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30 Things To Do In & Near Ipoh – Visit Must-Try Eateries, Serene Nature Spots & Thrift Markets

Things to do in & near Ipoh 

Among the popular day-trip destinations in the country, the city of Ipoh stands alongside George Town as a local-favourite. Its plethora of old-school kopitiams , colonial buildings, and weathered streets lined with art murals have Ipoh-ites bragging about them in and outside of their city.

To help you make the most of your next visit to this city, we’ve compiled 30 things to do in and near Ipoh, Perak, that’ll keep you on your toes for a full day. 

Table of Contents

– What to do in Ipoh, Perak –

1. bask in nature’s beauty by a mirror-like lake at tasik cermin, 2. take a trip down memory lane at galeri rumah lat, 3. go on a shopping spree at the new silverlakes village outlet mall, 4. visit a cave temple & hop on a boat ride at kek lok tong, 5. learn more about ipoh’s tin-mining past at han chin pet soo museum, 6. sift for preloved & vintage goods at a roadside flea market, pasar karat, 7. explore a forgotten disneyland-inspired town, agacia town, 8. learn more about perak’s tin mining past at tt5 dredge, 9. go on a journey back in time by embarking on the ipoh heritage trail, 10. have a serene soak in natural hot springs at the lost world of tambun, 11. learn more about a popular local drink at ho yan hor tea museum, 12. gorge on a variety of street food at concubine lane, 13. marvel at the unfinished architecture of kellie’s castle, 14. uncover a row of abandoned shophouses at papan, 15. revel in old-school street art murals along mural art’s lane, 16. shop for local handmade goods at kong heng square market, 17. pay tribute to a legendary local filmmaker at bookxcess kong heng, 18. take trippy photos at funtasy house trick art, 19. stroll along captivating light displays at kinta riverfront walk, 20. have a pampering staycay at the banjaran hotsprings retreat, – where to eat in ipoh –, 21. live out your hogwarts dreams at platform 9 ½ cafe, 22. delight in a breakfast fit for champions at ipoh’s famed kopitiams , 23. get messy with mixed curries at nasi ganja ipoh, 24. savour dim sum at ipoh’s popular dim sum joints, 25. try silken-smooth egg custard at restoran thean chun, 26. treat your tastebuds to ipoh’s taugeh chicken rice, 27. hang out with ducks at the duck-themed callduck cafe, 28. grab a meal at malaysia’s oldest known bar, durbar at fms, 29. have breakfast by limestone hills at kin loong valley chang jiang white coffee, 30. boost your mood with a cup of ipoh’s famed white coffee .

Formerly an abandoned quarry, Tasik Cermin has been transformed into a national geopark that welcomes visitors looking to marvel at a collection of jaw-dropping natural gems – this includes a mirror-like lake, towering rock formations, and captivating caves and tunnels.

Just a stone’s throw from Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, the park hosts various activities around its centrepiece: a “Mirror Lake”, as it is nicknamed by locals. 

You can hop on a leisurely boat ride (RM25/pax) that promises a view of lush greenery and various monkey species. During the 25-minute journey, you’ll get to travel between Tasik Cermin 1 and 2 through a tunnel. 

After your boat trip, you can explore the caves and tunnels on foot. Other activities to try here include flying fox, rock climbing, and a kid’s playground. 

Admission: RM5/pax Address: 31, Jalan Perniagaan Sengat, Pusat Perniagaan Sengat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 9am-6pm, Daily Contact: 012-268 4116 | Tasik Cermin’s Facebook

Many of us grew up reading Lat comics. They depict everyday Malaysian life and current events through a humorous lens that had us in stitches. At Galeri Rumah Lat , in nearby Batu Gajah, you can see a collection of archival and current works on display that were all drawn by the celebrated Malaysian cartoonist, Datuk Moh Nor Khalid – better known as Lat.

The gallery opened in 2023 and currently has no admission fees. There are plans to expand the space, but there are already several areas to explore here. They include exhibits that let you step into the world of Lat through hand-drawn illustrations and personal belongings of the artist.

There’s also traditional Malay house, just behind the gallery, which brings to life nostalgic sceneries from the comic book, The Kampung Boy .

Admission : Free Address : Lot 365404, Jalan Bemban, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak Opening hours: Sat-Thu 10am-5pm | Fri 10am-12.15pm & 2.45pm-5pm

Malaysians love a good bargain, and it’s at outlet malls where we can find the best year-round deals. Near Ipoh, there’s Silverlakes Village Outlet, a new lakeside mall in Batu Gajah that opened in December 2023.

As the mall is relatively new, you’ll find just a handful of branded outlets here – Puma, Kate Spade New York, Nala, Bonia, and Tuff included. One that’s been receiving hype on social media in recent days is the Coach outlet here, which boasts a Coach Coffee Shop.

It serves coffee, tea, and chocolate beverages, alongside soft serve, apple pie, and peanut butter sandwiches.

Once you’re done shopping, you can head to the lake for a serene boat ride.

Address: 1, Persiaran Silverlakes, Kampung Belangkor, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak Opening hours: Sun-Thu 10am-11pm | Fri & Sat 10am-12am

With most temples housed within four walls, you might just be surprised at the sheer number of cave temples to be discovered in Ipoh – there are nearly 30 of them. One of them is Kek Lok Tong temple, named the “cave of ultimate bliss”, that sits at the foot of Gunung Rapat. 

As you approach the temple, it’ll be hard to miss the impressive mouth of the cave – it serves as a door leading into the cavernous space where the temple is located. Inside the cave, the temple features multiple statues of the revered Buddha, with stunning rock formations just overhead.  

Other areas to explore here include a zen garden with a lake, which also features an array of Taoist deities and mythical creatures carved from rocks. At the garden, you can opt to take a boat ride (RM12 for 2 pax) on the lake. The 30-minute ride meanders along rocky cliffs dotted with lush greenery, and is available from Wednesdays to Mondays.

Admission: Free Address: Persiaran Sepakat 3, Taman Endah Jaya, 31350 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 8am-4.30pm, Daily

Whether you’re a history buff or not, Han Chin Pet Soo Museum is a local museum that lets you delve into the early history of Ipoh’s tin mining history through life-like dioramas and intriguing artefacts. 

The museum was formerly a Hakka Tin Miners club founded in 1893, spanning two floors. Today, the refurbished 3-storey space explores the building’s past as well as Ipoh’s history of tin mining, as it was one of the largest tin-mining towns in the world during its heyday. 

Free guided tours are offered at different hours in the day. You can also learn more about the daily life of early Hakka settlers in the area, as well as the vices commonly associated with the tin-mining industry – opium dens and gambling halls included.

The entrance to the museum is free, but a recommended donation of RM10 will go towards supporting the preservation of the museum and its historic building. Do note that you’ll have to reserve a time slot to visit through Ipoh World’s official site to avoid disappointment. 

Address: 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9.30am-3.30pm (Closed on Mondays) Contact: 05-241 4541 | Ipoh World’s website

We’re no strangers to the plethora of pasar malams in our neighbourhoods that offer up street food to fresh produce. But Pasar Karat – also called Memory Lane – is a renowned flea market in Ipoh where locals gather to sell preloved and vintage goods on a long stretch of road. 

Only open on Sundays, this market is where you can browse through a treasure trove of diverse wares. Expect to spend some time exploring the market, as rows after rows of vendors set up shop by arranging their goods on tables or cloths right on the street.

You can also find almost anything – from old-school enamel plates and cassette players, to books and apparel. 

As with all flea markets, you’ll want to come ready to flex your haggling muscles – it’s an integral part of the shopping experience here, and it’s not uncommon to see other locals engaging with vendors to get a good deal on an interesting find. 

Address: Jalan Horley, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Sun 7am-12pm (Closed from Mondays to Saturdays)

Most abandoned places in Malaysia take form in crumbling buildings overgrown with shrubs. But then there’s Agacia Town in nearby Kampar, a forgotten Disneyland-inspired town that has a collection of 57 charming pastel-coloured buildings.

Each structure features European-style doors and windows, with no two buildings having the same facade. Almost all are unoccupied, despite having tenants in some spotlots in the past. You’ll find many Ipoh-bound individuals stopping by to take photos of the buildings.

It’s hard to believe that a dredge can become a tourist attraction. But Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No. 5 , also known by locals as TT5 Dredge, is just that. This historical Batu Gajah attraction is a picture of Perak’s tin mining past – it’s also the last tin dredge in Malaysia.

Its importance rests in the fact that Perak was once the richest state in Malaysia due to the tin mining activities there. It’s said that the cost to build a single dredge in 1940 was around RM40 million.

Today, the dredge has been restored to welcome visitors. While guided tours are no longer held throughout the day, as the dredging site is welcoming an ESCAPE Theme Park soon, you can still explore the dredge and also the nearby heart-shaped TT5 Maze Park .

Admission : RM10/adult & RM5/child for access to the dredge and maze Address : Lot 365404, Jalan Bemban, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak Opening hours: Sat-Thu 10am-5pm | Fri 10am-12.15pm & 2.45pm-5pm Contact : TT5 Dredge’s Instagram

Ipoh is made up of historic colonial structures and shophouses. If one of them happens to catch your attention, a stroll down the Ipoh Heritage Trail is a must as it’ll take you on a journey back in time. 

With a total of 27 points of interest through both Ipoh Old Town and New Town, the trail will take about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on how many sites you plan to visit. So, be sure to plan your trip ahead of time if you’re aiming to take in all of the city’s historical tapestry.

Begin your self-guided tour at the iconic Ipoh Railway Station , nicknamed the “Taj Mahal of Ipoh” by locals. Built in 1917, it features a grand all-white facade, as well as a central dome and elaborate arches that reflects a unique blend of colonial and traditional Malay architectural styles. 

Along the trail, you’ll also get to marvel at the Dewan Bandaran Ipoh . It’s a gorgeous white building with multiple European-style columns and delicate lattices over archways, which was designed by the colonial government architect, A.B. Hubback. 

Other sites on the trail is Masjid Panglima Kinta , an eye-catching mosque featuring Moorish and European architectural styles along with a striking blue dome, and the iconic Birch Memorial Clock Tower.  

The latter is a 100-year-old clock tower that stands as a monument to James W. Birch, the first British resident of Perak, as well as to the evolution of civilization. Four panels at the clock’s midsection depict the journey through time, from the Stone Age to modernity.

When it comes to theme parks in Malaysia, the Lost World Of Tambun stands apart for its ambience. Beyond its six themed zones housing 88 attractions, the park is enveloped by a jungle and features historic limestones and natural mineral hot springs.

Come day, visitors drop by to splash away at water slides and hop on exhilarating roller coasters at the adventure park. By night, a different set of attractions come to life, including a Luminous Forest and the Lost World Hot Springs & Spa. 

There are a range of facilities at the latter, including a Steam Cave where you can enjoy a sauna sesh in an actual cave, and the Top Of The World Pool , a jacuzzi with massage water jets that’ll soothe your tired muscles. 

For those with kiddos, there’s a Saphira’s Lair at the hot springs too , where the little ones can swim in an illuminated hot spring.

You can purchase tickets at the park, but we recommend getting them online here as you can enjoy lower rates for tickets booked online. 

Lost World Of Tambun Admission: RM95/pax for Malaysians and RM127/pax for standard tickets | RM88/pax for Malaysians and RM120/pax for standard tickets for children and senior citizens Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-6pm | Sat & Sun 10am-6pm

Lost World Hot Springs & Night Park Admission : RM70/pax for Malaysians and RM85/pax for standard tickets | RM62/pax for Malaysians and RM76/pax for standard tickets for children and senior citizens Opening hours : 6pm-11pm, Daily

Address: No.1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1, Sunway City Perak, 31150 Ipoh, Perak Contact: 05-542 8888 | Lost World Of Tambun’s website

Chances are, you know someone who swears by Ho Yan Hor Tea to help with their various ailments. The Chinese herbal tea is said to help combat everything from ‘heatiness’ to arthritis, becoming a household name in Malaysia.

To learn more about this drink, drop by Ho Yan Hor Museum.

This free-entry museum is dedicated to Dr Ho Kai Cheong and his renowned Chinese herbal tea, and is actually his former residence. History has it that Dr Ho formulated the herbal remedy in 1941, incorporating natural ingredients to help with heatiness often experienced by miners working in scorching conditions.

A visit here lets you delve into the history of the local Chinese herbal tea through various photographs and displays of tea-related equipment. Gain insights into Dr Ho’s life, and enjoy a herbal tea taste testing at the end of your museum visit. 

Admission: Free Address:   1, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Tue-Sun 10am-4pm (Closed on Mondays) Contact: 05-241 2048 | Ho Yan Hor Museum’s website

Concubine Lane stands as one of Ipoh’s top must-visit attractions, and its allure is unmistakable. 

Made up of three bustling yet narrow streets steeped in history, the lane’s name references the mistresses of Chinese tycoons and British officers who used to frequent the area. It was also once said to be the site of opium and gambling dens during Ipoh’s peak tin-mining days.

Today, the lanes teem with street food vendors, cafes, and souvenir shops, encapsulating the essence of Ipoh within its quaint confines.

A stroll will lead you to stalls selling Ipoh-famous street snacks, such as Kuma Rainbow Cheese Toast (RM13.90) – a cheese-filled sandwich that stretches to impressive heights when pulled, all while boasting a rainbow of colours. 

Another must-try here is Ice Cream Puffs (RM8) , available in a delightful array of flavours.

Address: Lorong Panglima, 30000 Ipoh Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily

If you’re up to explore a little further out of Ipoh, then a visit to Kellie’s Castle is a must. Located in Batu Gajah, about a 30-minute drive from the bustle of Concubine Lane, the mansion is nestled within a former rubber estate.

Enveloped by lush greenery, the grand structure exudes a mysterious charm even from afar, thanks to its unfinished state and eye-catching colonial-style architecture. 

History goes that the mansion was built by William Kellie-Smith. He was a wealthy Scotsman who aspired to build a gorgeous residence for his family in then-Malaya that featured Moorish and Roman architectural styles.

Sadly, his dream was short-lived due to his sudden death by pneumonia. His wife and daughter returned to Scotland not long after, abandoning the mansion, and its construction was thus never completed.

Nonetheless, the unfinished castle-like mansion continues to attract locals and visitors from around the world who wish to explore its remains. 

The mansion features secret tunnels and what would’ve been the first elevator in Malaya. Some have also claimed that the abode’s halls are haunted. 

Admission: RM5/adult and RM3/child for Malaysians | RM10/adult and RM8/child for standard tickets Address: Lot 48436, Kompleks Pelancongan Kellie’s Castle, Jalan Gopeng, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak Opening hours: 9.30am-5.15pm, Daily

Another spot that’s worth a drive from Ipoh is Papan . While the streets of downtown Ipoh are filled with pristine heritage shophouses, there’s a row of over 30 forgotten shophouses at this single-street town that have been left abandoned and are now overgrown with greenery.

Once a prosperous tin-mining town in the 1800s, the sleepy Papan now accommodates just over 300 residents. You can explore the town on foot, with many curious out-of-towners often dropping by to take a peek at the crumbling shophouses for themselves.

There are several notable attractions here, including a shophouse that once belonged to local war hero Sybil Kathigasu , who operated a clinic there during World War II. There’s also the historic Istana Raja Billah and Kampung Papan Mosque, both built sometime in the 1800s.

Find out more about Papan here .

While Ipoh is known as a historic city with old-school charms, you’ll be surprised to see an abundance of remarkable street art murals gracing the facades of shophouses and buildings.

You’ll find them at almost every street corner leading to Ipoh’s famed attractions. But to revel in a collection of them just a short walk from each other, you’ll want to add Mural Art’s Lane to your itinerary – especially if you’re a shutterbug. 

This city’s murals are known for their lifelike depictions, often providing a glimpse into the daily lives of Ipoh’s residents. There are two locations where you’ll find a plethora of these artistic gems: Ipoh Mural and Mural Art’s Lane.

Fun fact – some of the gorgeous murals that you’ll see in Ipoh are done by Lithuania-born artist Ernest Zacharevic, who is often hailed as “Malaysia’s Banksy”.

At Ipoh Mural, you’ll see enchanting old-school street art such as a 3D trishaw mural, while Mural Art’s Lane houses more abstract and contemporary pieces. Fortunately, these two locations are within a short walking distance of each other, leaving you with no reason to skip out on either one.

Address: Jalan Masjid, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily

If you’re looking to #supportlokal, then make your way to Kong Heng Square Market, where you can shop for local artisanal products and handicrafts. 

This charming bricked building is a hotspot among locals, hosting a diverse collection of pop-up stalls selling an array of meticulously crafted items.

Consider bringing home a piece of Ipoh by purchasing local-themed knick-knacks, such as handmade keychains and adorable miniature replicas of Ipoh shophouses priced at RM18/each . 

Address: 75A, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 10am-5pm, Daily 

Strategically located at Kong Heng Square Market, Yasmin Ahmad Museum is a continuously evolving commemorative museum with refreshed content every six months to a year to celebrate the local filmmaker’s life and works. 

This intimate yet versatile space, nestled within an industrial-style BookXcess outlet, serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the late Yasmin Ahmad. Here, her vast body of work spanning film, poetry, and media is showcased, and open to the public to explore for free.

After you’re done checking out the gallery, you can shop for books at discounted prices from BookXcess. 

Admission: Free Address: 91, Jalan Sultan Yussof, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 10am-5pm, Daily Contact: 016-417 7822 | Yasmin Ahmad Museum’s website

Funtasy House Trick Art is Ipoh’s popular trick art gallery, which transports visitors to a trippy alternate universe – think Alice In Wonderland with all its weird and wonderful charms. The gallery boasts a sizable collection of 20 3D exhibits, each designed to create visual illusions that inspire both fun and fantasy. 

The gallery’s magic is conjured by the creative minds of nine artists, who collaborated to breathe life into these mesmerising and realistic trick art installations. 

To make the most of your visit, friendly staff members will lead you through each exhibit, offering to help you capture the perfect trippy photo for the ‘Gram. 

Admission: RM25/pax Address: 16, Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 9am-6pm, Daily Contact: 05-255 0007 | Funtasy House Trick Art’s website

A visit to Ipoh would be incomplete without a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Kinta Riverfront Walk .  This charming promenade situated alongside the river is adorned with trees that come to life with enchanting LED lights in the evenings. 

To further enjoy the views, there are cafes to be found along the waterfront, where you can grab a seat and savour a cup of warm liquid. 

Address: Jalan Lim Bo Seng, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily

Those planning to visit Ipoh for more than a day can relax and unwind at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat . This famed eco-friendly 5-star resort is nestled in a 22.7-acre valley, surrounded by lush nature and mountains that form the backdrop for their star amenity – the natural geothermal hot springs.

As for rooms, the resort has a total of 44 villas, including the Garden Villas that come with plush amenities such as a private plunge pool and rain shower.

Besides soaking in the hot springs, you can plan to have dinner at Jeff’s Cellar, a fine-dining restaurant set inside a centuries-old limestone hill. There’s also 30ft-high Skybar where you can sip on cocktails over a view of the surrounding mountains.

Price: From RM1,850 per night Address: No. 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, Sunway City Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily Contact: 05-210 7777 | The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat’s website

While Ipoh’s attractions tend to lean towards cultural experiences, there’s always a dash of quirkiness to be found – one in particular is the Platform 9 ½ Cafe. Nestled within the popular Concubine Lane, this Harry Potter-themed cafe is a must-visit for Potterheads. 

Don’t pass up the chance to savour a Butterbeer (RM6) here, which is a delightful concoction featuring homemade butterscotch and Sarsaparilla. Other drinks on the menu include a collection of caffeinated beverages, frappes, and slushies. 

That’s not all – the cafe also provides diners with wizardry costumes and props, such as Hogwarts scarves and wands, which you can don for photos at the various IG-worthy corners around the cafe. 

Do consider visiting the cafe during off-peak hours before noon as the cafe can get quite crowded.

Address: 22, Lorong Panglima, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 11.30am-6.30pm, Daily Contact: Platform 9 ½ Cafe’s Instagram

Visiting one of Ipoh’s kopitiams is a no-brainer – picture savouring iconic kaw Ipoh white coffee, and pairing it with steamed bread slathered with melted butter and runny half-boiled eggs. It’s the perfect way to kick start your trip in this city. 

Or opt to indulge in a breakfast fit for champion with other Ipoh kopitiam staples, such as the soft-and-light chee cheong fun or flaky egg tarts served in a variety of flavours.

If you’re wondering where to savour these local goodness, fret not as it’s hardly a trouble to find a kopitiam as the city is dotted with them. Simply opt for the one with the liveliest crowd and queues – often a Malaysian signal for a must-try establishment. 

You might also want to check out Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong, which is known as an iconic coffee shop that has been serving traditional breakfast delights for over 80 years. 

Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong Address: 15A, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 6.30am-2.30pm, Daily Contact: 05-241 4601  

If there’s one combo that all Malaysians love, it’s none other than the blend of rice and spice. There’s no better way to savour them both than at Nasi Ganja Ipoh, a local-recommended spot.

Tucked away in Kedai Kopi Yong Suan , this restaurant is known as the most famous Nasi Kandar spot in the whole of Ipoh, and has been in operation for decades. 

The magic lies in the grated coconut-infused fluffy rice, which imparts a delightful savoury-and-sweet essence in each bite. Paired with a generous pour of rich, flavourful mixture of curries, you get to enjoy a delectable mess comprising meat and vegetables. 

Expect to pay about RM8 per person for a meal here. 

If you plan to visit this spot for lunch, do factor in a potential wait time and a 30-minute dining time limit that the restaurant has in place to help with crowd control.

Address: Nasi Ganja @ Kedai Kopi Yong Suan, 4, Jalan Yang Kalsom, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 9.30am-5pm, Daily Contact: 05-254 4314

With a strong Chinese cultural influence in Ipoh, you’ll encounter a wealth of mouth-watering Chinese cuisine, with dim sum being a standout highlight. For the uninitiated, dim sum consists of small bite-sized dishes often served in bamboo baskets, offering a diverse array of flavours and textures in one sitting. 

While Siu Mai, Feng Zhao (chicken feet), and Har Gow are staple dim sum dishes, there are over a hundred other varieties to explore. In Ipoh, there are plenty of dim sum joints to enjoy all the classics and more.

A highly recommended spot is Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum . This restaurant is renowned for serving some of the best dim sum in the city, offering a true culinary treat for dim sum lovers. Expect to pay around RM3 per plate or basket.

Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum Address: 36, Jalan Leong Sin Nam, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Fri-Wed 6am-2pm (Closed on Thursdays) Contact: 05-255 7134 | Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum’s Facebook

Egg tarts are a beloved dim sum staple. But Ipoh happens to be famed for another eggy treat – egg custard. Besides the usual servings of kaw coffee and crisp roti bakar , Restoran Thean Chun is an old-school coffee shop that’s popular for their egg custard (RM3.60). These silky-smooth treats, or flans, get snapped up by patrons as early as 10am on the weekends.

The flans are simple yet delightful, melting the second it meets your tongue. The caramel sauce that it comes with is parents-approved too, as it’s not too sweet.

Address: 73, Jalan Bandar Timah, 31650 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Fri-Tue 8am-4.30pm | Wed 7.30am-1pm (Closed on Thursdays) Contact: 05-255 3076

Ipoh’s Taugeh Chicken Rice is celebrated for its impeccable texture and flavours. This delectable dish features succulent poached chicken, typically served with aromatic rice infused with chicken broth and a medley of herbs and spices. 

Image credit: @casseybaby via Instagram

What sets Ipoh’s version apart is its exceptionally tender and smooth chicken, achieved through skilful poaching that’s often followed by an ice bath to preserve the meat’s tenderness. It is also paired with a plate of crunchy and flavourful bean sprouts.

Image credit: @faizdusuki via Instagram

Two of the most popular eateries in Ipoh to try this dish are Ong Kee Restaurant and Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken, which both often see snaking queues for their chicken rice. Those with dietary restrictions can also savour this meal at the popular Halal-certified Ipoh Hainan Chicken Rice on Jalan Raja Musa Aziz.

Ong Kee Restaurant Address: No. 48/51, 53, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 10am-9.30pm, Daily

Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken Rice Address: 49, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, Taman Jubilee, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 10.30am-9pm, Daily 

Ipoh Hainan Chicken Rice Address: 107, Jalan Raja Musa Aziz, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm | Fri-Sun 10am-10pm

Most pet cafes in Malaysia house cuddly cats and adorable dogs. But Callduck stands out from the other spots – they are a duck-themed cafe in Ipoh that has a crew of ducks roaming around the dining area. There’s even a photo corner here that’s decked with duck plushies for you to snap pics with the fluffy birds.

To make it a complete experience for patrons, Callduck also serves a variety of duck-inspired grub like Marshmallow Chocolate Croissants (RM11.80) .

Address: 33, Persiaran Bandar Baru Tambun 16, Bandar Baru Tambun, 31400, Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-6pm (Closed on Mondays) Contact: Callduck’s Instagram

A spot in Ipoh that racks up a pretty historic title is FMS , widely dubbed as Malaysia’s oldest restaurant. Established in 1906 by a Hainanese immigrant, the restaurant-cum-bar now operates under its fourth generation owner.

