Top 20 Places to Visit in Ipoh for a Worthwhile Trip
If we’re going to name some favourite cities in Malaysia, Ipoh is up there. Aside from being one of the cleanest cities in the country, it also houses beautiful natural attractions like caves, limestone hills and more!
It’s no wonder Ipoh is one of the best reasons why Malaysia is the definitive vacation destination. Don’t believe us? Well, join us as we visit the most interesting places in Ipoh that are sure to give you fun and memorable experiences. Let’s go!
Lost World of Tambun
Website: https://sunwaylostworldoftambun.com
Address: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1, Sunway City Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-542 8888
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Friday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Weekends: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
The Lost World of Tambun is the ultimate playground for people of all ages, as it features a water world, a theme park and even a petting zoo! This selection of attractions allows guests to experience endless hours of fun, regardless of their idea of a good time–hooray for inclusivity!
The theme park features rides that are great for kids but also ones that will leave you walking in curved lines afterwards. As for the water world, you can expect to experience a refreshing time there, especially if you go down one of its slides that will take you to different twists and turns.
Pro tip:
- If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, we recommend checking out the park’s Crystal Spa Treatment, which opens from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
- Make sure to stay until late at night to witness some of the exciting fire performances held across the theme park!
- You’ll have a higher chance of getting a discount if you book your tickets through online apps like Klook.
Concubine and Market Lane
Address: Concubine Ln30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Concubine and Market Lane are two vibrant streets where you can spend a lovely relaxing afternoon. As you stroll along these lively lanes, you’ll be greeted with various establishments like restaurants, cafes and boutique shops where you can buy unique Malaysian souvenirs.
These souvenirs aren’t the unique things around here, as there are also unusual snacks you can try like rainbow cheese toast. If you’re looking for traditional street food, this is also the place to be, as you’ll find several hawker stalls along these lanes.
Pro tip:
- If you want a more pleasant experience as you stroll along these streets, we recommend visiting at nighttime so that the breeze will be much cooler.
- You can also find a boatload of street murals and other art pieces where you can take Instaworthy photos–make sure to get your cameras ready!
Kong Heng Square
Address: 75a, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
If you’re looking for the best place to shop for local goods, then look no further than Kong Heng Square. It features rows of stores that offer artisan products and traditional Malaysian handicrafts that are perfect to bring home to your loved ones.
Aside from being a street market, Kong Heng Square is also a famous hangout spot for people looking to spend a chill day. The place itself is an attraction in itself as well, as it exudes this certain rustic charm that’s perfect for taking photos.
Pro tip:
- If all the walking left you hungry and tired, you can wind down by Plan B Cafe. This place serves a myriad of delicious coffee drinks and brunch dishes.
The Kinta Riverfront Walk
— From: farhan_saaban
Address: 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Once the sun sets, we recommend heading to the Kinta Riverfront Walk to catch stunning colourful views. This amazing sight is courtesy of the thousands of vibrant lights wrapped around the trees and posts, making the place look like Christmas at any month of the year.
If you’re looking for a cheap but awesome date idea, this place is for you! You can simply get lost in the beauty of the kaleidoscope-like colours while you stand along the Black Bridge–simple but romantic!
BookXcess Kong Heng
Address: 91, Jln Sultan Yussof, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-246 0019
Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
If your idea of fun is to be surrounded by the finest pieces of literature, we recommend stopping by BookXcess Kong Heng. What makes this different from countless other bookstores in the city is that it was once an important bank in Ipoh—pretty cool, right?
This is why you’ll see that instead of bookshelves, the books are placed inside little bank vaults and safety deposit boxes–talk about recycling! Not much has been changed from the original design of the bank, which is why the bookstore has this old-timey charm that we love to bits.
Yasmin Ahmad Museum
— From: in_between25
Website: https://facebook.com/yasminatkongheng/
Address: 91, Jln Sultan Yussof, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 16-417 7822
Operating hours:
- Saturday to Monday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
As you may have gleaned from its name, this museum is dedicated to one of the best filmmakers in Malaysia, the late Yasmin Ahmad. This is why you’ll find several remnants of her works scattered across this underground museum like her old photos, quotes and more.
You can even find some of the set pieces she used during her time, which are pretty cool to see on display just the way they were in their scenes.
Overall, this is one of the best museums in Ipoh, as it’s sort of a tribute to the great director along with her best accomplishments in the industry.
Pro tip:
- You can stop by the museum while you’re in Concubine Lane so you can hit two birds with one stone!
Ipoh Railway Station
— From: ch3rry_travels
The Ipoh Railway Station is one of the best showcases of architecture in the entire state. It takes inspiration from both Moorish and Victorian-style architecture, which is evident from the dome-shaped tower in the middle as well as the overall facade.
