Visiting Malaysia’s Leaning Tower, Teluk Intan
Did you know that aside from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, there’s another structure that shares its slanted nature? It’s called Menara Condong Teluk Intan and much like its Italian counterpart, this tower is also a famous attraction in its city.
Before being an attraction, however, it served other important purposes for the people of Teluk Intan. Join us here as we take a closer look at its rich history as well as what you can expect from the attraction to prepare you for your potential upcoming visit!
Best Time to Go
As much as possible, visit the Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan on weekdays so that it won’t be as crowded.
But if your only time to visit is on weekends, you have to get there bright and early to enjoy a somewhat less crowded tower–plus, the temperature wouldn’t be as hot.
Things to Know
Address: Lot 1&2, Komplex Menara Condong, Jalan Bandar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Number of floors: 3
Year opened: 1886
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Entrance fee: None
How to Get to There
Trains: There is no train station near Teluk Intan Tower, but what you can do is ride a train to Tapah Road and ride a taxi from there to the town. If you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur, a train ride to Tapah Road will last one hour and 51 minutes and cost approximately RM29.
Buses: If you want to save money on your trip to this tower, don’t worry! The town features various bus stops, with the nearest to the Leaning Tower being Bus Terminal Teluk Intan.
Furthermore, if you want to get around the town of Teluk Intan, you can also use this mode of transportation.
Taxis: There are also several taxis in Teluk Intan as well as its surrounding areas, making it one of the most convenient and popular modes of transportation. This is a great option for those who want to opt for a more private and comfortable journey as opposed to the hassle of commuting.
We do want to warn you, however, that some drivers are notorious for hiking up prices when they see a foreigner. When in doubt, always insist on using the fare metre.
Grab: Alternatively, you can always book a Grab if you feel more comfortable with a fixed rate. Plus, this service lets you book a ride from your current location, so it would be more convenient as opposed to hailing a cab from the street.
Car rental: Meanwhile, if you feel more comfortable doing things your way, we recommend renting a car to get to Teluk Intan. This way, you can take as many stopovers as you want and get unlimited bathroom breaks!
Things to See and Do in the Tower
Climb the three-storey tower
When seeing a majestic tower like this, your first instinct is to climb it to the very top, right? Well, luckily for you, Teluk Intan’s leaning tower is a fairly easy tower to conquer, as it only consists of three storeys, even though it looks taller from the outside.
Don’t worry, the spiral staircase here makes the climb easier! However, do keep in mind that the views once you get to the top won’t be as spectacular since the tower isn’t that tall and it’s located within a bustling town.
Fun fact:
During the olden days, the tower would also serve as a beacon for boats that were docking at the old Teluk Intan Port. Its height and strategic location made it perfect for guiding boats.
Aside from that, another way the tower’s height was utilised was by being used as a watchtower during the Japanese occupation in 1941.
Spend a nice day at the plaza
The plaza located outside the tower is just as beautiful and worth a visit. Here you can just stroll along and slow down time while you’re waiting for your turn to enter the tower.
Furthermore, you can also use this time to take tons of photos of the tower! Of course, it wouldn’t be a complete trip to this attraction without posing like you’re holding it up with your sheer upper body strength.
Learn about the tower’s water reservoir
Before it was ever considered the town’s most recognisable structure, the tower was originally built to supply water to the residents of the town. This is because this beautiful Chinese-style clocktower houses a water reservoir, which was reserved for emergencies and drought.
This container measures approximately 5m and is located on the upper level of the tower. Furthermore, it also played a part in the tower’s unique slanted structure, which we’ll get into more detail in just a bit.
Admire the tower’s architecture
From top to bottom, this tower looks amazing, to say the least. Right off the bat, you’ll notice that this pagoda is heavily inspired by Chinese architecture, especially when you see its bright colours, pillars and roofs.
Whether you’re a fan of architecture or not, it’s not hard to fall in love with the look of this tower. This is especially true if you visit it at night (which we highly recommend), as this is when the structure will be lit up with beautiful colourful lights!
Fun fact:
Teluk Intan’s tower developed its slanted appearance after a series of floods that occurred in 1889 and 1895 causing the soil foundations to soften. This, partnered with the weight of the water reservoir inside caused it to lean over one side—thus creating the iconic attraction.