Short for Federated Malay States, the restaurant has retained almost all of their old charm – timber furnishings, time-worn chandeliers, and photos of a bygone era – even though it was recently rebranded to Durbar At FMS. Enter the premise and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the past.

As for food, the restaurant has a menu of Western classics, such as Fish & Chips (RM43) and Slow-Braised Lamb Shank (RM90) . There are also more local dishes served, including Hainanese Chicken Chop (RM29) and Dry Beef Hor Fun (RM23) .

While slightly pricey, you’ll be dining on all these food in a one-of-a-kind bygone setting.

Address: 2, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: Thu-Tue 11am-10pm (Closed on Wednesdays) Contact: Durbar At FMS’s Facebook

Kin Loong Valley Chang Jiang White Coffee is one of those spots in Ipoh that you can only find there. Just a stone’s throw from the famed Tasik Cermin, this coffee shop set just next to scenic limestone hills – guests can sip on coffee while taking in stunning views of Ipoh’s natural gem.

You can order the popular kaw White Coffee (from RM5.20) or Kaw Kaw Teh (from RM5.20) to pair with local breakfast favourites such as half boiled eggs (RM4.20) and curry noodles (RM10) . The kopitiam by the caves is also known for their kaya and butter toast (RM6),  which receives high praises from patrons for the thick slabs of butter that it comes with.

Address: Eko Perlancongan, 1, Jln Perniagaan Sengat, Pusat Perniagaan Sengat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 8am-6pm, Daily

You’ll find most kopitiams in Ipoh serving up aromatic cups of white coffee – another famous Ipoh speciality, which made it to the world’s top 10 best coffee list. This is because of the buttery aroma and smooth mouthfeel that each cup of white coffee promises.

What makes Ipoh white coffee stand out from the rest is the inclusion of condense milk in each cup and its brewing process – coffee beans are lightly roasted in margarine before getting brewed, giving each brew a milky and velvety texture.

Some highly recommended spots by locals to visit for kaw  white coffee are Sun Yuan Foong and Nam Heong . These kopitiams are both located on Jalan Bandar Timah, and can get crowded especially on weekends. Patrons often have the coffee with other breakfast staples, likes  chee cheong fun, kaya butter toast, and egg tarts.

At Nam Heong, the flaky egg tarts are something of a star too – they are freshly baked, and sold at RM2.60 per piece.

Sun Yuan Foong Address: 17, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours : 9am-5pm, Daily

Nam Heong Address: 2, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 6.30am-4.30pm, Daily

Best things to do in & near Ipoh

Ipoh is without a doubt one of the most interesting cities to visit in Malaysia, with its array of things to do and delicacies to savour. So if you’re planning to head down to this city sometime soon, consider visiting these places that’ll keep you entertained for a full day.

For more things to do in M’sia, check out 60 things to do in Melaka and 53 things to do in Johor Bahru, including carnivals, photo spots & more.

This article was first published on 6 October 2023, and last updated by Jasmyne Foong on 6th May 2024.

Cover image adapted from: @_milokong_ via Instagram, Lost World Of Tambun, @ipoh_lover via Instagram, @gowalkwok via Instagram

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The Top 26 Best places to visit in Ipoh, Explore the best of Ipoh

Ipoh is the capital of Peninsular Malaysia’s heart state, Perak and contains the multi-culture and history of this country. It offers a unique travel experience to the visitors as Ipoh is rich with numerous tourist attractions. 

At the same time, Ipoh is widely known as a historic city because it was the centre of the world’s tin industry in the British period. So, you’ll get plenty of things to do here.

Before you head down to this enchanting city, quickly check out The Top 26 Best places to visit in Ipoh & Things to do .

Let’s Walk Through the History of Ipoh

When I said let’s walk through the history of Ipoh, it means you can literally walk and explore the heritage of Ipoh . Just like other cities of Malaysia, the British had also left their legacy in the colonial architectures and buildings of Ipoh. You just have to grab a map of the Ipoh heritage trail from the Ipoh information centre or online and set your way.

Address: Mostly centred around Jalan Dato Sagor, Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, and Jalan Dato Maharajalela.

Entrance: Free

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Best places to visit in Ipoh: The Heritage Trail

Here we have listed some important heritage sites that are regarded as the best attractions to the tourists .

1. Ipoh Railway Station

At the Ipoh heritage trail, the first colonial architecture you’ll notice is the Ipoh Railway Station . This building was started building in 1894 and completed in 1917. The Station reflects Moorish and Victorian styles of architecture. It also has some features of Mughal architecture, that’s why it’s affectionately called the “Taj Mahal of Ipoh”.

2. Ipoh Town Hall and Old Post Office

After visiting the Railway Station, go for Ipoh Town Hall and Old Post Office as they are just across the road from the station. These long-standing historic buildings mimic the architectural style of the train station because they were designed by the same man A.B Hubback, a British architect. Nowadays, the Town Hall is used as a venue for public events.

3. Birch Memorial Clock

Birch Memorial Clock is named after James W W Birch, the first British resident in Ipoh. The tower is placed just behind the Ipoh Old Post Office, over a renowned hawker centre. This colonial architecture is famous for its controversial history and carries British symbolism. At the top of the Birch Memorial, you will get to see four figures representing the four virtues of the British government. 

5. Take A Cup of Traditional White Coffee

Your Ipoh tour is incomplete without having a cup of its famous Ipoh White Coffee . Actually, the coffee beans are not white, but they are roasted with palm oil margarine to turn white and less bitter. Serving with condensed milk is the star attraction of this traditional white coffee.

In Malaysia, the most popular brand of Ipoh white coffee is the “Old Town White Coffee”. You will get more than 200 coffee shops in Old Town, among them Nam Heong White Coffee , Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong , and Chang Jiang White Coffee are the most renowned.

Nam Heong White Coffee: 2, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong: 15A, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak Chang Jiang White Coffee: 7, Jalan Windsor, 30250 Ipoh, Perak

6. Check Out Exclusive Street Art

Penang is known as the capital of street art in Malaysia. Still, you would be surprised to learn that Ipoh has a rich collection of murals as most of the Ipoh murals are painted by Ernest Zacharevic , the same artist who has painted Penang’s famous street art. 

The star collections of Zacharevic’s painting in Ipoh are wise-looking uncle drinking coffee, the celestial hummingbird, a man stacking rubbish bags on the back of a trishaw, and so on. You will find a large number of murals around the laneways of Ipoh Old Town, but there’s also plenty of others in Ipoh New Town. 

Address: Ipoh Old Town and Mural’s Art Lane in Ipoh New Town

7. Explore the Gua Tempurung

If you are a cave enthusiast, then The Gua Tempurung will give you an epic adventure. This 3-kilometre-long cave has waterfalls, strange animals, and beautiful rock formations that you can explore. They will provide professional cavers to guide you and get your way. Make sure that you bring some extra clothes, and a waterproof camera as some parts of the cave could make you wet.

Address: Pusat Pelancongan Gua Tempurung,, 31600 Gopeng, Perak

Opening Hour: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Entrance: There are four different tours. The fee depends on which one you would like to choose

How to Get to Gua Tempurung

The Tempurung Cave is situated near the village Gopeng in Perak. It is not so far from Ipoh. If you have a car, you can easily get there by using google maps . Or take a train from Ipoh or Kuala Lumpur to Gopeng and then take a Grab to reach the cave.

Visit Best Three Cave Temples

Ipoh is famous for its cave temples. Here you will find some magnificent temples that are built into limestone rock formations. Sam Poh Tong , Kek Lok Tong , and Perak Cave Temple are the most prominent among them.

8. Sam Poh Tong

Sam Poh Tong is one of the oldest and largest limestone cave temples in Malaysia. This temple will impress you from both the inside and outside. You have to follow the 246 steps to visit the statues of Buddha and other deities. The temple also includes a pond that is filled with Japanese tortoises, symbolising longevity. 

Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Daily 7:00 am to 2:30 pm

9. Kek Lok Tong

Located in the natural area of Gunung Rapat in Ipoh, the Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple is one of the most prominent tourist attractions for its incredible architecture and award-winning garden.

The temple has some similarities with Perak Cave Temple and Sam Poh Tong, such as bronze statues, religious relics, landscape, and so on. You can experience spiritual tranquillity in the environment of this temple.

Address: Pesiaran Sepakat 3, TMN ENDAH JAYA, 31350 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Daily 7:00 am to 4:30 pm

10. Perak Cave Temple

Perak Cave Temple will impress you with its marvellous architecture and hilltop views. After entering the temple, the first thing that will catch your attention is the 40-feet tall gold Buddha statue and guardian deities at both sides of this statue. Follow the 400 steps to enjoy this magical environment.

Address: Jln. Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Perak 

Opening Hour: Daily 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

11. Discover Ipoh’s Laneway Culture

You can see the traditional Ipoh in its Laneways . Located in Ipoh Old Town, the laneways are narrow alleyways loaded with small shops, restaurants, and coffee shops. The Old Town is the same area where you will find Ipoh’s traditional white coffee and exclusive street art. Without mentioning Concubine Lane , the list of things to do in Ipoh would be incomplete.

Concubine Lane

Concubine Lane is one of the most popular and the most visited lanes in Ipoh. It has become the top tourist attraction for its charming souvenir shops, fashion outlets, cafes, and dessert houses. 

At the same time, the naming history of Concubine Lane is more interesting. According to the locals, the mining tycoon Yau Tet Shin had built this lane for his three wives. Each street was named for each of his wives. 

The entire atmosphere is very akin to Jonker Street in Malacca or Armenian Street in Georgetown .

Address: Lorong Panglima, Concubine Ln, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Daily 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

12. Enter the 3D World @ Funtasy House Trick Art

Ipoh is well known for its 3D art and murals. And the Funtasy House Trick Art has taken the reputation one step further. It is a gallery with unique and spectacular murals and paintings.

Although the gallery is new (opened in 2015) and they have more attractions to add, they still, have thousands of visitors here. Because the  Funtasy House Trick Art is capable of taking you to the magical three-dimensional world. 

The gallery has nearly 26 murals and several trick rooms where you’ll find amusement like the circus and upside down. 

Address: 16, Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh

Open hours: Thursday to Tuesday 09:00 am to 06:00 pm (closed on Wednesday)

Entry fee: Adults with MyCard RM15.00｜Adults without MyCard RM19.00｜Children(below 4 to 12) RM10.00

13. Rejuvenate yourself @ Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Surrounded by over 400 million years old limestone caves, Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is a health and fitness sanctuary where you’ll get relief from the hustle and bustle of the city.

At first, you will be greeted by the butlers in the lobby. Then at this retreat center, you will get facilities like spectacular geothermal hot springs, steam caves, an ice bath, a heated freeform swimming pool, crystal caves, and many more. 

You can also make yourself calm in the meditation cave or can get refreshment by bathing at the hot springs. 

Address: 1, Persiaran Lagoon, Sunway 3, 31150 Ipoh

14. Visit Spooky Kellie’s Castle

Kellie’s Castle is famous for its mysterious stories and ghostly rumours. The castle was named after its owner William Kellie Smith who died without finishing it. Hence some claim to see the ghost of Smith roam the abandoned hallways of this castle. 

The structure of the building is a mixture of Moorish, Scottish, and British Indian architecture styles. To visit this spooky, half-finish mansion, you have to pass through a jungle road.

Address: Batu Gajah, Perak

Opening Hour: Daily 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Entrance: Malaysians, Adult: RM5.00, Child: RM3.00 ｜Foreigners, Adult: RM10.00, Child: RM9.00

How to Get to Kellie’s Castle

From Ipoh, the Castle is just a 30-minute drive away. You can use google maps or look for signboards at Jalan Gopeng pointing towards the castle.

Or you can take a taxi from Sultan Shah Airport or Ipoh Railway Station and get there directly.

If you choose to take a bus, you first have to take the Route 66 Perak Transit Bus heading to Kampar to reach Gompeng. And then take the Route 67 Perak Transit Bus heading to Batu Gajah. There is no direct bus heading to the castle. 

Admire the Greenery of Ipoh

Ipoh is well known for its limestone surroundings and that’s why you will find several limestone hills, lakes and recreation parks in this town. 

15. Tasik Cermin (‘Mirror Lake’)

Located near the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, Tasik Cermin or ‘Mirror Lake’ is a hidden gem in Ipoh, not many people know about this beautiful lake. The uniqueness of this lake is its limestone karst towers which make the lake so attractive.

Here you can admire the view of this peaceful lake and take pictures of it. Swimming may not be a good option but fishing can be a great way to spend your time here.

But sadly, this spectacularly beautiful lake is in danger from the extraction of limestone. If you’re willing to visit this natural wonder, make your visit as soon as you can. 

Address: 31350 Ipoh, Perak

Opening hours: Thursday to Tuesday 09:00 am to 05:30 pm (closed on Wednesday)

16. Gunung Lang Recreational Park

For those of you who want a day tour near Ipoh, Gunung Lang Recreational Park is the perfect destination for them. Located just 5km away from Ipoh, it is a recreation park with facilities like boating, canoeing, pacifying in the gazebos, fishing, and so on.

The best part of this park is that it is set between two mighty limestone mountains Gunung Lang and Gunung Bilike . There is a cascading waterfall, mini zoo, smoothened gardens, and an observation tower.

Mostly, visitors come here for boat riding which gives you a stunning view of the surroundings. About one-third of this park is covered with a spectacular lake.

Address: Jalan Damai, 30100 Ipoh

Opening hours: Everyday 08:30 am to 06:00 pm

Entry fee: Free of charge

Boat ride: Adults RM3.00 & Children (below 3 to 12) RM1.50

17. D.R. Seenivasagam Park

Located next to the Kinta River, D.R. Seenivasagam Park is a recreational park with lush greenery and turquoise lakes. D.R. Seenivasagam was a prominent politician, and the park was named after him.

The star attraction of this park is the Japanese Zen Garden which is capable of giving you an illusion that you’re actually in Japan. Apart from natural surroundings, there is a gigantic bamboo thicket and a small playground for kids.

The best way to explore the park is by biking. Rent a bicycle and visit the whole park by riding it. 

Address: Jalan Keliling Dalam, 30300 Ipoh

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 am to 11:30 am & 03:00 pm to 06:00 pm｜Saturday & Sunday 08:30 am to 12:00 pm & 01:00 pm to 06:00 pm

18. Set Campfire at Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

Located in Gunung Rapat, Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village has become one of the finest and latest tourist attractions for its lakeside beauty and outdoor activities. The words ‘Qing Xing Ling’ mean ‘Serene Hill’ in English. 

You’ll be amazed by the view of magnificent limestones surrounding all over the lake. The park is the perfect place to set your campfire. Moreover, you can do numerous outdoor activities here, including fishing, fish feeding, jungle tracking, bicycle riding, BBQ and so on. 

They also rent old-style colourful chalets at a very reasonable price. Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village is worthwhile for a family tour. Or you can set camp with your large group of friends.

Address: 22A, Persiaran Pinggir Rapat 5a, Taman Saikat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Monday to Saturday 09:30 am to 05:00 pm

Entrance: RM10 per person

Note: The place is close on all public holidays (Federals & states) Please call and make sure first

19. Explore Lost World of Tambun Theme Park

Lost World of Tambun is the best option to have a fun day out with the whole family. Located in Sunway City Ipoh, this premium Malaysian theme park holds the position of a popular tourist attraction. The park is surrounded by 400 years old limestone cliffs, natural hot springs, 88 attractions within ten splendid, themed areas, and a lush tropical jungle. 

Address: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway, Sunway City, 31150 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm

Book your entry tickets

20. Kinta RiverFront

One of my favourite Ipoh nightlife activities is walking through the Kinta RiverFront . When the sun goes down, trees that are placed beside the river, are illuminated with colourful LED lights which you can never watch during the daylight. 

The RiverFront turns into a magical world by the reflection of these lights. Apart from enjoying the view, you can dine at the nearby restaurants and cafes or can go to the shopping mall as well.  Address: 30000 Ipoh, Perak

Visit Ipoh’s Museums

A museum is a place where you can learn history, culture, and tradition and Ipoh has so much history to reveal. So, whenever you come, don’t miss its museums. 

21. Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

Located near the Kinta River, Han Chin Pet Soo Museum is the first Hakka tin mining museum not only in Ipoh but in the whole country as well. This museum used to be a tin miners’ clubhouse called “Hakka Miners”. So, if you want to see the authentic history of tin mining in Ipoh you must come to this museum.

Han Chin Pet Soo Museum showcases the authentic tools and equipment that were used in the tin mining era, photographs, antiques, furniture, collectables, and so on. 

Address: 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30100 Ipoh

Open hours: Saturday & Sunday 09:30 am to 03:30 pm

22. Ho Yan Hor Museum

Ho Yan Hor is actually a tea brand that was quite famous during the 1940s. And the museum Ho Yan Hor is a tribute to the tea brand and tells its visitors the interesting stories of this Chinese herbal tea.

Dr Ho had started this tea for the sake of human health. It is said that this tea is prepared with 29 natural herbs and premium Pu Erh tea leaves. This tea has several health benefits. 

All this information you will get in the museum which is located just next to the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum . 

Address: 1, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh

Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 04:00 pm (closed on Monday)

23. 22 Hale Street

If you’re willing to learn something new and exclusive about Ipoh, you have to visit 22 Hale Street . It’s a museum and cafe that used to be two old shops. 

The museum shows the history of tin mining and the development of Ipoh during the British period. On the ground floor of this museum, there is a shop that sells coffee, snacks, handicraft items, and so on. And a portion of their profits contributes to the charity. 

Address: 22, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, 30000 Ipoh

Open hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 12:30 pm & 01:30 pm to 06:00 pm (closed on Monday & Tuesday)

24. Learn Geology at Ipoh’s Geological Museum

The Geological Museum is here to give you knowledge about geoscience and geology. It exhibits more than 600 minerals and 150 specimens of different rocks, and some 200 kinds of gemstones. The museum will give you a historical tour of dinosaur fossils, minerals, marine geology activities, and many more. By visiting the museum, you will get lots of things to learn and enjoy.

Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 30820 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Monday to Thursday 09:00 am to 12:30 pm & 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm ｜Friday 09:00 am to 12:00 pm & 03:00 pm to 04:30 pm

Visit Some Famous Markets & Make Your Purchase

Travelling to Ipoh and not visiting its markets that’s nearly impossible for any tour lover. The market is the ideal place where you can communicate with locals and get knowledge of their culture and tradition. 

25. Kong Heng flea market 

Located in Ipoh Old Town, the Kong Heng flea market is one of the famous markets in Ipoh and a tourist hotspot. It’s a busy area and a couple of minutes walking away from Concubine Lane. 

Here you’ll find every kind of shops like restaurants, souvenir shops, fashion boutiques, jewellery shops, and many more. This market is most popular for its booths and little shops where you’ll get genuine hand-crafted items that are not available anywhere else.

“Talking Trees” is another attraction of the Kong Heng Square Artisan market. Here you will see many trees that are decorated with motivational quotes. And as these trees motivate and inspire you, so they are called “Talking Trees”.

Address: 11, Jalan Panglima, 30000 Ipoh

Open hours: Everyday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm

26. Gerbang Malam Night Market

Ipoh is very popular for night markets. Some night markets are set only on a specific day of the week and some are set regularly. Gerbang Malam Night Market is an open-air flea market that opens every night. 

You can come here for dinner as here you’ll find many famous eateries or you can walk through the market after dinner. Make sure you pay a visit after 9 pm when all shops are fully open. 

Address: Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh

Open hours: Everyday 06:00 pm to 12:00 pm

How to Get to Ipoh

From Kuala Lumpur, you can easily get to Ipoh within a few hours by car, bus, or train. Thanks to its well-paved roads and highways, you can make a smooth journey.

You will get a direct train from KL’s Sentral Station or Butterworth Penang to Ipoh. If you don’t want to get stuck in traffic congestion (Sometimes worst) then you should better take a train to reach Ipoh. The train journey to Ipoh is also comfortable and affordable. It only takes 2.5 to 3 hours to arrive in Ipoh with beautiful scenic views from window.

There are a number of buses available from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to Ipoh. You will get more than 20 bus operators who give regular services for this route. The bus is the cheapest way to travel from KL to Ipoh. Depending on traffic, it takes 3 to 3.5 hours to reach Ipoh. 

You can check the price, schedule, and book tickets online on https://thesimpletravel.12go.asia/ . Note: This is an affiliate link when you purchase something I will get commission at no cost to you.

If you prefer driving, you can make your journey within 3 hours from either Penang or Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh. Or you can also rent private transport (car or minivan) to have a comfortable journey. It is the fastest and easiest way to get to Ipoh. 

If you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh , there are many private tour operators that offer these services. You can explore all the highlights and attractions of this historic town as well as enjoy a sumptuous local meal in one easy, stress-free day tour.

What Food You Can Eat in Ipoh

Ipoh is known as the food paradise in Malaysia. If you are visiting Ipoh for the first time, you must not miss its delicious foods and the white coffee. Here we have listed some restaurants where you can have your meal.

Popular Nasi Ganja

Famous Nasi Ganja at Kedai Kopi Yong Suan is a family-run restaurant, and the recipe of this dish is their family secret. The family doesn’t want to reveal the secret to keeping the quality and taste of Nasi Ganja authentic.

It’s a Northern Malaysian dish that is served with steamed rice, a variety of different curries, and side dishes. You will get all these items in a single plate which is quite unique and weird. And the taste is so delicious that you will surely return Ipoh for this dish. Nasi Ganja is perfect for a full-belly lunch. 

Address: 2, Jalan Yang Kalsom, Taman Jubilee, 30250 Ipoh

Opening hours: Everyday 09:00 am to 05:00 pm

Canning Dim Sum

Famous for delicious dim sum, the Canning Dim Sum has gained a reputation in a short time. This popular eatery has an extensive collection of dim sums. You can go with your friends here and try a bit of every food.

Address: 1, Lebuh Cecil Rae, Taman Canning, 31400 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Thursday to Tuesday 07:30 am to 03:30 pm

Ipoh Hainan Chicken Rice

Don’t leave Ipoh without having taugeh with chicken rice. And this dish is well-served at Ipoh Hainan Chicken Rice . You’ll surely love the flavour of poached chicken with light soy sauce. Try the dish for lunch or dinner.

Address: 107, Jalan Raja Musa Aziz, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Monday to Friday 11:00 am to 09:00 pm ｜Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

Nelli’s Deli

Located in the heart of Ipoh’s Old Town, Nelli’s Deli comes with an expansive Western menu. Here you can have English breakfast sets, fish and chips, but their signature dish is nasi lemak. Although a plate of nasi lemak can be costly to you, the taste is unforgettable. 

Address: 99, Jalan Sultan Yusof, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

Opening Hour: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 04:00 pm

Where to Stay in Ipoh

You’ll get plenty of accommodation options both in the Ipoh Old Town and New Town. Here we have listed a hostel, an Airbnb, and a luxury hotel. Choose whichever suits you best.

Read more: Best Hotels in Ipoh

Hostel- Dé Cafe & Rest House

If you are a backpacker and looking for the cheapest hostel, Dé Cafe & Rest House is undoubtedly the best option for you. It is located 2.1 km from Ipoh Parade and offers you air-conditioned accommodation and a restaurant. Moreover, you’ll have luggage storage and free wi-fi throughout the property. 

Airbnb- Ipoh Majestic Homestay by GA Homes

You can have many accommodation options in Ipoh, but none of them can give you cosiness and a homelike environment except Airbnb. Ipoh Majestic Homestay provides you with two bedrooms, two beds, and two baths. This well-decorated accommodation will give you more facilities and is perfect for families to have comfort and space. 

Luxury Hotel- The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

To experience the ultimate luxury in Ipoh, you can choose to stay at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat . Nestled against limestone hill, this luxury hotel provides you with lots of facilities such as geothermal hot springs, a naturally heated swimming pool, ice baths, living rooms that are fitted with TV, and so on. You’ll get complete satisfaction with their service.

Ipoh is an unforgettable place to have holidays for its spectacular views, historical sites, friendly locals, fun-filled activities, and great foods. I hope this article “ The Top 26 Best places to visit in Ipoh & Things to do ” has helped you to plan your Ipoh tour.

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• Raymond Lim
• Mar 26, 2020

21 Best Things To Do In Ipoh (Places That You Shouldn't Miss!)

Updated: Mar 27

Ipoh, Perak’s capital city, used to be a booming tin mining town. Today, there are many things to do in Ipoh, a once-sleepy city.

Food, cave temples, street art, and British colonial-era architecture draw in many local and international visitors.

If you’re unsure of what to do when you’re here, then continue reading!

1. Eat Famous Food

Start the day at one of the locals’ favorite dim sum restaurants (like Chooi Yue Dim Sum ) or a kopitiam !

Ipoh is famous for its street food too:

You can have Tau Fu Fah for a snack, Hakka Mee for lunch and Portuguese egg tarts for tea! And Bean Sprout Chicken for dinner!

Other must-try food in Ipoh:

Chee Cheong Fun

Kai Se Hor Fun (Prawn and chicken noodles!)

Caramel Egg Custard

2. Drink Ipoh White Coffee

Lonely Planet rates Ipoh as one of the top 3 coffee towns !

It is also the birthplace of the famous Ipoh White Coffee . The history of this famous drink dates as far back as 80 years ago !

Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong is one of the pioneering coffee shops in Ipoh! It was started by Sin Yoon Loong, a Hainanese immigrant in 1937 .

Nam Heong White Coffee Shop is another iconic coffee shop. Not only do they serve Ipoh white coffee, but while you’re here, take a bite of their famed egg tarts !

3. Follow the Ipoh Heritage Trail

Time for a post-meal walk at Ipoh Heritage Trail ! Feast your eyes on the heritage buildings constructed during Ipoh’s boom!

This trail is a great way to appreciate the history of Ipoh . It includes colonial architecture , Chinese heritage , and interesting murals !

Famous stops along the trail:

Ipoh Railway Station - A still-functioning, whitewashed railway station

Ipoh Town Hall & Old Post Office - Next to each other, these Neo-classical buildings were up and running in the late 1910s .

High Court - this other Neo-classical landmark was used by the Japanese during their occupation of Malaya.

St. Michael’s Institution – This all-boys school in Ipoh used to be the Japanese’s administrative headquarter during the war.

Birch Memorial - Erected in 1909 , this clock tower stands across from the Ipoh State Mosque - a memorial to J.W.W Birch (First British Resident of Perak)

Navigate your way through the heritage trail by following this map trail .

4. Discover Concubine Lane

Historically, Concubine Lane was a present from a mining tycoon to his wives. It was also where wealthy men kept their mistresses!

Concubine Lane today is vibrant and bustling with activity, especially during weekends! It is a great place to catch a snack and cool off with the famous colorful iceball ( ais kepal )!

Many food and souvenir stalls line the alley. Drop by Wife Lane and First Concubine Lane within the vicinity too!

5. Check Out Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

Han Chin Pet Soo Museum used to be a Hakka Miners’ Club building .

The daily guided tours provide insight into the lives of the Hakka people of the tin mining industry .

Make sure you book in advance by giving them a call or book online as limited spots are available. Walk-ins are not allowed.

Opening Hours: Daily from 11am to 3:30pm (Closed on Mondays)

Contact: +605-241 4541

Entrance Fee: Admission is free. But an expected donation of RM10 per adult will go into maintaining the building.

6. Pay A Visit To Ho Yan Hor Museum

Next to Han Chin Pet Soo Museum is Ho Yan Hor Museum . Visitors are free to tour the building and discover the origin of Ipoh’s most successful herbal tea business.

Free herbal tea tasting at the end of the tour is definitely one of the highlights of this visit!

Opening Hours: Daily from 10am to 4pm (Closed on Mondays)

Contact: +605-241 2048

Entrance Fee: Admission is free.

7. 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery

This air-conditioned gallery requires no reservations beforehand. Register at the counter at the ground floor and proceed upstairs.

The multilingual audio guides allow visitors to browse the gallery at their own pace. The gallery showcases many antiques from Ipoh’s past including a traditional wedding bed. Downstairs, there is a gift shop where you can purchase local handicrafts.

Opening Hours: 10 am–1:30 pm, 2:30 pm–6 pm (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)

Phone: +605-241 3991

Entrance Fee: RM10 per person

8. Check Out Kong Heng Square

On weekends, Kong Heng Square is a small but interesting space to explore close to Concubine Lane. You can pick up local handicrafts from the small artisan stalls here.

There is a spacious air conditioned café ( Plan B ) too if you need time off from the heat!

9. Search For Ipoh Street Art

You can see street art by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic in Ipoh Old Town. His street art skillfully portrays Ipoh’s history, culture, and food!

There’s also an entire lane in Ipoh New Town called the Mural Art’s Lane dedicated to street art! Most of the art painted here is the work of art teacher, Eric Lai and his students.

Famous street art by Ernest Zacharevic:

Old Uncle with Coffee Cup

Paper Plane

Hummingbird

See more photos of street art in Ipoh .

10. Try A Special Snow Beer

What happens when regular beer comes in contact with a frozen glass? It becomes snow beer ! The beer foam will look like shaved ice and the froth is smooth to the touch!

Head over to Kafe Sun Yoon Wah to get a taste of snow beer. Order some finger food to accompany the beer! Definitely try their deep-fried snacks, stir-fried dishes, and squids!

Fei Bo Snow Beer is another place to get your snow beer fix! They also serve delectable Chinese cuisine ! The large round tables make them suitable for large group gatherings .

11. Rocks And More At The Geological Museum

Despite the simple exterior, you can have a look at locally found stones, minerals, and prehistoric fossils from interactive displays!

The air-conditioned museum tells the history of mining activities in Perak too. With dual-language informative boards placed throughout the museum to aid understanding.

Opening Hours: 9am to 12pm, 2:30pm to 4:30pm (Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed)

Contact: +605-540 6000

Entrance Fee: Admission is free

12. Drop By Qing Xin Ling Leisure And Cultural Village

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village is just a 15-minute drive from Ipoh Old Town!

Majestic limestone hills and a picturesque lake make up the scenery here. Visitors can ride a bike, feed the fish, and visit the vintage exhibitions there!

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30am to 5:30pm (Closed on Sundays)

Contact: +605-312 4140

Entrance Fee: RM12 (Malaysian), RM20 (F oreigner)

13. Visit Cave Temples

Ipoh has nearly 30 cave temples nestled snugly among the foothills of its limestone hills. They are open to the public who can come to admire the limestone formations! And temple architecture!

The majority of these temples are dedicated to Buddhist and Taoist worship.

Famous Cave Temple :

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Perak Cave Temple

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Ling Sen Tong Temple

Kwan Yin Tong Temple

14. See The Gua Tambun Cave Paintings

At Gua Tambun, visitors can see Neolithic rock arts of humans, animals and some abstract shapes among more recent graffiti!

No one’s really sure how long these drawings have been there. But they’re supposedly between 2,000 to 5,000 years old!

You will need to climb a flight of steps to get to the cave painting. And you’ll need a moderate level of fitness, comfortable shoes, mosquito repellent, and drinking water!

15. Spend A Day (Or Evening) At The Lost World of Tambun

There are several zones to explore at The Lost World of Tambun !

These include the amusement park, the Hippo Kingdom (with real hippos !), and of course, the water park (with an artificial beach !) during the day!

Don’t miss the tiger-feeding session in the afternoon! New residents to the petting zoo include giraffe, camels and capybara !

And in the evening, you can wander the Luminous Forest and soak your tired limbs at the Hot Springs at night!

There are pay-per-ride activities, locker rental and tube rental which will incur extra charges.

Lost World has its own hotel, but visitors can try first-class glamping in the outdoors too!

Opening Hours: Daily from 11am to 11pm; Saturday & Sunday 10am to 11pm; (Closed on Tuesdays)

Contact: +605-542 8888

Entrance Fee: Access to all parks:

RM127 (Adults)

RM120 (Children 12 years old & below / Senior Citizens 60 years old & above)

Access to night park ONLY:

RM85 (Adults)

RM76 (Children 12 years old & below / Senior Citizens 60 years old & above)

16. Visit A Pomelo Plantation

Did you know that Tambun, Ipoh produces the best pomelos? Pomelo is the largest citrus of the Rutaceae family (e.g. grapefruit)!

The surrounding limestone hills boost the growth of the fruit with rich minerals that they absorb from the water.

Take a quick tour around Tambun Pomelo GoChin Agro Farm to find out more about the process of growing and harvesting pomelos!

Entrance is free and you can buy pomelo here!

There are 2 varieties – sweet (white flesh) or sour (pink flesh).

Prices of pomelo vary by size – it is cheaper to get them in Ampang than at Ipoh Old Town

17. Enjoy The Outdoors At Gunung Lang Recreational Park

To get to Gunung Lang Recreational Park , visitors need to take a scenic boat ride to cross the lake. The artificial waterfall on top of a limestone hill at the entrance is another highlight!

Take a stroll or rent a bike around the 30-acre park.

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30am to 6pm Contact: +605-208 3333 Boat Fee:

Children/Senior Citizens: RM1.50

Last boat ticket at 5:30pm

Beautiful location; Unfortunately not as well-maintained as it should be!

18. Visit Kellie’s Castle

Kellie’s Castle is in Batu Gajah near Ipoh. A Scottish planter, William Kellie Smith built the castle after his son was born.

Sadly, construction halted permanently when Kellie died of pneumonia at the age of 56.

The impressive Moorish and European-style mansion houses a wine cellar, an incomplete rooftop tennis court and a shaft for a lift!

Opening Hours: 9:30am to 5:30pm

Entrance Fee: Malaysians: RM5 (Adults), RM3 (Children below 12 years old), RM4 (Senior Citizens) International: RM10 (Adults), RM 9 (Children below 12 years old)

19. Explore Gua Tempurung

Said to be 400 million years old , Gua Tempurung is the largest accessible limestone cave system in West Malaysia !

It is famous for its spectacular rock formations and an underground river .

Famous for its spectacular rock formations and an underground river !

Explore the cave via 1 of 4 tours:

Tour 1 - Golden Flowstone

Tour 2 - Top of the World

Tour 3 - Top of the World & Short River Adventure

Tour 4 - Grand Tour

You can choose to stay either wet or dry as the last 2 tours involve crossing the underground river!

The wet tours need at least 8 participants to start!

Torches, shoes, and helmets are available for rent!

Opening Hours: 9am to 4pm Contact: +6014-220 4142

Price: ~RM30 (Varies based on the tour options)

20. Go white water rafting at Kampar River

White water rafting at Kampar River is perfect for thrill-seekers! Beginners won’t find it too daunting as the river currents range from gentle to rapid !

Participants will go through a 10-15 minute briefing and a water confidence test before the activity!

Price: ~RM150 (Adult)

21. See TT5 Tin Dredge At Tanjung Tualang

Tanjung Tualang is renowned for its big-head freshwater prawns ! And the country’s last remaining tin dredges, TT5 tin dredge !

The 4,500-ton tin dredge has made a comeback as a Perak tourist destination after closing down in 2012 for restoration works.

Call ahead to see if they have tours available before you go!

Opening Hours: Daily from 9am to 5:15pm

Contact: +6014-904 3255 Entrance Fee: RM10 (Malaysians) RM20 (International)

Getting Around Ipoh Tourist Attraction

Don’t know where to go with the countless attractions in Ipoh? Why not book a private tour with RayTheTour ! Our local tour guides will take you around!

Why You Should Book Our Service:

Our Ipoh-born tour guides speak English and Chinese

Tour includes pickup and drop-off to and from your Ipoh accommodation!

Spacious MPV or Van

Tour schedule is flexible and customizable

We conduct tours in Penang and Cameron Highlands too!

Book your tour with us on Whatsapp .

Many things to do in Ipoh feature food, Ipoh Old Town, and the limestone hills!

Ipoh Old Town is a must-see for first-time visitors. It has buildings, galleries, and museums with numerous artifacts from Ipoh’s bygone era of the tin mining industry!

And when you want a change of pace, there are outdoor locations like Gua Tempurung, lovely parks and even a water park with hot springs!

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Ipoh Itinerary 2024: The Perfect Itinerary For 1 – 3 Days

Looking for the perfect Ipoh trip itinerary? Great! That’s exactly what we give you in this Ipoh itinerary blog.

We created this itinerary after multiple trips to charming Ipoh. We researched to find the best spots then visited themselves to hone this list to the perfect itinerary for 1, 2 or 3 days for you.

A quirky place to visit, Ipoh is ideal for a long weekend – perhaps in combination with a stay at the Cameron Highlands or as a stopover when travelling between Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

Discover the city’s laid back charm on the 6.5 kilometre Ipoh Heritage Walk, taking in restored colonial buildings such as the Railway Station, Birch Clock Tower and Ipoh Town Hall and Post Office. A sometimes sleepy but atmospheric town – showing strong similarities with George Town, Penang – streets are lined with Chinese shophouses and an abundance of coffee houses that spill out onto the pavements.

Noted for dramatic street art murals, check out Old Town and the more recently added Mural’s Art Lane in New Town, for colourful depictions of local family life, regional customs and traditions. Further afield, explore the region’s mystical cave temples deep within Ipoh’s limestone cliffs, and the equally spectacular Tambun Cave full of Neolithic cave paintings dating back thousands of years.

Recent investment into Ipoh has led to not only a revitalised Old Town but a regeneration of its Malaysian-Chinese cuisine and culture… and our top reason to visit Ipoh is without a doubt to sample the food, with Lonely Planet calling it the “lesser known food capital” of Malaysia. Spoilt for choice, it’s a foodie’s delight, with local restaurants, hawker stalls and expansive food courts offering mouth-watering fare at great prices!

Finally, for all those young-at-hearts, head to the Sunway Lost World of Tambun for a full day of thrills, action, animal encounters, hot springs and water rides… More than enough to keep you busy!

Below, you will find the ultimate Ipoh travel itinerary! We walk you through options whether you want an Ipoh day trip itinerary, an Ipoh 2 day trip itinerary or an Ipoh 3 days 2 nights itinerary.

You can simply stop following our Ipoh tour itinerary if your trip finishes in less than 3 days when you hit the number of days you have or pick the days that sound best from the 3d2n Ipoh itinerary below.

If you have longer in Ipoh, lucky you! You can take this itinerary Ipoh slower with more time to relax at your hotel or look for other things to do in Ipoh from our full list here .

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay in Ipoh depending on your budget and needs and there is a map below of everything you will do on your Ipoh trip.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Perfect Ipoh Itinerary 2024

Remember, this is a full 3 day Ipoh itinerary. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

If you are looking for an Ipoh budget itinerary or an Ipoh itinerary for families this also works. Just take out activities if you want to make it easier/cheaper or if they don’t seem suitable for your kids.

The highlights of this itinerary in Ipoh are:

• Spend a full day discovering the Old Town of Ipoh, taking in the region’s famous Ipoh White Coffee, exploring colonial buildings and a fabulous night market… and trying out the lip-smacking local cuisine along the way.
• Day two will take you out of the centre of town to nearby caves celebrating Buddhist and Taoist deities, neolithic paintings and, rather surprisingly, a Scottish castle with hidden rooms and tunnels!
• It’s a fun afternoon and evening on day 3 at the fantastic Sunway Lost World of Tambun with water slides, tiger-encounters, hot springs and more.

Need to get to Ipoh? We can arrange a private taxi from anywhere in Malaysia. Click here for more details.

Day 1: Discover Old Ipoh Town

Today is all about discovering the best of Ipoh within the city. It’s perfect whether it’s the start of a longer trip or you are just looking for an Ipoh itinerary 1 day. Either way, I recommend you follow this exactly!

• Start the day at Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong – the perfect place to try Ipoh’s famous white coffee and to have a roti breakfast.
• Go crazy walking around the Old Town. Check out the colonial architecture, magical laneways and keep a lookout for Ipoh’s famous street art.
• Visit Ipoh World/Han Chin Pet Soo to learn more about the history of tin mining in the area.
• Take a short taxi trip to Restaurant Lou Wong for lunch where you can have Ipoh’s best tauge ayam.
• Have a siesta in the heat of the day ready to venture out again as things cool down in the early evening.
• Head to Gerbang Malam night market for dinner and shopping. This is particularly good on weekend nights.

Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong

The Story of Ipoh in a Cup… this 1937 establishment was the Old Town birthplace of the now famed Ipoh White Coffee, and today Sin Yoon Loong is still going strong!

What better way to start your day than enjoying breakfast at this longtime establishment? No WiFi or air-conditioning here, in fact the rear of the café appears to have the same coat of paint from years gone by. Locals and tourists adore this place, so head out early to avoid crowds – though you may still need to queue a while for a table.

This kopitiam – traditional coffee shop – has a fairly basic menu and the coffee is perhaps not as tasty as years ago, with tourism demands leading to an urgency to churn out cup after cup, but this is one place everyone should tick off when visiting Ipoh.

And, the coffee? Well, the beans are roasted with palm oil and served with condensed milk, resulting in a rather sweet and creamy beverage. Cheers!

Address: 15A, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Negeri Perak . Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Walking Around The Old Town

The highlight of your Ipoh one day trip itinerary will be exploring the heart of the city. Ipoh’s Old Town is full of heritage buildings that showcase the town’s 130-year history from a small Malay village to a minor tourist destination.

On the west side of the Kinta River that flows through the city, you’ll find colonial shophouses, that are often likened to Penang’s Georgetown. Easy to explore on foot, due to the excessive heat you might want to consider jumping in a taxi.

At the start of the 19th Century, Malaysia was under British Colonial rule with Ipoh the second most important city. Though a huge fire in 1892 led to most of the city being rebuilt, there is still a strong structure of Ipoh Old Town remaining, alongside newer places to explore with shophouses revamped into cafes, hotels, galleries and tea shops.

We recommend you follow the self-guided Ipoh Heritage Walk, taking you to all the major landmarks. Starting at Ipoh Railway Station, you’ll see the majestic Ipoh Town Hall and Old Post Office, High Court and much more. Check here for details.

The most famous street is probably Concubine Lane, with colourful decorations and tasty cold treats – quite different from the days of old when the shophouses were home to opium and gambling dens! Today, you’ll find charming souvenir shops, fashion outlets and many cafes. It’s a great place to visit at weekends with its busy, lively atmosphere.

Also in the Old Town, check out stunning wall murals with the most famous by the original artist, Ernest Zacharevic. His paintings are scattered throughout the lanes, along with many newer murals. You’ll see “An Old Uncle Drinking Coffee”, “Paper Plane” and the most dramatic, “Evolution”, that covers the entire side of the herbal-tea Ho Yan Hor Museum. Check this Ipoh street art map for the best spots.

Finally, discover more about Islam at the stunning Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque, near to the train station and facing the Birch Memorial Clock Tower. The State Mosque of Perak, it’s unmissable with many bronze domes and majestic modern architecture.

Take a break from your Ipoh day tour itinerary because it’s time for lunch, and your destination is Lou Wong’s – the most famous Chinese restaurant in town. Be sure to select its noted dish, Tauge Ayam (bean sprouts chicken).

Don’t come expecting a calm dining experience. This is a busy, sometimes hectic, restaurant with locals and tourists queuing for the famed food!

Address: 49, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, Taman Jubilee, 30000 Ipoh, Negeri Perak

Gerbang Malam Night Market

Once the sun goes down, this is the heart of Ipoh! The night market sets up around 7pm daily with stalls selling all manner of things from mobile phone accessories, toys, clothes, footwear, perfumes, bags, etc.

Crowded by 8pm, enjoy the hustle and bustle in the evening’s warm air. Bargain hunt and negotiate your way to a good price. And once you’re all shopped out, you’ll find many dining choices in the side streets, offering delicious Chinese and Malay cuisine. There’s also a hawker centre right next door. I may have had the best ice kacang of my life here (called an ABC Special).

After a full day of walking, why not end your Ipoh 1 day trip itinerary with a relaxing foot massage at the market before heading back to the hotel.

Address: Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Negeri Perak

Day 2: Enjoy Ipoh Surrounds

Now you’ve seen the sites within Ipoh, our Ipoh 2 days itinerary focuses on the attractions around Ipoh where you’ll find awesome scenery and cool cave temples.

• This morning, set out after breakfast for a morning of exploring Ipoh’s famous cave temples. Start at Perak Cave Temple
• Take a taxi ride onto Kek Lok Tong Temple
• Take another short drive to Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, Nam Thean Tong Temple and Ling Sen Tong Temple
• Grab a quick lunch at Restoran New Hollywood, a Halal food court serving some of Ipoh’s top specialities, located en-route to your next attraction
• Visit Tambun Cave with its thousands-of-years-old artwork
• Take a 25-minute scenic drive to the Scottish manor, Kellie’s Castle
• And, if you have time, end your day at Gunung Lang Recreational Park before heading back to Ipoh for dinner.

Perak Cave Temple

In the limestone hills near Ipoh, there are amazing cave temples. These are basically exactly what they sound like – caves with temples 🙂 They are built into the hills and are serene, picturesque and well worth a visit.

This morning, use the Grab (like Uber) app to order taxis to help you explore some of them. These rides cost us RM6-11 each to get between the temples and the Old Town.

These are spiritual places which means you should dress in appropriate clothing. In this case, that’s shoulders and knees covered. You will (sadly) see many people not doing this, but I highly recommend you respect these temples and cover up.

The Perak Cave Temple is a big cave in a lovely spot. There are interesting rock formations and a big Buddha in the centre. The temple itself is located on the ground level, but there’s a staircase you can climb to get to the top of the hill. It’s quite a nice walk especially at the beginning through the cave.

Inside the cave, you’ll find paintings that depict celestial beings, flowers, and other images of spiritual significance.

Address: Jalan Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Next up is Kek Lok Tong. This Buddhist temple is the second stop today, where you’ll explore 12-acres of limestone caves and a wonderful reflexology footpath in the surrounding gardens.

Translating as “Cave of Ultimate Bliss (or Great Happiness)”, this atmospheric spacious cave, first discovered in the 1920s, enjoys good natural light and a refreshing breeze throughout. It’s truly a lovely spot to sit and reflect, in the company of Buddhist and Taoist statues.

Address: Pesiaran Sepakat 3, Taman Endah Jaya, 31350 Ipoh, Negeri Perak

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Not far away is your next stop. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple is one of the city’s oldest cave temples. It features a beautifully landscaped ornamental garden as well as a columbarium designed to hold the ashes of the departed.

What I liked about this cave temple is that the cave went on further than I expected to open up a big lovely area with the view you can see above. There was also a turtle pond with many turtles. The ornamental garden at the front is also beautiful.

Otherwise, this temple looked a little aged and wasn’t as spectacular as some of the others to me.

Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh

Ling Sen Tong Temple

Just a short walk from Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, this colourful Taoist temple is located at the foot of a limestone mountain on the southern side of Ipoh and is full of statues of deities and animals. Literally translated it means “The Rock of Heavenly Spirits” and has a main compound area adorned with statues of characters from Chinese folklore.

Visit the garden for more wonderful statues, this time from Chinese mythology such as the Monkey King!

It’s a super colourful temple.

In between this temple and the last, you can also visit Nam Thean Tong Temple. It’s very easy to visit these three temples on foot as they are directly next to each other.

Address: Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak

Tambun Cave

Also known as Gua Tambun, this limestone cave contains the largest number of neolithic cave paintings in Asia. Discovered in 1959 by a British soldier on a routine training exercise, they are estimated to be around 2,000-5,000 years old.

Painted on the side of a cliff (not actually inside a cave), art was found depicting animals, humans, fruit and geometric shapes. Unfortunately having been not very well preserved, today there are only a dozen or so recognisable from the original 600 found.

You can take a Grab here from the last cave temple. It is not far.

Address: 31400 Tambun, Perak

Kellie’s Castle

This unfinished, ruined mansion, is a wonderful Scottish home in the Malaysian jungle! With a story that combines romance, tragedy and mystery, it has become a popular attraction.

Owner and creator William Kellie Smith, a Scottish planter, passed away during construction leaving the project halted and forever unfinished. The castle was designed to replicate the great British Raj palaces in India, with Moorish-style arches and windows.

Shrouded in mystery for many years, eventually three secret tunnels were discovered under the house, and rumours abound of a car found parked inside one! Spooky stories of ghosts continue to this day – whether real or perhaps as a way to increase tourism…

Today, it’s quite a surreal site in the plantations of Perak, and you’ll enjoy the dizzying road that weaves its way to the Castle.

Address: 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak

Gunung Lang Recreational Park

If time permits, finish with a trip to the Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

Covering over 30 hectares, with half consisting of lakes, this park is set to a stunning backdrop of limestone hills. The main attractions include the man-made cascading waterfall, a 2 kilometre boardwalk across a swamp and sporadic lookout towers.

Children can have fun at the on-site playground and visit the mini zoo. Everyone can enjoy a short boat ride around the lake, making a great end to this Ipoh 2 days, 1 night itinerary.

Address: Jalan Damai, 30100 Ipoh, Negeri Perak

Day 3: Tons Of Fun At Sunway Lost World Of Tambun

If you have a third day in Ipoh, lucky you! Today is going to be lots of fun. That’s because you will spend it at the theme park, Sunway Lost World of Tambun.

It’s easy to spend an afternon and evening here exploring and then hanging out in the huge wave pool which may have some of the best views from a wave pool in the world!

Sunway Lost World Of Tambun

Wow, you’re in for fun-overload today! Visit the action-packed Sunway Lost World of Tambun just 10 kilometres from the centre of Ipoh. This great family-adventure destination covers 40-acres of Park. It’s cocooned by lush tropical jungle, natural hot springs, and sits at the foot of dramatic limestone cliffs.

With six themed areas, suitable for all age groups, plus a night park, this is your perfect Malaysian Eco-Adventure.

Try your luck at Malaysia’s biggest wave pool – Jungle Wave Bay. Younger children will adore the giant tipping-buckets, water cannons and spraying elephants in the three different water playgrounds. It’s terrific fun!

Next, time to check-out the majestic tigers at the thrilling Tiger Valley or discover the cute Petting Zoo (great for younger visitors) where you’ll interact with a wide variety of animals.

Now it’s time for some serious fun and thrills at the Amusement Park, with a roller coaster, swing-chair ride, dragon flight and 180 degrees pirate boat swing! They are all quite child-friendly, and there is a lack of thrilling amusement park-style rides.

However, if you want more thrills, head to Adventure Park with 13 high-rope challenges, rock climbing and a zip line along the lake!

