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21 Best Things To Do In Ipoh, Malaysia [2024]

Going on an Ipoh trip and want to know all the best things to do in Ipoh, Malaysia? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best Ipoh attraction options to plan your ultimate trip.

If you are looking for somewhere to visit in Malaysia beyond Kuala Lumpur , Penang , Langkawi and Malaysia’s beach resorts , Ipoh is definitely worth considering.

Ipoh is located inland between Kuala Lumpur and Penang in the state of Perak. Once a small village with tin deposits, Ipoh grew when it became a British Centre of Administration for the Malay Peninsula. Central Ipoh still retains this colonial character and the main Ipoh place to visit is this colonial centre.

In recent years, more investment into Ipoh has lead to not only a revitalised Old Town but a regeneration of its Malaysian-Chinese cuisine and culture. It’s a real pleasure to walk around. In fact, even between my visits in 2018 and 2024, it had got noticeably nicer and picturesque – and I thought it was great the first time.

However, there is more to Ipoh than this. One of our favourite places in Malaysia, this city is full of Ipoh attractions from its cave temples and stunning surrounding scenery to looking for pretty laneways and street art. Ipoh is also known for its great food and famous white coffee so make sure you eat everything you can while you are exploring!

I wrote this guide from my personal experience on multiple trips as well as from thorough research. It’s a great city.

Below, you will find our things to do in Ipoh blog with everything you need to know about what to do in Ipoh as well as the best places to stay . There is also a handy map of the places to visit in Ipoh town and some information about visiting Ipoh with kids.

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.

Top 21 Things To Do In Ipoh, Malaysia [2024]

Here are the Ipoh things to do. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.

Enjoy Colourful Street Art And Murals

Don’t miss the street art which you can find on an Ipoh tourist attraction map . Most of the Ipoh must see street art can be found in Old Town. Doing a walking tour of all the art displays is a great way to enjoy an afternoon.

Most of the best art can be found on Mural Art’s Lane, located in Old Town near the river. You’ll also find plenty of other pieces in various lanes and alleyways around the area. Always keep a look out for it! In fact, we kept the kids interested as we wandered by making it a competition who could spot the most.

Address: Throughout the Old Town of Ipoh

Check Out The Colonial Architecture

If you’re wondering where to go in Ipoh Malaysia, why not start by exploring some of the old buildings in the area? Perak was once under British rule, and many buildings from its colonial era still exist today.

For a time, some of the buildings were beginning to fall into ruin. In recent years, Ipoh has experienced a revival. Many of the old buildings have been renovated and turned into art galleries, coffee houses or boutique hotels. Others remain as they once were.

One of the best places to go in Ipoh to see historical buildings is Old Town. Be sure to check out the Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque and the Ipoh Railway Station.

Snap A Photo Of The Birch Memorial Clock Tower

Birch Memorial Clock Tower is one of the top things to do in Ipoh. The tower has a rich and controversial history. Located in Old Town in front of the Ipoh State Mosque, the tower was designed to represent the British administration and commemorate the death of James Birch, a colonial hero.

Since many of Perak’s Malays were against the British colonisation, the tower remains a controversial location in the city. Two nearby streets were named after the men who were executed for the assassination of James Birch. This Ipoh famous place to visit provides a history lesson and a glimpse into the city’s turbulent past.

Address: 12 Jalan Dato Sagor, Ipoh

Visit Kong Heng Block

This area was once the commercial centre of Old Town Ipoh, and it has been revived in recent years. It’ s the Ipoh best place to visit for hip eateries and interesting shops. You also won’t want to miss a visit to the Kong Heng Artisan Market which hosts many vendors selling art, handicrafts and other souvenirs.

This area is located just west of the Kinta River at the end of Concubine Lane in Old Town. While it’s an Ipoh must go place at any hour of the day, it’s particularly busy during the evening hours. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Ipoh at night, you’ve found your spot.

Address: Jalan Panglima, Ipoh, Perak 30000

Explore Little India

Little India is another spot to include on your list of must visit places in Ipoh. You’ll find it on the southwest end of Old Town. It’s the cultural and commercial centre for the ethnic Indian community in the area, and it offers some great eating opportunities as well as Indian fashion shopping.

With its proximity to the rest of Old Town, you’ll be able to easily fit it into your itinerary. I highly recommend you stop by Sri Ananda Bahwan for some of the best Indian food of your life 🙂

Address: 12, Jalan Lahat, 30000 Ipoh, Negeri Perak

Walk Through The Old Town Laneways

The Ipoh Old Town Laneways are narrow alleyways filled with small shops and food stands. They’re located in the same area as most of the street art, so you can explore both elements of Ipoh at the same time.

Concubine Lane is one such laneway. No list of Ipoh Malaysia things to do would be complete without a mention. It’s a great Ipoh attraction at night or during the day.

Learn More At Ipoh World/Han Chin Pet Soo

Along with learning about tin mining at Lost World of Tambun (coming up), you can also educate yourself at Han Chin Pet Soo, Malaysia’s first museum dedicated to tin mining and its history. This Ipoh Perak attraction is highly rated on TripAdvisor.

Inside Han Chin Pet Soo, you’ll find photographs, collectibles, artifacts and other items. There are also murals documenting the experiences of mine workers.

If you’re seeking things to do in Ipoh town, this museum is a great option. You can easily walk here from other areas of Old Town. However, you need to book your tickets prior to arrival. You can book online here or in person. 

This attraction is free, however the museum requests a donation of RM 10 for adults and RM 5 for children and students.

Address: No. 3 Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30100 Ipoh

Take Some Crazy Photos At Funtasy House Trick Art

Funtasy House Trick Art combines an art gallery with a funhouse to create a unique experience.

All the works featured at Funtasy House create optical illusions to thrill, confuse, or fascinate visitors. Many pieces are designed for guest interaction and make for excellent photo opportunities.

It’s a fun place to bring the family.

Address: No. 16, Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh

Walk The Ipoh Heritage Trail

Be sure to include the Heritage Trail on your Ipoh to do list. It’s a self-guided walking tour that will show you many of the best places to visit near Ipoh Old Town and the business district. You can find it here .

The tour will take you by 27 points of interest, including the Town Hall Building, the Birch Memorial and the Ipoh Railway Station. You can complete the tour all at once or at the pace of your choosing. It’s a great way to familiarise yourself with the area after first arriving in town.

Shop For Souvenirs At Gerbang Malam Night Market

This is an Ipoh night attraction you won’t want to miss! There’s plenty of delicious local food to be found in the area, along with stalls for clothing, accessories, and other goods. You can even get a relaxing foot massage while you take a break from shopping!

Be sure to add this location to your list of what to do in Ipoh at night. There isn’t much going on here during the daytime hours. It really comes alive after the sun goes down.

There’s a playground located in the centre of the market, so if you’re trying to figure out what to see in Ipoh Malaysia with the kids, this spot is a great choice.

I also highly recommend an “ABC Special” – an ice kacang dessert – in the hawker centre area. So good!

Address: Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar, 30300 Ipoh

Have A Fun Day At Sunway’s Lost World Of Tambun

Any Ipoh attraction blog that doesn’t mention Sunway’s Lost World of Tambun is incomplete! This theme park is an Ipoh must visit location, especially for travellers with kids to entertain. It features six different themed areas including a water park, a petting zoo, wildlife viewing areas and more.

While Lost World of Tambun doesn’t offer huge roller coasters or other such thrill rides, it does include a small number of rides for children. If you’re seeking a rush, you’ll want to head for Adventure Park, the section designed for thrills. Here, you’ll find a zip line, ropes course, kayaks and other heart-pounding activities. These activities do cost extra though.

There’s also Tin Valley, an area of the park where you can pan for tin and learn about the history of the area. Getting in the water and panning for tin can be a lot of fun! Although last time I visited, you did not seem able to do this anymore.

Wondering what to do at night in Ipoh? At Lost World of Tambun, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. In addition to enjoying the theme park during the day, this is also somewhere to consider if you are looking for places to visit in Ipoh at night.

Hot Springs Night Park requires an additional ticket, but it’s worth the extra price. Not only will you gain access to the relaxing hot springs and lush surrounding gardens, but you’ll also be able to enter the Luminous Forest, a musical experience complete with glowing jungles and a history lesson. This unique experience makes Lost World of Tambun one of the top places to go in Ipoh at night.

You can buy discounted tickets for this attraction by clicking here  or read our full review here. I do have mixed feelings about this attraction so the full review is a good read if you are not sure if this theme park is for you.

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

When determining places of interest to visit in Ipoh, much of your list should be made up of restaurants and other food-based attractions. After all, Ipoh is known for its food! In fact, it is right up there with Penang for me for places where I absolutely love eating in the world.

Malaysia’s white coffee originates from Ipoh. If you’re wondering where to go, a coffee house is a great start. The city is also known for its delicious noodles and sweet treats. If you’re going to try any of these popular dishes or drinks, it makes sense to do it while in Ipoh.

Ipoh Noodles

The city is known for its rice noodles, which are typically flat and prepared using local spring water. Kai see hor fun is a chicken, prawn and noodle soup served with spring onions.

Some versions come with a dark gravy and others include an egg. Try a variety of noodle dishes during your stay, and you may come away with a new favourite!

White Coffee

There’s a reason Lonely Planet named Ipoh one of the top coffee towns on Earth. Ipoh white coffee is world famous and available at many Ipoh Malaysia attractions. The beans are roasted with palm oil and served with condensed milk, resulting in a sweet and creamy beverage.

Ice balls/Ais Kepal

An ice ball is simply a large ball of hard-packed ice bits covered with a tasty and flavorful syrup. They’re a staple food in Ipoh, especially during hot weather.

If you’re trying to determine where to visit in Ipoh that would serve ice balls, head for one of the Old Town Laneways. Specifically, look for a place called Bits & Bobs which serves the chilled deserts.

Shop At Memory Lane

Also called Pasar Karat, this flea market is a fun place to be on Sunday mornings. Only operating at this time, you can find many bargains and a lively local atmosphere.

Address: 56, Jalan Horley, Ipoh

Discover Perak Cave Temple

In the limestone hills near Ipoh, there are amazing Buddhist 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.

With a half day and Grab (like Uber) on your phone, you can easily explore a few of them. We found it very easy to get Grabs to transport us, and we paid RM6-11 to get between the temples and the Old Town.

Remember that 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.

In this what to do in Ipoh blog , we have our top four choices for your half day exploration starting with the Perak Cave Temple. It’s in a different direction to the other three from Ipoh so it makes sense to explore this and then the other three in a row.

This cave temple is one of my favourites. It’s in a big cave in a lovely spot. There are interesting rock formations and a big Buddha in front of you when you enter. It’s great for anyone looking to get a bit of exercise. 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.

