Best Things To Do In Ipoh (Ipoh Attractions You Should Not Miss!)

Ipoh has many visitors during the public holidays. Many come for the delicious food but there are also plenty of things to do in Ipoh!

But because it is usually hot in the day, we advise that you explore at a slower pace when it comes to Ipoh.

Read on and find out what you need to see and try while you’re here.

Table of Contents:

  1. Go back in time (Ipoh tin mining history)
  2. Try Ipoh famous food
  3. Visit a limestone cave temple
  4. Admire British Colonial Architecture
  5. Ipoh Street Art
  6. Concubine Lane Ipoh
  7. Kong Heng Square
  8. Escape The Heat At 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery
  9. Enjoy some greenery (Ipoh parks)
  10. Mirror Lake (Tasik Cermin)
  11. Spend a day at Sunway Lost World Of Tambun
  12. Explore Tambun area
  13. Have a cup of Ipoh White Coffee
  14. Cycle around Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village
  15. Learn more about Malaysia at the Geological Museum
  16. Shop for a souvenir at Pasar Karat Memory Lane (Sunday Market)
  17. Go for an evening stroll at Kinta Riverfront Walk
  18. Check out Little India
  19. Browse through Book Xcess
  20. Take a break at an Ipoh Cafe
  21. Stay at one of many chic Ipoh Boutique Hotels
  22. Pamper yourself at a real 5-star resort
  23. Check out one of Ipoh’s shopping malls
  24. Hike up Bukit Kledang
  25. Make time to see other religious structures
  26. Explore every corner of Kellie’s Castle
  27. Escape the city and check out Gopeng

1. Go Back In Time (Ipoh Tin Mining History)

Learn more about Ipoh’s rich (pun intended) tin mining history at these places:

1.1. Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

This museum is an eye-opener to be sure!

Multilingual guides for the daily tours are volunteers from local NGO called “Ipoh World”.

Display of a gambling den at Han Chin Pet Soo Museum
Display of a gambling den at Han Chin Pet Soo Museum

You MUST make a booking online via Ipoh World’s website prior to visiting Han Chin Pet Soo.

  • Address: 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30100 Ipoh, Perak
  • Cost: Donation of at least RM10 per person (solely to maintain the building)
  • Recommended duration: 30 minutes to an hour
  • Opening hours: 11am to 3.30pm daily (Closed on Mondays)
  • Contact: +605-241 4541
  • Remarks: Pop next door to Ho Yan Hor museum if you have time!

1.2. Ho Yan Hor Museum

A small but lovely museum (with air-con!) paying tribute to a famous tea brand in Ipoh. This place is next to the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum.

Ho Yah Hor And Han Chin Pet Soo Museum Close To Concubine Lane
Ho Yan Hor And Han Chin Pet Soo Museum Close To Concubine Lane – Photo by Travelswithsun

Learn about the history of the building and the founder Dr. Ho. And how he found success!

See photos of the gallery in our post on Ho Yan Hor Museum.

  • Address: 1, Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Negeri Perak
  • Cost: Free admission
  • Recommended Duration: About an hour
  • Opening hours: 10am – 4pm (Closed on Mondays)
  • Contact: +605-241 2048
  • Remarks:
    • Tea sampling included!
    • Only small groups are allowed into the building at any one time
    • No pushy sales here!

1.3. TT5 Tin Dredge

Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No. 5 is now open after major repair works as the dredge is slowly sinking.

Another Angle Of The Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No.5
Another Angle Of The Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No.5 – Photo by Travelswithsun

Please pay a visit to this precious Ipoh heritage as proceeds go to the maintenance and salvation of the dredge!

See what the other attractions are at TT5 Tin Dredge!