Wait for the clock tower’s chime
Although the reservoir is still inside the tower, it no longer holds water. Instead, the town council and local residences decided to fit it with a clock designed by James Wilson Benson.
Fortunately, the clock is still operational today, and it still chimes every 15 minutes!
Feast on delicious dishes at the Leaning Tower Food Court
Address: Jalan Pasar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 16-859 5446
When you visit this attraction, you can’t miss out on the nearby food court where you’ll find various hawker stalls that serve must-try local delicacies. What’s great about eating here is that you won’t have to break the bank to get your daily fix!
Aside from hawker stalls that sell food, you’ll also find some merchants that sell toys and other souvenirs. Make sure to stop by this place before leaving so that you can get a special item to commemorate your visit to this iconic tower.
Where to Stay Nearby
Rick Resort Teluk Intan
Address: Lot 31156, Jalan Woo Saik Hong, Taman Tow Yuan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 10-236 1150
Pricing: $
Rick Resort Teluk Intan is a great option if you’re visiting the town with your family, as it’s more like a homestay. This being said, this “home” will truly make you feel comfortable thanks to its spacious rooms that are each fitted with huge plush beds.
Aside from the rooms themselves, you and your family will also have the pleasure of swimming in its outdoor pool! This pool is perfect for adults and kids alike, and the best part is that the temperature is just right so that you can spend hours splashing around.
Anson Bali Living
Address: 1861, Jalan Manggis, Taman Manggis, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 11-2629 1861
Pricing: $$
If you want your stay in Teluk Intan to feel like a vacation, check out Anson Bali Living. As you may have gleaned from its name, this resort aims to make you feel like you’re in Bali—and they’ve nailed it to a tee!
For starters, the rooms here feature charming interior designs, complete with white plush beds and even bathtubs. Lastly, of course, it wouldn’t be considered “Bali-esque” without featuring some lush greeneries, and this resort is full of them!
Rivertel
Address: Jalan Changkat Jong, 28H, Lorong Aman, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 5-620 5728
Pricing: $$
Rivertel is a solid option if you’re looking to stay in a hotel instead of a homestay/resort. It’s located in the heart of the town, including the Leaning Tower, and the best part is that it’s not too expensive.
Location and price aside, you’re still looking at a pretty solid choice because the hotel features world-class rooms, complete with essential amenities.
Also, if you love food, you’ll enjoy staying here, as it features a signature restaurant that serves delicious local and international dishes.
K Boutique Hotel
Address: 13A, Lorong Shahbandar 3, Pusat Perniagaan Intan Flora, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 5-620 5833
Pricing: $
K Boutique Hotel is something you should continue if you’re on a budget but don’t want to settle for less. There are various room types here, from suites to deluxe and more, and each of them comes with the essential amenities for a comfortable night’s stay.
Location-wise, it’s also a great option, as it sits in the heart of the town. All in all, this place is great if you’re going to be spending the majority of your time outside and you’re just looking for a temporary crash pad.
Grand Court Hotel
Address: G-3, Menara GSM, Jalan Padang Tembak, OFF Jalan Maharaja Lela, 36000 Teluk Intan, Malaysia
Phone: +60 5-622 6624
Pricing: $
Hotel Grand Court is another popular option for backpackers and budget travellers, in general. Don’t be fooled by the low rates, though, as they didn’t cut corners in terms of comfort and functionality, with the cosy rooms and amazing amenities.
Explore around and you’ll find a karaoke bar, a salon, and a massage centre. The icing on the cake, though, is the hotel’s sky bar—the perfect spot for a nightcap!
Where to Eat
Kopitiam Lau Fong
Address: 46, Jln Raja, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 10-391 7998
Pricing: $$
Kopitiam Lau Fong is a great nearby restaurant that specialises in local delicacies so if you’re craving Malay food, this may be the place for you. Some of their bestsellers here include curry noodles, chicken hor fun and of course, Malaysia’s national dish, nasi lemak.