Like many of the cave temples, we watched monkeys playing around outside.

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

Walk Through The Gardens At Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

The Kek Lok Cave Temple is one of the most notable and my favourite along with the previous temple. Of all the things to see in Ipoh, this Buddhist temple should be a top priority. The tranquil gardens and lovely views make it a special place.

This cave temple is quite big and you get to walk through the cave to a lovely area with big gardens. The cave itself had interesting formations, and I found it the most interesting to look at.

The gardens on the other side are beautiful. This is a spot where it would be great to meditate or just walk around and enjoy the peaceful energy.

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

Tour The Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

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 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

Explore Ling Sen Tong Temple

The Ling Sen Tong Temple is just a short walk from Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple and you can visit an additional temple in the middle.

This is a Taoist temple which is super colourful. It features many statues of deities and animals and is worth a look when you visit Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple .

Address: Tambun Cave, Laluan Tambun Perdana 2, Taman Tambun, 31400 Ipoh

Learn At The Geological Museum

This museum is a well presented, free museum about minerals, gemstones and fossils as well as how these are formed and the area in Ipoh.

It’s very good, albeit on the small side and is worth including on your itinerary if this subject matter interests you. Everything is well labelled and signed in both English and Malaysia. There are several large educational murals and an area dedicated to Ipoh’s mining history.

For families, there’s a moving Tyrannosaurus Rex which I found cool, but my 7 year old was a little scared. There’s also a big snakes and ladder board with a big dice that you can stand on as you move up ladders and down snakes. It’s fun.

You can find the Ipoh Geological Museum east of the Old Town. It’s actually directly between Perak Cave Temple and the other cave temples so it’s easy to visit on your way through. Note that it’s shut from 12-2pm.

Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 31400 Ipoh

Visit Gaharu Tea Valley

Gaharu Tea Valley is a nice place to visit in Ipoh, especially for those who love the outdoors. This expansive agarwood plantation, which features more than 200,000 trees, has only been open to the public for a few years.

Agarwood is believed to have medicinal properties. It’s also cherished for its intense fragrance. The demand has led to it becoming a diminishing resource, but the plantation is working hard to ensure the trees don’t become extinct. You can support their cause by picking up a few items at the plantation’s retail shop which sells Gaharu teas, cookies, fragrances and more.

You’ll find the plantation just outside of Gopeng, Perak, which is south of Ipoh.

Address: Lot 9840, Mukim SG Teja 31600 Gopeng

Explore Kellie’s Castle

This legendary castle should be included in any list of Ipoh top attractions. It’s an extravagant structure that was meant to have a large tower, a rooftop entertainment area and even an elevator. When its owner and creator, William Kellie Smith, passed away during construction, the project was halted and left unfinished.

Since then, the castle has been turned into a tourist attraction. You can explore the interior and take in some lovely views of the surrounding area from the roof.

Legend has it that the castle is haunted. Some visitors have claimed to see ghostly figures in the windows or other areas around the property, making this an Ipoh must do for anyone interested in spooky lore. For everyone else, the castle is still an Ipoh nice place to visit.

The castle is located near the town of Batu Gajah and can be reached by travelling south from Ipoh.

Address: Jalan Gopeng, Batu Gajah 31000 Batu Gajah

Day Trip To Cameron Highlands

If you’re looking for a day trip from Ipoh, consider visiting the Cameron Highlands . The Cameron Highlands is located around 2 hours from Ipoh and is perfect for a day trip.

The Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s main region for tea cultivation. The high elevation results in cooler weather, making this a great place to get out for some hiking. Here, you can spend hours exploring the beautiful landscape which features green rolling hills and plenty of tea plantations.

Attractions in the highlands include Mossy Forest, a lush forested area that’s known for its misty cloud formations and mossy trees, and a local weekend night market where you can purchase a variety of meats, produce and snacks. You’ll also find plenty of hiking trails in the area, some with lookout points that feature amazing views.

Click here to see all our full Cameron Highlands travel guide.

Best Places To Visit In Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia Map

Best Place To Stay In Ipoh

It’s not just visiting the top things to do in Ipoh Perak which will make or break your trip, but also having the right accommodation. There are plenty of options in Ipoh.

We have made it easier to book your perfect choice by listing three options based on budget . You can also find our full list of the top 12 places to stay in Ipoh here.

BEST – The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Review

If you have a healthy budget to spend during your stay in Ipoh, consider booking a room at this highly rated resort. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is located near Sunway City and offers everything you could possibly need for a luxurious and rejuvenating stay in Ipoh.

The hotel grounds are simply magical. You’ll find thermal steam caves, hiking trails, crystal caverns, meditation spots and plenty of green jungle in the surrounding area. The resort offers a gym, spa, pool and restaurants.

You’ll be able to choose between lake, water or garden villas for your stay. All rooms feature king beds, coffee makers and private geothermal hot tubs.

Click here for the latest prices.

MID-RANGE – Mu Hotel Review

This mid-range hotel is just a short taxi ride or a longer walk from the Old Town. It’s clean, very comfortable, quiet and modern. It’s a very solid 3-star choice.

Mu Hotel has a range of room types with standard doubles, twins and extras like courtyard rooms. There’s also a great two bedroom deluxe unit for families which we found perfect.

All rooms have free wifi, tea and coffee making facilities, mini-fridge, air-conditioning, smart TV and toiletries. The hotel has a gym, restaurant and a rooftop bar.

BUDGET – Beds In Garden Hostel Review

Beds in Garden Hostel offers both private and shared rooms for budget travellers. It’s located in the core of Ipoh, putting you within walking distance of Kong Heng Block, the Old Laneways and other attractions.

You can book either a private room or a bed within a dormitory. There are both co-ed and female dorm rooms. Beds within the dormitories come with their own privacy curtain, and there is free WiFi in the rooms.

The hostel grounds feature a community kitchen and living area, a garden terrace and a restaurant and bar. One important thing to note is that this is an adult hostel. It’s not suitable for parents travelling with kids.

From the clean bathrooms to the well-kept gardens, it’s clear that the owners have put a lot of work into the place. If you’re a budget backpacker travelling solo or with a group of other adults, this might be the perfect place for you.

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

How To Get To Ipoh

It’s easy to get to Ipoh by bus, train or car. If you have your own car, great! You are good to go.

If you need to take a bus, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices.

If you prefer trains, click here for the latest information.

You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here.

The easiest way to get to Ipoh is to take a private taxi from anywhere in peninsula Malaysia. We can book a taxi for you with a safe and trustworthy local operator.

Click here for more details and prices.

It’s also possible to fly to Ipoh, but with barely any flights, it usually makes more sense to travel here overland from Kuala Lumpur or Penang.

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

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

Ipoh With Kids

Ipoh is a great place to visit with kids. Many of the tourist attractions in Ipoh, Malaysia are great things to do in Ipoh with kids too.

Our kids loved walking around trying to spot the street art first and visiting the cave temples. The trick art is also fun although definitely the best Ipoh attraction for kids is Sunway Lost World of Tambun . It is perfect for family fun!

Of course, trying out the local ice balls/ais kepal is the ultimate way to reward your kids for a great day of sightseeing.

Final Words

As you can see, this area of Malaysia has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a travelling family or a solo adventurer, you won’t have any trouble figuring out what to do in Ipoh Perak. Come for a few days, or stay a few weeks. Either way, you’ll be sure to have a great time.

If you need help planning your Ipoh itinerary click here or if yo u’re travelling to or from KL to Ipoh – find out exactly how to get there here .  Find our full Ipoh travel guide here and the best places to stay in Ipoh here .

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.

Places To Visit In Ipoh

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Near Concubine Lane Ipoh

Near Lost World Of Tambun Ipoh

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• Amusement & Theme Park (3)

1. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

6 km from city center 1 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The beautiful and intriguing Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple is located at Gunung Rapat in Ipoh. Also known as Kek Look Tong, the temple is set amidst huge limestone caves consisting of a number of metal Buddhist and Taoist statues. Another highlight is the award-winning landscape gardens inside the cave.

2. Perak Cave Temple

5 km from city center 2 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Perak Cave Temple is a Buddhist temple situated in a limestone hill at Gunung Tasek. Popular for its stunning architecture, it is built into a huge cave with a 40-feet tall sitting Golden Buddha statue surrounded by four guardian deities, called as goddesses.

3. Lost World of Tambun

8 km from city center 3 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located in Sunway City Ipoh, the Lost World of Tambun is a theme park famous for its natural hot springs, tropical jungles, 400 million years old limestone formations and 7 fun park attractions. It is a tribute to industrial and environment history of Ipoh.

4. Funtasy House Trick Art

1 km from city center 4 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located at Jalan Market, Funtasy House Trick Art is a 3D trick art gallery in Ipoh, Perak. The gallery houses 26 murals and several trick rooms which have been constructed around different themes such as circus and upside down.

Top Hotels In Ipoh

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5. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

5 km from city center 5 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, situated in Gunung Rapat, is a cluster of three Chinese limestone cave temples adorned with natural and manmade artistic attractions. Ling Sen Tong, Nam Thean Tong, and Sam Poh Tong are the three temples. The oldest and main cave temple in Ipoh; it affords a spectacular view of the town. A major attraction is the reclining Buddha statue.

6. DR Seenivasagam Park

1 km from city center 6 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Dr. Seenivasagam Park is located in Negeri Perak and is a prominent recreational park for the people in the city. The main highlight of the park is the Japanese Mini Garden that creates an illusion among visitors that they are actually in Japan.

7. Gua Tempurung

23 km from city center 7 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Gua Tempurung is a beautiful limestone cave located in Gopeng in Perak. Popular for caving, it is the largest cave in all of peninsular Malaysia. A part of this 3-kilometer-long cave has been developed as a show cave, complete with walkways and electric lighting. It is quite easy to explore and has a 1.6-kilometer-long river passage running through the hills.

8. Kellie's Castle

14 km from city center 8 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The unfinished, gothic and ruined mansion of an ambitious Scottish Planter, Mr. William Kellie Smith, Kellie's Castle is located in Batu Gajah, Kenta District, Perak, Malaysia. With several ghost-sighting reports, the castle is believed to be haunted by many.

9. Art of Oldtown

9 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Art of Oldtown is a collection of 7 beautiful murals scattered across the town of Ipoh. The murals are beautiful 3D wall paintings giving a glimpse of the local style, culture and history of the town. These seven murals are 8 Uncle drinking coffee (Jalan Bandar), 9 Paper plane (Jalan Tun Sambanthan), Five packets of kopi-O (Jalan Tun Sambanthan), Hummingbird (Jalan Panglima), Evolution (Jalan Bijeh Timah), 13 Trishaw garbage collector (Concubine Lane 3), Girl and sparrows (painted over, not existing anymore) (Jalan Bandar Timah).