  • Address:  9th KM, Jalan Tanjung Tualang, 31000 Batu Gajah, Negeri Perak
  • Recommended duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Opening hours: 9am – 5:15pm
  • TT5 Guided Tours: 9.30am | 10.30am | 11.30am | 12.30pm | 1.30pm | 2.30pm | 3.30pm | 4.30pm
  • Contact: +6014-904 3255
  • Remarks:
    • Visitor center has basic toilet facilities
    • Cafe in the grounds
    • Regular tours available (only in Malay)

2. Try Ipoh Famous food

You can’t visit Ipoh without trying the food! Ipoh is famous for its local food, like dim sum, beansprout chicken, dry curry mee, and more!

Ipoh Thean Chun Coffee Shop
Ipoh Thean Chun Coffee Shop – Photo by Travelswithsun

Traditional biscuits like kaya puffs, peanut candy, Gunung Rapat’s renowned hiong peah are worth mentioning too!

Read more: Famous Salted Chicken In Ipoh That You Should Try

3. Visit A Limestone Cave Temple

Unlike other temples around Malaysia, the ones in Ipoh are often built into the side of a limestone hill to form part of the temples!

Here are the top 3 that you should check out:

3.1. Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple & Zen Gardens

To start off this list, Kek Lok Tong is a Buddhist and Taoist temple built into a large cave.

Main Hall Of Kek Lok Tong
Main Hall Of Kek Lok Tong – Photo by Travelswithsun

Visitors will find the temperature much cooler once they walk in!

The temple has its own gardens at the back. Locals love to come here for an early morning or evening jog.

View Of The Zen Gardens At The Back Entrance Of Kek Lok Tong
View Of The Zen Gardens At The Back Entrance Of Kek Lok Tong – Photo by Travelswithsun

Enter the cave temple and head to the back garden where the cave opens out to a lake. This is where you’ll find the newest attraction – paddle boats and bicycles that you can rent.

Note: Boat rides are not in operation on Tuesdays

3.2. Perak Cave Temple (Perak Tong Cave)

You can climb up to the top of this impressive temple for a good view of Ipoh! Careful, it’s steep and slippery.

The Last Pavilion During The Summit Climb At Perak Cave Temple
The Last Pavilion During The Summit Climb At Perak Cave Temple – Photo by Travelswithsun

Perak cave temple is cool inside compared to the scorching temperatures outside.

The Carpark At Perak Cave Temple
The Carpark At Perak Cave Temple – Photo by Travelswithsun
  • Address: Perak Cave Temple, Jalan Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
  • Opening Hours: 8am–5pm
  • Cost: Free entry (small donation fee may be expected before the steps to go up)
  • Recommended duration: 1 hour or less (more if you want to climb to the top)
  • Remarks:
    • You cannot climb up past 4pm.
    • Bring some drinking water
    • There might also be somebody collect parking fees
    • Monkeys will happily grab unattended food and bags.

3.3. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Sam Poh Tong is the oldest cave temple in Ipoh. It has a charming decorative pond and garden in front of the temple!

The temple entrance features a large archway with exquisite white marble carvings of dragons and other mythical beasts.

Grand Archway At The Main Entrance To Sam Poh Tong In Ipoh
Grand Archway At The Main Entrance To Sam Poh Tong In Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

Inside the temple is a cool tunnel that leads out to the back where the tortoise sanctuary is. You can buy some vegetables at the temple entrance to feed them.

Once you are out of the tunnel, you will see an abandoned pagoda structure that is breathtaking with the limestone hills surrounding it!

Pagoda At The Back Of Sam Poh Tong Temple In Ipoh
Pagoda At The Back Of Sam Poh Tong Temple In Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

So don’t forget to include a cave temple into your plans, they are a must-see attraction.

4. Admire British Colonial Architecture (Ipoh Heritage Trail)

If you want to do this, start at 8am or in the evening as any other time is going to be hot! There’s a trail map available on ipohworld.

Birch Memorial Clock Tower In Ipoh
A Famous Ipoh Landmark, Birch Memorial Clock Tower – Photo by Travelswithsun

Ipoh may not have as many British colonial buildings as Penang or Melaka but the ones we do have are lovely all the same. It’s a shame they’re not in better shape.