Or you can learn some history of the area and look for tin in Tin Valley.

In the evening, head to the Lost World Hot Springs & Night Park. Relax in 13 different rejuvenating hot spring pools, such as the Steam Cave, Geyser of Tambun, and an Infinity Pool, soaking your tired feet! Dry off, grab some dinner at the on-site restaurant, and explore the enchanted Luminous Forest with amazing flora and fauna or the nocturnal wildlife at the Petting Zoo.

I recommend you head to this theme park mid-afternoon and plan to stay for the evening attractions to get the most out of this experience.

Click here to purchase discounted tickets or here to read our full review.

Address: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway, Sunway City, 31150 Ipoh

Itinerary Ipoh Map

Find all the things to do in this Ipoh itinerary on the map below.

Best Places To Stay In Ipoh

When planning to visit Ipoh, consider staying around the Old Town, the centre of the city, for easy exploration of historic colonial buildings and to be well located for restaurants.

Alternatively, stay out of town hidden amongst the lush jungle and limestone cliffs at Gunung Rapat or stay at Tambun, slightly north of the city, for its natural hot springs, water park and some wonderful locally grown fruits such as the native tasty pomelo.

Whatever your budget, there’s a great range of hotels to choose from. Below, we’ve listed a few different places to consider including a budget, mid-range and more expensive option.

BEST – The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Review

Set amidst tropical jungle, this peaceful property is a luxurious sanctuary. Offering wellness, longevity, rejuvenation and detox treatments, you’re bound to leave with peace of mind and feeling terrific!

Surrounded by panoramic cliffs, explore the grounds for magnificent waterfalls and take a dip in a private Balinese pool. This is not your usual accommodation. In fact, a stay here will be a highlight of your visit to Ipoh!

Boasting 45 spacious, luxury villas – Lake, Garden or Water – we recommend taking one with a balcony overlooking the local canal. Villas come with private jacuzzi hot tubs filled with natural geothermal hot-spring water, private plunge pools, outdoor rain showers, private decks and sun loungers… All up, this is a quiet, stylish, luxury resort.

Dining is offered at Pomelo, an indoor/outdoor all-day restaurant focused on wellness and specially crafted meals to suit your needs. There’s also Jeff’s Cellar which was named one of the top 20 restaurants in Malaysia by Tatler. This stunning fine-dining restaurant and bar is set within a 260-million-year-old limestone cave!

With a famed spa, thermal steam cave and ice-bath, meditation cave, fish pool, jungle trails, fitness centre and swimming pool, you’ll find it hard to leave the grounds of the hotel!

Available for guests of 12 years of age and above.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

MID-RANGE –  Regalodge Hotel Review

Location is everything here, with the hotel only 800-metres from the Ipoh Parade Shopping Centre, at the heart of the city. This 3-star hotel has a wide variety of room categories, including premier, deluxe, executive, suites, and Regal family suites.

Air-conditioned rooms with modern decor and large windows, overlooking garden, mountain or city views, and a bathroom with shower, all help make this our stand out as a mid-range choice of accommodation.

This hotel is an excellent choice for tourists, offering free WiFi in all rooms, a 24-hour front desk and has recreational facilities such as hot tub, sauna, spa, massage and steam room.

An on-site restaurant offers a selection of French cuisine at The Limestone’s Fine Dining Restaurant.

BUDGET – Beds In Garden Hostel Review

Billed as a 5-star boutique hostel, Beds In Garden is a ten-minute walk from Ipoh town centre.

Modern, quirky and full of natural light, the hostel has a mixture of air-conditioned rooms including family, female-dormitory, 6-bed mixed, single, double or quadruple rooms. Shared bathrooms come with hot water, soap and shampoo.

Guests can relax at a small but well-maintained garden area, enjoy a fitness centre, and the hostel offers WiFi in the communal areas and some parking.

A shared-kitchen area (with a local store less than 5-minutes walk) is available for guests to cook their own food, and a huge common area with a television showing movies and local news is a great place to relax or meet fellow travellers. Next door to a nightclub, it can be loud on weekends so we suggest you request a room away from that side of the hotel.

Click here to see all our recommendations for the best hotels in Ipoh.

Final Words

We love Ipoh for its pretty Old Town which is filled with unusual street art and colonial buildings, trendy coffee shops and newer malls. There’s an air of being slightly off the main tourist-route. It can feel like you are discovering somewhere that will soon develop into a major Malaysian destination with both the New York Times and Lonely Planet trumpeting (quite rightly!) the delights of the local cuisine.

Add in the beauty of the surrounding countryside… We recommend you book your trip soon!

We hope you enjoyed this Ipoh city tour itinerary, perfect whether you are looking for a one day itinerary Ipoh, an Ipoh 2d1n itinerary or longer. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Ipoh in our complete guide to Ipoh here or read our full list of things to do in Ipoh here .

You can read our full guides to travelling to Ipoh from:

• Penang here
• Cameron Highlands here
• Taiping here
• Kuala Lumpur here
• Melaka here

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Wander-Lush

Things to Do in Ipoh: The Perfect Ipoh Itinerary for Food, Art & Culture

My Ipoh itinerary covers Ipoh’s best attractions, the top things to do in Ipoh including street art, architecture and hawker food – plus how to get from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh.

Occasionally when I travel, I have a sensation that’s closer to experiencing a moment in time and less like visiting a physical destination.

Sight, smell, taste, sound and touch plus something else—a vibe, I suppose—combine to make a place feel all-encompassing. I become completely immersed. It’s like plunging into a different epoch rather than just ‘arriving’ at a new point on the map.

Ipoh is one of those places.

Also read: 30 best places to visit in Malaysia .

The biggest city in Peninsular Malaysia’s central Perak state, Ipoh is one of the country’s best-girded secrets. Sultans, Brits, tin miners, tea barons, Chinese merchants, street artists and entrepreneurs have all left their mark on Ipoh.

The city perfectly captures the multiculturalism and visible strata of history and custom that I so love about Malaysia, with an undercurrent of nostalgia and effortless old-school cool.

I spent a week wandering Ipoh’s streets, slinking in and out of cafes, sipping on white coffee and eating egg tarts. It was one of my top travel experiences of the year. This 3 days 2 nights Ipoh itinerary and Ipoh travel blog brings together everything I enjoyed most about the city, with a strong focus on food, architecture, culture and street art.

I’ve also included some practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to Ipoh.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Why visit Ipoh?

I’ve had my sights set on Ipoh ever since Lonely Planet named it one of their top picks in Asia for 2017. Having spent a week there, I can confirm that Ipoh really holds its own as a destination for foodies and art connoisseurs.

Ipoh is often compared to George Town (Penang); both have street art, culture , hawker markets, and cute architecture. In my experience, Ipoh is much quieter and far less touristy than Penang (in terms of foreign visitors at least), which only adds to its appeal.

More than that, there’s something totally unique about Ipoh that I’m yet to find anywhere else in Malaysia . When I shared a photo gallery from Ipoh, one of my readers, who was born and raised in Malaysia, described it as ‘The KL of yesteryear’ .

Ipoh has a wonderful retro vibe and a close-knit community feel. It feels more like a big country town than a city.

Top things to do in Ipoh: Ipoh itinerary highlights

Many people consider Ipoh Malaysia’s culinary capital. Like every city on the peninsula, Ipoh has hundreds of restaurants.

At night, vast hawker food markets take over the streets and alleyways. There are a few notable specialty dishes that were dreamed up in Ipoh kitchens and that you can’t find anywhere else in Malaysia. Must-eats include Hakka mee , Chee cheong fun , Kai se hor fun , and Ipoh laksa. Keeping reading for more recommendations of what to eat in Ipoh.

Another claim to fame: Ipoh is the birthplace of Malaysia’s famous white coffee, which is served in retro cafes throughout the city.

Ipoh laneways

There are a few historic laneways in Ipoh Old Town that have been transformed into street art and culture precincts.

Concubine Lane is far and away the most popular. Ipoh’s lanes are the perfect place to wander, people watch, and cafe-hop an afternoon away.

Ipoh street art

Penang might be Malaysia’s street art capital—but did you know that Ipoh has a collection of murals by the same artist? Truthfully, I prefer the street art in Ipoh! For starters, you don’t have to queue to get a look in.

Ernest Zacharevic’s work spurred on a local street art scene, and now Ipoh is decorated with dozens of colourful murals done by local artists.

Colourful architecture

I love Malaysian architecture, especially Chinese shophouses with their five-foot ways and pretty shutters and tiles.

Ipoh mixes heritage shophouses and British Colonial architecture with modernist concrete monstrosities. If you’re a fan of the Malaysian city aesthetic, you’ll love Ipoh.

Ipoh cave temples

There are some truly magnificent temples nestled in the jungle and built into limestone rock formations on Ipoh’s outskirts. Sam Poh Tong, Kek Lok Tong and Perak Cave Temple are three of the most prominent.

When you need a break from the city, Perak’s lush landscapes are only a short drive away.

Ipoh travel essentials

How long to spend in ipoh.

While it’s possible to visit Ipoh as a day trip from Kuala Lumpur or Penang, I highly recommend staying for at least a few days.

We spent a full week in Ipoh and didn’t run out of things to do. 3 days and 2 nights is a good amount of time to spend in Ipoh if you’re a first-time visitor.

How to get to Ipoh

Finally, Ipoh’s location roughly halfway between KL and Penang means it’s perfectly positioned for a stopover and easy to incorporate into any Malaysia itinerary.

It’s possible to get to Ipoh in a few hours from Kuala Lumpur by car, train or bus, or to travel from George Town or the nearby Cameron Highlands.

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh train

There are regular daily trains between Kuala Lumpur’s Sentral Station and Ipoh, starting at 8.30am and running until late. This was our preferred method of travel when we visited Ipoh. The journey is fairly unremarkable, but it must be said that Malaysian trains are a very comfortable way to travel!

And for under 10 USD per person, it’s also very affordable. The trip by train from KL to Ipoh takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

View the latest train timetable and book your train tickets online here through 12GoAsia .

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh bus

If you prefer to travel from KL to Ipoh by bus, there are a number of companies that make this journey. Express coaches depart from TBS Kuala Lumpur (centrally located in Bandar Tasek Selatan) or the airport and terminate at one of three bus depots in the Ipoh area.

Look for a bus that will take you to either Jalan Bendahara or Aman Jaya—both are not too far from the centre. You’ll need to take a taxi for the final part of the journey into town.

There’s no arguing with the price—a bus ticket will set you back as little as 5 USD per person. The bus from KL to Ipoh takes a little over 3 hours.

View the latest bus timetable and book your bus tickets online here through Bookaway .

Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by private car

If you’re short on time or you just prefer to travel comfortably, a private transfer by air conditioned car (or minivan for large families and groups) is the fastest and easiest way to get from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh.

GP Global’s door-to-door service includes pick up from your KL hotel – and you can make as many rest stops as you like along the way.

Check prices and availability for private transfers here on Bookaway .

George Town (Penang) to Ipoh

It’s also possible to travel to Ipoh from Penang. The only option here is to travel by bus—but take heart, because the journey is slightly shorter (a mere 2.5 hours on the road).

A number of different companies run express buses throughout the day and drop passengers off at Aman Jaya station in Ipoh. A ticket for this service will set you back approximately 5-11 USD.

View the latest bus timetable and book your Penang to Ipoh tickets online here through Bookaway .

Cameron Highlands to Ipoh

There are six daily buses connecting Tanah Rata (the closest town to Cameron Highlands) with Ipoh. The journey takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, and tickets cost 5 USD per person. This service also terminates at Ipoh’s Aman Jaya station.

View the latest bus timetable and book your Cameron Highlands to Ipoh tickets online here through Bookaway .

Can you visit Ipoh on a day trip?

It’s possible to visit Ipoh in a day from Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, or even Penang. If you have your own rental car , you can drive yourself to Ipoh and spend a day exploring.

If you don’t have a car, I recommend joining an organised day trip that includes transfers. If you try to visit Ipoh in a day using the train or bus, you’ll run out of time.

This private full-day trip from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh covers all the highlights and is incredibly good value for money.

Where to stay in Ipoh

For a city of its size, Ipoh has a great range of accommodation options in both the Old Town and New Town. As you’ll see, Ipoh is fairly walkable, so it doesn’t really matter which side of the river you choose to stay on.

Generally speaking, the new part of town is where you’ll find contemporary hotels and hostels, while the Old Town is home to Ipoh’s heritage inns and boutique accommodations. If you want to be right in the thick of it, I recommend choosing a hotel in the Old Town.

Budget accommodation in Ipoh

Beds in Garden Hostel | Newly opened in 2018, this is probably the best hostel option in Ipoh. Beds start from 14 USD/night. Check availability and rates on Agoda .

Mid-range hotels in Ipoh

French Hotel | Located in the New Town, this hotel is simple but clean with excellent air-con (so important!) and an on-site cafe. Doubles start from 32 USD/night. Check availability and rates on Agoda .

Ban Loong Hotel | Heritage accommodation in a restored Old Town shophouse. Rooms are modern and sparse; some have loft spaces. Doubles start from 40 USD/night. Check availability and rates on Agoda .

Boutique hotels in Ipoh

27 Concubine Lane | Another heritage hotel, this time located right on Ipoh’s Concubine Lane. Brace yourself for crowds and possible noise pollution. Private rooms with a shared bathroom start from 30 USD/night. Check availability and rates on Agoda .

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay | An exquisite heritage building situated at the quieter end of Ipoh’s Old Town. Rooms are clean and modern, and the indoor-outdoor common spaces feature original floor tiles and loads of greenery. Doubles start from 65 USD/night. Check availability and rates on Agoda .

Sekeping Kong Heng | An uber-trendy warehouse conversion right in the heart of Ipoh Old Town. Some rooms feature sleeping lofts, and there are beautiful shared terraces that open out onto the treetops. Because of the location, it can get noisy (there are cafes and bars directly downstairs and next door), and the chic design isn’t kid-friendly nor accessible. The simplest single rooms start from 20 USD/night. More information and rates here .

Need more Ipoh inspiration? Check out my Ipoh street photography .

Orientation & getting around

Ipoh is split into two by the Kinta River. The west side of the city, the aptly named Old Town, is where you’ll find most of Ipoh’s shophouses, heritage buildings and museums.

The eastern side of the city, the New Town, was developed at the turn of the century. It’s the more ‘livable’ side of town, with parks, gardens, and most of the city’s best restaurants and hawker markets. The New Town area is less atmospheric but has an interesting mishmash of architecture.

I highly recommend taking the time to explore both sides of Ipoh. This Ipoh 3 days 2 nights itinerary includes the Old Town and the New Town.

Ipoh is pretty compact and generally walkable. It does get extremely hot though—and there isn’t a whole lot of shade—so it’s a good idea to avoid walking in the middle of the day. We caught one taxi during our week-long stay, and that was on a particularly blazing day.

Ipoh’s red and yellow metred taxis are generally reliable and can take you across town for a couple of dollars. Uber and Grab, Malaysia’s homegrown rideshare service, are both available in Ipoh as well.

Things to do in Ipoh: 72 hour Ipoh itinerary

72 hours is a good amount of time to spend in Ipoh if you want to see the main sights and sample the best Ipoh food.

Here’s a quick overview of my recommended 3 days 2 nights Ipoh itinerary:

Day 1: Heritage Ipoh Breakfast at a traditional coffee shop The Ipoh Heritage Trail Self-guided tour of Ipoh’s best street art White coffee & egg tarts Ipoh’s house museums Kong Heng Square Explore Ipoh’s laneways Beansprout chicken & snow beer Gerbang Malam night market

Day 2: New Ipoh Dim sum for breakfast Ipoh Flea Market Mural Art’s Lane Panglima Kinta Mosque ‘Dessert Street’ New Town architecture Tong Sui Kai Hawker Centre Cocktails at Tiga Bar

Day 3: Beyond the city Ipoh Cave Temples Mirror Lake

Ipoh itinerary Day 1: Heritage Ipoh (the Old Town)

Breakfast at a traditional coffee shop.

At the time of my visit, I remember commenting that Ipoh makes me nostalgic for a childhood I never had. There’s just something about Malay coffee shops ( kopitiam ) that’s so sentimental.

Maybe it’s the ambiance, or the fact that service staff tend to be older and approach their work with extreme diligence. Or it might be the fact that they serve iced Milo (I actually did drink Milo all throughout my childhood).

I love the addition of crackers on the side of every saccharine cup of white tea. Thick white toast with Kaya butter (coconut jam), which tastes a bit like vanilla or pandan, feels like something your mum would make for you when you were feeling under the weather.

My favourite old-school Ipoh coffee shops:

• Lim Ko Pi ⚑ This no-frills eatery embodies everything that’s great about a traditional Malay coffee shop. You can’t go wrong with a cup of sweet tea with crackers on the side (pictured above). The noodle dishes and dim sum are also tasty.
• 22 Hale Street ⚑ This cute cafe doubles as a heritage museum and souvenir shop . Their rendition of Kaya Toast (pictured above; note the Jenga tower of butter!) was the best we had in Ipoh. Don’t leave without visiting the restroom—the decoration is really something!

Walk the Ipoh Heritage Trail

As in other Malaysian cities, the British left a legacy of stunning architecture when they exited from Perak in 1957. Ipoh’s colonial buildings have since been overlaid with townhouses, mosques and municipal buildings in a range of architectural styles.

But it’s the well-preserved British colonial buildings and turn-of-the-century townhouses that steal the show.

Highlights include the white-domed Ipoh Railway Station and adjoining Majestic Station Hotel, which I’ve heard described as ‘The Taj Mahal of Ipoh’; the neo-Classical High Court ; the 1931-built Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank building ; and the Chung Thye Phin building .

Shophouses of note are the Dramatists’ Hotel (as the name suggests, it served to accommodate actors performing at Ipoh’s since-demolished Chinese Theatre); the Mikasa Photo Shop (famously used as a cover for a Japanese spy during WWII); and the Seenivasagam Brothers’ residence and offices , a row of gorgeous pre-war townhouses.

One of the best ways to explore Ipoh Old Town is using the Ipoh Heritage Trail map. Most buildings marked on the route are signposted and feature information plaques out the front. Ipoh’s tourism information office has a reputation for long queues—avoid that by downloading a PDF copy of the map instead.

If you would prefer to explore Old Town Ipoh in depth with a private local guide, this 8-hour itinerary focuses on the city’s Heritage Trail and includes a visit to Kellie’s Castle at the end.

Track down Ernest Zacharevic’s Ipoh murals

When Lithuanian street artist Ernest Zacharevic left his mark on Penang, he contributed in no small way to the city’s explosion in popularity. Can you blame Ipoh for wanting a piece of the action?

In 2014, Zacharevic was invited to paint a series of eight murals in Ipoh, each inspired by a different facet of local culture. Only seven remain visible today.

Zacharevic’s Ipoh murals are artfully woven into the Old Town and fit seamlessly with Ipoh’s heritage architecture. They really bring the history of the town to life. All the major murals are marked out on Google Maps and are pretty easy to spot from the street.

Ernest Zacharevic murals in Ipoh:

• Old Uncle Drinking Coffee ⚑ This mural, one of the largest in Ipoh, was commissioned by Oldtown White Coffee. The design on the cup is delightful—exactly like the painted china you still see in Ipoh’s cafes today.
• Kopi Break ⚑ You’ll have to come early if you want to see this large-scale mural without the parked cars in front. Coffee is often consumed this way in Southeast Asia, in small plastic bags that can be tied to the handle of a motorbike and sipped on the go.
• A Single Bag of Coffee The smallest of Zacharevic’s Ipoh murals, A Single Bag of Coffee is just that—a life-sized plastic bag of coffee with a drinking straw painted on a blue and white metal gate.

• Trishaw ⚑ Located in Market Lane, this 3D mural incorporates a metal trishaw frame mounted to the wall. My favourite Ernest Zacharevic mural in Ipoh.
• A Yellow Hummingbird ⚑ I love the colours in this piece, which really pop against the blue-wash wall where it’s painted.
• A Paper Plane   ⚑ This mural depicts two kids riding in a paper plane. It’s painted quite high up on the side of a rather weathered building. The child’s bright yellow shirt is the easiest feature to spot.
• Evolution   ⚑ This large-scale, monochrome painting on the northern side of the Han Chin Pet Soo house museum (see below) is an ode to Ipoh’s tin mining history.

Try Ipoh’s famous white coffee & egg tarts

No trip to the Old Town would be complete without a glass of iced white coffee and an egg tart. White coffee , an Ipoh specialty first developed by Chinese tin miners in Perak, is prepared with coffee beans that have been roasted in margarine.

The white colour comes from the copious amounts of condensed milk and creamer added at the end. It’s tooth-loosenly sweet. Pair a glass with a piece of Dan Zhi (toast with a soft-boiled egg) or even better, a Macau -style egg tart—another Ipoh classic.

Where to try Ipoh white coffee:

• Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong ⚑ One of the oldest (if not the oldest) cafes in Ipoh that still serves white coffee the old way. Food stalls along the perimetre offer sweets and lunch meals. Always open, and always crowded.
• Nam Heong White Coffee ⚑ Located directly opposite Sin Yoon Loong, Nam Heong vies for the title of Ipoh’s original white coffee merchant. Try both and decide which one you prefer.
• Oldtown White Coffee ⚑ Malaysia’s biggest white coffee brand, with several branches located across the city.

Learn about local history at a house museum

There are two small house museums in Ipoh Old Town that I think are worth a visit. The first, Han Chin Pet Soo ⚑ , explores Perak’s tin mining heritage. The venue started out as the Hakka Miners Clubhouse, founded in 1893 by a miner named Leong Fee.

Once strictly off-limits to non-members, it reopened as a museum fairly recently, and now displays a collection of mining memorabilia and antiques donated by members of the Ipoh community. Entry is free; reserve online in advance .

The nearby Ho Yan Hor Museum   ⚑ is dedicated to one of Ipoh’s most famous residents, Dr Ho Kai Cheong. The herb magnate is the man behind one of Malaysia’s most prolific medicinal tea brands, and it all started at this little shophouse in Ipoh.

This museum really stole my heart—the family’s story is quite remarkable, and the museum staff are extremely sweet. Entrance is free (no reservations required).

Kong Heng Square

Ipoh’s hip new creative precinct, Kong Heng Square ⚑ , houses a few gift boutiques , a barbershop, and a museum dedicated to local film director Yasmin Ahmad. Plan B , probably the city’s trendiest cafe, is also located inside the industrial-chic complex.

Admittedly I didn’t love the food at Plan B, but the Melbourne-style lattes were fantastic. There are some cool street art pieces and independent shops scattered around as well, making it a nice place for a wander.

Discover Ipoh’s laneway culture

Back in 1892, a fire destroyed much of Ipoh’s Old Town. As part of the urban renewal project that followed, Ipoh was reconstructed in a more ‘orderly’ fashion, with gridded streets to make navigating easier, and laneways to organise the city’s various trades and merchants.

At the time, Yao Tet Shin, a local mining tycoon and land owner, is said to have gifted a lane to each of his three wives. These would go on to become Ipoh’s three most popular laneways.

Wife Lane (now known as Lorong Hale or 大奶巷), Concubine Lane (now known as Lorong Panglima or 二奶巷) and Second Concubine Lane (now known as Market Lane or 三奶巷) are all lined with townhouses that once served as opium dens and brothels.

Those illicit days are long gone—now, many of the historical facades along the lane have been restored and turned into cafes and shops. Add a few interactive street murals and some hanging lanterns, and you have yourself a picture-perfect laneway.

Concubine Lane ⚑ is by far the most popular laneway in Ipoh. It’s packed to the brim on weekends (verging on unpleasant in the afternoons). The other two lanes are probably awaiting a similar fate; but for now, they’re largely empty so you can still enjoy an unfettered stroll.

While you’re in the area, make sure you pop into BookXcess Kong Heng Ipoh ⚑ , a bank turned bookshop where novels are displayed in the old vaults, and the nearby Ipoh Heritage Barber ⚑ , a very photogenic men’s salon that channels those old-school Ipoh vibes. Both are walking distance from the western end of Concubine Lane.

Beansprout chicken and ‘snow beer’ in the Old Town

There are a handful of one-dish-specialty restaurants dotted around the western end of Concubine Lane. Try Restoran Tauge Ayam Lou Wong   ⚑ for a big plate of Ipoh’s famous chicken with beansprouts, and Kafe Sun Yoon Wah   ⚑ for a ‘snow beer’ (literally frozen beer).

If you want to keep the party going, there are a few open-air ‘beer gardens’ located in this area as well (just look out for the blue plastic chairs).

Wander through Gerbang Malam Night Market

If you have time, end your first day in Ipoh with a wander through the lively Gerbang Malam Night Market ⚑ , where dozens of small Gerai shops open up every night at 7pm and sell an array of clothing, accessories and knickknacks.

I wouldn’t necessarily do my souvenir shopping here, but it’s worth visiting for the local atmosphere.

Ipoh itinerary Day 2: Contemporary Ipoh (the New Town)

Dim sum for breakfast.

Do as many of Ipoh’s families do and start your second day with a breakfast spread at one of the city’s dim sum joints. I’ve never been a huge fan of dim sum, but I absolutely adored eating it in Ipoh. The ordering process can be a bit confusing; if in doubt, grab a seat and watch how other people do it.