10. Ling Sen Tong Temple

10 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located at Gunung Rapat, Ling Sen Tong Temple is a charming Taoist temple located next door to Nam Thean Tong and Sam Poh Tong. The temple comprises of several attractive statues of different characters and deities from the Chinese folklore and Chinese mythology.

11. Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

5 km from city center 11 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village is an eco-tourist spot 20-minute drive away from Ipoh town. It has been carefully preserved to turn a patch of wilderness into a brilliant attraction. Nestled amid sky-high cliffs of limestone hills covered in lush forests, the village features emerald-green lakes, cute koi ponds, and lots of tiny lakeside cottages to sit and enjoy nature. You can feed the fish as well.

12. Concubine Lane

12 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

With an interesting history of more than 120 years attached to it, the Concubine Lane in Ipoh is one of the most visited lanes in the area bustling with cafes, pop up stalls, souvenir shops, and dessert houses.

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13. Gerbang Malam

1 km from city center 13 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Gerbang Malam or the Night Gate Market of Ipoh is located at Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar in Taman Jubilee. It is a vibrant marketplace that comes alive every evening with the cacophonous exchanges of buyers and sellers. Shops sell all kinds of goods here, ranging from clothes, accessories, jewelry, electronics, and beauty products, to fruits, flowers, and delectable snack items.

14. Birch Memorial Clock Tower

2 km from city center 14 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located in Kinta District, Birch Memorial Clock Tower, also referred to as Menara Jam Peringatan Birch is a beautiful clock tower in a square inside Old Ipoh. The four-sided tower is surrounded by four statues representing four pillars of British administration.

15. Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan

64 km from city center 15 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan is a clock tower located in the town of Teluk Intan of Hilir Perak District. It is known to be equivalent to the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy because it is also tilted to the left.

16. Miniature Wonders Art Gallery

1 km from city center 16 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located centrally in the Jalan Market in Ipoh Old Town, the Miniature Wonders Art Gallery is a small but incredibly unique gallery that displays dough sculptures.

17. Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge

17 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No 5, also known as TT5, is a former tin mining dredge, open to the tourists for taking a guided Dredge Tour, panning and self tour inside the gallery while also exploring the magnificent view of the landscape.

18. Ipoh Railway Station

18 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Ipoh Railway Station is located 3km southwest from the city of Ipoh and is an architectural marvel. Its Mughal style of architecture and design has allowed it to be crowned as the Taj Mahal of Ipoh. It’s a great place for visitors who want to visit a landmark architectural monument in the city

19. Ho Yan Hor Museum

19 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located next to Han Chin Pet Soo Museum in Negeri Perak, Ipoh, the Ho Yan Hor Museum shares amazing stories of Ho Yan Hor, the famous tea brand since the 1940s known for their Chinese herbal tea. It presents the discovery of the origin and evolution of heritage herbal tea.

20. Orang Utan Island

69 km from city center 20 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Orangutan Island is the world's best rehabilitation and conservation center for Orangutans. Located in the heart of Bukit Merah, it is a 35-acre land neighboured by a beautiful lakeside resort. Incepted in 2000, Orangutan Island is still recognized as a global eco-tourism destination. The island offers an amazing experience to the visitors by the varied species of “People of the Jungle” or Orangutan. Orangutan Island is only accessible by a 15 minutes jetty ride which can be boarded from the near lakeside resort-Bukit Merah Laketown resort.

21. Ipoh Town Hall

2 km from city center 21 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The ancient, colonial-era building, Ipoh Town Hall is situated at Negeri Perak. It provides an old and authentic look with its Edwardian Baroque Architectural style exhibiting the long-standing history and mesmerising architectural beauty for the lovers of historical events.

22. Han Chin Pet Soo

22 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Han Chin Pet Soo is a three-storey Hakka tin mining museum located along Jalan Bijeh Timah, close to Kinta river in Ipoh's Old Town, Perak. This heritage building houses antiques, collectibles, furniture, decoration, photographs, authentic tools and equipment from the tin mining era.

23. Movie Animation Park Studios Malaysia

8 km from city center 23 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Situated in Ipoh, the Movie Animation Park Studios Malaysia (MAPS) is Asia’s first animation theme park. The unique theme park features animated characters of Hollywood movies like Megamind, the Smurfs, Mr. Peabody & Sherman, Casper the Friendly Ghost, and several others. MAPS is divided into 6 zones.

16 km from city center 24 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Seated amidst lofty limestone cliffs, rivers, and some captivating historical caves, Gopeng is a serene town in the Kampar district of Perak. The main draw of Gopeng is thrashing around in rivers and waterfalls.

25. Belum Temenggor Rainforest

109 km from city center 25 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Belum Temenggor Rainforest located in Perak, Malaysia is the world's oldest and largest rainforest. It borders Thailand to its north and Kelantan in Malaysia to its east. The Royal Belum State Park lies entirely in Belum Temenggor Rainforest. A tour to Belum Temenggor includes hiking, rafflesia excursions and exploring Orang Asli village.

26. White Water Rafting at Kampar River

21 km from city center 26 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Kampar River is an ideal location in Ipoh to enjoy white water rafting. Embrace the adrenaline junkie in you as a professionally-oared raft takes you through 14 consecutive rapids for 7 km on the Kampar River. The journey takes around 1.5-2 hours. The rafting ride starts from Ulu Geruntum, part of the Ulu River Lodge near Gopeng.

27. Geological Museum Ipoh

3 km from city center 27 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located in the Kinta district of Perak in Malaysia, the Geological Museum Ipoh exhibits the heritage of the geology of Malaysia since 1957. Crafted with modern architecture, the museum encircling an area of 343 Square Metres, also houses 600 minerals, more than 200 gemstones of the region, crystals, and dinosaur fossils.

28. Gunung Lang Recreational Park

3 km from city center 28 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located just 5km from Ipoh, the beautiful Gunung Lang Recreational Park in Jalan Damai of Malaysia is a perfect destination for boating, fishing, canoeing, and relaxing in the gazebos. Set against the backdrop of limestone mountains like Gunung Lang and Gunung Bilike, the park covers an area of 30.35 hectares including 14.16 hectares of lake areas.

29. Gunung Lang

3 km from city center 29 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located in the northern stretch of Ipoh City in Perak, the limestone formations of the Lang mountain, also known as Gunung Lang, is a must-visit destination for any adventure lover. Back in 1880, this limestone area was explored and discovered by a Malay tin miner. Cover by lush greenery, mountain hiking will be great fun only for experienced and professional hikers. Adjacent to the Gunung Lang is the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, attracting tourists to its serenity bounded flora and fauna, lake, and boat rides.

30. Kledang Hills Hike

7 km from city center 30 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Kledang Hill in Ipoh offers a spectacular loop hike route ideal for beginners and experts alike. You will trek for 10.3 km, gain an average altitude of 824m, and it will take 4.5-5 hours to complete. The trail is easy in most parts but challenging in some.

31. Kwan Yin Tong Temple Ipoh

2 km from city center 31 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

In the foothills of the limestone hills of Gunung Rapat in Ipoh, lies the Buddhist cave temple of mercy, the Kwan Yin Tong Temple. Extending up to 20 meters below the cliff, this cave temple worships the Goddess of Mercy, Kwan Yin or Guan Yin. Kwan Yin Tong Temple is the second oldest cave temple in Ipoh and has seventy-five Kwan Yin statues surrounding the cave area along with hundreds of small golden Buddha statues.

32. Kinta Riverfront Walk

1 km from city center 32 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

The Kinta Riverfront Walk in Ipoh is a waterside promenade ideal for taking a romantic stroll. Lined with restaurants and cafes, it has become a central spot for people to hang out. The trees that line the walkway add a touch of refreshing green during the day and come alive with bright LED lights at night. It is a bustling hub for eating out, enjoying live music, or watching the river glow in the lights.

33. Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreation Park

2 km from city center 33 out of 33 Places To Visit in Ipoh

Located in Jalan Tambun, Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreation Park is an open field for walking, jogging, exercising, relaxing, and other leisurely activities. The lush green grass of the park is ideal for families to have picnics. A section of the park is a children’s playground, complete with swings, slides, mary-go-rounds, trampolines, and more.

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Colonial architecture stands side by side with rickety kedai kopi (coffee shops) in chameleonic Ipoh. The capital of Perak is flanked by towering white cliffs, some with magnificent cave temples pocketed in the limestone. Sliced into old and new towns by the Kinta River, Ipoh charms with its street art and street food – rather like a languid version of George Town.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Sam Poh Tong

First discovered by a monk in 1890, this cavern, 5km south of Ipoh, is now a riot of religious statuary and pagoda tiles. The entrance pavilion is grand…

Kek Look Tong

With a craggy cave mouth beneath a towering cliff, Kek Look Tong (1920) has the most impressive approach of all Ipoh's temples. Three Sages dominate the…

Developed in 1926 by Chinese Buddhists Chong Sen Yee and his wife, this temple (7km north of Ipoh) is popular for its mesmerising murals and panoramic…

Birch Memorial Clock Tower

The clock tower, with a 1.95m-diameter bell, was erected in 1909 in memory of James WW Birch, Perak’s first British Resident. Birch was murdered in 1875…

Train Station

It's no wonder that locals compare it to the Taj Mahal: Ipoh's train station is a harmonious Moorish and Victorian architectural masterpiece, framed by…

Han Chin Pet Soo

This charming small museum charts the history of Han Chin Villa, a 1929 clubhouse for Hakka tin miners that became a hotbed of prostitution, opium trading…

Muzium Darul Ridzuan

North of the padang (field), this museum is housed in a 1926 villa built for a wealthy Chinese tin miner. The museum features displays on the history of…

Ipoh’s courthouse was completed in 1928 by AB Hubback, the same architect who designed Ipoh’s train station and the town hall.

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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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Top 27 Places to visit in Darjeeling, Explore the Beautiful Hills of Darjeeling

Top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

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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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 , best things to do in & near ipoh.

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

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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25 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN IPOH [MALAYSIA GUIDE]

What To Do in Ipoh?

Ipoh is located halfway between Penang and Kuala Lumpur. It is the capital of the state of Perak in Malaysia .

We spent 3 beautiful days in Ipoh, discovering its heritage, temples, mosques, colorful markets, delicious street food, impressive caves, and a lot more which we invite you to discover in this post.

Ipoh is probably the most underrated place to visit in Malaysia!

For a relaxing or exhilarating vacation, alone or with family, the city of Ipoh is a must-visit during your trip to Malaysia.

