Things to do in Taiping, Perak
For urbanites eager to break away from the bustle of Kuala Lumpur, Taiping stands out as an ideal destination. The town, which is the second largest in Perak after Ipoh, has a rich history – it’s home to several of Malaysia’s firsts, including the first-ever museum and the first railway station built in the country.
Here’s a list of 15 best things to do in Taiping, from visiting the mesmerising Taiping Lake Gardens to the oldest coffee mill in Malaysia.
Table of Contents
- Things to do in Taiping, Perak
- How did Taiping, Perak get its name?
- What is the history of the city of Taiping?
- 1. Flytrike
- 2. Taiping Lake Gardens
- 3. Charcoal Factory
- 4. Ansari Cendol
- 5. Bukit Larut
- 6. Muzium Perak
- 7. Taiping Zoo
- 8. Burmese Pool
- 9. Old Taiping Clock Tower
- 10. Larut Matang Hawker Centre
- 11. Antong Coffee Factory
- 12. Spritzer Ecopark
- 13. Taiping War Memorial
- 14. Wonder Farm Mushroom
- 15. Telegraph Museum
How did Taiping, Perak get its name?
Taiping once went by the name of Klian Pauh – klian meaning “old mine” and pauh meaning “mango”. The town was renamed after the Larut Wars in 1874, which saw feuding Chinese groups vying for control over tin mining areas in Perak, including then Klian Pauh. The name Taiping can be poignantly translated from Chinese to English as “great peace”.
What is the history of the city of Taiping?
The history of the town dates back to the 19th century. Like with many other towns in Malaysia, the discovery of tin deposits in Taiping led to its rapid development. It was formerly the capital city of Perak, until Ipoh became the state’s administrative centre in 1937.
Today, Taiping has a couple of nicknames. It’s known as the “wettest town in Malaysia” as it receives higher than average rainfall compared to other local states, which has led to many flourishing heritage trees in the town.
It is also known as the “town of many firsts” as many of Malaysia’s firsts are located here – the first hillside resort, prison, purpose-built library, museum, and more.
1. Flytrike
Fly around Taiping for unparalleled views
Image credit: @fadiel_sunbei via Instagram
If it’s not enough to explore Taiping on foot, consider soaring through the skies with FlyTrike to discover the historical state in a microlight aircraft. They offer daily licensed paragliding flights with professional pilots over Taiping and Kuala Sepetang, from their station at Taiping Airstrip.
Image credit: @yangizaniee via Instagram
FlyTrike offers packages from RM250 per pax, which include 3-5 minutes of flight time as well as a GoPro recording of your journey. The activity may be slightly pricey, but the views from high up will be unparalleled.
There are two sessions during the day, one in the morning and another in the evening – both guarantee stunning views of fluffy clouds basked in sunlight.
Image credit: @haikalhrdn_ via Instagram
Address: Taiping Airstrip, Jalan Tekkah 1, Taman Tekah Jaya, 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 7am-12pm & 5pm-7pm, Daily
2. Taiping Lake Gardens
Malaysia’s oldest recreational park
Image credit: @mohdasrulnizam.nikadek via Instagram
Taiping Lake Gardens is a sprawling 160-acre oasis of tranquillity. As the oldest recreational park in Malaysia, it boasts a rich tapestry of scenic lakes, serene ponds, and heritage trees that beckons visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Image credit: @alexcsgoh via Instagram
There are a couple of things to do at the former tin mine turned park. Beyond just marvelling at one of eight man-made ponds and lakes located here, visitors can embark on a stroll through the park to soak up scenic views of Bukit Larut, or down the iconic Raintree Walk.
The latter is a stretch of road that is flanked by a total of 37 majestic heritage trees that have been standing tall for over a century.
Image credit: @sylviejuly via Instagram
For a touch of adventure, hop aboard a pedal boat to glide across the serene waters. Prices to rent a boat at the park cost around RM6. There are also bicycles for rental, priced from around RM2.