It’s a great place to visit if you want to be immersed in the state’s rich history, as this is one of the oldest standing buildings in Ipoh. It originally opened in 1935 and is still operational to this day, which is quite amazing.
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
Website: https://www.sunwayhotels.com/the-banjaran
Address: 1, Persiaran Lagoon, Sunway 3, 31150 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-210 7777
The Banjaran Hotsprings Resort is one of the best honeymoon places in Malaysia. It’s nestled in the middle of lush greeneries and it will spoil you with world-class facilities and services.
The services offered in this resort focus on wellness like massages and treatments. Meanwhile, if you just want to spend time relaxing while listening to the sounds of nature, you can spend time at the massive outdoor swimming pool.
Pro tip:
- Try checking their website before visiting. They often hold exclusive promos and deals there that can help you save more money!
Gunung Lang Recreational Park
— From: narcsurvivoryoutube
Website: http://www.mbi.gov.my
Address: Jalan Damai, 30100 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-208 3333
Operating hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Simply put, Gunung Lang Recreational Park is one of the most jaw-dropping places you can visit in Ipoh. It’s only located 5 km away from the city but it will feel like you’ve been transported to a fantasy movie because of its beautiful natural limestone formations.
Aside from these formations, you’ll also be greeted by a magnificent lake that perfectly mirrors the sky–how awesome is that? If that’s not enough, you should also know that there’s a cascading waterfall in the area so be sure to always have your camera ready.
Pro tip:
- As much as possible, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes so that you won’t have trouble trekking through the natural landscapes that this place offers.
Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village
Address: 22A, Persiaran Pinggir Rapat 5a, Taman Saikat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-312 4140
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
If you want to experience the utmost serenity, visiting Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village is one of the best decisions you can make. This place is paradise on Earth, as it features stunning views like massive cliffs, lush greeneries and a massive lake.
Aside from natural landscapes, you’ll also find charming old buildings as well as interesting art installations. These picturesque views make for a great backdrop for your photos so be sure to snap some amazing portraits while you’re here!
Pro tip:
- If you want a much faster and more efficient way of getting around the waterside village, we recommend renting a bike.
- You can pack your snacks and set up a picnic at the village if you want to save money and enjoy spectacular views as you’re eating.
Kellie’s Castle
— From: tripzillamag
Address: Kompleks Pelancongan Kellie’s Castle Lot 48436, KM 5, 5, Jalan Gopeng, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-365 3381
Operating hours: Opens daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Kellie’s Castle is a beautiful structure with a not-so-pretty backstory. This is because the castle was built by William Kellie-Smith as a gift for the love of his life, Agnes.
Unfortunately, he passed away due to pneumonia and Agnes ended up living elsewhere. Today, what you’ll see is the same unfinished ruin that was once a symbol of love.
Some people even say that a ghost roams the castle so if you’re into those kinds of things, this should be right up your alley. Real or not, however, one can’t deny that this piece of architecture is one of the best there is in Ipoh.
Pro tip:
- We recommend going on a guided tour if you want to explore every nook and cranny of this castle.
Gua Tempurung
— From: guatempurungextreme
Website: https://gua-tempurung.business.site/
Address: Jln Gua Tempurung, 31600 Gopeng, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 14-220 4142
Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Gua Tempurung is one of the premier spelunking spots in Malaysia, as it consists of various chambers that are filled with beautiful limestone formations. There are 4 tours that you can choose, each of which varies in difficulty so do keep that in mind.
One of the biggest highlights here, however, is the underground river, which spans 1.6km–now that’s pretty crazy! However, we do want to advise that this part of the cave should only be traversed through by experienced explorers, as there are several tight squeezes.
Pro tip:
- Do be advised in advance that there’s somewhat of an abundance of bat excrement in the area so make sure to wear gloves!
- Don’t be ashamed to advise your tour guide of any kind of pre-existing medical condition. This will help both of you to make sure that everything goes smoothly during your spelunking trip.
Sam Poh Tong Temple
— From: explore.Malaysia
Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-255 2772
Operating hours: Opens daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Looking for the most beautiful Chinese temples you can find in Malaysia? Start your search at the majestic Sam Poh Tong Temple!
This temple is for the outdoorsman, as you’ll have to explore a cave and climb an astounding 246-step staircase before reaching it. The cave that it sits in consists of various stalagmites and stalactites, which is a complete contrast to the man-made temple.
Also, visiting this place means witnessing history, as Sam Poh Tong is the oldest temple in Ipoh.