Here is a Teaser about the Best Things to Do in Ipoh:

25 Best Things to Do in Ipoh

1. start your visit with ipoh’s old town at market lane.

Just like in Penang or part of Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur, we love the heritage shophouses built around Malaysia. In the old town of Ipoh, you will find many of them, turned into trendy cafes, restaurants, craft shops and so much more.

We invite you to wander through Market Lane, one of our favorite streets in Ipoh! There are street arts everywhere as well, which is super cool!

Location: here

2. Next, head to the narrow street of Concubine Lane

Concubine Lane is another trendy street in Ipoh and probably the most visited. When we went there it was actually jam-packed!

Nevertheless, we enjoyed taking a walk through this narrow lane, filled with many fun shops. You can also try a lot of different street food. As you know, Malaysia is famous for its great food all over the country!

While Market Lane and Concubine Lane are 2 of the most famous streets in Ipoh’s old town, make sure to walk to the other neighboring streets to discover more of Ipoh!

3. Visit Hong Heng Square

Kong Heng Square is set in an old colonial-style houses with a mix of renovated and old. It’s a bit of a hipster zone with small cafes, hip clothes shops, and souvenirs.

This is also where we did some shopping and took the opportunity to have something to eat.

Location: here Website: here

4. Nearby, take a look at BookXcess

For some reason, which we still don’t know why, bookstores in Malaysia are all super cool! And BookXcess is another one of them.

Located at the end of Concubine Lane, make sure to visit this place. The underground looks like an old huge safe from a bank with steel bars as the door and deposit boxes with books placed around it. Very unique!

They also have a section dedicated to the late Yasmin Ahmad , the famous director of famous TV commercials and movies back in the day. She tackled topics that speak about diversity and the importance of tolerance of one another in a multiracial and multicultural country.

5. Check out Tin Alley, one of our favorite places to visit in Ipoh

If like us you love vintage vibes, you are going to adore Tin Alley! This venue showcases vintage furniture and decorations. It’s sort of like a museum, a venue (the day we visited there was a cool band playing live music on the 2nd floor), and a restaurant altogether! So hard to describe exactly what it is!

Anyway, the decor and ambiance are really cool and worth a visit. On the top floor, the restaurant called Galleries offers really good pizza! Probably the best in town 🙂

It’s also a great place to take fun Instagrammable shots!

6. Take plenty of shots at Mural Art’s Lane

A bit like in Penang , Ipoh is full of awesome street art! They are everywhere. But in particular in Mural Art’s Lane!

Although some murals are a bit deteriorated, many of them are really nice to take photos! The Lane is rather long with many different art themes!

This is exactly what we love about Ipoh! So take your time to stroll through Mural Art’s Lane, one of the best things to do in Ipoh…

7. Visit one of the oldest Mosques in Malaysia: Masjid Panglima Kinta

Just behind Mural Art’s Lane is the Masjid Panglima Kinta, one of the oldest Mosques in the country (from 1898 to be precise)! This Mosque is absolutely stunning.

There we met a guide who freely explained to us about the construction of the Mosque, a bit about Islam in Malaysia, and some fun facts about Ipoh!

With its blue dome, Masjid Panglima Kinta almost looks like some places in Santorini, Greece.

With its large marble slabs, tall minarets, and beautiful prayer hall, we highly recommend stopping for a visit at Masjid Panglima Kinta after you finish your walk through the Mural Lane.

8. Go back in time to Ipoh’s Time Tunnel

Time Tunnel, is like Ali Baba cave. You can find everything!

In this heritage old Ipoh building, you can see an interesting eclectic collection of objects from pre-war to the 80s, that transports you back in time. We found here many memories and familiar objects from our childhoods. The entrance fee is 8 MYR.

The shop on the ground floor of the Time Tunnel sells various handicrafts made in the region, by local artisans.

9. Visit 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery to learn more about Ipoh’s history

If you are interested in knowing more about Ipoh, its history, and seeing some old photography then we recommend visiting 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery located near the Time Tunnel.

Here the entrance fee is 10 RM.

They also have art exhibitions and shops for all sorts of handicrafts.

10. Check out Gerbang Malam Ipoh Night Market

From 6pm until midnight, head to Gerbang Malam Ipoh Night Market. Here you can buy all sorts of things, there are also artists playing music everywhere, and many eateries around.

A fun things to do in Ipoh at night!

11. Visit the flea market at Memory Lane on Sundays

If you are visiting Ipoh on a Sunday, then make sure to take a look at the flea market on Memory Lane.

This is a fun place to visit, with lots of activities, live bands, great food etc.

The vendors are selling everything you can imagine. If you like antiques, then this is the best time to buy some unique items.

12. At night, eat local food at Tong Sui Kai, Ipoh’s dessert street

If you want to experience the true Ipoh local life, then head to Tong Sui Kai at Jalan Carey Street which is filled with stalls serving all kinds of local dishes! At night this place gets very crowded with locals, especially on weekends.

Tong Sui Kai, is actually known as dessert street since many stalls serve delicious desserts. However, during our visit, we could find all sorts of food. And every single dish we tried was absolutely delicious.

The atmosphere is really awesome, hence this is one of the best things to do in Ipoh.

13. Follow the heritage trail

During your walk in Ipoh’s old town, you can also follow the Heritage Trail, which will bring you to the most historical places around the city.

Some of the main sights are Ipoh Train Station, The Palace of Justice, and Birch Memorial Clock Tower.

The Birch Memorial Clock Tower is a significant historical landmark in Ipoh, named in honor of J.W.W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak. This clock tower stands tall as a symbol of Ipoh’s colonial past and offers a great spot for taking photographs.

You can collect the map at the Tourist Center or also see the map online here .

14. Visit Ipoh’s outskirts, starting with Perak Cave Temple

Ipoh is full of amazing Chinese temples nestled in caves. Indeed there are many amazing caves to visit in Ipoh (more on that later).

Perched within a limestone hill, the Perak Cave Temple is a breathtaking religious site adorned with intricate sculptures and colorful murals.

As you ascend the steep stairs leading to top of the cliff, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Ipoh and its surrounding countryside. Be aware though that the way. to the top is not very easy with lots and lots of stairs. But the view is rewarding for sure!

15. Take a boat ride at Gunung Lang

Near Perak Cave Temple, you can visit Gunung Lang.

The highlight of Gunung Lang is undoubtedly its stunning lake. As you approach the area, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery and limestone hills.

Here you can take a boat ride to a recreational area, perfect for a family outing over the weekend.

There is also a small zoo attached to Gunung Lang.

16. Visit Qing Xin Ling, one of the best things to see in Ipoh

Qing Xin Ling, was by far one of our favorite things we visited in Ipoh!

This is a charming cultural village located in the serene countryside near Ipoh. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a unique cultural and natural experience.

At Qing Xin Ling, you can walk around the lake and experience life as it used to be in Chinese villages around a beautiful lake. Qing Xin Ling offers cultural activities and workshops, providing an opportunity to learn about Chinese customs and traditions. You might participate in activities like tea ceremonies, Chinese calligraphy, or even traditional games.

Our favorite part was Memory Lane along a cliff, showcasing old stores.

At the entrance you can also rent free bicycles, to make your visit even more fun!

Make sure to visit this place, it’s 100% worth it!

17. Visit Sam Poh Tong Temple, one of our favorite temples in Ipoh!

Without a doubt, Sam Poh Tong Temple is one of the most interesting temples in Ipoh!

Sam Poh Tong Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple. It is one of the oldest and most significant cave temples in the country, known for its stunning natural surroundings, impressive cave chambers, and intricate Buddhist statues and artwork.

When you visit Sam Poh Tong Temple in Ipoh, you will be in complete awe!

Make sure to visit all the way inside the cave, as this is where lies the most interesting part! A sort of hidden world, with a huge temple surrounded by big cliffs. This place felt so special! An absolute must-see in Ipoh!

On that street there are many other temples such as Nam Thean Tong Temple and Ling Sen Tong Temple, however Sam Poh Tong seems to be the most interesting one!

18. Explore Tasik Cermin to see the Mirror Lake!

Tasik Cermin, also known as the Mirror Lake, is a hidden gem located in Ipoh near Sam Poh Tong Temple.

This stunning lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and the unique mirror-like reflections it creates, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The main attraction of Tasik Cermin is, of course, the mirror-like reflection on the lake’s surface. The calm and clear waters create a perfect mirror effect, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is just right.

You can choose between 2 different lakes to go on a boat ride and explore various limestone caves.

19. Kek Lok Tong Temple

In the same area, you can visit another spectacular cave temple in Ipoh, Kek Lok Tong.

Becoming a place of worship in the 1920s, the cave withstood the destruction of the surrounding mining companies, of which the site was part in the 1960s.

Inside, in addition to a few visible stalactites and stalagmites, you can see various statues of Buddhas and Chinese deities. The high walls of this cavity are beautifully sculpted by centuries of erosion.

There is also a beautiful garden to be visited with a fabulous lake at the center.

20. Be amazed at Kellie’s castle

After discovering Ipoh and its surroundings, we decided to explore the south of the Perak region, starting with the marvelous Kellie’s Castle.

A short drive from Ipoh lies this unfinished Castle built by a Scottish planter ( William Kellie Smith ) in the early 20th century. The castle’s Gothic architecture and surrounding gardens make for an intriguing visit, and the tale of its construction is equally captivating.

Some didactic panels explain the eventful life of this engineer and the history of his castle.

We spent quite a lot of time exploring the castle. At the top, there was a nice cooling breeze which was really enjoyable!

Location: here Website: here Entrance fee: 10 RM for foreigners

READ: FULL GUIDE FOR A VISIT AT KELLIE’S CASTLE

21. Explore HOGA: Gaharu Tea Valley

If you want to see unusual tea plantations, then HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley is for you. Indeed, it is not a classic plantation of Oolong tea or green tea, more classic and growing on kinds of hedge normally not exceeding one meter.

Here, it is Gahuru, a variety growing on types of small trees reaching 2 m high. It is a tea appreciated for its particularly renowned medicinal virtues.

The site can be visited via a van tour. You can taste the famous tea on the terrace of one of the shops and appreciate the very green landscape surrounding the estate.

Overall, a great and informative visit as we knew little about Gahuru tree.

Location: here Website: here Price for the Van Tour: 10 RM

22. Be amazed at Gua Tempurung, some of the most impressive caves we’ve ever visited!

Visiting Gua Tempurung, one of the largest limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia, near Ipoh is an exciting adventure for nature enthusiasts and those interested in exploring caves.

Here you can choose from 4 different trails (Dry and Wet).