Address: Jalan Pekeliling, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 8am-10pm, Daily
3. Charcoal Factory
A charcoal factory steeped in tradition
Image credit: @rozekruzaini via Instagram
Just a short drive from Taiping, in Kuala Sepetang, a good number of charcoal factories are still operating. They are part of the town’s charcoal-making legacy, which dates back to 1930. One of them is Charcoal Factory, a family-owned establishment that’s steeped in tradition.
At the factory, the public is welcomed to join free guided tours to learn more about the age-old process of transforming mangrove logs into black charcoal, and witness firsthand the fascinating method of firing charcoal inside an igloo-shaped kiln.
In case you’re wondering, the charcoal processed here is not just for fuel, but for everyday items like cleaning agents and cosmetics.
Image credit: @shamroslee via Instagram
As they rely on mangrove forests for their trade, the charcoal factory employs important preservation techniques to sustain their business and the forests, such as planting a tree for every one cut down. The public will be taken on a tour of a forest to see the process up close.
There’s no fixed fee for the tours, but donations are welcomed.
Address: Jalan Taiping, Kuala Sepetang, 34650, Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Daily
Contact: 012-428 6098 | Charcoal Factory Facebook
4. Ansari Cendol
A century-old cendol establishment in Taiping
Image credit: @nazli_leroy via Instagram
Established in 1940 and spanning 3 generations, Ansari Cendol is a must-visit when you’re in Taiping. The cendol here is renowned for its balanced blend of sweetness and creaminess, which you can level up further with a choice of toppings including red beans and sweet corn.
A signature offering is the grilled pulut rice that helps set this cendol spot apart from other cendol stalls.
Image credit: @dannyhschen via Instagram
Prices start from RM1.60 for plain cendol and RM3 for additional toppings. Also, don’t miss out on their rojak (from RM4) available at a neighbouring stall, which forms an unbeatable sweet-and-savoury combo with cendol.
Image credit: @chefamer via Instagram
Address: 92, Jalan Barrack 2 Medan Simpang, 34000, Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 10am-6.30pm, Daily
Contact: 012-562 9440 | Ansari Cendol Facebook
5. Bukit Larut
A former hill resort
Image credit: ExpatGo
Bukit Larut, formerly known as Maxwell Hill, has a rich history. It’s a resort hill that was established by William George Maxwell in 1884 for expats to escape the city’s heat. Nestled approximately 12km from Taiping, it stands as Malaysia’s oldest hill resort.
Today, the hill is home to time-worn colonial bungalows that remain as they were when built by the British but now operating as rest-houses, as well as the now abandoned Tea Garden. With daily temperatures ranging from 10-25 degrees Celsius, it remains a haven from Malaysia’s lowland heat and humidity.
Image credit: Viral Perak via Website
Access to roads on Bukit Larut have been closed off to vehicles for safety reasons since 2023. But the tarmac road is still popularly trekked by hikers exploring the area, who’ll begin their hike at the Park Headquarters. The trek stretches about 13km, but most hike till the hill’s midway point at Tea Garden.
There are several stations, or pondoks, to rest at, as well as a stunning view of the surrounding towns from above here.
Address: Pegawai Penjaga Bukit Larut, Perak, 34000, Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 6.30am-7pm, Daily
Contact: 05-807 7241 | Bukit Larut website
6. Muzium Perak
The first museum in Malaysia
Image credit: Lembaga Muzium Negara Perak via Facebook
Muzium Perak is Malaysia’s first-ever museum built in 1883 that pays homage to Taiping’s rich history and culture. Established by Sir Hugh Low, the museum has five galleries, each showcasing a diverse collection of artefacts, specimens of local fauna, and ethnological items – some of which are over a century old.
Image credit: Lembaga Muzium Negara Perak via Facebook
The museum’s mission is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving Malaysia’s historical, cultural, and natural heritage, serving as a centre for research and education. With a unique architectural blend of Moorish, neoclassical, and Victorian influences, the museum also stands as a testament to Perak’s heritage.
Admission: RM2/adult | RM1/pax for children and senior citizens
Address: Jalan Taming Sari, 34000, Taiping
Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Daily
Contact: 05-807 2057 | Muzium Perak website | Facebook
7. Taiping Zoo
A night safari
Image credit: @wawazameri via Instagram
There’s no better place to spend time with the kiddos than at a zoo. At Taiping Zoo, which is the only zoo in north Peninsular Malaysia, families and animal lovers alike will get to catch a glimpse of the zoo’s inhabitants in naturalistic exhibits and also meet them after hours.
