Ipoh, the capital of Perak in Malaysia, is a breathtaking destination often overlooked by travellers. Adorned with quaint streets, rich history, stunning limestone caves and delectable local cuisine, it makes for a peaceful as well as adventurous getaway. Did you know that the stunning destination is also Michelle Yeoh’s hometown? Read our comprehensive Ipoh travel guide to include this gem in your itinerary.From an exotic theme park named Lost World of Tambun to the majestic Kellie’s Castle, which is believed to be haunted, and the stunning Gua Tempurung caves, you can pick the things to do that best suit your interests. But don’t forget to add some of the best outlets serving sumptuous street foods.

How to plan a trip to Ipoh?

You can keep these pointers in mind while planning a trip to Ipoh:

Determine the best time to visit according to the weather and local events.
Research transportation options and book your flights or other modes of travel.
Book your preferred accommodations in advance and keep your detailed itinerary handy.

Ipoh weather and the best time to visit

Ipoh experiences a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. Temperatures generally range from 23°C to 30°C, with the warmest months being April and May. Rainfall is common year-round, but the wettest months are typically from August to November. Ideally, you can plan your trip sometime between December and February, when it has pleasant weather.During this period, you can expect bright sunny days and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the city and nearby places. You must avoid visiting during the monsoon as thunderstorms and continuous rain may limit your sightseeing hours.

How to reach Ipoh?

By road

The town is well-connected by road to other major cities in Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur, which is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. You can opt for a private car service or rent a luxury vehicle for a comfortable and convenient journey.

By train

The Ipoh Railway Station is a major stop along the West Coast Line, connecting Ipoh with Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other destinations. For a luxurious train ride, choose from the ETS gold or platinum services.

By air

Ipoh is connected to major cities in Malaysia by air via the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH). Located six kilometres away from Ipoh, the airport also welcomes international flights from a few select destinations.

Best places to visit in Ipoh

Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village

Located twenty minutes away from Ipoh town, the Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village is known for its spectacular views of the surrounding jungles and limestone cliffs. Get up close with the Malay way of life and culture as you explore the village on a trishaw, a rare sight in today’s time. This tourist spot is also known for its wishing tree — a majestic banyan tree where people tie red ribbons and make wishes as per traditional Chinese customs. A perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, the village also features beautiful koi ponds, emerald-green lakes and lakeside cottages.

Kellie’s Castle

If you’re looking for something intriguing in Ipoh, head to Kellie’s Castle. Perched on a hill with a gorgeous backdrop, the unfinished ruins of the mansion tell the tale of an ambitious Scottish planter, William Kellie Smith. While there have been many stories of ghost sightings, nothing has stopped tourists from visiting the Gothic place. The interior and exterior have also been featured in several movies like Skyline Cruisers (2000) and Anna and the King (1999).

Lost World of Tambun

Once a tin-mining wasteland, the Lost World of Tambun is one of the most prominent theme parks in the world. Adrenaline-inducing roller coaster rides along with exciting eco-adventure excursions and majestic wave pools, this premium theme park is one of a kind. Cocooned within the lush tropical jungles and limestone cliffs, it is a must-visit for adventure seekers.

D.R. Seenivasagam Park

Spend a blissful day with your loved ones at D.R. Seenivasagam Park. Built-in honour of a well-known politician in 1960, the park offers many recreational activities. While here, check out the mesmerising Japanese Zen garden featuring an artificial carp pond. The nursery, play area and dedicated picnic zones make the park a fun place for young ones.

Gua Tempurung

Next on this Ipoh travel guide is the Gua Tempurung — the largest cave in the region of peninsular Malaysia. This three-kilometre-long cave has been retrofitted with walkways and electric lighting for tourists. The tunnel comprises five domes with ceilings that resemble coconut shells. The majestic stalactites and stalagmites are truly a sight to behold.

Funtasy House Trick Art

Head to Funtasy House Trick Art to add some magic to your trip to Ipoh. This unique art gallery is home to several trick rooms with different themes like upside down and circus. The gallery also displays 26 murals, along with several exquisite art structures and paintings which are a treat for art lovers.

Concubine Lane

Once a quaint corner of Ipoh, housing a few coffee shops, Concubine Lane is one of the most visited areas of the town today. Housing numerous cafes, dessert shops and souvenir pop-ups this lane is loved by tourists and locals alike for its aesthetic and trendy vibe. If you are visiting Ipoh during the time of Chinese New Year, exploring Concubine Lane must be on your to-do list. During this time, the street comes alive with red lanterns much like China Town and is a sight that must not be missed.

Yasmin Ahmad Museum

Named after the Malaysian film director, writer and scriptwriter Yasmin Ahmad, the museum and resource centre is an unconventional one featuring her life’s work. It is located in Kong Heng, Ipoh, a place close to the locales where most of Ahmad’s famous work was shot. The museum is a popular tourist spot in Ipoh created as an attempt to inspire people towards screenwriting and filmmaking. The highlight of the museum is that its contents are refreshed every six months or one year.