As you enter the cave, you’ll immediately be greeted by the grandeur of Gua Tempurung. The cave mouth opens up into a massive chamber, and you’ll begin your descent into the depths of the cave. Some chambers are reaching 600m in height.

Inside the cave, you’ll also encounter an awe-inspiring array of limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The cave’s interior is adorned with these natural sculptures, each formed over centuries by the slow drip of mineral-rich water.

Honestly, for us, it is one of the most impressive caves we’ve ever visited! For sure, one of the best things to see near Ipoh!

23. Have fun white water rafting in Gopeng 

It was only until we drove to this area, that we saw lots of advertising about White Water Rafting in Gopeng.

Gopeng is a small town near Ipoh in Malaysia where HOGA Tea Plantation is located. It is indeed known for its rafting adventure that combines the thrill of navigating through fast-flowing river rapids with the beauty of the lush rainforest scenery.

Most tour operators provide transportation from Ipoh or nearby cities, making it convenient for visitors. Once you arrive at the spot, you’ll be provided with essential gear, including a life jacket, a helmet, and a paddle. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear that can get wet and stay securely on your feet.

And HAVE FUN!

>> MORE INFO HERE

24. Lata Kinjang, one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia!

Lata Kinjang is a stunning waterfall located in the state of Perak, 30-40 minute drive from Ipoh.

This waterfall is renowned for its majestic beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists.

The highlight of Lata Kinjang is, of course, the waterfall itself. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Malaysia, standing at an impressive height of over 850 feet (260 meters). The sight of water cascading down the limestone cliffs is truly awe-inspiring.

To reach the waterfall’s base, you’ll need to take a short and relatively easy hike along a well-marked trail. As you progress along the trail, there are several viewing points where you can pause and admire the waterfall from different angles. These points offer fantastic photo opportunities.

25. For families have fun at Lost World Tambun (amusement park)

Lost World of Tambun is a popular family-friendly theme park in Ipoh.

It’s known for its thrilling rides, water attractions, natural hot springs, and a range of other activities that cater to visitors of all ages.

The water park at Lost World of Tambun is one of its main attractions. It features a variety of water rides and slides, including tube rides, body slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

Lost World of Tambun is home to a collection of tigers. You can observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance and learn more about their conservation efforts.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN IPOH

Like most places in Malaysia, food is a BIG thing! Ipoh is home to Malaysia’s white coffee and offers amazing dishes including great desserts!

As cliché as it sounds, to immerse yourself in its rich past, you have to try the foods that Ipoh is proud of.

1. Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong

Ipoh is synonymous with white coffee! Head to Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong in Ipoh Old Town to enjoy an authentic, rich and aromatic cup of this popular drink. Locals enjoy theirs with an order of Danzhi (toast topped with a creamy boiled egg)! Founded in 1937, this humble cafe has been around for over 80 years!

2. Kedai Makanan Nam Heong

Nam Heong is Ipoh’s most popular restaurant! This hawker like place is really unique and worth the experience in Ipoh! Come enjoy delicious, freshly baked Egg Tarts, Chee Cheong Fun, Dim Sum and other famous dishes!

3. Kedai Kopi Weng Seng

This place is a hidden gem in Ipoh! Famous for their traditional hotpot with rich aroma served in a unique way! Go there especially for dinner, as they put all the tables on the street making it a very nice atmosphere!

4. Morel Restaurant

If you are looking for something more modern, then we highly recommend Morel. Here you can expect fancy top-notch food. You should try their dry-aged fish which is absolutely divine!

WHERE TO STAY IN IPOH?

In the city of Ipoh, you will find accommodation at all prices, in the city center or a little further out. Here are our top recommendations:

1. Weil – the best value for money

Weil is located just outside the old town, but still close enough to walk there. The rooms are very clean, the hotel is fairly well maintained and the breakfast is included. They also have parking spaces.

On top of that, they have an amazing rooftop pool with an incredible view of Ipoh! For us, Weil has the best value for money in Ipoh!

2. Belakang KongHeng – the most charming one!

If you want to stay in the heart of the old town in a heritage building to fully live the Ipoh experience, then we highly recommend Belakang HongHeng .

Located near Concubine Street, you will be in the middle of the action in Ipoh, staying in a beautifully renovated building.

3. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat – the most luxurious one

If you want to experience something completely unique and unforgettable, then we recommend The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat .

Set against limestone hills, this hotel provides a natural hot springs bath, a beautiful cave with a fantastic restaurant, ice baths and so much more. This is the ultimate luxury experience in Ipoh!

HOW TO GET TO IPOH?

From Kuala Lumpur:

• By Car: Ipoh is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Expressway (E1). The journey is straightforward.
• By Bus: There are numerous bus services that operate between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh. Buses depart from various terminals in Kuala Lumpur, including Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS). The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. BOOK HERE
• By Train: You can take a KTM ETS (Electric Train Service) from Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) to Ipoh Railway Station. The ETS offers a comfortable and efficient option, with a journey time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. BOOK HERE
• Tour group: For a peace of mind solution, opt for a tour group. The organized tour will pick you up from your hotel in KL and show you the main sights. in Ipoh! See here

2. From Penang:

• By Car: Ipoh is about a 2-hour drive from Penang via the North-South Expressway (E1).
• By Bus: Several bus companies operate services between Penang and Ipoh. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the route and stops. BOOK HERE
• By train: Ipoh is also easily accessible by train from Penang. MORE INFO HERE

HOW TO GET AROUND IN IPOH?

Getting around in Ipoh is really easy. You can take the bus and Grab.

City bus: the cheapest transport, but often with connections, it takes time.

Grab: The app is easy to use and inexpensive. Just download the Grab app and you will always find a driver in Ipoh!

Scooter rental: ONLY if you have your international license and insurance. We didn’t try but it must be a fun experience. The traffic in Ipoh is not bad, so it’s relatively easy to drive, compared to Kuala Lumpur…

HOW MANY DAYS TO VISIT IPOH?

To cover all the best things to do in Ipoh which we listed in this article, you will need at least 3 full days (excluding the Lost World Tambun Amusement Park).

2-3 days , will give you a good amount of time to explore Ipoh’s old town as well as the outskirts of the city which has plenty of great places to visit!

So if your intention is to visit Ipoh during a weekend trip, then try to arrive Friday night, so you can start your visit on Saturday morning!

IS IPOH WORTH VISITING IN MALAYSIA?

Ipoh, Malaysia, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and culinary delights.

Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, marveling at its cave temples, or indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine, Ipoh offers a myriad of experiences that will leave you enchanted. So yes, Ipoh is absolutely worth a visit if you are in Malaysia!

So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure to discover the hidden gems of Ipoh, a city that will undoubtedly capture your heart.

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We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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Ultimate Ipoh Itinerary For 1-2 Days + Best Food!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

After my time in Yogyakarta and Ipoh, I have two new favourite Southeast Asian cities. That’s why I’m sharing my Ipoh itinerary, packed with colourful corners and tasty local food. Whether you take a day trip to Ipoh or stay overnight, I have plenty of suggestions! I was excited to get back to Malaysia as I’d had such a good time there in 2016. Last year, my sister visited and went somewhere I’d missed: Ipoh. It sounded interesting so, en route from KL to Georgetown, I paid it a visit.

IPOH ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia Getting there: flight, bus, train ( 12GoAsia ) Accommodation: Hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / Viator

Related read: how to spend 2 weeks in Malaysia

Many visitors to Malaysia miss Ipoh but I don’t know why – it’s the perfect tourist city: colourful, friendly, easy to get around and a foodie paradise. What’s not to love? Add it to your Southeast Asia bucket list if you haven’t already.

Can you see Ipoh as a day trip?

If you just have one day in Ipoh, a good option is to take an Ipoh day trip from Kuala Lumpur. You can catch a bus or train in 2.5 hours from the capital . It’s a long day trip but possible since you can see the top Ipoh things to do during a short amount of time.

For an Ipoh day trip, I recommend GetYourGuide:

You could also consider taking a day trip to Ipoh from Penang . Once you’ve hopped on the ferry from George Town, the bus or train journey to Ipoh is just 1.45 hours from Butterworth. Use 12go to book journies in Malaysia .

Read next: 101 Asia travel tips

Ipoh one day trip itinerary:

• 8am – leave Kuala Lumpur and board a train or bus
• 10.30am arrive in Ipoh for a late breakfast
• 12pm – explore the best things to do in Ipoh (keep reading)
• 7pm – have dinner and board your return transportation
• 9pm – arrive back to your accommodation.

Staying overnight in Ipoh

Obviously I’d say the longer the better for your Ipoh itinerary as it’s such a lovely little city. I spent 2 days in Ipoh exploring at my leisure which I’d highly recommend if you have time. Consider staying over at… Brownstone Hostel – with a rooftop garden, TV room, coffee makers and more, this is a great budget backpackers base with dorm beds from $13 a night. M Boutique Station 18 – for an affordable yet stylish hotel with thoughtful details and quirky decor, check out this boutique guesthouse. Rooms start from $40. Ipoh Bali Hotel – splashing out on one of the most stylish hotels in Ipoh will only cost you around $50. This rustic Bali-inspired hotel has thought of everything, from carved elephant door handles to views over leafy gardens.

Things to do during an Ipoh itinerary

Where to start? The central city has gorgeous old-fashioned streets, spectacular street art and lots of authentic local restaurants. Dotted around the countryside are more Ipoh attractions including a few sets of cave temples.

After sharing the best things to do, I’ll run through my suggested Ipoh itinerary for day trip visitors, as well as those staying overnight for 2 days in Ipoh.

Read next: Solo female travel in Malaysia

The basketball court

There are definite Hong Kong vibes at this basketball court and symmetrical apartment building. Right beside Old Town White Coffee, one of the best restaurants in Ipoh on Jalan Bandar Timah , a visit is easy to work into your Ipoh day trip itinerary.

The colourful house street

So many rainbow-coloured houses on such a small hidden street, who knew? As a city of undiscovered gems, one of the best things to do in Ipoh is seek them out. This really is a hidden one because the street doesn’t even have a name. It’s very near Mural Art’s Lane so you’ll probably spot it straight away but if not, head to Cakchibow Cafe and find it in the alley beside.

Ipoh Booth Cart

There’s street art all over Ipoh but for an interactive experience, pop over to Ipoh Booth Cart . Outside you’ll find this awesome swing mural. Inside, there are even more interactive murals. It was totally empty when I visited but the murals are well worth checking out.

Mural Art’s Lane

Of all the attractions in Ipoh, none are more colourful or quirky than Instagram paradise, Mural Art’s Lane . Whole alleyways of stunning colourful designs – I spent ages taking photos and I’d love to do it all over again.