Anyways, you will not miss spotting these large white buildings if you take on the Ipoh Heritage Trail! We have more photos and details about this heritage walk in a separate post.

  • Ipoh Railway Station
  • Ipoh Town Hall
  • St Michael’s Institution
  • Ipoh High Court (Architecture)
Ipoh Train Station At Sunset
Ipoh Train Station At Sunset
  • Address: Starting point is at Ipoh Railway Station
  • Recommended duration: 2 hours (leisurely pace)

5. Ipoh Street Art

For starters, look for the street murals scattered throughout Old Town. Below are some locations you might want to check out!

Mural Art’s Lane: Jalan Masjid, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak

Man With Scooter Handing Bag To Children - Mural Art In Ipoh
Man With Scooter Handing Bag To Children – Mural Art In Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

Old Town Relieves Nostalgia with Trishaw: Location

Trishaw Mural Walking Distance From Concubine Lane
Trishaw Mural Walking Distance From Concubine Lane – Photo by Travelswithsun

A Yellow Hummingbird: 37, Jalan Panglima, 30000 Ipoh, Perak

Hummingbird Mural In Ipoh Old Town
Hummingbird Mural In Ipoh Old Town – Photo by Travelswithsun

Kids Riding a Paper Plane: Location

Ipoh Street Art Mural - Kids Riding An Paper Plane
Ipoh Street Art Mural – Kids Riding An Paper Plane – photo credits to ayorkshiregirltravels (Instagram)

An Old Uncle Drinking Coffee: Location

Ipoh Street Art Mural - An Old Uncle Drinking Coffee
Ipoh Street Art Mural – An Old Uncle Drinking Coffee – Photo by Travelswithsun

Read more about Ipoh Street Art.

6. Concubine Lane Ipoh

It may be the most over-hyped spot in Ipoh, but it does have its charm. And you don’t need much time to explore it too!

Tourists Along Concubine Lane
Tourists Along Concubine Lane – Photo by Travelswithsun

The popular street is full of colorful shops and stalls selling an assortment of cheap trinkets and street food.

Read more about Concubine Lane.

  • Recommended duration: Less than an hour

7. Kong Heng Square

Another shopping opportunity and a popular Ipoh attraction:

Kong Heng Square is a short walk from Concubine Lane and within Plan B’s vicinity!

Photographic and Instagrammable Kong Heng Square in Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

On weekends, there are some delightful handicraft treasures and snack stalls to be found here. At the very least, this shaded area is a good stop to catch your breath away from the heat of the sun.

22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery is worth spending an hour at. The self-guided audio tours are in English, and the building is fully air conditioned.

Lobby Of 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery
Lobby

There is a gift shop on the ground floor and 3 different themes for the gallery upstairs. Occasionally, there may be events upstairs too.

Check out our separate post for more photos and information about 22 Hale Street Heritage Gallery.

  • Address: 22, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
  • Entrance Fee: RM10 (MyKad holders), RM20 (Foreigners)
  • Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday, 10 am–1:30 pm, 2:30 pm–6 pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10 am–6 pm; (Closed on Monday & Tuesday)
  • Recommended Duration: Around 2 hours
  • Contact: +605-2413991

Other galleries that you can visit in Ipoh:

  • Funtasy Art House
  • Ipoh Upside Down World
  • Time Tunnel Ipoh

9. Enjoy Some Greenery (Ipoh Parks)

Ipoh is blessed with gorgeous limestone hills. And it has its fair share of public gardens too.

9.1. Gunung Lang Recreational Park

With all the surrounding limestone hills and a small waterfall (most likely man-made), it’s very beautiful here!

