp.
The Flip: Once you take the photo, you rotate it 180 degrees on your phone.
The Result: Suddenly, you appear to be crawling on the ceiling or floating in mid-air while the furniture stays firmly on the ground.
Tips for the Best Experience
Dress Code: Wear comfortable clothes. Avoid skirts or dresses, as you will be doing a lot of bending, crouching, and "action" posing to make the photos look realistic.
Follow the Staff: In most of these houses, staff members act as directors. Follow their posing instructions—they know exactly where the camera needs to be to hide the "real" floor.
Charge Your Devices: You will likely take hundreds of photos in a single 30-minute visit. Ensure your phone or camera battery is full.
Check Opening Hours: Most houses operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM, but city locations (like KL) may stay open later on weekends. Before you go, check Malaysia's current time and weather conditions to plan the perfect visit!
Why Are They So Popular in Malaysia?
The "Upside Down" craze in Malaysia taps into the country's love for interactive art. Unlike traditional museums where you "look but don't touch," these houses require the visitor to become part of the exhibit. They are family-friendly, relatively affordable, and provide the perfect content for the social media era.
Whether you are a local looking for a fun weekend activity or a tourist seeking a break from traditional sightseeing, Malaysia's Rumah Terbalik offers a literal new perspective on life.