Concubine Lane

Named after the fact that British colonialists used to frequent ‘houses of the night’ on this street, Concubine Lane is completely different today. Cute markets selling jewellery and souvenirs pop up, flowers blossom, and even an English red phone box has a spot!

Market Lane (umbrellas and art)

Market Lane was once known as Second Concubine Lane because apparently one wasn’t enough for the British. Like the first one, it’s now bright, colourful and quirky. You can barely imagine it dimly-lit and full of seedy bars. The main reason people seek it out today is to get their ‘grams with the interactive street art: the Trishaw piece by Ernest Zacharevic is located here, as well as a cute tea party mural and one of some jumping kids.

Read next: my Ipoh street art guide with map

Panglima Kinta Mosque

This dreamy blue and white mosque is a great place to experience Malaysia’s rich culture. Nearby to Taoist and Hindu temples, it makes the city of Ipoh a real melting pot. It’s also gorgeous to photograph.

Ipoh railway station

This iconic station built by the British has become a well-photographed attraction in Ipoh. I arrived by train at night and came back (minus the luggage) for a photo in the daytime. It’s unlike much of Ipoh’s architecture so it’s worth seeking out.

Visit the caves around Ipoh

Another of the best things to do in Ipoh is explore the countryside, particularly the incredible cave temples dotted outside the city. Religious shrines are hidden away inside vast labyrinths within craggy limestone caves. Top Ipoh caves to visit include Perak Cave, Sam Poh Tong and Kek Lok Tong.

Read next: visiting the Ipoh caves

Day trip Ipoh itinerary

If you’re coming from KL or Penang and not staying overnight, follow this detailed Ipoh one day trip: 10.30am: After arriving into Ipoh, start your day with famous white coffee and an egg tart at Old Town White Coffee , a well-loved local establishment dating back generations. It’s also a food court known for its tasty Malaysian food so if you have time to return for a meal, do!

Don’t forget to visit the basketball court, right beside Old Town White Coffee. Take a few minutes to snap some photos before moving on.

12pm: Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

During a day trip to Ipoh, you’ll probably only have time to visit one set of caves. I’d suggest Sam Poh Tong . I t closes at 2pm which is why I’m suggesting it for the morning (swap it for one of the other set slower down if you miss this window). Sam Poh Tong is super bright and colourful, home to pagodas, statues from Buddist mythology and a reclining Buddha statue. There are three temples beside each other so you can spend a couple of hours exploring.

Getting there: Jump in a Grab from Ipoh for 8 MYR.

3pm: Mural Art’s Lane / Ernest Zacharevic street art tour

Arrive back from the caves and head to Mural Art’s Lane, one of the best things to do in Ipoh for street art fans. Take a while to wander while snapping photos of world-class street art.

Depending how into street art you are, you might want to follow the Ernest Zacharevic Ipoh street art trail. After becoming famous for his street art in Georgetown, this Lithuanian artist completed similar works in Ipoh. They’re well worth finding.

4pm: Concubine Lane and Market Lane

Next, head to the colourful centre. Concubine Lane is a great place to shop for souvenirs but I preferred Market Lane’s quieter, rustic feel and street art murals. You can leisurely wander both streets in under an hour.

6pm: Dinner – Chinese food

Chinese food is a right of passage in Malaysia. Make sure to include a tasty meal before ending your Ipoh day trip. Chinese residents used to make up 50% of Malaysia’s total population, and the total is still around 20% today. For that reason, Chinese food is deeply ingrained in the culture and, thanks to the small size of Ipoh, none of it will be far away. I went to  Luo Wang  for their renowned chicken with bean sprout dish. It was delicious!

Ipoh itinerary for 2 days

If you have 2 days in Ipoh, add this day. Start with an adventurous hike or decadent brunch. I won’t judge you based on which you pick. Based on the fact I only have a photo of one, which do you think I did? 😉

Hiking option – Bukit Kledang

An adventurous thing to do in Ipoh is hike Bukit Kledang . There are four hikes you can do, the shortest taking one hour and the longest taking four. Bukit Kledang is 800m above sea level and my advice would be to go early or late to beat the heat.

Brunch option – Plan B Cafe

No Ipoh itinerary would be complete without brunch! Foodies should visit   Plan B and order the French toast with maple syrup, caramelised bananas, peanut butter, peanut brittle and ice cream. It was so indulgent but worth it. The coffee was great, too.

Afternoon – Kek Lok Tong / Perak Cave

For the afternoon, visit another set of cave temples, or two if you want. Set in 12 acres of gardens,  Kek Lok Tong  is pretty as a postcard. Visually, the surroundings of this cave temple remind me of China which is interesting since so many Chinese people moved here last century. They must have felt at home in these stunning surroundings. Take an hour to wander the limestone cliff-lined gardens. There are Buddha statues to admire inside but the grounds steal the show. Getting there: It’s easy to call a Grab in Ipoh but there aren’t so many drivers waiting near the caves. For that reason, I’d suggest asking your driver to wait. Often waiting time is free and they’ll just charge for the ride home.

Perak Cave Temple

A 20-minute drive from Kek Lok Tong is Perak Cave Temple . Built in the same era as Kek Lok Tong, these two cave temples are actually pretty different. This gorgeous red temple has no grounds and is all about cave paintings, Buddhist shrines and panoramic views from the top. An hour is plenty of time to see everything. Getting there: I got my Grab driver to take me to Perak Cave from Kek Lok Tong, then back to Ipoh. Book on Grab then arrange the rest of the journey when you meet. Swing by Ipoh railway station for photos before heading home!

Where to eat in Ipoh

Don’t forget to work some amazing meals into your 1 or 2 day Ipoh itinerary. As a multi-ethnic society, Malaysia is a great place to try Chinese and Indian classics as well as Malay-specific dishes. Ipoh may be smaller than KL and George Town but that only makes it easier to move between the abundant food courts and cafes. Eat local food and everything’s cheap! I managed to track down some of the best food in Ipoh and I hope you do too. As well as coffee and egg tarts at Ipoh White Coffee and French toast at Plan B , don’t miss these places. It wouldn’t be an Ipoh travel guide without food, right?

Sri Anandha Bahavan (authentic Indian)

Malaysian-Indian food will be good wherever you try it – Ipoh is no exception!  Sri Anandha Bhavan  is one of the best restaurants in Ipoh for Indian food, serving vegetarian and meat dishes including curries, dosa and banana leaf dishes. You can’t go wrong with any of it but I loved my serving of spicy palak paneer (cheese cubes in a spinach sauce). Don’t forget to order some Indian sweets for dessert! Jalebi is always a winner. These milk and pistachio squares above were also extremely moreish. Address: 7 Persiaran Bandar Timah.

Restoran Lou Wong Tauge Ayam Kuetiau

As I already mentioned earlier, Hainanese chicken with bean sprouts is what this local restaurant is known for. It’s a simple dish but well-worth worth trying. My fresh, generous serving was very moreish and doused in sweet soy sauce. Address: 49 Jalan Yau Tet Shin.

Thean Chun (shredded chicken noodles)

Another of the best restaurants in Ipoh for Chinese food is  Restoran Thean Chun . The shredded chicken noodles with prawns and a salty broth were tasty and cheap at 6 MYR. This busy restaurant is food court-style like many others so grab a shared table and order whatever takes your fancy. Address: 73 Jalan Bandar Timah. Opening times: 8am-4.30pm (only until midday on Sundays), closed on Thursdays.

Yoke Fook Mun (dim sum)

I’m always on the hunt for dim sum and I wasn’t disappointed in Ipoh. This old-school restaurant is run by a team of older ladies who can’t speak much English but make some excellent dim sum. A bit of pointing and guessing went my order but I was happy with what came out – a selection of pork and prawn dumplings and fried rice batter with spicy sauce. I paid 25 MYR for 3 plates and a drink – a bit on the pricey side for Ipoh but at least I was stuffed! Address: 65-69 Jalan Leong Sin Nam. Opening times: 6am-1.30pm and 6.30pm-10pm.

Ipoh essentials

These are the items that came with me to Ipoh and I would recommend using during your Malaysia trip.

• Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia
• A handy bum bag with secure zip to keep your belongings secure
• Combination padlock (ideal for hostel lockers)
• A stainless steel reusable water bottle that you can fill up with filtered water (hotels in Ipoh will have these)
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks
• Travel luggage – I use the Mountain Warehouse Traveller Backpack (60l with 20l detachable backpack)
• A camera – I use the Sony DSC-HX350 Digital Compact Bridge Camera which I think is one of the most affordable options for a camera with such a good zoom
• A GoPro if you’re into making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• Solo travel pick: a tripod or mini GorillaPod to get yourself in the shot – I use the Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod .

Thanks for reading my Ipoh itinerary!

I’m very jealous you’re visiting as I want to do it all again. There are so many things to do in Ipoh, including simply sipping white coffee and watching the world go by. Whether you choose an Ipoh day trip or spend a couple of days getting immersed, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Penang blogs:

• The best places to visit in George Town, Penang
• The top hawker food in Penang
• How to visit Kek Lok Si from George Town
• Penang digital nomad guide
• The best cafes in George Town, Penang
• Where to find healthy food in George Town

Kuala Lumpur posts:

• The ultimate KL itinerary for 2 days
• 5 cute cafes in Kuala Lumpur
• The top restaurants in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur

Melaka posts:

• All the best things to do in Melaka
• The best food in Melaka
• 10 cute Melaka coffee shops
• Where to see street art in Melaka

Southeast Asia travel planning:

• 101 items for your Southeast Asia bucket list
• 101 backpacking Asia tips
• The perfect Southeast Asia travel route

Follow for more Malaysia content on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked this itinerary for Ipoh? Pin it for later!

Malaysia quick links Flights – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just span the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Copy of Lonely Planet Malaysia . For Malaysia buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ Ultimate Ipoh Itinerary For 1-2 Days + Best Food! ”

Last year I decided to skip the mainland of Malaysia and only visit Borneo. Otherwise Ipoh would’ve definitely be part of my itinerary

Ah how did you enjoy Borneo? Hope you make it back to the mainland sometime!

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14+ Fun Things To Do in Ipoh (Best Ipoh Itinerary)

This Ipoh travel blog will show you 14+ fun things to do in Ipoh, Malaysia, and a suggested 3-day Ipoh itinerary to help you see as many Ipoh attractions as possible!

Ipoh is located in the Malaysian state of Perak but is surprisingly still under the radar as most people tend to overlook the city for Penang or Melaka . Needless to say, it’s the perfect off-beat destination to add to your Malaysia itinerary !

Famous for its old town covered with street arts, traditional shophouses, cave temples at literally every corner, and without forgetting the iconic white coffee, Ipoh should definitely rank high on your bucket list!