Gunung Lang Recreational Park Seen From One Of The Lookout Towers
Gunung Lang Recreational Park Seen From One Of The Lookout Towers – Photo by Travelswithsun

The recreational park is great for joggers and families as well. The main attraction of this park is a large lake with a 5-minute boat ride to the other side.

Unfortunately, many of the facilities (like the lookout towers and mini zoo across the lake) are not in great shape.

Boat At Gunung Lang Recreational Park
Boat At Gunung Lang Recreational Park – Photo by Travelswithsun
  • Address: Gunung Lang Recreational Park, Jalan Damai, 30100 Ipoh, Perak
  • Opening Hours: 8:30am–6pm (on Fridays, there is a break for staff between 11am to 3pm
  • Cost:
    • Free if you don’t cross the lake or buy food to feed the fish.
    • Boat ride is RM3/adult and RM1.50/child or senior citizen.
  • Contact: +605-2083333
  • Recommended duration: 1 hour
  • Remarks: Beware of the monkeys.

Read more about Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

9.2. DR Seenivasagam Recreational Park

This beautiful Japanese-style park is less than 10 minutes’ drive from Ipoh Old Town and next to the Kinta River.

Taman Jepun (Japanese Garden) At Seenivasagam Recreational Park
Taman Jepun (Japanese Garden) At Seenivasagam Recreational Park – Photo by Travelswithsun

A couple of gazebos extend into the pond – you can walk across the bridges and raised walkways to get to them.

Or have a picnic in the shade of the huge trees there while you admire the view.

The Japanese Garden At Seenivasagam Recreational Park
The Japanese Garden At Seenivasagam Recreational Park – Photo by Travelswithsun
  • Opening Hours: 6am to 6pm

10. Mirror Lake (Tasik Cermin)

Locals fondly refer to this scenic lake as Tasik Cermin. Which translates to Mirror Lake. When the conditions are right, this lake becomes a perfect reflection of the surrounding limestone karsts.

Wide Angle View Of Ipoh Mirror Lake
Wide Angle View Of Ipoh Mirror Lake

The area is currently under development to make it more tourist-friendly, but visitors are still welcome.

See what to expect at Mirror Lake.

11. Spend A Day At Sunway Lost World Of Tambun

It’s relaxing to soak at the hot springs (6pm onwards) during the evening and night.

Sunway Lost World of Tambun Ipoh – photo credits to nadia_miranty84 (Instagram)

But there’re also plenty of other attractions at this theme park during the day:

These include a wave pool with a man-made beach in front, water slides, carnival rides, and the ever-expanding mini zoo.

Many visitors will opt to enjoy the water park in the day and go for the hotsprings at night.

  • Address: No. 1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1 | Perak Darul Ridzuan, Ipoh 31150, Malaysia
  • Cost: RM117/adult to access all parks or RM75 for the hot springs
  • Opening hours: 11am to 11pm
  • Recommended duration: 3 hours to a full day

Tip: Book online for some discount. Or get their yearly membership card (for fellow Ipoh-rians!)

Remarks:

  • Bring lots of sunscreen, a change of clothes and a towel!
  • Choose just the waterpark or just the hotsprings or both.
  • Crowded during long weekends and public holidays.
  • Additional fees for float and locker rentals, along with some of the rides (like kayak, swan paddle boat, etc)
  • No outside food is allowed
  • The onsite spa, Crystal Spa has packages starting from RM269.

12. Explore Tambun Area

Home to both 5 star hotels as well as a theme park, this area of Ipoh is worth the detour from Ipoh Old Town.

12.1. Tambun Cave

Prehistoric cave art can be found right in Ipoh! And these are only fading more as the years pass.

Cave Paintings At Gua Tambun (Tambun Cave)
Cave Paintings At Gua Tambun (Tambun Cave) – Photo by Travelswithsun

Unfortunately, the site has been left neglected with just a few dilapidated signboards to start you off.

The area is frequented more by horses from the neighboring polo club, rather than tourists.

