Ipoh, the capital city of Perak is located in the northwestern Malaysia on the banks of Kinta River. It is the third-largest cities in Malaysia with inhabitants over 750,000 making it the ninth-largest city in terms of population. Ipoh is a gateway to the Cameron Highlands hill station, as it is the main entry point for visitors heading to the popular hill station, that lies towards approx. 90 km east. Also lying nearly 200 km north of Kuala Lumpur and 150 km southeast of George Town, Ipoh is it an ideal stopover point for a day trip or a longer stay, and with both the Malayan Railway's West Coast Line and the North-South Expressway cutting through the city, it is a major land transportation hub within West Malaysia. The city is also served by the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport. Ipoh also nicknamed as “Tin City” due to its history which is deeply connected with the tin mining industry. In the early 1900s, the wealth from tin mining, has greatly influenced the city's architecture.
Ipoh gained its popularity as an international tourist destination, in recent years due to the efforts made to conserve its British colonial-era architecture. An underrated, but worth visiting city Ipoh, serves rich history, delicious and affordable food, a walkable historic district, with blend of old and new attractions, giving a quieter and more local experience than the other cities. The city is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine, especially Ipoh white coffee, salted chicken and egg tarts.
Ipoh is also known for the heritage tourism, with its historical old town showcasing colonial-era architecture. The city also has thriving art scene, like the street arts throughout the old town. The art of the Oldtown is a collection of 7 beautiful murals scattered across the town of Ipoh. The murals are beautiful 3D wall paintings giving a glimpse of the local style, culture and history of the town. The Ho Yan Hor Museum of Ipoh’s old town, chronicles the history of a traditional herbal tea brand.
Another places to explore is the Concubine Lane, that was built by wealthy tin mining tycoons. A heritage lane popular for its colonial-era architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The lane has now become a popular tourist spot lined with quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and street food stalls. Visitors often flock here for local snacks, handmade crafts, and Instagram-worthy pictures. The Lost World of Tambun theme park nestled in Sunway City, Tambun, Ipoh. It is multifaceted theme park and resort set among the lush tropical vegetation that includes a natural hot spring. Confined by 400-million-year-old limestone hills, it is perfect for adventure, relaxation, and cultural heritage.
The city features natural attractions like limestone caves and cave temples like Sam Poh Tong and Perak Tong. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, located in Gunung Rapat, is a group of three Chinese limestone cave temples, namely Ling Sen Tong, Nam Thean Tong, and Sam Poh Tong, decorated with natural and manmade artistic attractions. It is the oldest and main cave temple in Ipoh with a spectacular view of the town. The reclining Buddha statue is the major attraction of the temple.
Other natural attractions include limestone hills and caves within which Buddhist temples were built. Situated at the foot of Gunung Rapat, the Ling Sen Tong Temple is a vibrant Taoist cave temple famous for its colourful statues and serene ambiance. Established in the late 1960s and renovated in 1983, the temple's name translates to "Rock of Heavenly Spirits," reflecting its spiritual significance. Ling Sen Tong Temple offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Ipoh.
And set amongst the limestone hills of Gunung Lang and Gunung Bilike lies the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, which is accessible via boat ride, offering scenic views and an artificial waterfall.
Banjaran Hot Springs -
Ipoh, Malaysia's first luxury natural hot spring wellness retreat, nestled within a cluster of towering limestone hills features a combination of natural caves, pristine jungles, waterfalls and geothermal hot spring. It also offers numerous choices of treatments and programs for your wellness journey, like mere relaxation, rekindling romance, delightful dining and meaningful occasions.
Banjaran Hot Spring retreat is a self-contained sanctuary consisting of 44 luxury villas offering holistic wellness and spa experiences inspired by authentic Malaysian practices. Among which the lake villa is placed among lush foliage and calm waters for peace and quiet. The garden villa is a spacious villa located within the beauty of nature featuring a king-sized bed, private outdoor rain shower, geothermal hot spring whirlpool and a private pool. And the royal villa, a breathtaking two-bedroom residence with bright, naturally-lit living space.
Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple -
The Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple is a 100-year-old temple and one of the most famous tourist attractions in Ipoh City, located to the south of the Ipoh, West Malaysia. The temple is nestled inside a massive limestone cave and surrounded by serene lakes and gardens outside. The garden view at the back of the cave showcases the serene natural landscapes. It also offers views of stunning natural formations and unique architectural elements. One can see various Buddha sculptures and statues within the cave, reflecting the Buddhist heritage of the temple. The temple plays an important role of worship in Ipoh city and is a must visit religious place.
To explore Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, Ipoh the best time is during the cooler months from November to February. As the pleasant weather during this time makes it perfect for enjoying the temple and its scenic environment.
Gunung Lang Recreational Park -
Ipoh’s Gunung Lang Recreational Park (Taman Rekreasi Gunung Lang) offers a relaxing atmosphere with the natural beauty of the limestone hill and its picturesque lake. Situated only 15 minutes away from the main city of Ipoh, Taman Rekreasi Gunung Lang lies near the base of the limestone hills, which was formed over millions of years through the dissolution of soluble rocks. This recreational spot showcases the natural beauty of the limestone hills and its surrounding environment featuring a lake, boat rides, and various other amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience.
After heading for a short boat ride, visitors can enjoy variety of other activities and attractions the park offers. The park activities are suitable for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for adventure or just a peaceful retreat. One of the most notable features at Gunung Lang Recreational Park is the Lookout Tower that enhances the visitor experience by offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can have a birds-eye view of the picturesque lake and limestone hill from the tower.
Kellie's Castle -
The unfinished Scottish castle, located in Batu Gajah, Kinta District, beside the Raya River, which is a small creek to the Kinta River. Although never completed, the original plans of the castle had an inclusion of Malaysia's first elevator highlighting Smith's visionary approach. One of the most fascinating aspects of the castle is its hidden tunnel that is rumoured to be an escape route, adding charm to the site. In Ipoh many believe this castle is haunted by its past inhabitant.
Today, Kellie's Castle is a popular tourist destination known for its historical architecture, unfinished state, and ghost stories. Visitors can explore its enchanting rooms and gardens, climb to the rooftop for panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and photographers. It is also a popular site for those interested in the paranormal activities, to learn about the tragic story of its builder, William Kellie Smith.
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