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Established in 1961, the zoo, which is also referred to as Taman Mergastua Sultan Idris Shah among locals, is located in the sprawling Taiping Lake Gardens. It spans an impressive 36 acres and houses over 1,500 animals from 140 species. They include Asiatic Golden Cats, Bornean orangutans, and Malayan elephants.
Since 2003, the zoo has been welcoming visitors to hang out with their animals at night, with special lights to simulate moonlight illuminating the zoo to not interfere with the animals’ well-being.
Admission: RM16/adult | RM8/pax for children and senior citizens
Admission (Night Safari): RM20/adult | RM10/pax for children and senior citizens
Address: Jalan Pekeliling, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 8.30am-6pm & 8pm-11pm, Daily
Contact: 05-808 6577 | Taiping Zoo website
8. Burmese Pool
Shallow pools formed by rock formations
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The Burmese Pool in Taiping gets its unique name from the Burma Rifle Regiment stationed in the town, who discovered the watershed area sometime in the 1920s and utilised it as a recreational spot.
Today, locals and tourists alike visit the shallow pools that were formed by natural rock formations and fed by a waterfall, to dip their feet in cool waters and have picnics surrounded by nature.
Image credit: @khalisazrie_ via Instagram
As the area is a nature preserve, it’s important to stay mindful of the environment and pick up after yourself. There’s no entry fee for Burmese Pool, but there’s a small fee for parking.
Address: 153, Jalan 2, Taman Sentosa 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 24 Hours, Daily
9. Old Taiping Clock Tower
An eye-catching landmark in Taiping
Image credit: @sorayahamid via Instagram
The Taiping Clock Tower was originally constructed in 1881 as a wooden building to serve as the city’s first police station and fire brigade. Rebuilt in stone in 1891, it went on to feature chamfered slits for gun slots and a distinctive wind vane shaped like a rooster.
Image credit: @sorayahamid via Instagram
Despite being abandoned in 1950, efforts to conserve and restore the structure have been ongoing, with restoration to revive the iconic chiming clock finally completed in 2018. Today, the tower is a prominent Taiping landmark part of the Heritage Trail, with picture-ready structures like a red phone booth enacted nearby to attract tourists.
There’s also an information board here for visitors to learn more about the history and significance of the tower.
Address: 55, Jalan Kota, 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 24 Hours, Daily
10. Larut Matang Hawker Centre
A hawker centre with over 100 stalls
Image credit: @takumigoh via Instagram
One of the most popular places to get local grub in Taiping is Larut Matang Hawker Centre, which boasts over 100 food stalls serving all sorts of mouthwatering Malaysian cuisine.
Image adapted from: @peini.tw via Instagram
Some must-try dishes here include char kuey teow, wan tan mee, mee rebus, popiah, and ice kacang. There are also vendors selling a good variety of kuih, including the classics like seri muka and kuih lapis.
Address: Jalan Panggung Wayang, 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 5am-9pm, Daily
11. Antong Coffee Factory
A coffee mill and a historical home
Image credit: Antong Coffee Mill via Facebook
Antong Coffee Mill, established in 1933, is the oldest coffee roaster and one of the most significant coffee mills in Malaysia. Located near the KTM Train Station in Taiping Town, the factory offers guided tours of its facilities and insight into its 7-step coffee production process, from roasting to packaging.
Image credit: Antong Coffee Mill via Facebook
An adjacent building, said to be the former residence of Chen Cuifen, the mistress of China revolutionary Sun Yat-Sen, now serves as an office for the factory and is adorned with ancient trinkets and murals related to coffee-making and Sun Yat-Sen.
Image credit: Antong Coffee Mill via Facebook
Beyond visiting the coffee mill, visitors can explore the surrounding garden, shop for a variety of coffee products, or sample their coffee beans at a cafe.