It’s a short trek across a large field and up into the hillside via a staircase. The few thousand-year-old paintings are on the side of the cliff! The most you will ever see in Asia (according to Wikipedia).

Note: Not suitable for elders or young children.

  • Address: Laluan Tambun Perdana 2, Taman Tambun, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
  • Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am–5:30pm

12.2. Eat Tambun Pomelo (Limau Bali)

Depending on the season, you can try one of these juicy citrus fruits that Tambun is known for! There are bitter and sweet varieties.

Tambun Pomelos in Ipoh are juicy and sweet
Tambun Pomelos in Ipoh are juicy and sweet.

You can also visit a plantation and learn more about how they are grown!

Tambun Pomelo GoChin Agro Farm:

Tip: Buy them at Ampang – it’s cheaper here because the plantations are here!

13. Have A Cup Of Ipoh White Coffee

In the early morning, local favorites in Ipoh Old Town are Sin Yoon Loong and Nam Heong White Coffee. These are great if you want to sit down and slowly sip on your coffee in an authentic kopitiam atmosphere.

Hot Ipoh White Coffee At Yinzo Kopi
Ipoh White Coffee – Photo by Travelswithsun

Read more on where you can get yourself a great cup of Ipoh White Coffee.

14. Cycle Around Qing Xin Ling Leisure And Cultural Village

Come here for the lovely scenery – limestone hills and the lake!

The old artifacts that are used to decorate the “village” give it a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere.

Exhibit Huts Around The Lake At Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village
Exhibit Huts Around The Lake At Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village – Photo by Travelswithsun

Inside the park, you can use their bamboo hats, bicycles, and rickshaws for free and take as many photos as you want!

Or take a quick hike up the limestone hill! Read more about Qing Xin Ling Leisure And Cultural Village.

Tip: Go early in the morning on a weekday to enjoy the park without the crowds!

  • Address: 22A, Persiaran Pinggir Rapat 5a, Taman Saikat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
  • Entrance fee: RM12/pax (including parking fee)
  • Opening hours: 9:30am to 5pm (closed on Sundays & public holidays)
  • Recommended duration: 1-2 hours
  • Contact: +605-312 4140

15. Learn More About Malaysia At The Geology Museum

True, it is mostly just rocks on display:

But the museum is well-maintained with clear exhibits that are fun and interactive for kids!

Geology (Geologi) Museum in Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

Measuring tools and instruments are on display as well as rock samples from all over Perak.

Learn about the latest geology projects that the government is working on!

  • Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 30250 Ipoh, Perak
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 9am–12pm, 2:30pm–4:30pm; Fridays: 9am–12pm, 3–4:30pm; Closed on Saturdays & Sundays
  • Recommended duration: Less than an hour
  • Contact: +605-540 6000
  • Remarks: Free parking in front of the museum

16. Shop For A Souvenir At Pasar Karat Memory Lane (Sunday Market)

This is a bustling morning market to hunt for some old memorabilia or practice your bargaining skills!

Pasar Karat Sunday Market in Ipoh by aminalfiean (Instagram)

You will find a wide range of second-hand and new goods like clothing, shoes, accessories, etc.

Pasar Karat Memory Lane (Sunday Market) in Ipoh – Photo credits to iben_halim (Instagram)

There are also some food & drink stalls.

Tip: Best enjoyed as early in the day as possible!

17. Go For An Evening Stroll At Kinta Riverfront Walk

Opposite Kinta Riverfront Hotel is a short stretch river that has been transformed into a small recreational area.

One Of The Bridges At Kinta Riverfront
One Of The Bridges At Kinta Riverfront – Photo by Travelswithsun

Colored LED trees on either side of the river and two short bridges make it a good venue for a night stroll.

There are food stalls and a variety of bikes for hire! Including tandem bikes for 3 people!

Kinta Riverfront I-City – photo credits to jeenawongjm (Instagram)

18. Check Out Little India

Everything from clothing, trinkets, halal meat, fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices is sold here.