Usually a waiter will take your drink order first (I highly recommend starting with a pot of jasmine tea). You’re then free to approach the different counters scattered around the dining room and pick out which bite-sized morsels you want to try.

At Restaurant Foh San (pictured below), there are two counters: One for baskets of steamed goodies, and another for sweets. Other restaurants serve dishes on wheely carts: You simply take a seat and wait for the servers to come to you. Everything gets marked off against a long docket, which you present at the cash counter to pay.

The best thing about dim sum restaurants is that they open bright and early, most by 6am. It’s a perfect way to kick off a big day of sightseeing.

Old-school dim sum joints to try in Ipoh:

• Restaurant Foh San ⚑ My favourite dim sum in Ipoh. The food is fantastic (try the tofu, steamed prawn dim sum and sesame balls), and the open-air dining room is very pleasant. Open from 6.30am (closed Tuesdays)
• Restoran Chef Fatt ⚑ More than 50 dim sum on offer, including a nice rendition of lau sar pau (salted egg custard buns) made with lotus paste. Open daily from 6am.
• Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum ⚑ Right across the road from Restaurant Foh San, this is another popular dim sum venue. Try the black sesame soup and fish balls. Open from 6am (closed Thursdays).
• Greentown Dimsum Cafe ⚑ Located at bit further out near Ipoh Town Square and open later, from 9am. We didn’t make it to this dim sum restaurant, but it gets consistently good reviews. It’s a little cheaper than other dim sum joints, too.

Browse the Ipoh Flea Market (Sundays only)

If you happen to be in Ipoh on a Sunday, you can take a stroll down Memory Lane —literally. On Sunday mornings, this laneway in Ipoh’s New Town hosts a colourful pop-up flea market . Dozens of stalls descend on the area, selling an eclectic range of vintage Malaya memorabilia and British-era goods, including melamine plates, tiffin boxes and old records.

There is also a fair amount of second-hand clothing on offer, as well as a sprinkling of food and drink stalls. See if you can spot the two dads who set up a little sex shop on a single trestle table—pretty hilarious.

Be dazzled by Mural Art’s Lane

Also in the New Town, Mural Art’s Lane   ⚑ is where you’ll find the city’s best contemporary street murals. There are literally dozens and dozens of paintings large and small dotted all throughout this area. It’s a visual feast! Some murals are the work of school or community groups; others can be attributed to local artists and collectives.

All blend in perfectly with the urban environment, conforming to the angles of doorways and window grills, and accommodating the sprigs of green emerging from the cracks in the concrete.

These artworks are more colourful than Ernest Zacharevic’s murals, which is why I personally prefer them. Many reference local festivals and traditions, so you can learn a bit about Ipoh as you go.

Pop into Panglima Kinta Mosque

Located at the end of Mural Art’s Lane, Panglima Kinta Mosque ⚑ is worth a quick visit. Dating back to 1898, the blue and white mosque was one of the biggest and most impressive in all of Ipoh when it was finished. Visitors are welcome to enter the mosque outside of prayer times.

Eat your way along Ipoh’s dessert strip

For an afternoon pick-me-up, head to Ipoh’s unofficial sweets strip. Some of the city’s best bakeries, cookie shops and sit-down dessert bars are spread across several blocks in the New Town area.

Start with an ice cream sandwich at Hokkaido Ice Cream Puff ⚑ before sampling some of Perak’s famous pastries at Chin Han Guan Biscuits ⚑ and Guan Heong Biscuit Shop ⚑ (takeaway available). An egg tart or two from Hong Kee Egg Tart ⚑ is also a must.

Check out the New Town’s eclectic architecture

If the Old Town is a well-curated landscape of heritage buildings, Ipoh’s New Town is a total hodgepodge of past and present. As someone who loves concrete, Brutalism and abandoned buildings, I’m a big fan of this style.

Aside from the 1950s theatres (such as the Ruby, pictured below) and a bevvy of dilapidated hotels, offices and banks, you’ll also see some incredible (and original) terrazzo floor mosaics, hand-painted shop signs and the like.

Ipoh has some lovely arched five-foot ways and forsaken buildings that nature has reclaimed. I spent several afternoons wandering around this part of Ipoh with my camera. It might not encapsulate everyone’s idea of beauty—but it’s a street photograph’s dream for sure.

Dinner at Tong Sui Kai Hawker Centre

Dinner at a traditional Malaysian food market is a must for any Ipoh itinerary. Ipoh’s best hawker centres are all in the New Town. Tong Sui Kai ⚑ (open from 6pm daily) is my pick of the bunch.

If you’re not familiar with the concept, a hawker centre (essentially a night food market) is comprised of many separate stalls, each specialising in one or two dishes which are cooked fresh to order.

The idea is to grab a table and rove the aisles, collecting as many plates as you can stomach (or carry) to piece together your own dinner spread.

Nasi Kandar, Ipoh Laksa (pictured above) and Ayam Garam (salted chicken) are among the Ipoh specialty dishes you should look out for.

For dessert, try a bowl of Ais Kacang (a mountain of shaved ice topped with fruit, coconut milk, syrup, and other goodies), or pop around the corner to Funny Mountain Soya Beancurd   ⚑ (open until 7.30pm) for a bowl of Tau Fu Fah (soy custard pudding).

Cocktails at Tiga Bar

Top off your second day with a drink at Ipoh’s coolest cocktail bar. Tucked away in a heritage building on Market Lane, Tiga Bar ⚑ serves imaginative drinks, many of them themed around Ipoh’s heritage and local ingredients. The Dr. Ho Remedy made with cognac infused with Ho Yan Hor tea is a must-try!

Ipoh itinerary Day 3: Temples, caves & lakes

Once you’ve had your fill of city activities, travel just 5km south-east of the city centre to discover Gunung Rapat, home to Ipoh’s best natural attractions.

You can comfortably fill a whole day exploring this area using taxis or rented bicycles to get around.

Ipoh’s Taoist temples

If you’ve been to Vietnam, Gunung Rapat will remind you of Ninh Binh or Halong Bay . The otherwordly landscape is made up of pockets of jungle, rock formations and shimmering waterways (except in Ipoh, you’ll find lakes instead of rice fields).

This area is known for its spectacular Taoist and Buddhist temples, nestled in caves or clinging to the sides of limestone karsts. Don’t miss Sam Poh Tong (Three Buddhas Cave), the oldest cave temple in the area and the largest of its kind in Malaysia (yes, it’s bigger than the Batu Caves Murugan Temple!). Beautiful views of Gunung Rapat can be found from the temple entrance, reached via 240-steps.

Perak Tong Cave Temple is another Ipoh cave temple you should visit. Behind the temple you can access a walking path that leads you to the top of a limestone formation for amazing views of the landscape.

Nearby, Nam Thean Tong Temple and Ling Sen Tong Temple are also worth seeing. A little further south, you’ll find the Buddhist temple at Guanyin Cave and further east, the incredible Kek Lok Tong Buddhist Temple .

Tasik Cermin (Mirror Lake)

Popular with locals, Tasik Cermin (Mirror Lake) is part of a network of waterways around Gunung Rapat. There are viewing platforms and restaurants nearby.

You can also do short walks or bike rides around the lake and up to Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village , another popular tourist attraction in the area.

We didn’t get to go to Mirror Lake when we were in Ipoh, but Daphne’s guide includes everything you need to plan a visit.

Where to eat in Ipoh: More Ipoh restaurants to try

• Funny Mountain Soya Beancurd – for Ipoh tau fu far
• Deen CT Corner Cendol – for Malaysian cendol and other desserts
• Lou Wong’s – for delicious chicken and rice
• Yum Yum Restaurant – for authentic Nyonya food
• Sri Anandha Bahavan – for authentic Indian cuisine

More time? Here are the best day trips from Ipoh

If you have more time left on your Ipoh itinerary, try one of these day trips.

Ipoh to Cameron Highlands

If you have a day in Ipoh to spare, take the opportunity to visit Cameron Highlands. Spend a full day hopping between tea plantations, picking strawberries, or even hiking in the nearby rainforest.

The easiest way to travel between Ipoh and Cameron Highlands is by bus. The first bus from Ipoh to Tanah Rata (the closest town to the tea fields) departs Ipoh at 8am and arrives in Cameron Highlands at 10.45am. The last return bus departs Tanah Rata at 6pm.

Note that Cameron Highlands can get very busy on weekends with day trippers from KL, so it’s best to visit on a weekday if possible. I also recommend pre-booking your transportation from Ipoh to avoid disappointment.

Click here to view the bus timetable and reserve tickets online through Bookaway .

Ipoh to Kuala Kangsar

Kuala Kangsar, Perak’s royal town, is an easy half-day trip from Ipoh. It boasts a beautiful mosque (the Ubudiah Mosque, pictured), and is close to some of Ipoh’s cave temples. The train journey from Ipoh to Kuala Kangsar takes just 30 minutes.

Services depart regularly (every half hour during peak times) from Ipoh Railway Station, and a one-way ticket costs around 4 USD.

Click here to check times and reserve train tickets online through 12GoAsia .

Alternatively, you can join an organised day tour from Ipoh to Kuala Kangsar. This private tour includes hotel transfers by air conditioned car. As well as visiting the mosque, you’ll also participate in a hands-on pottery workshop and visit the historic Victoria Bridge.

Click here to check prices and availability on Klook .

Ipoh to Kellie’s Castle

For a slightly off-beat addition to your Ipoh itinerary, travel 20km south to Batu Gajah. There you’ll find Kellie’s Castle, an abandoned country home sponsored by a Scottish rubber baron in 1915 but never finished.

The Moorish-revival architecture is quite spectacular, and the castle is filled with history (tours are available if you want to learn more). Nowadays, most people visit to take selfies in front of the deteriorating brickwork, which is utterly ‘Instagrammable’. More details about Kellie’s Castle here .

More Malaysia inspiration

• Ipoh street photography gallery
• The best Malaysia souvenirs & where to find them
• Kuala Lumpur airport & layover guide
• 9 reasons to visit Kuching, Borneo
• The art of Malaysian batik painting
• How to spend a perfect 24 hours in KL
• My guide to George Town, Penang
• Why you should take a food tour in Penang

What are your favourite things to do in Ipoh? If you have any tips or recommendations to add to my Ipoh itinerary, please leave them in the comments below!

Ipoh itinerary: Pin it!

27 Comments

I used your blog so much last summer in Georgia. And everyone I met raved about it!! So nice to get some tips off you again on another adventure! You have a really nice writing style that doesn’t feel like it’s selling me something like so many other blogs. Thanks for your work!

Thanks so much Rhiannon, that’s so kind of you to say! I hope you had an incredible time in Georgia and enjoy your time in Malaysia! Safe travels.

Is it easy to travel from Ipoh to KLIA2?

Hi Jem – yes for sure, you can use the train.

I knew you would be the one helping me plan that (too short trip) to Malaysia!

Travel guides are helpful, but I was hoping to find a blog I could trust (which I hadn’t yet). I didn’t think you had been to SEA lately but I decided to take a look anyway after going through the Lonely Planet and reading the description of Ipoh. It reminded me of Haiphong, which we had decided to visit after reading your article and we all loved it so much. We will indeed absolutely put Ipoh on the top of our destinations for that short two week stay next July.

Can’t wait to read more of your suggestions for Malaysia. Thank you so much!

So happy to hear that Isabelle! Ipoh really is one of my favourite places in Asia… I really want to go back. It definitely reminds me a bit of Haiphong so I’m sure you will enjoy it too! Have a blast!!

Thank you for this article, it’s really helpful. Do you have more information about the eclectic architecture of the new town, like places to see (I love brutalist architecture) ? Or maybe, I’ll just have to walk around without a plan…

The old town is quite small so you can happily walk around and explore! That was my strategy and I had a great time!

that’s an amazing blog post. thank you for all the effort and informations.

Loved Ipoh. Great food, great street art and lovely people. Definitely worth a visit.

Agreed! Glad you liked my Ipoh itinerary, thanks for reading 🙂

Hello! Thank you for your complete guide it helped us so much to plan our trip to Ipoh!

So happy to hear that, Sofia! I hope you had a wonderful time!

I like to go to Ipoh for weekend getaway from KL. My favourite place to stay is Weil Hotel, they serve good spread of breakfast. Mostly local food. If tourist don’t have time to try local food while in Ipoh, don’t miss this one!

Thanks for the tip!

I am from Malaysia and Ipoh is often compared to Penang and has the best choices of food. You perfectly summed up the experiences of Ipoh, from the mural arts to the colonial past! A reminder for me to explore my country more 🙂 Thanks Emily.

Thanks for the kind words, Pashmina! Very glad to hear that!

Beautiful writing of my hometown, Ipoh

Thank you Teresa!

Beautiful post! BTW, the gourd-like vase on the bottom left of the photo for the flea market is the iconic Perak ‘labu sayong’ – a fired clay vessel for holding water and keeping it cool. It’s always dark, nearly black in colour. That one looks somewhat worn. One of the several craftwork unique to Perak. (Another is ‘tekat’, a Perak Malay technique of gold embroidery onto velvet).

I think one reason I have a soft spot for Perak, despite not being Perakian myself, is that there’s so much to discover in Perak, yet Perak doesn’t show herself off. She plays it cool, and it’s up to you to come find out. Or not. She doesn’t care!

What a beautiful way to put it, Teja! I love that.

Thanks for the information about the antiques, too. I recognised the tiffin boxes but I wasn’t sure what that vessel was used for!

Such a great guide about ipoh! Its right in my backyard but I haven’t spent any proper time there. Definitely need to now!

Thanks, Nadia! I hope you get a chance to visit soon—it’s a really cool city! I’d be very interested to hear your perspective as a local!

What a comprehensive article on Ipoh! I’be never been to Malaysia. For when I do, I’ve got to visit Ipoh and for that reason I’ll pin it for planning. BTW, I love street art too.

Thanks a lot, Jyoti! I hope you make it there soon! If you love street art, you’ll love Ipoh for sure!

I’ve never heard of Ipoh until today and now I want to go there. What a beautiful place! I especially love the murals and from what you describe, the food scene is pretty great too. One more for the bucket list!

Thanks, Bea! Definitely one for your travel wish list. The food is excellent! I only wish I had eaten more!

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• 20 Best Places to Visit in Ipoh

Places to visit in Ipoh range from vibrant and lively market lanes to ancient cave temples. Ipoh is the capital city of Perak state of Malaysia, and is located at a distance of 197 km from the national capital, Kuala Lumpur. Ipoh is also popularly known as a ‘Gateway to the Cameron Highlands’ which is a serene hill station with numerous tourist attractions. The city is dotted with attractions that offer a unique travel experience to the visitors and is famous as a historic city since it was once the center of the world’s tin industry. 

If you are enthusiastic about history, culture and architecture, this city is sure to fascinate you with so many places to explore. Besides, Ipoh is also emerging as a popular choice among foodies due to the wide range of appetizing street food options from Chinese and Malaysian cuisines available here.

The factor that makes it so popular among tourists is the variety of tourist places in Ipoh. One of the main factors the popularity of this city is owed to is the presence of ancient cave temples namely Kek Lok Cave Temple, Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple and Perak Cave Temple, adorned by beautiful statues of Lord Buddha and Chinese calligraphy. Besides these, there are other religious places and monuments in Ipoh that make it more significant. Ipoh is also an ideal destination for an art enthusiast, for it houses a range of museums and art galleries. 

Moreover, the striking street art in the old town area are worth capturing in your camera. Ipoh is famous for its rich history, and the best places to take a peek into the history of this city are Ipoh Town Hall and Post Office, Ho Yan Hor Museum and Ipoh Railway Station. Places like Lost World of Tambun and Gunung Lang Recreational Park are the ideal for recreation and activities in Ipoh.

Travelling to Ipoh For the First Time? Check out these guides for an amazing trip:

Quick navigation, kek lok tong cave temple.

• Kuala Lumpur

Visit Perak Cave Temples

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Lost world of Tambun

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

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Dr. Seenivasagam Park

Ling Sen Tong Temple

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Visit Kellie’s Castle

Kwan Yin Tong Temple

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Geological Museum

Funtasy House Trick Art

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Ipoh Railway Station

Birch Memorial Clock Tower

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The Pomelo - The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

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Gunung Lang Recreational Park

Art of Oldtown

Lang Mountain

The Haven Luxury Resort

Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

Trending in Ipoh

Attractions in ipoh, ipoh top attractions.

One of the most popular tourist places in Langkawi - the underwater world spread across six acres introduces tourists to over 200 species of marine life and fishes. These include rockhopper, harbour seals, giant rays, penguins, sharks, and the unusual Amazonian arapaima, which is the largest freshwater fish discovered in the world.Moreover, the educational research centre, three-dimensional theatre and various sections of the park-Temperate, tropical rainforest and sub - Antarctic have also grabbed the attention of visitors alike. These interesting and thoughtful attractions make Underwater World one of the best places to see in Langkawi.Location: Zon Pantai Cenang, Mukim KedawangTimings: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm from Monday to Friday and 9:30 am to 10:30 pm on weekendsEntry Fee: RM 36.65.Click Here to Book: Langkawi Underwater World TicketsAlso Checkout: Scuba Diving in LangkawiClick Here to Book: Langkawi Underwater World Tickets

Lost World of Tambun is a breathtaking adventure destination set in the magnetizing scenery on the outskirts of Ipoh. This premium Malaysian theme park was restored from a tin-mining wasteland, and today it holds the most prominent mark in the world map as a popular tourist attraction.It is cocooned by 400 years old limestone features, hot springs, and lush tropical jungle. It consists of seven adrenaline rushing adventure parks that offer a splendid eco-adventure excursion opportunity to the visitors. This theme park offers world-class roller coaster rides and land-based thrilling amusement rides that will give you a punch of heart-racing adventure and fun.It is the only theme park in Southeast Asia having natural hot springs along with a wide array of rides and attractions. The water in these hot springs have healing properties and therefore, a huge number of visitors regularly visit these sacred healing sites.The temperature of the water in these pools exceeds beyond forty-degree Centigrade in the afternoon, but it cools down a bit in the evening. You can, therefore, appreciate the beauty of these hot springs only in the evening. Attached to these hot springs are some of the most rejuvenating massage facilities where you can indulge in a relaxing spa experience.There are endless spills and thrills for each one of you in this theme park. It is an ideal spot where you can indulge into a fun filled adventure with your family and friends. From the biggest wave pools to the kids Explorabay, cliff raiser and tube raider this theme park offers multiple surfs and slides to keep you entertained while you visit this theme park.Click Here to Book: Lost World Of Tambun Tickets

Lost World Hot Springs & Night Park, nestled in the heart of Ipoh, Malaysia, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This unique destination is renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters that rejuvenate the body and mind. The park features a variety of attractions, including thrilling water rides, a petting zoo, and an adventure park that caters to all age groups.As the sun sets, the park transforms into a magical night wonderland. The Night Park comes alive with dazzling lights, showcasing attractions such as the Luminous Forest, where bioluminescent flora and fauna create an enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances, hot spring baths under the stars, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for unwinding.Whether seeking relaxation, family fun, or a romantic evening, Lost World Hot Springs & Night Park provides an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination in Malaysia.

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32 Interesting Places to Visit in Ipoh | Famous Attractions in Ipoh 2024

Ipoh has changed so much since the COVID-19 pandemic. There are now more people, restaurants, and hotels. I am happy and a little bit sad at the same time. Happy because people don’t have to suffer from what COVID-19 has brought to the economy. But sad because I can’t enjoy the calm and peaceful environment of Ipoh anymore.

Anyway, Ipoh is still one of my favourite destinations in Malaysia with many  interesting places to visit , amazing local cuisine, and beautiful nature.

Let’s explore the full list of famous attractions and things to do in Ipoh. Spoiler alert!  many of them are FREE . Keep scrolling until the end to get more ideas for your Ipoh trip.

DISCLOSURE: My articles may contain affiliate links. To click on those links, you won’t be charged any extra cost, instead, you help me to get some small commissions to maintain my blog . Thanks for understanding!

👉 Wanna rent a car charter for a day trip to Ipoh ? WhatsApp me (click here)  for the best price 💸💸

Useful quick links for your Ipoh trip

• The complete Ipoh travel guide: Read this post
• Buy bus/train tickets to Ipoh from KL, Penang, etc: Click here
• Highly-rated budget-friendly hotels in Ipoh:  French Hotel ,  Hotel Cheqinn
• Ipoh tour from Kuala Lumpur: Click here
• Private car charter to Ipoh from Kuala Lumpur: Click here
• Malaysia Visa Information: Click here

Table of Contents

Best Relaxing Places to Visit in Ipoh 

Best historical attractions in ipoh, best cultural and religious places to visit in ipoh, fun things to do in ipoh, other interesting attractions in ipoh, 1. tasik cermin – mirror lake.

One of the most interesting places in Ipoh is Tasik Cermin – a hidden gem that offers many cool attractions. The first thing to visit there is Mirror Lake, where you have to pass through a tunnel to get to a beautiful lake with limestone karsts reflected on the water. There is also a jetty that offers a short tour around the lake.

Besides, you can also visit a cool café next to a cave called Kin Loong, which is well-known among locals for its coffee.

The Snake Mouth is another spot to visit nearby, which is a small cave in the shape of a snake’s mouth.

• Address: Tasik Cermin, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: 09:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance fee:

– Adult: Malaysian: RM 5, Foreigner: RM 10

– Kids under 90 cm and disabled people: free

• Ticket for the boat ride (20 minutes):

– Above 18 years old: RM25 

– Below 18 years old: RM 18

2. The Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat

Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Resort is one of the most relaxing places in Ipoh where you can experience natural geothermal hot springs. Spending a night in this opulent resort is such a treat after a stressful time at work.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as exploring the caves, relaxing in the geothermal hot tub with mountain views, sipping drinks in the sky bar, dining in the cave restaurant, and more. My favorite attraction here is definitely the steam cave, where I can enjoy a naturally heated sauna, which is so soothing.

For more information, you can read my review of Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Resort.

If you just want to enjoy the hot springs, day tickets for hot springs are also available via this link .

Besides, if you want to experience hot springs at a more affordable price, consider these places: Lost World of Tambun, Felda Residence Hot Springs, Trong Hot Spring, Ipoh Hot Spring Sungai, and Lubuk Timah Fall. 

• Address: 1, Persiaran Lagoon, Sunway 3, 31150 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entrance fee: RM 350/person (including hot springs, steam cave, ice bath, meditation cave, crystal cave, fish pool, fitness center, and swimming pool).
• Link to buy tickets at a cheaper price: THIS LINK .

3. Gunung Lang Recreational Park

Only 6 kilometers away from Ipoh Old Town, Gunung Lang Recreational Park is a budget-friendly natural attraction in Ipoh. 

It is a large area surrounded by the limestone hills of Gunung Bilike and Gunung Lang. There is no entrance fee to this park, but you will need to pay for the boat ride.

Although the boat ride lasts only 5 minutes, it is definitely the highlight of your visit to Gunung Lang Recreational Park. The boat journey takes you through picturesque limestone karsts and lush greenery, with the water appearing green and remarkably clean.

After the boat ride, you will reach the park. You can visit some traditional Malay houses, climb up to the lookout towers, feed the fish, have a picnic, and more. Overall, although this park is not very well-maintained, the boat ride is quite impressive. And if you are looking for a cheap and nice place to visit in Ipoh, this Ipoh hidden gem is worth your visit. 

• Address: Jalan Damai, 30100 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Mon – Sun, 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entrance fee: entrance to the park is free, but you need to pay for the boat ride to reach the park, here is the ticket price:

Boat ride ticket:

• Adults: RM3
• Children (under 13) and Senior citizens (above 55): RM1.5

Boat operating hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 8.30 am to 5 pm
• Friday: 8.30 am to 12 pm / 3 pm to 5 pm
• Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays: 8.30 am to 5 pm

Read more: Review Gunung Lang Recreational Park: boat ride & other activities

4. Gua Tempurung

Gua Tempurung is one of the largest and oldest caves in Peninsula Malaysia, dating back 250-400 million years ago.

Exploring this cave, you can enjoy a peaceful natural environment filled with the soothing sound of dripping water, stunning formations like stalactites and stalagmites, a refreshing underground river, and other wonders.

Read my review of Gua Tempurung for more detailed information about this Ipoh attraction.

5. Kellie’s Castle

Well-known for its ghost story which is said that a man’s spirit had been seen several times in the castle, Kellie Castle has been drawing the public’s attention and has become one of the most famous attractions in Ipoh.

Kellies’s Castle (or Kellie’s Folly) is a Scottish,  Moorish, and Tamilvanan-style castle founded in the 1900s by William Kellie Smith – a wealthy Scottish planter. The mansion was intentionally built for his son. However, due to his sudden death, his wife left Malaysia and the building was left unfinished and abandoned until today.

• Address : 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak
• Opening hours : daily, 9AM – 5PM

Foreigner: RM10/adult, RM9/child

Local Malaysian:  RM5/adult, RM3/ child

6. Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

Han Chin Pet Soo Museum is the first Hakka tin mining museum in Malaysia. It is situated in Ipoh’s Old Town, near the Kinta River.