Also, since this is a coffee shop, you can also expect them to offer a myriad of coffee and non-coffee drinks. These drinks taste good and they make for a great prop when taking photos alongside the cafe’s aesthetically pleasing interior.
Liew Kee (Ah Lek) Chee Cheong Fun
Address: 19, Jalan Pasir Bedamar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 12-460 7040
Pricing: $$
Liew Kee (Ah Lek) Chee Cheong Fun is a must-try for those who want to be immersed in the country’s rich cuisine without breaking the bank. You’ll find some of Malaysia’s best staples here but their focus is mainly on chee cheong fun, also known as rice noodle roll.
You’ll love about this particular version of this iconic dish is the perfect texture of the wrap. This wrap houses a variety of ingredients such as radish and dried shrimp–both of which work well together to create an amazing combination of flavour and texture.
Restoran Udang Galah Teluk Intan
Address: 1918, Jalan Sekolah, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 11-2642 7712
Pricing: $$
Restoran Udang Galah Teluk is a stone’s throw away from the leaning tower. They have a fairly varied menu that caters to different kinds of tastes–including a separate section for vegetarians!
The biggest highlight of their menu, however, is undoubtedly the prepared lobster. For only RM26, you can already treat yourself to above-average sweet and tender lobster meat, but you can also pay more if you want a higher grade.
Restoran Apong D’Hilir
Address: Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 13-420 3386
Pricing: $
Restoran Apong D’Hilir will treat you to a unique and special dining experience in Teluk Intan and we recommend it for families and couples. Here, you’ll get to feast on delicious local dishes while enjoying a scenic view of a calm river.
Views and ambience aside, this restaurant is a must-try because of its tasty offerings, which include takoyaki, nasi goreng, lamb chop, tom yam and more. Furthermore, they also serve a wide variety of seafood that are to die for, with the most famous one being prawn noodles.
Kedai Kopi Ah Wah
Address: Jalan Syed Abu Bakar, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 12-469 7339
Pricing: $$
If you’re looking for a great place to chill and slow down time, Kedai Kopi Ah Wah is a great option that’s just nearby. This humble establishment offers a solid selection of Chinese breakfast and lunch meals.
One of their most famous offerings is the mee rebus, which is a famous sweet potato-based noodle soup dish that’s perfect to eat on rainy days. Aside from that, they also serve various coffee drinks that can help you get energised to start your day right!
Nearby Attractions in Teluk Intan
Hock Soon Keong Temple
Address: Jalan Pasar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
In the centre of the city is a stunning building packed with shopping both above and below ground. Inside you’ll find shops like Calvin Klein, H&M, L’Occitane en Provence, Levi’s, and the LEGO store, along with a handful of restaurants, a cinema, and wonderful outdoor space.
Teluk Intan Firefly Marvels River Cruise
Address: No, 8-A, Cabin Tanah Rezab JPS, Jalan Wah Keng Jooi, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +6017-907 1975
It would be such a shame if you left Teluk Intan without experiencing Firefly Wonders’ amazing cruise, as it’s one of the town’s best highlights. Here, you’ll get a chance to go on beautiful, peaceful and educational cruises that will let you admire birds, fireflies and sea creatures.
Our advice? Go to their website and book their C Package, which includes a heritage trail and prawn fishing. This way, you’ll have an easier time going from the tower to the river–plus, you’ll get to catch and release some prawns so win-win!
Sultan Idris II Mosque, Teluk Intan, Perak
Address: Jalan Sekolah, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Phone: +60 5-622 5895
Sultan Idris II Mosque is a great place to visit if you want to escape the city noise and admire the beautiful architecture at the same time. We love to treat this place as sort of a temporary sanctuary where you can pray and rest before continuing on your journey.
It’s a beautiful mosque that consists of striking colours, beautiful patterns and massive pillars. Also, what’s great about this mosque is that it has a huge parking space so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot to leave your car when visiting!
Apps to Download for a Trip to Leaning Tower Teluk Intan
Travel Malaysia: A pocket travel guide to Malaysia
Maps.me: Offline map of the world
XE Currency App: Real-time currency exchange rate app
Grab: Ride-hailing app of Southeast Asia
Google Translate: word translation with offline capabilities
CatchThatBus: Bus ticket booking app