So, whether you want to break up your journey between Kuala Lumpur and Penang or just looking for an underrated weekend getaway in Malaysia , this Ipoh travel blog will show you exactly what to do in Ipoh, Malaysia!

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Table of Contents

How to get to Ipoh Malaysia?

One of the best ways to get to Ipoh is by taking the bus. I recommend the bus from Sri Maju Group since they are cheap and reliable.

Most buses will drop you off at Ipoh Amanjaya which is found about 20 minutes from the center, where you’ll most likely spend your Ipoh itinerary. From there, take a Grab for about RM 15 (US$ 3.45).  

Some buses might drop you off at Jalan Bendahara or the Sri Maju Group bus station, both of which are located within Ipoh center. 

Bus from Kuala Lumpur airport:  The bus journey from the airport (KLIA1 or KLIA2) takes approximately 4 hours and costs about US$ 10 ( Click here to book! )

Bus from Kuala Lumpur Center : The bus will leave from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan and will cost only about US$ 6 ( Click here to book! )

Bus from Penang:  The bus journey from Penang to Ipoh usually lasts for about two hours and costs about US$ 5 ( Click here to book! )

Bus from Johor Bahru : The bus will depart from Taman Ungku Tun Aminah and the journey usually lasts for about 7 hours ( Click here to book! )

Trains are also available from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh, usually taking about 3 hours. You can book tickets online from US$ 6. The train station is located less than 5 minutes from Ipoh Old Town.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK TRAIN TICKETS FROM KL TO IPOH

Scoot Airlines and Air Asia have flights from Singapore to Ipoh . Tickets for both airlines cost about US$ 60 one way without checked luggage. You can also get flights from Johor Bahru to Ipoh through Air Asia.

Private Tour

If you have limited time for your Ipoh trip, another option is to book a private guided tour from Kuala Lumpur . During the tour, you’ll visit Kellie’s Castle, walk the Heritage trail, taste the delicious food, visit Perak cave temple and more.

The tour price is inclusive of lunch, round trip transfers to and from your hotel in Kuala Lumpur , an English-speaking guide and the admission fee to Kellie’s Castle.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK AN IPOH TOUR FROM KL + LUNCH

Where to Stay in Ipoh?

Ipoh old town.

27 Concubine Lane : A beautiful Chinese shophouse that has been converted into a homestay. Because it’s found right in the heart of Concubine Lane, close to some of the best things to do in Ipoh, it can be a bit loud during the day but it’s mostly quiet at night. Prices start from US$ 25 for a double room with a shared bathroom.

CHECK LATEST PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

Dé Cafe & Rest House : This hostel has separate dormitories for men and women and costs only about US$ 10. The hostel is found just a few meters from some of the most popular Ipoh attractions such as Market Lane and Concubine Lane.

CHECK LATEST PRICE AND AVAILABILITY ON AGODA OR BOOKING.COM

Ipoh New Town

Hotel Pi : The hotel is located in the center of New Town, right opposite Memory Lane and less than a 15 minutes walk from the Old Town. Each room has a private bathroom and wifi. The price for a queen room costs about US$ 27.

Grayhaus Soho Ipoh : Grayhaus Soho is a great place to stay during your Ipoh trip and offers single and queen rooms with private bathrooms which cost about US$ 12 and US$ 16 respectively. Coffee and toast are available anytime during the day and night and laundry will set you back RM 15 (US$ 3.45) per load.

Abby by the River : The hotel is located along Kinta River and costs about RM 90 (US$ 22) for a superior double room with a private bathroom. Breakfast is also included in the price.

FIND THE BEST HOTELS IN IPOH HERE

What to do in Ipoh Malaysia?

If you’re wondering what to do in Ipoh, you’ve come to the right place! Below are some of the best things to do during your 3-day Ipoh itinerary!

Ipoh Street Arts

One of the most popular things to do in Ipoh is hunting for street art. The Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic who is famous for his murals in Penang and other parts of Malaysia, was appointed to paint the streets of Ipoh Old Town.

His paintings are reminiscing of the old days and provide an insight into the history and cultural heritage of Ipoh.

More of the street arts can be found along Mural Art’s Lane, behind Jalan Sultan Iskandar. Here, you’ll come across a whole lane covered with murals of kids playing, traditional lion dance, and Indian dance, which clearly showcase the different cultures of Malaysia.

Unlike Penang, the streets will be completely deserted, even in the middle of the day, so no waiting in line to get a picture!

Ipoh Travel Tip: You can find some colorful buildings just opposite Mural Art’s Lane.

Read more: How to spend 3 days in Penang?

Concubine Lane

The second best thing to do in Ipoh is visiting Concubine Lane. This is where the action happens! During the weekend, shop owners set out their stalls on the street and sell everything from souvenirs to jewelry and delicious food. You can also find a few street arts around here as well.

Market Lane

Market Lane is another little back road where the rainbow umbrellas are located together with a few interactive street arts. This is also where the painting of Ernest Zacharevic, “Old Town Relieves Nostalgia with Trishaw”, is found.

Kong Heng Square

Kong Heng Square is another shopping spot worth visiting. Located just a few meters from Concubine Lane, the buildings of Kong Heng Square have an industrial and almost run-down feel which gives a certain charm to the area. 

Ipoh White Coffee

Have you been to Ipoh if you didn’t taste the original Ipoh white coffee!? The drink is made from coffee beans roasted with palm oil and served with sweetened condensed milk.

It’s available either hot or cold and is bound to give you a major sugar rush (although, I much prefer the cold one which tastes less sweet).

Nam Heong White Coffee and Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong , two of the most popular cafes in Ipoh, are said to serve the original Ipoh white coffee. Both are located opposite each other along Jalan Bandar Timah.

Make sure to get there early as they are always very crowded and don’t forget to taste the egg tarts, dim sums, and other traditional Hainanese dishes.

Perak Tong (Perak Cave Temple)

With an abundance of cave temples to visit, it’s not hard to see why it’s one of the highly-rated attractions in Ipoh!

Perak Tong is by far the most visited cave temple in the city . The walls are decorated with paintings of Chinese deities and mythical creatures and house several golden Buddha statues.

You can even climb up the 450 stairs for a breathtaking view of Ipoh! So, if you’re wondering what to do in Ipoh, make sure to visit Perak Cave Temple! 

Kek Lok Tong

Kek Lok Tong is another beautiful cave temple found in one of the most picturesque settings. The temple ground comprises of Buddha statues on the inside, while the outside features a beautiful lake garden which is perfect for a peaceful nature stroll.

You’ll also find a reflexology footpath and even encounter swans around the garden.

Sam Poh Tong

Just a few minutes drive away is Sam Poh Tong temple which was founded by a Chinese monk in the 1800s. Though smaller than the other two, the entrance features a beautiful garden and fish pond.

There are stairs leading to the upper floor but they seemed to be closed off at the time of my visit. There’s also a passageway leading to quite an impressive pagoda and a tortoise pond but unfortunately, they didn’t seem well maintained. So, if you’re on a tight schedule, you could skip this one if you wish.

Read more: 20 places to visit in Malaysia for a short trip

Walk the Heritage Trail 

One of the best things to do in Ipoh is walking the Heritage Trail. It’s a great way to get a glimpse of what Ipoh looked like back in the day and witness the beautiful colonial buildings and historical landmarks.  

The trail starts at the Railway Station and includes some notable stops such as the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, Town Hall, and Old Post Office. 

You can either DIY your own heritage trail itinerary by following this map or taking a private guided tour  which also includes visits to Kek Lok Tong, Sam Poh Tong, and Kellie’s Castle. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A HERITAGE TOUR OF IPOH

Gunung Lang Recreational Park

Gunung Lang Lake was actually a tin mining site back in the days but has now been transformed into a recreational park. The lake is very busy during the weekend and seems to be a very popular attraction in Ipoh, especially among locals. 

At the entrance, you’ll see an artificial waterfall made by hydraulic pumps with beautiful limestone cliffs in the backdrop. 

You can also take a boat to the other side of the lake for RM 3 (US$ 0.70) for adults and RM 1.50 (US$ 0.35) for children. 

Memory Lane Flea Market

If you’re wondering what to do in Ipoh, I recommend visiting the Memory Lane flea market. Every Sunday, Memory Lane comes alive during the early hours when locals sell everything from antiques to the usual knick-knacks found at flea markets.

Gerbang Malam Night Market

Gerbang Malam is open every night from 9 p.m. You won’t find much food here but rather a mix of clothes, accessories, and other random items for sale. If you’re hungry, I recommend heading to Hangout @ Ipoh for some delicious street food.

If you’re not eating out and thinking of cooking your own food, UTC market is where you’ll find fresh produce from 7 a.m to 10 p.m.

It can be quite overwhelming when you first enter the market since everything seems to be all stacked together. The vegetable stalls are located near the entrance while the fruit stalls are found upstairs, all the way back.

Funtasy House

Funtasy House is a small trick-eye museum found near Concubine lane. The entrance fee is RM 19 (US$ 5) for adults and RM 10 (US$ 2.5) for children.

CLICK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR FUNTASY HOUSE

Other Ipoh Attractions

• Lost World of Tambun : Family-theme park. Click here to book discounted tickets
• Go on a jungle trekking experience .
• Tempurung Cave Exploration
• Ipoh Parade: Shopping mall found in Ipoh New Town.
• Kellie’s Castle: An abandoned castle that’s supposedly haunted!
• Restoran New Hollywood: A popular local food spot located about a 10 minutes ride from Ipoh Old Town.
• Birch Memorial Clock Tower : Historical landmark in Ipoh (Apparently where most locals have their wedding photoshoot)!

3-day Ipoh Itinerary

Ipoh itinerary day 1.

• Start off your Ipoh itinerary by getting some Ipoh white coffee and egg tarts at Nam Heong White Coffee or Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong.
• Visit Concubine and Market Lanes and see the colorful umbrellas and street arts in the area.
• Kong Heng Square.
• More street arts on Mural Art’s Lane.
• Dinner at  Hangout @ Ipoh  

Ipoh Itinerary Day 2

• Early morning at the flea market on Memory Lane (if visiting on a Sunday).
• Cave temples: start with Kek Lok Tong, then visit Sam Poh Tong and finally Perak Cave temple.
• Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

Ipoh Itinerary Day 3

• Walk the heritage trail using this map or take a  guided tour .
• Tour of Kellie’s Castle.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the New Town and maybe go shopping at Ipoh Parade.

Read more: Malaysia itinerary for first-time visitors

How to get around Ipoh?