Little India In Ipoh
Little India In Ipoh

You can get your eyebrows threaded at the Indian beauty parlors here. Other services might be waxing or a massage.

Little India in Ipoh – photo credits to feliciawong24 (Instagram)

Of course, you can find great Indian food here. A good vegetarian option is Krishna Bhawan Restaurant.

19. Browse Through Book Xcess

Now the home of the Yasmin Ahmad Museum, this chic bookstore (Book Xcess Kong Heng) offers cool respite in the unrelenting heat of the afternoons:

Book Xcess Kong Heng
The entrance to Book Xcess bookstore in Kong Heng, Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

Books are displayed on cinder block shelves, and you can head downstairs to the basement to access the book vault!

Bookshelves in Book Xcess Kong Heng Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

The neon lights and industrial interior inside make for an exceptional Instagram background!

20. Take A Break At A Cafe

There are so many to choose from! But we’ve done the work for you in this list of the best Ipoh cafes!

Best Cafe In Ipoh

21. Stay At One Of Many Chic Ipoh Boutique Hotels

There is no shortage of places to stay in Ipoh – luxury resorts, homestays, and boutique hotels!

Best Hotels In Ipoh

22. Pamper Yourself At A Real 5-star Resort

Ever been to a 5-star resort before? There is only nature and calm here at this world-famous 5-star resort!

22.1. The Haven Resort

Rates for the modern rooms and suites at this resort are not too expensive!

The Haven Resort in Tambun Ipoh - aerial view (photo from official website)
The Haven Resort in Tambun Ipoh – aerial view (photo from official website)

Bask in the beautiful landscape that surrounds the hotel! Go for a jog around the lake, take a swim at the pool surrounded by the lake, or dip into the Jacuzzi!

Relax in the pool and admire the scenery at The Haven Resort - photo credits to secondkulture (Instagram - website secondkulture.com)
Relax in the pool and admire the scenery at The Haven Resort – photo credits to secondkulture (Instagram – website secondkulture.com)
  • Price range: Around RM400-700 a night for 2 people.
  • Check Best Price Now On:

22.2. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Embark on a romantic getaway at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat!

With your own private villa (and a private pool), scenic garden or lake views, butler services, hot pools, and spa massages at your disposal!

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Water Villa
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Water Villa (Photo belongs to the resort)

The on-site restaurant is something extra special too! Jeff’s Cellar offers a fine dining experience right in a limestone cave!

There is another great restaurant (The Pomelo) on the property too. Serving tantalizing dishes with organic produce.

  • Price range: From RM1,350 a night for 2 people.
  • Check Best Price Now On:

23. Check Out One Of Ipoh’s Shopping Malls

We have a list of Ipoh’s most popular shopping haunts here.

While not as large as the shopping malls in Penang or Kuala Lumpur, these are good if you need something in pinch, or just want to escape the heat (or rain) for a while!

24. Hike Up Bukit Kledang

View from the summit of Bukit Kledang
View from the summit of Bukit Kledang – photo credits to thewanderlustingexpat (Instagram)

Ipoh’s most popular hiking trail at Menglembu:

Many start the 3.5-hour hike up to the summit (800m) before dawn to admire the sunrise!

Sunrise at Klebang Hill in Menglembu Ipoh
Sunrise at Klebang Hill in Menglembu Ipoh – photo credits to sh3rman (Instagram)

There are a total of 4 trails of varying difficulty and duration:

  • RTM (~4 hours) – to the summit via a tar road
  • 4-2 (1 hour) – jungle trail
  • 4-3 (1.5 hours) – jungle trail
  • 4-9 (2 hours) – jungle trail
RTM trail is on a tar road (Bukit Kledang)
RTM trail is on a tar road (Bukit Kledang) – photo credits to wanguerillaproject (Instagram)

Note:

  • The shorter ones are jungle trails that connect back to the main road at different points!
  • If you reach the top when it’s still dark, you’ll have a fantastic view of Ipoh city at night too!
  • For safety, don’t go alone!