It was founded in 1893 as a Hakka tin miners’ clubhouse by Leong Fee (also known as Liang Pi Joo) – a Chinese tin miner. He sponsored the clubhouse with his own money to give the Hakka miner’s community a place to connect and relax. After his death in 1912, his son – Leong Yin Khean – continued to sponsor it until 1927 when he sold the house to the club members.

In the 20th century, a slump in tin demand caused the unemployment of tin miners. As a consequence, the building was closed down due to insufficient members to maintain it.

Nowadays, the building is open for visitors and displays collectibles, photographs, etc. from the 19th, and 20th centuries.

If you love to learn more about the history of the tin industry, don’t miss this interesting place to visit in Ipoh.

• Address: 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30100 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 9:30AM – 3:30PM (Close on Monday)
• Entrance fee: optional (RM10 donation is expected) ( Online booking or booking in person prior to your visit is needed)

👉 Wanna rent a car charter for a day trip to Ipoh ? Whatsapp me (click here)  for the best price 💸💸

More posts about Ipoh:

• A complete Ipoh travel guide: things you must know before your visit
• Review Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

7.  Concubine Lanes

The Concubine Lanes are one of the most famous attractions in Ipoh Old Town.

It’s not just a normal street in Ipoh, there is a story behind those streets which makes it one of the most interesting places in Ipoh.

In the 19th century, there was a mining tycoon called Yao Tet Shin who gave 3 lanes to his 3 wives as gifts. The wives managed their own lanes and collected rental fees from the shops in those lanes.

1. Wife Lane — Today’s Lorong Hale (belonged to the 1st wife)

2. Concubine Lane — Today’s Lorong Panglima (belonged to the 2nd wife)

3. Second Concubine Lane — Today’s Market Lane (belonged to the 3rd wife)

The busiest lane with many shops and restaurants is Concubine Lane which belonged to the 2nd wife. However, the shops are only open on weekends, if you come here during weekdays, you may find it very quiet.

If you have time, you can also come to the other 2 lanes. Though it’s not as beautiful and busy as the Concubine Lane, it’s recommended to visit as it’s located near to each other and has very nice mural art as well.

• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entrance fee: free

8. Ipoh Railway Station

Ipoh Railway Station is a historical building in Ipoh which was built in 1914 to replace a 20-year-old single-story railway station. The construction was completed after 3 years due to World War I.

Not only does the building house a train station, but also a hotel called Majestic Hotel. After over 100 years, the building’s overall layout has stayed almost the same as its first day. The train station is still functioning, offering ETS train and freight train services. However, the hotel was closed down in 2011, leaving it abandoned until today.

• Address: Stesen KTM, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: 24/7
• Entrance fee: free 

9. Ipoh Town Hall

Ipoh Town Hall, together with Ipoh Railway Station and Ipoh High Court, are colonial-era buildings in Ipoh designed by Arthur Benison Hubback – a talented British architect.

It was used as the main administrative office in Ipoh, as well as Post Office and Police Office for a time after its completion in 1916.

Nowadays, because of its high operation and maintenance cost, the Post Office, City Government, and Police Headquarters were moved to other locations, meanwhile, the building functions as a wedding and public event hall.

Note: you can only admire Ipoh Town Hall from the outside.

• Address : 2700, Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

Read more: A complete Ipoh travel guide: transportation, what to do in Ipoh, famous food, cost

10. The Birch Memorial Clock Tower

The Birch Memorial Clock Tower in Ipoh was erected in 1909 to commemorate James Wheeler Woodford Birch – the 1st British Resident in Perak. He was assassinated by Dato Maharaja Lela (a local Malay) 1 year after his inauguration as a British Resident due to his lack of respect for local customs causing a resistance movement of the locals.

Though he is considered a hero to the British. From the local Malaysian’s point of view, Dato Maharaja Lela, instead, is viewed as their hero who tried to protect his country from invasion.

• Address: 31650 Ipoh, Perak

11. TT5 Tin Dredge

TT5 Tin Dredge is where you can learn about the tin mining industry in Ipoh, Perak in the past.

The dredge was built in England in 1938 for the Southern Malayan Tin Dredging Ltd – a large company operating 6 dredges in Batu Gajah and Tanjung Tualang at that time. TT5 was in use for 44 years until the Malaysian tin industry slumped in 1982.

Nowadays, thanks to a campaign called “Save the Dredge”, the dredge has been restored and converted into an interesting historical attraction in Ipoh.

Guided Tin Dredge Tours start at 10am, 11am, 12 noon, 2.30pm, 3.30pm and 4.30pm.

• Address : 9th KM, Jln Tanjung Tualang, 31000 Batu Gajah
• Opening hours : every day, 9:00 AM – 5:15 PM
• Entrance fee (including Dredge guided tour);

Malaysian: RM 16/adult, RM 12/child or seniors

Foreigner: RM 31/adult, RM 23/child or seniors

Read more: Top 24 most beautiful attractions in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

12. Durbar at FMS

I won’t simply recommend you to visit an ordinary bar in Ipoh unless there is an interesting story behind it.

Durbar at FMS is the oldest bar in Malaysia which has been standing there for more than 100 years since 1906. It was founded by Hainanese migrants under the name “FMS Bar and Restaurant” and became a popular bar among the European and locals during the colonial period. 

However, due to rising costs and dwindling patrons, the bar was shut down for about 11 years.

In 2019, the bar was restored and reopened by Seow Wee Liam with a new name “Durbar at FMS”. Coming here, you will have a unique dining experience that brings you back to the British colonial era with a collection of antiques such as timber furniture, a classic chandelier, as well as photographs and copies of Ipoh newspapers in the old days. Eating in this antique setting is such a cool thing to do in Ipoh.

However, if you are looking for Malaysian food, it’s not the place. They serve mainly Western cuisine. The taste is so-so, not that outstanding. The price is a little more expensive than other local restaurants, we paid RM154 for 3 people.

• Address:  2, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: every day except for Wed, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

13. Kek Lok Tong Cave temple

Looking for an attraction in Ipoh where you can explore a cave, enjoy some recreational activities, and explore a temple? Let’s head to Kek Lok Tong.

Kek Lok Tong is a Chinese cave temple located in Gunung Rapat, Ipoh. The cave had been used for religious purposes since the 1920s. However, during the 1960s, it was used to excavate iron ore. Until the 1970s, when iron ore demand slumped, the cave was not being used for iron ore mining purposes anymore and opened again for visitors and devotes.

The cave is carved by nature with million-year-old stalactite and stalagmite formations. Walking inside the cave, you can feel the significant differences in temperature inside and outside the cave. Inside, there is a prayer hall dedicated to Buddhist Gods and a number of deities of the Chinese pantheon.

Passing through the cave, you can see a hidden garden that offers a variety of recreational activities such as boat rides, and cycling.

• Address : Pesiaran Sepakat 3, TMN ENDAH JAYA, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours : daily, 9AM : 4PM

14. Ling Sen Tong Temple

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One of the features that I love most about this Ipoh tourist spot is its colorful decoration and design.

Ling Sen Tong is a Taoist-Buddhist temple nested at the foot of a limestone hill in Gunung Rapat, Ipoh. From the outside, you will be amazed by its beautifully colorful design with many statues of deities, animals, and other characters from Chinese mythology.

The temple is very close to Kek Lok Tong cave temple. Thus, you can plan to visit those 2 places in a day.

• Address: 31350 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: daily, 9AM-6PM

15. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Sam Poh Tong is the oldest cave temple in Ipoh and the largest cave temple in Malaysia. In 1890, a Chinese Buddhist monk explored this cave and lived there till the end of his life. After his death, other monks continued to stay there and built a temple in the 1950s.

Inside the cave, you can find the main worshipping area displaying Buddha statues and deities. In addition, you can also visit the tortoise pond which is home to more than 200 turtles of 5 different species.

• Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: daily, 7am – 2pm
• Entrance fee : free

16. Perak Tong Cave

Perak Tong is one of the most beautiful cave temples in Malaysia . It was discovered by Chong Sen Yee and his wife – Choong Chan Yoke – in 1926. Since then, they developed the Perak Tong cave temple using donations from local and international donors. In the early 1980s, Chong Yin Chat – their son – was given the responsibility to take care of the cave after their death.

In front of the cave temple, there is a pavilion garden with 2 lotus ponds, 2 bell towers, and a Guan Yin statue. It’s very peaceful when walking around the area.

Inside the temple, you will be amazed by more than 40 Buddha statues, among them, the 40-geet tall golden Buddha statue is the biggest. There are also a lot of colorful paintings depicting Buddhist deities on the wall.

Admission to Perak Tong cave temple is free, but if you want to climb the cave’s hillside, you are expected to donate RM3.

• Address: Jln. Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: daily, 8AM – 5PM

Read more: Batu Caves – Murugan Statue: Interesting facts, history, how to get there?

17. Kwan Yin Tong Temple

Kwan Yin Tong Temple (or Guanyin Cave temple) is a Buddhist cave temple located at the foot of Gunung Rapat on Jalan Gopeng, Ipoh. It is known as the second oldest cave temple in Ipoh.

As its name says, the temple is dedicated to Bodhisattva Guanyin (also known as the Goddess of Mercy) with 75 Guan Yin statues placed around the temple.

• Address: Lot 21606, Batu 41/2, Jalan Gopeng, 31350, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia

18. Little India    

Little India is a neighborhood in Ipoh where a large Indian population resides. This area was a hub for Indian immigrants and merchants who came to Malaysia to find jobs or business opportunities when the tin mining industry was in its glory days.

Nowadays, there are about 65% of the population in Little India is Indian, and the rest are Chinese.

Coming to Little India, you can enjoy a myriad of Indian dishes as well as dive into Indian culture.

• Address: Jalan Lahat, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

19.   Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

Though it’s just a small temple, it’s worth your visit because of its story related to Kellie’s Castle and it’s also on the way to Kellie’s Castle.

In order to build the castle, Kellie Smith imported 70 Indian workers and craftsmen to work for him. However, in 1918, a Spanish flu outbreak had infected about 1/3 world’s population including many of Kellie’s Indian workers.

After that, the remaining workers were approved by Kellie to build a Hindu temple nearby the castle to get protection from the Gods. To show appreciation to Kellie, the workers decided to place Kellie’s statue alongside the Hindu deities.

20.  Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple

Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple is a Hindu temple founded in 1930 which is dedicated to Lord Murugan.

If you come during January or February, you might have a chance to witness how the Hindu devotees celebrate Deepavali and Thaipusam, Especially during Thaipusam, there will be a parade with lots of ‘kavadi’ and chariots moving towards the temple. Do not miss such an interesting place to visit in Ipoh!

• Address:  140, Jalan Raja Musa Aziz, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Daily: 4.00 AM – 12.00 PM & 4.30 PM – 9.00 PM
• Entrance fee: free (donation is encouraged)

21. Ipoh State Mosque (Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque)

Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque is the state mosque of Perak, Malaysia, located in Ipoh – the capital city of Perak.

The mosque is erected in 1966 and completed in 1968. Not until 1978, it was opened to the public by Sultan Idris Shah II of Perak during his 54th birthday celebration.

As the biggest mosque in Ipoh, Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque is a double-story building that consists of a large prayer hall, a 38-meter-high towering square, a library, and a conference center.

• Opening hours: Weekdays, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: 5, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
• Entrance fee: free (donation is welcomed)

22. Loong Thow Ngam Temple

I stumbled upon this interesting Taoism temple in Ipoh by chance while returning to Ipoh Old Town from Gunung Lang Recreational Park. 

At the moment, the place of worship is situated on the left side, where we had the opportunity to meet a master who has lived here since birth. He was extremely welcoming and knowledgeable, offering us a guided tour of the cave.

Additionally, he shared an intriguing technique with us on how to produce sounds using a ceramic pot filled with water. It was a fascinating experience!

So if you are looking for a hidden gem in Ipoh, I recommend this attraction.

• Address:   30010, Perak, Ipoh, Jln. Kuala Kangsar
• Note: the main prayer hall is under maintenance

23. The Lost World of Tambun

The Lost World of Tambun is a huge theme park in Ipoh surrounded by lush green tropical jungle and limestones dating back to 400 million years. The whole area consists of a total of 10 amazing parks with 88 attractions including Water Parks, Amusement Park, Petting Zoo, Adventure Park, Hot Spring Park, Luminious Forest, etc.

It will be a perfect place for family or friends to have fun and memorable moments.

• Address: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway, Sunway City, 31150 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 11 am – 11 pm
• Entrance fee:   

Malaysian: RM90/adult, RM83/child

Foreigners: RM117/adult, RM110/child

• Link to buy tickets: Click here ( It’s about RM 5-10 cheaper if you buy tickets online compared to buying at the counter)

24. Funtasy House Trick Art

Located in Ipoh Old Town, Funtasy House Trick Art is an art museum that consists of more than 20 trick arts painted by local artists. This is a great place to take fun photos with your family and friends.

• Address: 16, Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Mon-Sun, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed on Tues)
• Entrance fee:  

Malaysian: RM15/adult, RM10/child

Foreigners: RM19/person

25. Kinta Riverwalk

Kinta Riverwalk is a cool place to visit in Ipoh at night. 

This park is located on the Kinta River Bank, near Ipoh Old Town, making it easily accessible from other main attractions in Ipoh.

In this park, you can rent a scooter or a glowing toy car, take a stroll around the park, or have dinner here. I’m pretty sure your kids will like this place a lot.

• Address: Jalan Lim Bo Seng, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

26. Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

This is an amazing place to visit when you travel to Ipoh. It displays Malaysian culture with beautifully decorated houses and trees. In addition, there are cycles for you to ride as well, couple and family cycles are both available. Besides, you can climb up to the hill to enjoy the wind and see the Malaysian traditional stores display.

For a detailed guide, read my other post about Qing Xin Ling here 

Note: It’s temporarily closed

• Address:   22A, Persiaran Pinggir Rapat 5a, Taman Saikat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours : 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, from Mon to Fri (closed on Sat and Sun)
• Entrance fee: 

Malaysian: RM12

Foreigners: RM20

27. Lanno Valley

Want to have some adventurous experiences at an affordable price? Head to Lanno Valley!

Not only does this place offer beautiful nature with lush green mountains, an interesting cave, and tranquil lakes, but it also provides tourists with exciting activities such as flying fox, rock climbing, abseiling, and more.

• Address : Gunung Lanno MY Perak Ipoh Kampung Kepayang Unnamed Road 1, 31350
• Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, every day
• Entrance ticket:

Malaysian: RM5/adult, RM3/child or senior

Foreigner: RM10/adult, RM6/child or senior

Read more: My detailed review of Lanno Valley

28. Tong Sui Kai

I’ve visited this street several times for my dinner and supper.

It’s a bustling food street in Ipoh where you can find a variety of mouth-watering and cheap local dishes. The majority of food stalls on this street specialize in desserts, which is why it’s called Tong Sui Kai (Tong Sui means ‘sweet soup’).

Additionally, you can find numerous other local delicacies, such as Char Kuay Teow and Mee Goreng, to satisfy your culinary cravings.

• Address:   Jalan Carey, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours : Wed-Sun, 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
• Entrance fee: no

29. Ipoh Mural Art Lane

Mural Art Lane’s paintings in Ipoh were created mainly by Ernest Zacharevic under the sponsorship of Oldtown White Coffee. The mural art was incorporated with real figures such as windows, and doors making it more interesting and lively.

• Address: Jalan Masjid, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak

30. Ho Yan Hor Museum

This Ipoh place to visit is located in the heart of Old Town, next to the Han Chin Pet So Museum. It is totally free and worth visiting.

The museum tells the journey of Ho Yan Hor – the founder of Ho Yan Hor tea which is a well-known Chinese herbal tea brand in Ipoh, Malaysia other countries such as Thailand, Singapore, etc.

It is said that Dr. Ho invented a formulated flu remedy to help the poor Chinese tin miners in Ipoh. Later on, the tea became a trusted and well-known Chinese herbal tea brand in Ipoh.

The museum was originally the house of the Ho family, but they converted it into a museum that displays pictures and stories about Dr.Ho and his tea brand, as well as a tea sample (you can have a sip of tea as well). If you like to know about successful people, then Ho Yan Hor Museum would be an interesting place in Ipoh for you to visit.

When I knew about this museum, I did not expect much. But I was really impressed when I visited it. The display of all the antiques and old newspapers is interesting and their staffs are very friendly and professional as well. Totally worth your time!

• Address:  1, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Tues – Sun (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM); Close on Mon

Read more: Top 11 Instagrammable Cafe in Penang

31. Geological Museum Ipoh

Geological Museum Ipoh provides in-depth knowledge of different aspects of geology in Malaysia. The museum was founded in 1957 as a part of Jabatan Mineral dan Geosains Malaysia (Department of Minerals and Geoscience).

There are 7 zones in this museum from Zone A to Zone G which cover information such as the history of the museum, how mineral exploration and geological surveys are carried out, and the display of samples of gemstones, crystals, or mining equipment from the past, etc.

• Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 30820 Ipoh, Perak
• Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM

32. Memory Lane

If you stay in Ipoh on Sunday morning, then don’t miss Memory Lane. This is an open-air flea market that is only opened on Sunday mornings. What attracts your attention about Memory Lane is that it offers second-hand items at dirty cheap prices. You can also find antique items from older generations in this market (and I guess this is why they call it “Memory Lane” since you may call back memory when seeing those items).

• Address: Jalan Horley, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Negeri Perak
• Opening hours: Sunday, 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Ipoh offers numerous attractions that suit every travel style, including natural places, religious attractions, historical tourist spots, and theme parks.  Above is the full list of interesting attractions and things to do in Ipoh . How many of them are already on your bucket list? Share your thoughts in the comments.

1. What are the best things to do in Ipoh at night?

Of all the Ipoh attractions recommended above, here are 7  interesting places of interest in Ipoh you can visit at night:

• Durbar at FMS
• The Lost World of Tambun
• Kinta Riverfront Park
• Memory Lane
• Ipoh Mural Art Lane
• Concubine Lanes, Ipoh
• The Birch Memorial Clock Tower

2. Is Ipoh worth visiting?

Definitely YES.

As mentioned above, there are too many mind-blowing Ipoh attractions to visit and a lot of them offer free admission. In addition, Ipoh is a place with in-depth history with a myriad of historical buildings and streets, it’s just like another version of Penang and Malacca but less crowded.

3. Where can I take my kids in Ipoh?

There are a lot of attractions in Ipoh where you can bring your little ones to have fun or to learn about culture and history. Here are some of them:

• Kellie’s Castle
• Miniature Wonders Art Gallery Ipoh
• Han Chin Pet Soo Museum
• Kek Lok Tong Cave temple
• Funtasy House Trick Art
• Gunung Lang Recreational Park, Ipoh

4. How safe is Ipoh?

Ipoh is generally safe to travel with a low crime rate.

I visited Ipoh many times.

For the first time, I travelled there alone. As a female traveller, I felt a little scared when walking along the streets in Ipoh alone AT NIGHT. However, when it was daytime, I felt ok to walk around.

In fact, I feel like people in Ipoh are very friendly and kind. I came to Ipoh without cash (I only brought cards). Unfortunately, card payment is not so popular in Ipoh (actually ATM is available but I was just too lazy to walk there). Therefore, I went to a random local restaurant and asked for a cash exchange for a TnG e-wallet. There were two kind women who agreed to help me and even gave me to try some of their foods. Such a nice experience!

From the second time, I traveled with a local Ipoh friend. Because I had a local guide with me, it was totally safe for me.

5. What are the free things to do in Ipoh, Perak?

One thing I like about Ipoh is that the town offers tons of free places to visit for visitors. Here are some recommendations:

• All Ipoh cave temples such as Ling Sen Tong, Perak Cave Temple, Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, etc.
• Concubine Lanes (there are 3 of them)
• Ho Yan Hor Museum
• Ipoh Memory Lane

6. What is Ipoh famous for?

As for religious attractions, Ipoh is home to 30 cave temples. That’s impressive! When I asked the locals why Ipoh people like to build cave temples so much, they said…maybe because Ipoh has too many limestones and caves (joking only).

So if you are really into different religions, you can spend time visiting all of the cave temples in Ipoh. Otherwise, I have listed some of the most famous above and they are very close to each other, come visit those are enough.

As for food and beverages, the city is well-known for its white coffee. The coffee will be roasted with palm oil margarine and served with condensed milk. White Coffee is sold everywhere in Ipoh, and each Kopitiam (Café) has its own way to make the coffee. However, the 2 most popular and long-standing Kopitiam are Sin Yoon Loon and Nam Heong.

In addition, Ipoh is also known as one of the best places to try dim sum in Malaysia. As my local Ipoh friend said, he tried dim sum in Kuala Lumpur and has not found a restaurant that can compete with Ipoh dim sum.

7. What to do in Concubine Lanes Ipoh?

There are 3 of them in Ipoh:

• The Wife Lane (Lorong Hale): This is the least popular one.
• The Concubine Lane (Lorong Panglima): This is the most crowded one. There are a lot of cafes restaurants and souvenir stores along the street.
• The Second Concubine Lane (Market Lane): It’s pretty beautiful now with mural art, colorful umbrellas and red lanterns.

8. Is Grab available in Ipoh?

Yes, Grab is available in Ipoh. However, booking a Grab car in Ipoh might take a little longer than in Kuala Lumpur.

9. How far from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh?

The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh is approximately 108 miles (174km), which takes about 2.5-3 hours to cover when traveling between these two locations.

10. What to do in Ipoh with family?

Here are the best places to visit in Ipoh for families:

• Tasik Cermin (Mirror Lake)
• Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village
• Concubine Lanes

11. How do I spend a day in Ipoh?

If you just visit Ipoh for a day, here is the recommended itinerary which covers several most famous places to visit in Ipoh:

Morning: Visit places inside Old Town Old such as Concubine Lanes, Ipoh State Mosque, The Birch Memorial Clock Tower, Ipoh Railway Station

Afternoon: Explore some religious and relaxing attractions in Ipoh, for example, Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, Ling Sen Tong Cave Temple, Tasik Cermin and Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

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(10) comments.

Thanks for blog. It very interesting.

One of the best site to date,very interesting and a bit of history about the places.Great info given for time of visit,address,payment,etc.Its helps me alot to select my item of visit of places.A big THANKS to you,Mai.

Hi Benjamin Chan, Thank you for the support <3

thank you for the sharing. It is an amazing information

Hi William Kor, Thank you for the comment!

Hey one question, how did you go in town? Grab or public? Do you know a driver at Ipoh?

Hi, you can get around by Grab yah

Hi, you can get around using Grab

thank you 🙂

You’re welcome

Comments are closed.

25+ BEST Things To Do In Ipoh: Top Attractions Of 2024

Not sure what to do in Ipoh, Malaysia? Don’t worry, we are here to help.

From incredible limestone cave temples to the rich history of the Hakka miners , Ipoh is teeming with wonders and excitement. Visitors can stroll around the city and take in all the beautiful murals and try some of the world-famous white coffee famous in this town.

After our several visits to this beautiful Malaysian city, we found out that there are just an endless number of things to do in Ipoh! (Well, not endless, but you get it!)

That is why we have written this Ipoh travel blog guide , so you can familiarize yourself with the best Ipoh attractions you must see, especially if you are visiting for the first time!

Planning A Trip To Ipoh Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended tours in Ipoh:

• Private Tour: Ipoh Secrets Full Day Heritage Tour (Must-do!)
• Cameron Highland Private Day Tour From Ipoh (Best day trip from Ipoh!)

Our recommended places to stay in Ipoh:

• The Haven All Suite Resort (Luxurious w/ EPIC views!!)
• The Tudor (AMAZING value-for-money)
• The Brownstone Hostel & Space (Perfect for backpackers)

Ipoh Attractions Map

Above is a comprehensive interactive Ipoh tourist map containing the 25 things to do and places to visit in Ipoh. We have created it specifically for this Ipoh blog post. Knowing where the attractions are located will help you plan your perfect itinerary for Ipoh. Clicking on the map will take you to the complete map where you will find more details about each Ipoh attraction.

Click on the star next to the name of the map and you can save it onto your own personal device, then you can use it to help you navigate when you are in Ipoh! If you have any questions about the interactive map, don’t hesitate to leave a comment down below!

What To Do In Ipoh: 25+ Best Things To Do In Ipoh Malaysia

1. learn about tin mining at han chin pet soo museum.

Located a little under 2 hours away from the Ipoh is a nature paradise called Cameron Highlands. Though it is recommended to spend a few days exploring the amazing attractions in Cameron Highlands, a day trip from Ipoh is still a nice experience.

Known for its massive tea plantations, strawberry farms, and beautiful hikes, Cameron Highlands is the ideal place to take a break from the noise and pollution of Ipoh. At an elevation of ~1100 meters to ~1800 meters, the weather and air quality are much better.

The one place you must visit on your  Cameron Highlands day trip  is the  BOH Tea Centre . Not only will you get to see the massive tea farm, but you can also get a free tour of the tea-processing facility!

You can take a  bus from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands . However, I recommend you rent a car because you can have the flexibility of deciding which places to visit in Cameron Highlands! Another great option is to take a day trip tour from Ipoh with a tour company.