Pro tip:
- Make sure to conserve your energy and bring a bottle of water, as the massive staircase will leave you gasping for air after climbing it.
- After visiting the temple, you can make your way to the beautiful garden just outside. It’s well maintained and it offers a serene sanctuary, which is perfect for those looking to meditate.
D.R. Seenivasagam Park
—From: tourismperak
Address: Jalan Keliling Dalam, 30300 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Operating hours: Opens daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
D.R. Seenivasagam Park is a great spot if you’re looking for someplace serene to spend time with your family. This place features an abundance of lush greeneries and plants, which allows guests to breathe in some of the crispest and fragrant oxygen in the state.
We say that it’s perfect for the family because it allows guests to take part in various kinds of activities like riding bikes and setting up picnics. Also, there’s a playground where you can let your children play like there’s no tomorrow!
Pro tip:
- If you forgot to bring your bike, don’t worry! You can rent one at the park at an affordable price.
- Want to impress your kids? Take them to the man-made lake and spot some elegant carp swimming around.
Perak Cave Temple
— From: watcharapat_tpc
Address: Jln. Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 11-2358 4126
Operating hours: Opens daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entrance fee: Free but you’ll be required to donate RM3 to gain access to the staircase (only applicable if you’re planning to climb the cave’s hillside).
Perak Cave Temple sits peacefully atop a limestone hill and is nestled inside a magnificent cave, making it one of the prettiest temples in the country. The inside of the temple is just as beautiful, as it’s dotted with statues of deities.
The number one highlight of the interior, however, is the gigantic 40-foot tall golden Buddha statue that sits at the main altar of the cave. But before you can reach the said altar, you have to climb a 358-step staircase—it’s totally worth it, though!
Pro tip:
- If you want to be immersed in the culture even more, you can make your way to the double-story pavilion, which features beautiful depictions of Chinese folklore characters.
- Make sure to climb the 358-step staircase to witness an unmatched panoramic view of the surrounding areas!
Funtasy House Trick Art
Website: https://www.facebook.com/funtasyhouse/
Address: 16, Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-255 0007
Operating hours:
- Thursday to Tuesday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
Address: Jln. Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 11-2358 4126
Operating hours: Opens daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entrance fee: Free but you’ll be required to donate RM3 to gain access to the staircase (only applicable if you’re planning to climb the cave’s hillside).
If you want to get your mind blown, the best place to visit is Funtasy House Trick Art. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of 3D art that will blur the line between drawings and reality, but they do make for a great photo backdrop!
You can get as creative as you can with these illustrations or follow the right framing, the choice is yours! Also, what’s great about these backdrops is that they can cater to solo or group photos so you can invite your family members and friends to strike a pose with you.
Pro tip:
- If you don’t want other people getting in the way of your photos, we recommend going on weekdays. This way, the place will be virtually all yours!
- Make sure to bring a high-quality camera and free up some storage to take as many HD photos as you want.
Ling Sen Tong Temple
— From: mingseow
Address: 31350 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Ling Sen Tong Temple is another picturesque place of worship that’s located not too far away from Sam Poh Tong. Just like the aforementioned temple, this place is equally majestic, as it’s surrounded by beautiful limestone formations while sitting atop a hill.
Meanwhile, the temple itself is just as beautiful, boasting an assortment of structures depicting Chinese folklore deities, characters and animals.
Birch Memorial Clock Tower
— From: ipohcity
Address: 31650 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Also known as Menara Jam Peringatan Birch, the Birch Memorial Clock Tower serves as a remnant of the British administration in the country. This is best represented by the four pillars that surround the clock tower itself.
Meanwhile, some people believe that the four bells represent the four stages of civilisation. Regardless of which is right or wrong, one thing’s for sure and that is this attraction is a sight to behold in person.
Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan
— From: cedhausen
Address: 31650 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Who says Italy is the only place that features a leaning tower? The Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan is a significant structure that was once a water reservoir for the citizens of the town.
However, due to poor foundation and the weight of the reservoir itself, the tower started to lean on one side, creating the appearance it features today. Since 1957, this structure has been declared a national monument, making it a must-visit for people travelling to Ipoh.
Ho Yan Hor Museum
Website: https://hyhmuseum.com
Address: 1, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 5-241 2048
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
If you have time to learn something new, we recommend checking out Ho Yan Hor, also known as the Tea Museum. From the name itself, this place will teach you all about tea, more specifically, Chinese herbal tea.
Give or take, you’d have to spend 30 minutes to enjoy everything that the museum has to offer, which isn’t a bad deal at all! By the time you’re finished with your trip here, you’ll be a Chinese herbal tea connoisseur in no time!