25. Make Time To See Other Religious Structures

If you want to see the following buildings, it helps if you have your own car because most of these are not in the city center (except for the first and second one)!

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

It is an easy walk to this mosque from the city center.

Masjid Sultan Idris Shah II (Masjid Negeri) in Ipoh - photo credits to khairulazhar__(Instagram) - For the full list of things to do in Ipoh, go to www.travelswithsun.com
Masjid Sultan Idris Shah II (Masjid Negeri) in Ipoh – photo credits to khairulazhar__(Instagram)

The exterior of the mosque features several gold domes and a square minaret.

And lovely Islamic lattices!

25.2. Panglima Kinta Mosque

There’s nothing quite like blue mosques like Masjid Panglima Kinta. This mosque was built in the early 1900s.

Masjid Panglima Kinta - a historical blue mosque in Ipoh - photo credits to nat_trs (Instagram) - For the full list of things to do in Ipoh, go to www.travelswithsun.com
Masjid Panglima Kinta – a historical blue mosque in Ipoh – photo credits to nat_trs (Instagram)

There are guided tours that will explain more about the construction of the mosque.

Masjid Panglima in Ipoh (Blue Mosque)
Masjid Panglima in Ipoh (Blue Mosque) – photo credits to mohdfairuz2184 (Instagram)

You can include this gem in your Ipoh heritage walk!

25.3. Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple

Next, we must mention this beautiful Hindu temple set against some limestone hills! The best time to go here is during the evening when it’s not too hot.

Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple, Ipoh - Photo credits to reknesvaran_selvaraju (Instagram)
Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple, Ipoh – Photo credits to reknesvaran_selvaraju (Instagram)

The temple is bustling with activity during Thaipusam. Inside, you can observe the wall drawings that depict the many stories of Lord Murugan.

Side of the Hindu temple Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple in Ipoh - photo credits to bharathan_raj (Instagram) - For the full list of things to do in Ipoh, check our post on www.travelswithsun.com
Side of the Hindu temple Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple in Ipoh – photo credits to bharathan_raj (Instagram)

25.4. Be Impressed At Tambun Tibetan Temple

Jiagan Jing She translates to the Enlightened Heart Tibetan Temple. In typical Taoist temple style, the temple is all bright and colorful and there are hundreds of statues scattered around!

Tambun Tibetan Temple or Jiagan Jing She, Ipoh – photo credits to snyzyao (Instagram)

Come here to see the largest Buddhist statue in Ipoh. The statue is almost the same height as the multi-level pagoda that is on the temple grounds.

The large buddha statue at Tambun Tibetan Temple, Ipoh – photo credits to snyzyao (Instagram)

25.5. Seen Hock Yeen Confucius Temple, Chemor

Somewhere hidden in the town of Chemor (30 minutes’ drive from Ipoh), is a magnificent red and gold temple!

Seen Hock Yeen Confucius Temple In Chemor, Perak
Seen Hock Yeen Confucius Temple In Chemor, Perak

There are several deities worshiped in this Buddhist temple. If you’re interested in this temple, do read our full description of Seen Hock Yeen Confucius Temple.

Tips:

  • You will also need a hat or umbrella to visit this place! As it gets hot during the day!
  • If you go early in the morning (8am), the lotus flowers in the pond might still be open!
Close Up Of A Lotus Flower At Seen Hock Yeen Confucius Temple
Close Up Of A Lotus Flower At Seen Hock Yeen Confucius Temple

26. Explore Every Corner Of Kellie’s Castle

An abandoned manor in ruins, visitors can roam the building and grounds to admire the Moroccan-inspired architecture!

Kellie's Castle - An Abandoned Building Near Ipoh
Kellie’s Castle – An Abandoned Building Near Ipoh – Photo by Travelswithsun

Read our complete travel guide to Kellie’s Castle.