5. Learn About The History Of Ipoh On The Ipoh Heritage Trail

If visiting the Han Chin Pet Soo sparked your interest in the rich history of Ipoh , then you will love the self-guided Ipoh Heritage Trail. With a total of 27 points of interest , this Ipoh activity takes you on a 4-mile around both Ipoh Old Town and New Town.

If Ipoh’s weather is too much for you, you are more than welcome to shorten the duration of this trail! That is the magic of self-guided tours !

The trail starts at the Ipoh Railway Station and ends at the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, passing through other famous places in Ipoh such as the Town Hall and Old Post Office.

Covering so many attractions in Ipoh, the Ipoh Heritage Trail is one of the best activities for sightseeing!

The trail usually takes around 2.5 hours to complete. Plan accordingly!

Click here to find out more about Heritage Trail and the 27 points of interest!

6. Check Out The Sunday Market At Memory Lane

If you happen to be in Ipoh on a Sunday, make sure you don’t miss the famous  Sunday Morning Market at Jalan Horley . Also known as loken or Memory Lane flea market, visitors will find vintage items that will make them feel old. DVDs of movies from the late 1990s, old toys, flip phones, and many of these merchandise will surely bring a sense of nostalgia.

Similar to Ah Ma House in the hidden-gem town  Sekinchan , the Memory Lane market is like stepping into a time machine. As you stroll down this busy street, you will be reminded of the good old times!

Though the items might seem worthless, there is a chance you might find a valuable antique there! If you are a collector of vintage things, don’t miss this Ipoh tourist attraction!

Just be aware that the market is only opened on Sunday and goes from around 6 AM to 1 PM. 

7. Admire At Ipoh’s Street Art and Murals

We knew that Penang has some of the best street arts in Malaysia, but we were surprised to find that Ipoh was also riddled with amazing murals .

Most of the street art in Ipoh is scattered throughout the old town, but travelers can find a large concentration of them at  Ipoh Mural  and  Mural Art’s Lane .

Ipoh Mural is where you will find the magical Trishaw 3D mural . It is one of the most magical places for photography in Ipoh!

On the other hand, Mural Art’s Lane, in our opinion, is much more abstract and cool. The murals in Ipoh are very realistic, oftentimes offering a glimpse into the daily lives of an Ipoh resident.

The two locations are within a short walk from each, and there is no reason why you should go to one and not another.

8. Check Out The “Haunted” Kellie’s Castle

A castle might be a strange thing to find in Malaysia, especially in a place like Ipoh. As a result, the abandoned Kellie’s castle is one of the most interesting places in Ipoh. Why is there an abandoned castle in the middle of the Malaysian jungle? Let me tell you.

William Kellie Smith was a Scotsman that moved to Malaysia to seek fortune and wealth. After several unsuccessful business ventures, he eventually found prosperity in the rubber industry.

With his newfound success and newly-wed wife, he wanted to build her a mansion, one that is more extravagant than any other at the time. Many different styles of architecture can be seen in the building, including Moorish and Roman influences.

Unfortunately, his plan to finish the mansion was cut short when he passed away from pneumonia. When he died, the mansion was given to his wife, who lived in Scotland. His wife never visited the mansion and eventually sold it to a private company in Malaysia.

The building now sits unfinished amidst the jungle of palm trees and has become a top attraction in Ipoh.  Rumors have it that Kellie’s Castle is haunted . A ghostly figure of a man has been seen walking down the corridors of the second floor at night!

9. Hike To The Highest Point in Ipoh (Bukit Kledang) For Stunning Sunset Views

The Birch Memorial Clock is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ipoh Old Town. It was built in 1909 to commemorate the life of James W. Birch, who was the first British Resident of Perak. The clock tower has four grand European-style clocks placed on each side, representing 4 virtues of British administration, namely Loyalty, Justice, Patience and Fortitude . 

There is plenty of history that is involved with the Birch Memorial Clock, and travelers can learn more about it on the self-guided Ipoh Heritage Trail. But even without the fascinating history, the grandeur of the Clock makes it one of the most beautiful places in Ipoh.

11. Explore The Ho Yan Hor Museum

Ho Yan Hor is one of the most interesting museums in Ipoh. It is a museum dedicated to Dr. Ho Kai Cheong and his Chinese herbal tea, Ho Yan Hor. He invented this concoction in 1941 using several natural herbal ingredients, and it would help people with flu-like symptoms due to high “body heat”, a result of working too hard in the mines during the hot days.

In the Ho Yan Hor Museum, visitors can explore everything about the Ho Yan Hor herbal tea and Dr. Ho Kai Cheong’s life. You can even buy some to take home with you as unique Malaysian souvenirs.

The best part is there is no entrance fee, so it is easily one of the best free things to do in Ipoh!

12. Check Out Ipoh Night Market

One of the best things to do in Ipoh at night is to head down to the Ipoh Night Market and eat, shop, and just browse around. The market is the perfect place to try some local food as there are nearly a hundred food stalls selling a variety of dishes.

From the Thai Tom Yam (check out Tom Yam Niase, it’s a shop that went viral) to the country’s famous Char Kway Teow, there is no doubt you’ll find a dish you’ll like. And if you are lucky, you can enjoy your delicious food while listening to live music.

Getting to Ipoh Night Market can be challenging since it isn’t walking distance from the city center. Visitors have the option of getting a Grab or renting a car (which you can use to explore places like Cameron Highlands and the cave temples).

But because of that, you’ll find mostly locals and non-touristy prices at Ipoh Night Market!

13. Shop At Kong Heng Square Artisan Market

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Why Not Elephants, Ipoh (@why_not_elephants)

If you are looking for a place to do shopping and support local artists, then there is no better place to do so than at Kong Heng Square Market.

As one of the newest attractions in Ipoh, this market sells a variety of handcrafted items such as pillows, jewelry, books, and other accessories. Most of the items are handmade locally, adding to their uniqueness and charm. If you are looking for some souvenirs from Malaysia, this is the perfect place to do so.

If you are not planning on doing any shopping here, it is still worth it to visit. The market is made out of old shophouses that add to the historic charm of this place!

Visit A Unique Ipoh Cave Temple: One Of The Biggest Tourist Attractions In Ipoh

1. perak cave temple (perak tong cave temple).

With over 30 caves temples around Ipoh ,  it might be different to pick the perfect one. If you had to choose one for your  Ipoh itinerary , then  Perak Tong Cave Temple  (or Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple) has to be the one.

Featuring intricate cave formations , exquisite religious artifacts and paintings , and a stunning panoramic view (after a short hike) of Perak, this Ipoh cave temple has everything a tourist might be looking for.

The entrance is also completely free! Is there any con to the Perak Cave Temple? Well yes, it is a little far from the old town of Ipoh. However, every cave temple in Ipoh is a bit far from the center. A taxi is needed to reach the  limestone cave temples in Ipoh .

The most majestic feature of this cave temple is the 40-foot sitting Buddha whose presence amplifies the sacredness of the cave. Surrounding the Buddha are vivid murals of deities that are sworn to protect the Buddha. Beautifully depicted, the murals of the cave are like paintings in an art museum.

At the back of the cave is a small hiking trail (~450 steps) that takes you to the top of the hill. Though a bit of an effort (especially in the heat), the view from above is worth the sweat and tears (hopefully not the latter).

2. Kek Lok Tong 

With a massive cave formation, interesting geological features, and a serene garden surrounded by limestone hills , Kek Lok Tong Temple just might be the best place to visit in Ipoh.

Whereas the Perak Tong Cave Temple takes pride in its beautiful views after a strenuous hike, seeing the best of Kek Lok Tong requires minimal effort .

As you enter through the massive opening, you will be immediately greeted by religious artifacts, stalactites, and stalagmites . Navigate through the cave and arrive at the back, where a beautiful and peaceful garden resides.

The garden is the most outstanding feature of this Ipoh cave temple. Take a casual stroll along its well-maintained path, feel the serenity coming from the lily and the fish pond, and observe the funny statues lined across the path. Visitors can spend hours here, relaxing and being at one with nature.

Similar to Perak Tong Cave Temple, Kek Lok Tong is free to enter and a short ride from Ipoh center. However, unlike the Perak Tong Cave Temple, there are many other redeeming cave temples nearby. Some of those will be discussed below!

3. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple  gained its recognition for being the oldest and the main cave temple in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.

It is also known as the largest cave in Malaysia and contains a wide variety of artifacts including the reclining Buddha statue .

However, the temple is starting to lose its glory as fewer and fewer donations are received annually to maintain it.

When you visit Sam Pog Tong Cave Temple, make sure you wear comfortable shoes as there is a short climb. Navigate through the cave and you will reach the rear of the temple, where a semi-hidden tortoise sanctuary resides! Tortoise is a symbol of longevity and it is quite common to see them living in temples.

Surprisingly, visitors are allowed to feed the tortoises! Just resist the urge to take them home!

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple is free to visit but it closes quite early!

4. Ling Sen Tong Temple

Ling Sen Tong Temple  is situated on the foot of a limestone hill, so it doesn’t exactly fit the definition of a “cave temple”.

Ling Sen Tong is the home to many colorful and carefully crafted statues, all located inside a medium-sized garden. There is no physical activity that needs to be done, unlike Perak Cave Temple or Sam Tong Poh Temple.

Featuring the 12 Chinese Zodiac and characters and deities from Buddhism and Chinese mythology , the Ling Sen Tong is one of the best places to go in Ipoh for anyone interested in Buddhism.

The colorful architecture and statues also make a great spot for Instagram photos!

Ling Sen Tong is free to visit but donations are always appreciated when it comes to temples.

Enjoy Some Of The Best Food In Ipoh

1. delicious dessert and street food at tong sui kai.

If you are missing the hawker stalls and street food experience in Kuala Lumpur, don’t worry!  Tong Sui Kai  is the famous equivalence in Ipoh. Tong Sui Kai is Pinyin in Chinese and literally translates to Dessert Street .

One of the best things to do in Ipoh at night is to visit the Tong Sui Kai for some tasty desserts. Strangely, it is popular for locals to eat desserts late into the night. It’s almost like they are trying to get diabetes!

You will see how popular Tong Sui Kai is when you arrive. Numerous stalls lined up on the side of the streets and plastic chairs and tables are crammed together. There are many vendors, each serving their own specialty. You can find an array of cuisines here, from Chinese to Malay to Indian. Your cravings will be satisfied here!

When we visited, we did not see any tourists here, which only means that this is a great spot. Don’t miss this hidden gem in Ipoh on your visit!

Tong Sui Kai is open from 6 PM to 2 AM. If you are hungry after enjoying Ipoh’s nightlife, then come satisfy your munchies at Tong Sui Kai!

2. Iconic Ipoh Bean Sprouts Chicken Rice At Lou Wong

With such a heavy influence from Chinese culture in Ipoh, travelers will find plenty of exotic and delicious Chinese cuisine. One of the best food in Ipoh is the Dim Sum.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Dim Sum, they are small plates that usually come in a bamboo basket , depending on how they were prepared. A dim sum restaurant is usually a gathering place for friends and families where they would order a variety of dim sum to share with the whole table.

The typical dim sum dishes are  Siu Mai ,  Feng Zhao  (chicken feet), and  Har Gow , though there are over a hundred kinds of dim sum.

Luckily for you, you don’t have to visit China or Hong Kong to try some authentic dim sum. Ipoh has many great dim sum restaurants run by Chinese immigrants.

The dim sum restaurant in Ipoh I recommend is  Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum . It is a lively place that serves some of the freshest Dim Sum in town! 

📖 Note:  Dim Sum is a great option for lunch or breakfast in Ipoh, but it is not a dinner option!

4.  Have A Cup of The Famous Ipoh White Coffee

If you are looking for family bonding time with your family (or friends), then a visit to the Lost World of Tambun Theme Park is a must. This theme park combines a water park, natural hot springs, petting zoo, and more into a unique and fun activity for everyone involved.

For those that like adrenaline-pumping fun, go on one of the family-friendly rides in Lost World Amusement Park. Then take a dip in the Lost World Hot Springs and relax with beautiful mountain views around you. If you visit at night, you might even get to see a cool fire performance!

Lost World of Tambun is the perfect place to chill out after a few days of exploring Ipoh’s best sights.

2. Platform 9 1/2:  The Harry Potter Themed-Cafe

Though most of Ipoh attractions are cultural, there are some quirky things to do in Ipoh as well. The one that comes to my mind is the  Platform 9 1/2 Cafe . Situated inside the popular Concubine Lane, a visit to this themed cafe is a must if you are a Harry Potter fan .

The cafe serves a variety of drinks, including the famous Butterbeer from the franchise. However, its stunning decoration is what draws many visitors daily. Visitors can put on costumes such as witch’s hat, wands, and even cloaks to take photos in the Hogwarts look-alike environment.

Though it is marketed as a cafe, only drinks are served inside. If you wish to put on the costumes and take photos, you must first make a purchase. Make sure you arrive at off-peak hours as the place could get crowded. Sadly, many visitors can hog the limited costumes for prolonged periods of time!

3. Visit The Hipster BookXcess Kong Heng Ipoh Bookstore

BookXcess is a Malaysian bookstore chain known for its affordability and wide variety of books. Unlike most bookstores in Malaysia that are bland and boring, stepping into the  BookXcess Kong Heng in Ipoh  is like stepping into an art exhibit .

On the ground floor is your typical bookstore, featuring books of various kinds. The fun begins when you venture into the basement led by alluring neon signs. If you follow the suggestive neon signs that say “Let’s get down and nerdy” and “Yes, even deeper”, you will eventually reach the basement of the bookstore.

Now that is where the magic is. The basement of BookXcess Kong Heng Ipog is actually the old vault of one of the busiest banks in Ipoh.

As you enter, you will see massive metal vault doors that lead to the once-in-use safety boxes. While there isn’t much materialistic wealth in there anymore, there is plenty of knowledge (Well, knowledge is wealth!). The old safe rooms are now used as part of the bookstore, displaying a huge array of books available for purchase!

One of the basement vaults is dedicated to the works of the influential film director  Yasmin Ahmad .

4.  Check Out Ipoh Upside Down World or Funtasy House Trick Art

From the name, you might think that Catch-A-Toy is your typical crane machine arcade . Though on the surface it might look like it, there are secrets that many visitors aren’t aware of.

Many of the Catch-A-Toy stores boast incredible interior decor, making it one of the best places in Ipoh for photography. The one Catch-A-Toy that swept me off my feet was the  Catch-A-Toy @ New Town .

This store only features a few crane machines, but its most impressive feature is the stunning art in the rear. The art exhibit somewhat resembles the revolutionary art museum at teamLab Borderless Tokyo. Now you won’t have to take a  trip to Tokyo  to see the cool art exhibition!

6.  DR Seenivasagam Recreational Park

With its pollution, noise and traffic, Ipoh is a city that can easily tire you out, especially if you are visiting with kids. If that is the case, why not take a step back and check out the DR Seenivasagam Recreational Park? Located north of the city center, it is a place where you can properly relax and be with nature .

Its most iconic features are the Japanese garden, the serene lake, and a small bamboo forest!

Where To Stay In Ipoh, Malaysia

Best Hostel in Ipoh-  Vloft Backpackers Hostel

If you are looking for a cheap hostel for a comfortable stay, then look no further. Vloft Backpackers Hostel features mixed dormitory beds, simple decor, and clean facilities. It is a true backpacker hostel where you can meet other like-minded travelers! If you are not sure what to see in Ipoh, staying at Vloft Backpackers Hostel will guarantee that you are within close proximity to the best Ipoh activities!

Best Luxury Hotel in Ipoh-  The Banjaran Hotspring Retreat

If you are looking for the ultimate luxury experience in Ipoh, then a stay at The Banjaran Hotspring Retreat is a must. Nestled in the stunning limestone hills of the region, guests can relax and promote their well-being with their geothermal hot springs, steam caves, or ice baths. Besides its outstanding facilities, the peaceful environment is the perfect place to stay in Ipoh for nature lovers. If you can afford it, you will 100 percent love The Banjaran Hotspring Retreat!

Bonus! You can also get a day pass to enjoy all of facilities without actually having to stay there!

Visiting Ipoh FAQs

How many days to spend in ipoh, is ipoh worth visiting, why is ipoh famous.

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This is the end of our guide on the best Ipoh attractions. Hopefully, it has given you a rough idea of the things to do in Ipoh, Malaysia! Any questions? Leave a comment!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

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LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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• 10 Exotic Places To Visit In Ipoh To Witness The Best Of This Cameron Highlands Getaway

Ipoh nests in Northwestern Malaysia known as a gateway to Cameron Highlands. Being the seventh largest city in Malaysia, Ipoh has few of the best tourist sites to offer to you. Known as the hipster capital of Malaysia, this place originally used to be a village .This city is also well known for its variety of food and coffee shops along with the historical sites which are in abundance.

10 Best Places To Visit In Ipoh

Take a look at some of the best places to visit in Ipoh that are a must-explore for all the travelers on their next trip to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia .

• Sam Poh Tong
• Ipoh Railway Station
• Keh Look Tong Cave Temples and Zen Gardens
• Birch Memorial Clock Tower
• Museum Darul Ridzuan
• Ho Yan Hor Museum
• Ipoh World at Han Chin Pet Soo
• Lost World Of Tambun

1. Sam Poh Tong

A cave with a temple towards the southern part of Ipoh, which was first discovered by a Buddhist monk. This temple is filled with small Buddha shrines and an ornamental garden. There is a pond in the middle, encircled with rocks. This place is known for its beautiful artwork and ancient history. Tourists love to know how this place was discovered and how sacred this place is still being considered by the local people. Local buses leave from Ipoh which can take tourists to Sam Poh Tong.

Location: Gunung Rapat, Ipoh 30540, Malaysia Timings: 8:00am-3:30pm

Must Read: 10 Best Penang Beach Resorts For An Unforgettable Malaysian Holiday

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2. Perak Tong

6 kms north from the main city, this lonely cave with an ancient temple was first discovered in 1926 by a Chinese Buddhist monk. This place is famous for its wide view of scenic beauty. There is a huge statue of Buddha in a sitting posture which is bound to make you awestruck. The hilltop ambience adds on to the enchanting feeling which this place will surely give you.

Location: Jln Kuala Kangsar, Ipoh 30540, Malaysia. Timings: 8 am to 4 pm

Suggested Read: 10 Indian Restaurants In Ipoh That Make You Feel At Home With Their Indian Flavours

3. Ipoh Railway Station

Wandering what’s there in a railway station? Every city has one. That’s where Ipoh stands different. It’s majestic railway station’s history goes long back. Many even tend to compare it with Taj Mahal in Agra. Ipoh’s railway station can be considered as an architectural genius with huge magnificent pillars and broad arches at the entry of the station, giving it a Victorian background. Ipoh’s railway station too has a lot of historical stories to offer and any tourist visiting the place must not miss this huge structural brilliance.

Location: Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab. Ipoh 30000, Malaysia Timings: 8 am to 4 pm

Suggested Read: 10 Top Malaysian Restaurants That Will Treat Your Taste Buds Like None Other

4. Keh Look Tong Cave Temples and Zen Gardens

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Amongst all the other temple, keh Look Tong too is a very ancient temple under a secluded cave which was not discovered until 1920. A sculpture of a laughing Buddha along with three Bodhisattvas, is present in this temple. There is a beautiful cave just beyond the temple which add to the beauty of this place further opening up to a beautiful garden with gallant flowers and a whole lot of flora, known as the Zen Gardens. This place is 8 kms southwards from Ipoh.

Location: Gunung Rapat, Ipoh 40350, Malaysia. Timings: 8:00am – 7:00pm.

5. Birch Memorial Clock Tower

Birch Memorial Clock Tower is a magnificent monument in Ipoh built in 1909. It was built in the memory of James Birch who was the first British resident of Perak, and its biggest attraction is the 1.95m diameter bell. A huge horizontal band of sculpture, featuring Moses, Buddha, Shakespeare and Charles Darwin is present here. There are tourists crowding this place during maximum hours. This place still has the touch of the colonial world and it will surely grow a lot of interest in the hearts of the tourists.

Location: Jalan Dato’ Sagor, Ipoh, Malaysia

Suggested Read: Hiking In Malaysia: 10 Best Places That’ll Add More Thrill To Your Vacay

6. Museum Darul Ridzuan

This museum was built back in 1926, holding the ancient history of this place and how civilization crept into this place. This museum displays the history of tin mining and the art of forestry. Due to heavy wear and tear through the year, this museum has been renovated a couple number of times for betterment, but that has not let its charm fade away. This museum should be definitely visited when one travels to Ipoh.

Location: 2022 Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, Ipoh, Malaysia Timings: 9:30am-5:00pm from Saturdays to Thursdays, and 9:30am-12:15pm and 2:45 pm – 5:00 pm on Fridays

7. Town Hall

Ipoh town hall is indeed one of the most majestic building structure in the whole city. Built back in 1916, the building is shiny white which makes it perfect for photo shoots and wedding shoots. The tourists can enter the premises of the town hall and can see the inner structure of this gigantic building. Though traditionally used for occasions, the town hall is now mostly considered as a tourist site.

Location: Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, Ipoh, Malaysia. Timings: 8 am to 5 pm

Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Thailand For Your Fun-Filled Day Trips With Friends & Family

8. Ho Yan Hor Museum

This museum is at a street corner of Ipoh, it is two storey and once you enter the place, you can know all about the life history and the struggles of the owner of this museum, Mr. Ho Kai Cheong. What is a must try is the Ho Yan Hor herbal tea which has the flavour of the place stitched in every sip. There is no entry fee hence anyone can visit this place for some fun times!

Location: 1 Jalan Bijeh Timah, Ipoh 30000, Malaysia

9. Ipoh World at Han Chin Pet Soo

This beautiful, warm, and serene museum has a lot of handicraft products to offer. Ipoh World is an education based non-profit organization which promotes the tourism of Perak and upholds all its beautiful sites. It is Malaysia’s first hakka tin mining museum located at the end point of Ipoh. The museum is beautifully filled with antique pieces which will surely enthrall the tourists.

Location: 3 Jalan Bijeh Timah, Ipoh 30000, Malaysia Timings: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm

Suggested Read: 10 Street Food In Kuala Lumpur You Cannot Afford To Miss On!

10. Lost World Of Tambun

One of the best amusement and water park of Malaysia, this is nothing but a total fun experience for anyone who has a ticket. A place for people of all ages, this is surely one massive crowd puller in Ipoh. A complete make believe world which will take you on a roller coaster ride.

Location: No. 1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1 | Perak Darul Ridzuan, Ipoh 31150, Malaysia Timings: 11 am to 11 pm

Further Read: 8 Places Every Backpacker Must See On Their Trip To Malaysia

There is a wide range of sites for tourism to flourish in Ipoh, and you do not want to miss any of it! Visit Ipoh on your next visit to Malaysia with TravelTriangle and have an experience like never before.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Ipoh

What is Ipoh known for?

Ipah is often known as the ‘Gateway to the Cameron Highlands’. It is known for its popular attraction, Sam Poh Tong. This is the oldest limestone cave and Buddhist temple in this city of Malaysia.

What can I do in Ipoh?

1. Trek through Sam Poh Tong trail 2. Shop at Memory Lane 3. Relish dim-sums at Jalan Leong Sin Nam street 4. Take a stroll at D.R. Seenivasagam Park 5. Go on a heritage walk on the Ipoh Heritage Trail 6. Indulge in painting in Funtasy House Trick Art

What is there to do in Ipoh at night?

Ipoh has a number of good cafes and other places where you can hangout at night including: 1. Ipoh White Coffee 2. Vintage Cafe And Guesthouse 3. STG Ipoh Oldtown 4. Plan B (Ipoh) 5. Bubble Tea

How far is Penang from Ipoh?

Penang is about 160 km (159.7 km) away from Ipoh and can be reached in approximately 2 hours.

What is the best time to visit Ipoh?

January to February and May to September is the best time to visit Ipoh. These months experience less rainfall and warm temperature. The weather is suitable for sightseeing and other activities.

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Ipoh Travel Guide: All You Need To Plan A Trip To Ipoh

Ipoh, Perak’s capital city may not be as famous as its “neighbors”, Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Cameron Highlands. But as one of the most populated cities in Malaysia, Ipoh has a lot to be proud of!

Back in the late 19th century, the discovery of bountiful tin deposits led to the city’s rapid development. Chinese immigrants came over to seek their fortune and their influence and descendants can still be found all over the city. The British had a strong influence in Ipoh too – most notably, by the  colonial-style buildings  left behind.

These days, Ipoh is home to many retirees. And the industry has shifted to cement, food, and tourism. There are a lot of Ipoh attractions to explore on both sides of the Kinta River – Ipoh Old Town (west side) and Ipoh New Town (east side). Especially if it’s your first trip to Ipoh!

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Things To Do

It’s best to be up early so you can do some sightseeing before the afternoon heat kicks in. We would leave touring of cave temples to the afternoon though since these places have their own natural breeze.

Rain usually hits in the later afternoon or evening. Luckily, Ipoh has a fair share of boutique cafes, shopping malls, and spa centers. In addition to a couple of nice museums and galleries if you want something that’s rainproof.

Parks like Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village , Gunung Lang Recreational Park , or Mirror Lake ( Tasik Cermin ) are full of greenery and have scenic views of limestone karsts.

Ipoh’s nightlife is somewhat limited, but you can still find something to do after dinner.