Ipoh is a fairly walkable city, but keep in mind that it’s very hot during the day. If you want to visit farther out to the cave temples you can take a Grab for less than RM 10 (US$ 2.30). Buses are also available, though not quite frequent.

Best time to visit Ipoh

Ipoh is usually hot and humid year-round with the occasional rainfall and temperatures going up to 32 degrees Celsius. The wet season is from April to October, while November to February is usually the driest.

Although you might want to travel during the Chinese New Year, traffic will be a nightmare (from my personal experience, the bus ride took more than 6 hours from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh instead of 3-4 hours, even one week before the festivities). In addition, most shops will be closed and hotel prices tend to be higher.

I hope that this guide to the best things to do in Ipoh has given you some inspiration for your next trip. Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions and I’ll be happy to answer them! 

Need more help planning your trip to Malaysia? Check out these posts:

• Top things to do in Kuala Lumpur in 2 days
• Best hotels in KL with infinity pools
• Best things to do in Melaka
• Penang itinerary for 3 days
• Things to do in Langkawi in 3 days
• Malaysia itinerary for two weeks on a budget
• How to plan an epic Singapore Malaysia Itinerary?  
• Ultimate guide to Seven Wells in Langkawi
• 20 short trips in Malaysia

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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9 Best Things To Do in Ipoh, Malaysia

Ipoh is Georgetown’s relaxed little brother and the gateway to the Cameron Highlands. This town-sized city is undiscovered on the usual Malaysia route. Within the old town, the colonial buildings stand out. Timeworn streets have been freshened up with contemporary street art. Wander a bit to find vibrant temples, surrounded by spectacular limestone cliffs, caves, and lakes. The hidden gem of Ipoh is a great addition to your Malaysia itinerary!

Things To Do in Ipoh

Always in the shadow of Penang, Ipoh is underestimated for many things. For instance, Ipoh is known in Malaysia for its terrific food and is worth visiting for this alone! Spend one or two days, but only if it fits in your itinerary.

1. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

A short 10-minute drive from the town is the extraordinary Gunung Rapat Limestone Hills, which are home to many temples. One of the most interesting is the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, a beautiful Chinese Buddhist temple built into the limestone. 

Book a tour and discover the best of Ipoh.

The temple is picture-perfect, set amongst beautiful gardens and pools. The entryway leading through a cave comes out into an open space in between the limestone. 

A stunning temple painted in reds and oranges touched by the rays of the sun. It is believed to be the biggest cave temple in the country and a great thing to do in Ipoh.

Here are all your hotel options in Ipoh.

There are plenty of other temples to see in the area such as:

• Ling Sen Tong Temple
• Kwan Yin Tong Temple
• Kek Look Tong Cave Temple

2. Walk down Concubine Lane

Concubine Lane is a cute, narrow lane flanked by old-style Chinese shophouses, complete with shutters and beautiful tiles. You can find trendy boutiques, fascinating antique shops, and countless cafes selling Ipoh’s traditional white coffee.

Great from Ipoh:   Do a day trip to the Cameron Highlands

The lane is less crowded during the week but is most fun to visit at the weekend when stalls are set up selling souvenirs and typical foods of the area. The old charm and vibrant history of this area are not to be missed!

Tip: Once you’ve wandered down Concubine Lane, make sure to see Wife Lane and Market Lane. Market Lane is decorated with beautiful hanging umbrellas and red lanterns that light up the area at night.

3. Tasik Cermin (‘Mirror Lake’)

Experience Ipoh’s best-hidden gems: a secret lake named Tasik Cermin. The lake’s setting, surrounded by limestone karsts, is truly unique and has been given the nickname ‘Mirror Lake’.

Hotels in Ipoh 😴

Update: Due to increasing popularity, there’s now an official entrance building selling tickets at 4 RM per person. Open daily from 9 AM-6 PM.

It is located close to the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple. To enter the cave, you have to pass an abandoned house and follow a narrow path until you see your right cave entrance. Walk through the limestone rock tunnel that brings you out on the edge of this exceptionally peaceful part of nature. 

Discover: Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur

We spotted a group of wild beavers swimming around and making noises that echo through the entire nirvana. Sadly, despite the peace here, the lake is under threat from the extraction of limestone, which is slowly getting closer to its boundaries.

To get out to the temples and the limestone hills, it is best to take a ‘Grab’ taxi and ask/pay him to wait.

See the 2-week Malaysia Travel Route

4. Kong Heng Flea Market

The Kong Heng Square market is a small crafts bazaar and flea market in the city center. This space is creatively decorated and has a fun walk-through. The market is located behind the Plan B restaurant and is open daily between 10 AM and 5 PM.

5. Ipoh Railway Station

The Ipoh railway station, built in the typical colonial-style architecture of the time, opened in 1917 and still stands out over 100 years later! It is a fully functioning station, with many trains running daily to numerous destinations throughout Malaysia. If you’re planning on visiting Penang, Ipoh Railway Station has fast trains to Butterworth throughout the day (once you’re at Butterworth, change onto a ferry for Penang ).

Read: Langkawi, Malaysia’s paradise island

Tip: If you are interested in the history of Ipoh, the Heritage Trail (a short walk designed to encounter all the key sites of the old town) starts here at Ipoh Railway Station. ( MAP )

6. Street Art (Mural Art’s Lane)

If the street art around Concubine Lane left you wanting more, then Mural Art’s Lane should be your next stop! The lane, running between the main roads Jalan Sultan Iskandar and Jalan Masjid, is home to dozens of murals that brighten up the houses’ walls. Most are painted by Ernest Zacharevic, who has had many successes as a street artist in Penang . 

Tip: Follow the Mural Art trail (get a map at Ipoh Tourist Information Centre) to find the locations of various works of art throughout town.

7. Memory Lane Flea Market (Sundays only)

If possible, plan your itinerary so that your time in Ipoh falls over a weekend. Although the streets will be busier, you’ll get the opportunity to see the renowned Memory Lane Flea Market, which only takes place on Sundays.

The market takes up the entire street’s entire length, with vendors laying out endless treasures, from vintage records to antique typewriters. Have fun trying to drive a hard bargain here and leave Malaysia with some amazing artifacts and memoirs.

8. 22 Hale Street 

The 22 Hale Street buildings are two old shops transformed into a museum and cafe. The heritage gallery displays the Ipoh lifestyles over time, including a lot of retro items. There is an entrance fee with a ticket, but this seems to change depending on the exhibition. 

9. Climb to the viewpoint of the Perak Tong Cave Temple

Enter the small passage between the limestone of the Perak Tong Cave Temple. Inside opens up into an enormous space with a 12-meter-high Buddha statue.

In the back of the cave, you will find steps that lead to the top of the limestone rock. It is a walk of 10-15 minutes to the top, with the last steps being quite challenging. On top, you will have a view over the surrounding area.

Getting to Ipoh

As a stopover before the Cameron Highlands or Penang , Ipoh is simply perfectly located. Both buses and trains run regularly to Ipoh from Kuala Lumpur and take 2.5-3 hours.

From Ipoh, you can take a bus to the Cameron Highlands, a bus to Penang, or a 2-hour train to Butterworth (for a ferry connection to Penang).

Book all your bus or train tickets easily online

Alternatively, for the ultimate freedom and flexibility, you can rent a car to explore Ipoh and the surrounding area.

We recommend to rent a car in Malaysia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How to get around Ipoh

Ipoh may technically be a city, but its size and atmosphere make it feel more like a town. As a result, it is very easy to see the old town and many of the key sights on foot or bike. 

Where to eat in Ipoh

Many specialties exist in Ipoh, such as its sweet white coffee, varieties of dim sum, and famed egg custard tarts, yes, the same one as the Pasteis de Belem from Lisbon !

Here are our favorite places to eat in Ipoh:

• Vegan Delights Cafe
• Lodge 163 Cafe
• Old Town Kopitiam

Vegan Delights has delicious plant-based dishes, but the impressive part is that you’re served by incredibly friendly people who are either deaf or mute. A must-visit!

Where to stay in Ipoh

There is a diverse range of budget hostels to luxury resorts within Ipoh, set within the town’s bustling center or set amongst the serene nature.

As a recommended stay in Ipoh is around 2 days, it’s best to situate yourself in one of the many good quality guest houses within the old town as a base to explore.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Malaysia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary

8 things to do in melaka, malaysia (2-day travel guide), 9 best things to do in langkawi (3-day travel guide).

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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.

Like this post? Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest!

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 !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

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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Explore 31 interesting places to visit in Ipoh, Malaysia [2024 updated]

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!

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 favorite destinations in Malaysia with a lot of interesting places to visit, amazing local cuisine, and beautiful nature.

Here is the list of 31 interesting places to visit in Ipoh and the best part is that many of them are FREE to visit. Keep scrolling until the end to get more ideas for your Ipoh trip.

👉 Wanna rent a car charter for a day trip to Ipoh ? Contact me via WhatsApp at +60 149 776 712 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

Table of Contents

Best relaxing places in Ipoh 

Best historical places in ipoh, must-visit cultural and religious places in ipoh, fun places to go in ipoh, other interesting places 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 place 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 and interesting 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. 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 become one of the most interesting places to visit 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

5. 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)

More posts about Ipoh:

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

6.  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

7. 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 

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. Durbar at FMS

I won’t simply recommend you to visit an ordinary bar in Ipoh unless it has its own interesting story.

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.

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

12. Kek Lok Tong Cave temple

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

13. Ling Sen Tong Temple

          Xem bài viết này trên Instagram                       Bài viết do maiii_travelog (@maiii_travelog) chia sẻ

One of the feature that I love most about this interesting place to visit in Ipoh 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

14. 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

15. 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?

16. 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

17. 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

18.   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.

19.  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)

20. 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)

21. 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

22. 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)

23. Funtasy House Trick Art

Funtasy House Trick Art is one of the most interesting places in Ipoh. 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

24. Kinta Riverwalk

Kinta Riverwalk is a great 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

25. 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 

• 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

👉 Wanna rent a car charter for a day trip to Ipoh ? Contact me via WhatsApp at +60 149 776 712 for the best price 💸💸.

26. 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

26. 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 affordable 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

27. 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

28. 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

29. 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

30. 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

👉 Want to rent a car for a day trip to Ipoh from Kuala Lumpur ? Contact me via Whatsapp +60 149.776.712 (Mai) or my Instagram for the best price 💸.

Alright, above is the full list of interesting places in Ipoh that you can visit. 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?

I visited Ipoh many times.

For the first time, I traveled there alone. As a female traveler, 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, it is.

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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(11) 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

Your site is great and I plan on exploring it even more in the future. It is well written, comprehensive in it’s suggestions.It was a great article, thanks for sharing!

thank you 🙂

You’re welcome

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