Admission: Free
Address: No. 8A, Jalan Assam Kumbang, 34000, Taiping
Opening hours: 8.30am-5.30pm, Daily
Contact: 014-900 0055 | Antong Coffee Mill website | Facebook | Instagram
12. Spritzer Ecopark
A themed park with mini golf course
Image credit: @wardanimaswira via Instagram
Nestled amid lush greens, Spritzer EcoPark beckons with its expansive grounds that offer a serene retreat for nature lovers and families alike. Take a leisurely stroll through the park’s tranquil surroundings, soaking in the beauty of the natural landscape.
Image credit: @spritzerecopark via Instagram
For those seeking more excitement, the park features an 18-hole mini golf course where both adults and kids can tee off and enjoy a round of friendly competition. With rates at RM10 for kids and RM15 for adults, it’s an affordable and entertaining activity for all ages.
Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the inner workings of Spritzer mineral water production at the visitor centre. Here, you can gain insights into the meticulous process of bottling pure mineral water straight from its source.
Image credit: Spritzer EcoPark via Facebook
As you explore the park, be sure to engage with its other unique attractions, such as the Heart Lock Corner, where you can leave a token lock of your affection, and the Tree Tag Walkabout, an immersive experience that connects visitors with the natural world.
Admission: Free
Address: Lot 898, Reservoir Off, Jalan Air Kuning, 34000, Taiping
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm (Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Contact: 05-801 2663 | Spritzer EcoPark website | Facebook
13. Taiping War Memorial
The final resting place for WWII soldiers
Image credit: Commonwealth War Graves via Website
Located on the foothills of Bukit Larut, Taiping War Memorial is a site that history buffs will want to visit to learn more about the impact of World War II on our nation. For the uninitiated, the town of Taiping was on the British line of retreat, briefly serving as a rest and refitment centre as well during the war.
Image credit: Kayes Cyk via Facebook
After the defeat of Japan, a cemetery was created to serve as the final resting place for brave soldiers of various nationalities, including British, Australian, and Indian, with sections designated for different religions. There are also designated entrances for Christian graves and Muslim and Gurkha graves.
The cemetery and memorial stands as a tribute to 864 Allied soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the war, of which over 500 remain identified.
Address: 34000, Taiping
Opening hours: 24 Hours, Daily
14. Wonder Farm Mushroom
A mushroom wonderland with guided tours
Image credit: Ticket2u
A Taiping, family-friendly must-visit is Wonder Farm Mushroom, an organic haven where you’ll discover a fascinating array of mushrooms that are seldom found in supermarkets.
Upon arrival, you’ll get to enjoy a complimentary mushroom drink before delving into the world of mushroom cultivation, with free guided tours lasting 20-30 minutes per session.
Image credit: @ceciliakkh via Instagram
While the factory remains off-limits, visitors can explore outdoor areas that showcase various mushroom varieties. Souvenir options here include mushroom drinks, dried mushrooms, mushroom noodles, and skincare products. You can also purchase fresh mushrooms at an affordable price.
Image credit: @alice_azure via Instagram
Admission: RM3/pax
Address: Lot 1626, Lorong 1, Kampung Setia, 34700, Matang, Perak
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 9am-12pm & 1.55pm-4.30pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 016-531 8161 | Wonder Farm Mushroom Facebook
15. Telegraph Museum
Artefacts and photographs on telegraph
Image credit: @alice_azure via Instagram
Taiping’s Telegraph Museum is the first museum in Southeast Asia to honour a simple, yet important, form of communication in Malaysia’s history: the telegraph system.
Image credit: @alice_azure via Instagram
The charming colonial building, which currently houses the museum, operated as a telegraph office in 1876. It now holds artefacts, photographs, and more to share with the public on the usage of the telegraph and how it has led to modern forms of communication.
Admission: RM8/adult and RM5/child for Malaysians | RM15/pax for non-Malaysians
Address: 2664, Jalan Stesen, 34000 Taiping, Perak
Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Daily
The best things to do in Taiping, Perak
Located under a 3-hour drive from KL, Taiping stands as an enticing destination for city folks seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. So if you’re contemplating your next road trip idea, set your sights on Taiping where there are plenty of heritage sites and good food to discover.
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Cover image adapted from: @fadiel_sunbei via Instagram, @alexcsgoh via Instagram, @khalisazrie_ via Instagram