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Popular Attractions

First-time visitors Ipoh will want to check out Ipoh Old Town first. And it’s possible to explore Ipoh Old Town on foot. You can see many landmarks if you take on the  Ipoh heritage walk . You can get a map from the  Ipoh World website  (a volunteer organization that aims to preserve Ipoh’s heritage).

Street art is another highlight of exploring Ipoh New Town and Ipoh Old Town.

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It’s no wonder that Kek Look Tong translates to Cave of Great Happiness! Visitors who look upon, let alone step into the temple will immediately…

Sam Poh Tong Temple – Mesmerizing Limestone Cave Temple

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple is one of the oldest in Ipoh! The humble Buddhist temple has been welcoming worshipers and visitors for many years….

Famous Food

Eating local food should be your priority in Ipoh. Starting with breakfast ! Ipoh has many traditional coffee shops, hawker centers, and dim sum restaurants !

And while you’re in Ipoh, you have to try chicken rice , white coffee , tau fu fa , and salted chicken .

Red Mountain Sin Yoon Loong White Coffee – Our Experience

Red Mountain Sin Yoon Loong White Coffee is in an industrial area far from the touristy part of Ipoh. It’s also hidden in a warehouse!…

Memories Ipoh By Morel Restaurant For Wood Fired Pizza And More

It’s easy to miss this restaurant if you are in Ipoh Old Town because of its plain exterior. Memories Ipoh By Morel Restaurant is by…

Chang Keong Dim Sum Restaurant – No Long Queues Necessary

Ipoh Old Town has its fair share of options when it comes to dim sum and Chang Keong Dim Sum Restaurant is one of them….

Sam Poh Restaurant In Tambun, Ipoh – Go-To For Locals

Sam Poh Restaurant is not halal. Nor is it suitable for parties and weddings. But for casual meals, it’s very popular among the local crowd!…

Dimsum Paradise – Reliable Branch In Ipoh Garden

Many dim sum eateries are closed in the middle of the week. But not Dimsum Paradise! This is the first of two branches in Ipoh….

Red Brick Kitchen In Ipoh – Hidden Café With A Scenic View

Red Brick Kitchen is a new addition to existing upscale dining options in Ipoh. They have a great head start thanks to a boost from…

Zhen Hi Hao Dim Sum Restaurant – Hidden Location With Easy Parking

Zhen Hi Hao Dim Sum Restaurant is in Ipoh town but out of sight from the main tourist attractions. Because of this, it is a…

Paloh Street Food Paradise – New Weekend Food Street In Ipoh

For a long time, there was only one food street in Ipoh after sundown. Now, tourists have another food street to explore in the evening….

Ming Yue Confectionery – Reputable Pastry Shop In Ipoh (Mooncakes!)

If you want freshly made mooncakes, Ming Yue Confectionery in Ipoh is the go-to place for many. This includes locals as well as tourists. Thus,…

Ipoh has a strong cafe culture. And you’ll find cafes all over Ipoh too. Close to Kong Heng Square  in Ipoh Old Town is an entire street with excellent hipster cafes in a row.

If you have your own car, you can explore the cafes in Canning Garden too.

Signature 49 Cafe – Stylish Eatery With Coffee, Cake, And Mains

Signature 49 Café in Ipoh Old Town might catch your eye because it is next to other cafes. This is a new café too. But…

Little Allegra Bakery – Hidden Cosy Café With Wonderful Bakes

If you have not heard of Little Allegra Bakery, it is time to take note of it! We did not know of its existence until…

Omni Coffee Roasters – Coffee Specialist Café At Seri Botani Ipoh

For anyone living in Bandar Seri Botani area, Omni Coffee Roasters is a must-visit if you like coffee. But is it worth the visit if…

10 Studio Café – Western Coffee And Bespoke Cakes At Tambun, Ipoh

10 Studio Café should be on your radar if you happen to be in Tambun! Because Tambun does not have a lot of options if…

Coffee Camp 612 – Plant Filled Café At Ipoh Kinta Riverfront

Coffee Camp 612 is getting some attention for their unusual camping theme interior filled with live plants. They have a good location overlooking the river…

Flufff Dessert Cafe In Ipoh – Souffle Pancakes In A Trendy Setting

For a café that specializes in Japanese souffle pancakes, you can check out Flufff in Ipoh. This relative newcomer has other desserts to offer customers…

Crema 65 – A Café At Greentown Business Centre, Ipoh

For want of more Ipoh cafes to visit, Crema 65 should be on your list. As Cream 65 has its own way of staying on…

Kommons – Café At Jalan Raja Dihilir Inside Travelodge Hotel Ipoh

Spacious, minimalist cafe with plenty of natural lighting? Kommons is a relatively new space for hanging out with friends in Ipoh. What do they specialize…

Être Patisserie – Chic Café In Canning Garden With Delish Pastries!

You might just miss this photogenic café in a single-story house at Canning Garden, Ipoh. It is one of many charming cafes in Ipoh. And…

Most shopping malls in Ipoh open from 10am to 10pm. They are convenient for getting essentials under one roof. The most popular malls in Ipoh are AEON Kinta City and Ipoh Parade.

Besides shopping malls, there are also traditional pastry shops to check out. Heong peah, kaya puffs, and egg tarts make for great snacks!

Night markets not to be underestimated too. You can try street snacks, have a fresh bowl of laksa, or get fruit and freshly made sugarcane juice! The night market in Ipoh changes location every day of the week.

Shopping Malls In Ipoh – Where To Go To Escape A Rainy Day

Visiting a shopping mall is how locals usually escape the heat (or rain). It’s a very popular pastime for families on the weekends since the…

Ipoh’s small airport has limited flights but the main link into and out of Ipoh is the  North-South highway . And there is the ETS train as well which you can take from Ipoh Railway Station in Ipoh Old Town.

Here are some detailed guides on how to get around Ipoh. Or how to go to other nearby cities from Ipoh. A popular destination for visitors from Ipoh is Cameron Highlands.

How To Go To Ipoh From Kuala Lumpur (Complete & Easy Guide)

The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh is uncomplicated. This is despite the bountiful limestone ranges that surround Ipoh. Electric trains connect the cities via…

How To Go To Ipoh From Penang – All Methods Covered! (Easy Guide)

Thinking about making a trip from Penang to Ipoh? Ipoh is also famous for food and British colonial architecture. But that’s where the similarities end!…

7 Ways For Getting Around Ipoh (All Transport Methods)

Even though Ipoh is the third most populated city in Malaysia, there are surprisingly not many transport and tour services in Ipoh! Locals rely on their own cars or…

Where To Stay In Ipoh

Ipoh’s stunning limestone hills are the backdrop of some 5-star resorts . There are also many hotels in downtown Ipoh (Greentown Ipoh or Ipoh New Town) that are more budget-friendly and close to eateries.

If you’ve got a big travel group, it’s more affordable to book a  homestay in Ipoh  rather than a hotel.

New Hotels In Ipoh With Great Locations And Amenities

The pandemic slowed the growth of new hotels in Ipoh. So, most of the hotels on this list are not brand new. They are just…

Where To Stay – Suggested Hotels In Ipoh For Different Budgets

Which is the best hotel in Ipoh for you? There are many to pick and choose from if you’re planning a staycation. There’s everything from 5-star…

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Frequently asked questions, how many days in ipoh is enough.

If this is your first time in Ipoh, one full day is enough to try some food, see one or two cave temples, and explore Ipoh Old Town. But if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace (and try even more food), 2 days is advisable.

Because there are some great attractions outside of Ipoh, you may want to add another day to do a day trip to either Taiping, Gopeng, Batu Gajah or Kuala Kangsar too.

Cameron Highlands is a 2-hour drive one way from Ipoh. And for this reason, it is more convenient to visit it while you are in Ipoh. But we don’t think you should skip Ipoh and head to Cameron Highlands straightaway. Both places have their own unique attractions (and Ipoh has the better food even if it is hotter). Check out our Cameron Highlands guide here.

How should you spend one day in Ipoh?

If you have just one day in Ipoh, check out Ipoh Old Town and Ipoh New Town on foot. A visit to Han Chin Pet Soo is highly recommended if you want to learn more about the history of Ipoh.

Besides explore the town, you can visit Gua Tempurung or at least one cave temple (we recommend Perak Cave temple or Kek Look Tong). If you still have time to spare, visit either Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge or Kellie’s Castle.

Why you should travel to Ipoh

For many, Ipoh’s delicious and affordable food is reason enough to come. The fact that Ipoh is close to Cameron Highlands is usually the second reason for most tourists.

But Ipoh’s rich history and unique limestone hills are not to be ignored either.

Ipoh Private Tour

If you don’t want to:

• Deal with parking
• Drive in an unfamiliar place
• Walk around in the heat
• Wait around for a taxi or bus

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6 Things to do in Ipoh + Tourist Spots

Ipoh is the capital city of Perak state in northwestern Malaysia. It is a tourist center, featuring cultural and culinary delights, street art and markets, and charming sceneries to make up a memorable trip.

One of the highlights of an Ipoh travel is Gopeng Gaharu Tea Valley, an ecotourism site with over 200,000 Agarwood trees. Kek Lok Tong Temple is another must-visit site with its impressive statue of Confucius and surrounding limestone hills. Sampling the local cuisine is an activity you cannot miss when you visit Ipoh. Some specialty dishes to look out for include Chicken and bean Sprouts, Salted Chicken, and Ipoh Sar Hor Fun. Checking out the city’s street art and diverse market offers is also fun. It will introduce you to various interesting finds you will love coming home with.

Getting to Ipoh is via the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, which serves daily flights from Singapore, Johor Bahru, and Langkawi.

1. Enjoy Ipoh Food & Coffee

Ipoh Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Ipoh (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews  | Home Rentals/Airbnb

Ipoh Tours & Discounts

Malaysia  WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Malaysia  |  Kuala Lumpur Itinerary  |  Singapore Travel Guide .

More travel tips coming up! In the meantine, enjoy this  quick list  of attractions and tourist spots in Ipoh. To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Ipoh Old Town

Location : Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

3. MAPS Theme Park

4. Concubine Lane

Location : 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

5. Ipoh Town Hall

Location : 2700, Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

6. Ipoh Railway Station

Where to go near Ipoh

Kuala Lumpur

Location : Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

Kuala Lumpur Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Top discounts

KL Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Malaysia 4G Data SIM Card (MY Pick up)

Malaysia 4G Pocket WiFi Hotspot (MY Pick up)

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Ipoh that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Ipoh

Ipoh tourist spots, things to do in Ipoh, where to go in Ipoh & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Ipoh

Click below & search recommended Ipoh hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Airbnb Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Ipoh Essentials & Top Discounts

Malaysia mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease &amp; confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

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February 12, 2024 at 10:35 pm

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Ideal duration: 1-2 Days

Best Time: December to March Read More

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"Gateway to Cameron Highlands"

Ipoh tourism.

Ipoh is the capital of Perak and Malaysia’s third-largest city. It is located between George Town and Kuala Lumpur and is a popular destination for lovers of adventure, art, heritage, and architecture. From exploring breathtaking limestone caves and kayaking along the Kinta River to trying out the famous Ipoh white coffee and strolling through the city to find gorgeous street art, this city has much to offer!

Not only is Ipoh the Gateway to the Cameron Highlands, it also enthralls visitors with its gorgeous street art and heritage sites. Located 180 kilometres north of Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh presents many adventures – visitors can explore an abandoned twentieth-century castle at Kellie’s castle, hike to 2000-year-old temples and limestone caves, water raft along the Kampar River or opt to discover the city on a bike. Divided into Old Town (west side) and New Town (east side) by the Kinta River, Ipoh presents a unique mix of old-school charm and modern amenities – the pubs, restobars, and clubs are as welcoming as the ancient Buddhist sanctums. A foodie's city, the local cuisine of Ipoh comprises freshly caught seafood and Chinese delicacies like Sar Hor Fun (single pot noodles) and Tau Fu Fa (soy pudding). The Heong Peng and white coffee are must-try specialties.

Places To Visit In Ipoh

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Perak Cave Temple

Lost World of Tambun

Funtasy House Trick Art

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

DR Seenivasagam Park

Top Hotels In Ipoh

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₽ 597 onwards

₽ 1,637 onwards

Top Food and Dinning Collection in Ipoh

Food & Drink

Top 19 Cafes in Ipoh for Delicious Food & Cosy Ambience

Ipoh White Coffee - 12 Popular Coffee Cafes and Roasteries

10 Indian Restaurants in Ipoh for Spicy, Rich & Flavourful Food

17 Bars in Ipoh for a Night of Booze and Cocktails

19 Vegetarian Restaurants in Ipoh for Soul Satisfying Food

Halal Food in Ipoh - 12 Best Eateries You Cannot Miss

More on Ipoh Travel

Street art of ipoh.

• Respect the local culture and opt for conservative clothes, especially while visiting the temples. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tees, and short skirts while visiting religious sites or nearby villages.
• Most local stores close by 5:00 PM so get shopping done by then.
• Restaurants, cafés and pubs are open till late at night.
• Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but small shops are mostly cash-only. Carry change in the local currency for easy transactions. 24/7 ATMs are spread across the city.

Ipoh Nightlife

Cave temples in ipoh, best time to visit ipoh, top stories about ipoh tourism.

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‘A second rebirth’: Ipoh reawakens to its tourism ambitions

IPOH, Malaysia - Singaporean Chan Wai Hoe used to take the bus to visit his parents in Ipoh once every two to three months, but now he hops on a direct flight which takes only about an hour.

“It saves time. Taking the overnight bus is tiring, and it takes six to eight hours (to get) from Singapore to Ipoh,” the 44-year-old lecturer told The Straits Times.

The capital of Perak, some 200km north of Kuala Lumpur, is seeing hordes of visitors and tourists, especially on weekends, thanks partly to direct flights from Singapore.

Flights between Singapore and Ipoh were first operated by the former Tigerair Singapore in May 2015, and subsequently by Scoot from July 2017, following Scoot’s merger with Tigerair Singapore. AirAsia also began flying this route in November 2018.

AirAsia doubled its average weekly frequencies from four flights per week to eight in 2024, while Scoot tripled its average weekly flights from six to 18 in the same year. Today, there are 10 daily flights by Scoot and AirAsia, according to Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).

Efforts are being made by the state, community and businesses to breathe new life into the historical and multicultural enclave that has long been known as a retirement haven.

Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke said in February: “Ipoh has a lot of potential... I was told that over the last six months, every flight that comes to Ipoh (from Singapore) has been 90 per cent full, and it shows that the demand for Singapore to Ipoh is high.

About 30 to 50 per cent of visitors are from Singapore, making up the largest foreign tourist group, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Perak chapter chairman Tony Wong told ST.

The number of Singapore tourists flying into Ipoh in 2024 rose nearly 8 per cent between January and May compared with the previous year, according to data from Malaysia’s immigration department.

A two-hour express train service from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh, which started in August, shaves around 40 minutes off the usual travel time and is expected to pull in more visitors.

The authorities are bullish about Ipoh as a hip tourist destination.

After all, it is Visit Perak Year 2024. The state is eyeing eight million domestic and 350,000 international tourists in 2024, compared with some 7.5 million domestic and 867,665 international visitors the year before.

Tourism officials set the target for visitor levels for 2024 before they knew the final numbers for 2023. The big jump in international numbers in 2023 was a surprise to them. In 2022, there were 6.8 million domestic and 333,306 international visitors.

It is difficult for the authorities to obtain exact figures, as some visitors are day-trippers while others may stay in unregistered accommodation.

After Ipoh awoke from years of economic slumber about 12 years ago, tourists started flocking in as crumbling centuries-old shophouses in its Old Town were converted into stylish guest houses and hip cafes.

Ipoh made its wealth on a tin mining boom in the early 19th century, and the last vestiges of the colonial era remain, like the railway station and High Court.

An alley with mostly vacant and neglected buildings was transformed in 2016 and rejuvenated as the tourist hot spot Concubine Lane. It is lined with cafes and shops selling street food and apparel, and draws many visitors on weekends.

A thriving street art scene emerged here after Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic painted murals around Ipoh Old Town, which followed his 2012 street art which successfully captured the essence of Penang’s George Town.

Ipoh was listed in Lonely Planet’s top 10 destinations in Asia in 2016, and was described in The New York Times’ travel section in 2018 as “roaring back in style”.

The number of passengers using Ipoh’s Sultan Azlan Shah Airport surged to 222,606 in 2015 from 98,768 in 2014. In 2018, the figure skyrocketed to 894,737. From January to June 2024, some 43,000 passengers passed through the airport per month on average, compared with about 8,000 passengers 10 years ago, said MAHB.

The Covid-19 pandemic cut short Ipoh’s transcendent rise, and local businesses say the economy and tourism sector have not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. They add that more needs to be done to rejuvenate the city and foster greater awareness of its rich heritage and history among visitors from outside Perak.

Despite the hordes of tourists, small businesses say they are not earning as much as before the pandemic, and most shops in the Old Town shut at 6.30pm.

Ipoh has always been a stopover for people travelling up north or down south, either for a quick meal stop or a one-nighter, said architect Seow Wee Liam, who returned to Malaysia after having worked abroad. “A second rebirth is very much needed,” he told ST.

In 2019, he rented and refurbished a bar and restaurant, rescuing it from 11 years of abandonment and giving it a fresh lease of life.

Formerly called FMS – an acronym for Federated Malay States – and thought to be Malaysia’s oldest bar, it is now Durbar At FMS, a restaurant serving colonial British-Hainanese cuisine such as Hainanese chicken chop and baked stuffed crab.

As a young boy, Mr Seow often used to pass by the colonial building where his restaurant is located, as it was near his school. Its incredible past inspired him to rebuild the pre-war structure.

“It’s such a landmark, an institution to so many people. It used to be a planters’ and miners’ bar, where they would stop by in between travelling through estates.”

The facade of the building, which dates back to 1906, has been retained while the interior has been decorated with historical memorabilia and old photographs.

He said more can be done to raise awareness of the city’s storied past and that a number of historical attractions, inactive museums and landmarks such as the Ipoh Railway Station are in need of refurbishment. 

MAH’s Mr Wong agreed that most tourists are there merely for short layovers, adding that “there is a lack of activities to retain tourists for a longer duration in Ipoh”.

Better maintenance is needed for natural attractions and historical sites such as Gunung Lang Recreational Park, added Mr Wong.

Although 2024 is Visit Perak Year, many sporting events, art festivals and musical performances which will be held this year in the city are not well-publicised, noted Mr Seow.

There also appears to be a lack of coordination among stakeholders when it comes to promoting Ipoh as a destination.

“There is not enough input, participation and collaboration from stakeholders – for example, hotels, F&B outlets and transportation companies. Everyone is doing their own little thing,” he said.

Despite its rich history, finding details about the city’s past or its attractions can be difficult, which may deter tourists.

“My tourist friends say that information is scattered and sparse. It should be compiled in one spot where it’s easy to see,” said a local artist who wanted to be known only as Kareem.

He noted that in a town where the majority are older people, older business owners may find it harder to keep up with technology to promote their products.

One project to inject new life into the city is Sunway Ipoh Mall, part of Sunway City in Ipoh, which hopes to recreate the successful Sunway City in Selangor. Expected to be completed in 2027, the mall, set to be Perak’s biggest, is just one of the latest projects by Sunway Group in its township nestled in a quiet corner of Ipoh, cocooned by 260-million-year-old limestone hills, caves, jungles and geothermal springs.

Along with an upcoming medical centre and university next to it, also built by Sunway, it is hoped the development will revive the state’s capital, and create job opportunities for at least 5,000 locals.

Ipoh, with a population of about 850,000, has long been seen as a retirement town, with many youth leaving for Penang, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Perak state has the highest percentage of residents aged 60 and over – 14.9 per cent.

Located in Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Tambun constituency, Sunway City Ipoh already has a theme park, hotel, residences and a luxury resort, with a gross development value of RM2 billion (S$595 million).

An additional RM4 billion worth of investments by Sunway is planned for the 545ha township over the next decade.

“Sunway City Ipoh is my contribution to my home state and its beloved people. The older Perakians would know that this place was a sleepy hollow when Sunway first set foot here back in the early 1990s,” Sunway Group founder and chairman Jeffrey Cheah said in his speech at the ground-breaking ceremony of Sunway Ipoh Mall on Aug 1.

With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant food scene and majestic natural beauty, Ipoh has seen a surge of international tourists in recent years, he said.

“You can get all kinds of food here, it’s nice and cheap,” Tan Sri Cheah told ST.

“It (the mall) will bring a lot of business. By how much? I think by leaps and bounds for Ipoh. The government... needs the private sector, people like us to help them deliver more products of tourism value. This is something that we are contributing to.”

He also hopes it will help to encourage younger generations to remain in Ipoh.

“It has been said that Perak’s biggest export is neither pomelo nor white coffee, but human talent. It is my hope that by establishing a thriving ecosystem through an integrated township like Sunway City Ipoh, it will help reverse this trend and also attract the best and brightest from around the world to make Ipoh their home.”

Meanwhile, back at the fringes of Ipoh Old Town, Mr Seow is hoping that one day, he might rebuild the hotel that used to be above his establishment.

“There are some challenges, but we are studying it.”

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Hidden Gems: The Top Halal Restaurants In Ipoh, Malaysia

Published: August 24, 2024

by Melanie Sigman

Looking for the best halal restaurants in Ipoh ? This charming Malaysian city offers a variety of delicious options for those seeking halal food. From traditional Malay dishes to international cuisine, Ipoh has something for everyone. Whether you're craving spicy nasi lemak, savory satay, or a sweet treat like cendol, you won't be disappointed. Many of these eateries are family-owned, ensuring authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Plus, Ipoh's rich history and vibrant culture make dining here an experience in itself. Ready to discover where to eat in this culinary paradise? Let's dive into the top spots that will satisfy your taste buds.

Discovering Halal Delights in Ipoh

Ipoh, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a variety of halal dining options. Whether you're a local or a tourist, these hidden gems will satisfy your cravings.

Authentic Malay Cuisine

Malay cuisine in Ipoh is a must-try. These restaurants serve traditional dishes that are both delicious and halal.

Restoran New Hollywood

• Located in Taman Canning, this spot is famous for its roti canai and nasi lemak. The bustling atmosphere adds to the charm.

Nasi Vanggey

• Known for its flavorful nasi kandar, this place offers a variety of curries and side dishes. It's a local favorite for a reason.

Restoran Simpang Tiga

• This restaurant offers a mix of Minang, Malay, and Indonesian dishes. The ayam penyet and rendang are particularly popular.

Middle Eastern Flavors

For those craving Middle Eastern cuisine, Ipoh has some excellent halal options that won't disappoint.

Hadramout Paradise

• Specializing in Yemeni cuisine, this restaurant serves mouth-watering mandi and kebabs. The cozy setting makes it perfect for family dinners.

Arabian Nights

• Located in Greentown, this place offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, including shawarma and falafel. The ambiance is both elegant and inviting.

Indian Cuisine

Indian food lovers will find plenty of halal options in Ipoh. These restaurants offer a range of dishes from different regions of India .

Pakeeza Restaurant

• This spot is known for its North Indian cuisine. The butter chicken and naan are crowd-pleasers.

Restoran M. Salim

• Famous for its biryani, this restaurant also offers a variety of other Indian dishes. The mutton curry is a must-try.

Chinese Halal Cuisine

Chinese cuisine with a halal twist is also available in Ipoh. These restaurants offer a unique blend of flavors.

Restoran Fuziah Nasi Ayam Pasar Bulat

• Known for its halal Hainanese chicken rice, this place is a hit among locals and tourists alike.

Restoran Hj Sharin Low Grand

• Specializing in halal Chinese seafood, this restaurant offers dishes like butter prawns and chili crab.

Western Halal Options

If you're in the mood for Western cuisine, Ipoh has some great halal options to choose from.

Greentown Dimsum Café

• This café offers a mix of Western and Asian dishes, including halal dim sum and pasta. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for brunch.

The Limestone's Fine Dining

• Located in Regalodge Hotel, this restaurant offers a variety of Western dishes. The steaks and lamb chops are particularly popular.

Street Food

Ipoh's street food scene is vibrant and offers many halal options. These spots are perfect for a quick bite.

Gerai Makan Botani

• Located in Bandar Seri Botani, this food court offers a variety of halal street food, from satay to char kway teow.

Medan Selera Dato Sagor

• This food court near Ipoh Padang offers a range of halal local dishes. The laksa and mee goreng are highly recommended.

Savoring Ipoh's Halal Delights

Ipoh offers a rich variety of halal restaurants that cater to all tastes. From traditional Malay dishes to modern fusion cuisine, there's something for everyone. Restoran Nasi Vanggey serves up mouth-watering nasi kandar, while Mee Rebus Ramli offers a unique twist on classic noodles. For those craving Western flavors, Greentown Dimsum Café provides a delightful mix of dim sum and other Asian dishes. Café de Rasa Sayang is perfect for a cozy meal with its diverse menu. Each spot ensures that you enjoy delicious, halal-certified food in a welcoming atmosphere. Exploring these hidden gems will make your visit to Ipoh unforgettable. Whether you're a local or a tourist , these restaurants promise a satisfying culinary experience. Don't miss out on the chance to taste the best halal food Ipoh has to offer.

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