  • Driving time: If you’re coming from Ipoh, Kellie’s castle is only a 30 minutes’ drive (it’s ~7 minutes from Batu Gajah).
  • Address: Kellie’s Castle, 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak
  • Opening hours: 9:30am–5:30pm
  • Contact: +605-3653381
  • Cost: Admission fee is RM 5 for Malaysian adults. And RM 10 for foreigners. RM2 for parking
  • Recommended duration: Less than 2 hours
  • Remarks:
    • Do try to go on a cloudy day if you can to avoid the heat.
    • There are tours available
    • There is a cafe (and toilets) by the carpark if you want something to eat.

You can stop here before heading up to Cameron Highlands where the mossy forest is!

Read also: 29 Best Places To Visit In Cameron Highlands (New Guide)

27. Escape The City And Check Out Gopeng

Around 40 minutes out from Ipoh city center, Gopeng has a lot to offer, especially for adventure seekers!

27.1. Gua Tempurung

Admire a limestone cave up close and inside out at Gua Tempurung. If you don’t mind stairs, you will not regret going to this attraction!

Staircase at Gua Tempurung
Staircase at Gua Tempurung – Photo by Travelswithsun

It makes for a fun caving experience if you’re up for it. There are different trails and choosing one depends on how much time you have and if you are willing to wade through the underground river!

  • Address: Tempurung Cave, Pusat Pelancongan Gua Tempurung, 31600 Gopeng, Negeri Perak
  • Cost: ~RM30 depending on the tour
  • Opening hours: 9am to 4:15pm
  • Recommended duration: 30 minutes to 4 hours
  • Remarks:
    • Bring a change of clothes and a towel for the wet tours. And a dry bag to keep your stuff (camera gear and phone).
    • Cover your knees and elbows to prevent scrapes!
    • Moderate fitness would be best if you’re doing the grand tour.
    • Bring drinking water.

27.2. White Water Rafting (River Explorer)

If you’ve never been white water rafting before, this is a great start to getting your feet wet (pun intended)!

Take up the challenge and go white water rafting in Gopeng, Ipoh – photo by iamfazlanfahmi (Instagram)

The rafting takes place at Kampar River.

27.3. HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley

For a slower pace in Gopeng:

Have a look at the unique and rare gaharu trees (also known as Agarwood) which are planted at HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley.

Entrance To HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley
Entrance To HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley – Photo by Travelswithsun

The tree is highly valued for its many beneficial and healing properties.

Gaharu Tea Valley Visitor Centre
Gaharu Tea Valley Visitor Centre – Photo by Travelswithsun

You can see them up close and from far here in this large plantation.

Swiftlet House At HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley In Gopeng
Swiftlet House At HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley In Gopeng – Photo by Travelswithsun

Tours and tea tasting are available here at the plantation too.

Read more: 27 Best Things To Do In Penang

How To Get Around Ipoh (Without Your Own Car)

Below is just a short summary of available transport options in Ipoh. We have a separate more detailed guide on how to get around Ipoh.

  1. Hop on the city public bus – affordable but not reliable
  2. Taxi or Grab (not as many as in KL)
  3. Book an Ipoh private tour with RayTheTour via WhatsApp – includes transport and a personal guide! The itinerary is flexible, and you can choose 1 day or multiple days.

Conclusion

This list of 27 things to do in Ipoh should keep you busy for more than just a weekend! See the historical sights, some greenery and eat lots of Ipoh food!

PS: there are also things to do at night in Ipoh

Leaving Ipoh? Here’s how you can squeeze at least another attraction in your itinerary:

For example, there is Orangutan Island: A Hidden Orangutan Sanctuary In West Malaysia or the charcoal factory in Kuala Sepetang). See our separate guide on road trips from Ipoh for more details.

Explore Perak more:

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