Things to do in and 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 20 things to do in and near Ipoh that’ll keep you on your toes for a full day.
Table of Contents
– Attractions –
1. Bask in nature’s beauty by a mirror-like lake at Tasik Cermin
Image credit: @dixonkfilms via Instagram
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.
Image adapted from: @lavienenrose via Instagram, @kintsugi.313 via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @waynephotos_ via Instagram
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.
Image adapted from: @mgirl83 via Instagram, @izwan__syamil via Instagram
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
2. Visit a cave temple & hop on a boat ride at Kek Lok Tong
Image credit: @karen_is_on_holiday via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @gowalkwok via Instagram
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.
Image adapted from: I’m Mavis via Google Maps, Anthony Wong C. Leong via Google Maps
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.
Image credit: @_milokong_ via Instagram
Admission: Free
Address: Persiaran Sepakat 3, Taman Endah Jaya, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 8am-4.30pm, Daily
3. Learn more about Ipoh’s tin-mining history at Han Chin Pet Soo Museum
Image credit: @belakangkongheng via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @artististraveling via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @poskodmy via Instagram
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
4. Sift for preloved & vintage goods at a roadside flea market, Pasar Karat
Image adapted from: @mrmalique7 via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @liana1412 via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @mrmalique7 via Instagram
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)
5. Go on a journey back in time by embarking on the Ipoh Heritage Trail
Image credit: @suzaimiothman via 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.
Image credit: @heruprasetio99 via Instagram
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.
Image adapted from: @coralineescb via Instagram, @yumiyauu via Instagram
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.
6. Have a serene soak in natural hot springs at the Lost World Of Tambun
Image credit: Lost World Of Tambun
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.
Image credit: Lost World Of Tambun
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.
Image credit: Lost World Of Tambun
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.
Image credit: Lost World Of Tambun
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
7. Learn more about a popular local herbal drink at Ho Yan Hor Tea Museum
Image credit: @paulynzz via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @weilhotel via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @8367wvwvw_215_vwvwv7049 via Instagram
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
8. Gorge on a variety of street food at Concubine Lane
Image credit: @escapingny via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @ditaditti via Instagram
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
9. Marvel at the unfinished architecture of Kellie’s Castle
Image credit: @syafarizalshariff via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @adventuresofjellie via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @smilewithserene via Instagram
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
10. Uncover a row of abandoned shophouses at a single-street town, Papan
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.
11. Revel in old-school street art murals along Mural Art’s Lane
Image credit: @jjlye7194 via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @itatitasari via Instagram
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”.
Image credit: @jcb_ng via Instagram
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
12. Shop for local handmade goods at Kong Heng Square Market
Image credit: @hani.nhy via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @capthemoment_ via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @capthemoment_ via Instagram
Address: 75A, Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 10am-5pm, Daily
13. Pay tribute to legendary filmmaker, Yasmin Ahmad, at BookXcess Kong Heng
Image credit: @kiseki087 via Instagram
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.
Image adapted from: Dominic Khoo via Google Maps
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.
Image credit: Desmond Shia via Google Maps
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
14. Take trippy photos at Funtasy House Trick Art
Image credit: @muhammadsyafiqabubakar via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @angel.goh via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @iserasibunga via Instagram
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
15. Stroll along captivating light displays at Kinta Riverfront Walk
Image credit: @meerasegar via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @jansen_26 via Instagram
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
– Food –
16. Drink butterbeer & live out your Hogwarts dreams at Platform 9 ½ Cafe
Image credit: @d_chum via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @d_chum via Instagram
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.
Image adapted from: @qasehdalia via Instagram, @syizazima via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @harizshamsul via Instagram
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
17. Delight in a breakfast fit for champions at Ipoh’s famed kopitiams
Image credit: @holovesfood via 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.
Image credit: @holovesfood via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @azfartravelchannel via Instagram
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
18. Get messy with mixed curries at Nasi Ganja Ipoh
Image credit: @chanksters via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @bib_abhdhamid via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @brandonauthor via Instagram
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
19. Savour dim sum served in bamboo baskets at Ipoh’s popular dim sum joints
Image credit: @ipoh_lover via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @bib_abdahamid via Instagram
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.
Image credit: @thatgluttonn via Instagram
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
20. Treat your tastebuds to Ipoh’s Taugeh Chicken Rice
Image credit: @ipoh_lover via Instagram
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
Best things to do in & near Ipoh in 2023
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 updated on 17th October 2023.
Cover image adapted from: @_milokong_ via Instagram, Lost World Of Tambun, @ipoh_lover via Instagram, @gowalkwok via Instagram
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