Taiping is a charming old tin-mining town in Perak, northern Malaysia. While not known as a popular tourist spot, it is an idyllic place for a leisurely stopover vacation for travelers to northern Malaysia. Behind its unassuming façade, historic gems abound in Taiping including the first railway, the oldest museum, hundred-year-old rain trees, the first zoo, and the oldest prison. Taiping is also known as the wettest town in Malaysia. Due to Malaysia’s tropical climate, it is summer all year round in Taiping. However, for easier traveling, the months of June to August may be more convenient due to the slightly warmer and drier weather. Light and cool clothing coupled with appropriate rain accessories is an absolute necessity when traveling in Taiping. Read on to find out about the 30 best things to do in Taiping, Malaysia.
1. Learn more about the history of Malaysia at Spritzer EcoPark
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The idea behind Spritzer EcoPark is to provide visitors with the opportunity to have fun while learning about the history and culture of Malaysia. One of the most memorable sections of this park is the railway sleepers from Taiping Railway Station, the first and oldest in the country. Guests are also welcome to join in the bottling tour to learn about how Spritzer products are produced. In terms of fun, the park features a minigolf course and an arts and crafts section using recycled materials. The park has an in-house cafe so you don’t have to venture far to get a bite to eat.
Spritzer EcoPark
Address: Lot 898, Reservoir, Off, Jalan Air Kuning, 34000 Taiping, Malaysia
Website: Spritzer EcoPark
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
2. Honor the veterans buried at Taiping War Cemetery
Taiping was one of the areas affected during World War II when the Japanese attempted to gain control of the Malay Peninsula that was manned by British troops. After the war, the servicemen who lost their lives were buried in the cemetery. It was divided into two sections with separate entrances: one section was designated for the Christian soldiers, while the other one was for the Muslim and Gurkha. There are 800 soldiers buried here but 500 of them remain unidentified.
Taiping War Cemetery
Address: 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Website: Taiping War Cemetery
3. Get your adrenaline pumping at ATV Adventure Park Larut
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This is a fun option for those who want to experience being close to nature while getting a dose of adrenaline. This adventure takes guests through a gorgeous rainforest with waterfalls. There are different trail options that guests can choose from based on their skill level, experience in driving ATVs, and confidence in conquering the terrain. The ride itself takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes with a guide accompanying visitors throughout the trip and providing assistance when needed. Guests are provided with safety gear and given an orientation to make sure that they have a safe but fun time exploring the off-road trails.
ATV Adventure Park Larut
Address: Lot 3644, Pejabat Rekreasi, Jalan Air Terjun, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
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4. Try out some street food at Dataran Warisan Taiping
Dataran Warisan Taiping is the town’s historical public square. It is flanked by government buildings as well as a few commercial establishments such as hotels and shops. While it seems like the usual town square on weekdays, it comes alive on the weekends at dusk with food stalls popping up. Services such as henna painting and foot massage, as well as kids’ rides, are also offered here.
Dataran Warisan Taiping
Address: Jalan Taming Sari, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
5. Take some creative pictures at 5D Art Paradise
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
5D Art Paradise is a fantastic choice for families and groups looking to have a fun time. This trick art museum features over 70 optical illustrations, sculptures, and exhibits that let guests take creative pictures. This facility is split into five sections, each featuring a different theme. In case you’re visiting Taiping and looking for fun things to do with your family, then consider visiting this art paradise.
5D Art Paradise
Address: 25, Jalan Maharajalela, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
Price: RM 20 onwards (4.8 USD)
6. Explore the waterfalls at Thanneermalai Sri Thandayuthapani Alayam
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Thanneermalai Sri Thandayuthapani Alayam is an 1800s Hindu temple tucked away in nature. Although this area is best known for its waterfalls, it also features other spots that are worth exploring. Those who are interested in exploring ruins and abandoned structures may also want to take a peek at the old horse riding track. There’s also an abandoned swimming pool that was built by the British colonizers sometime in the 1900s.
Thanneermalai Sri Thandayuthapani Alayam
Address: Thanneermalai Sri Thandayuthapani Alayam, 382 Waterfall Road, Perak, 34000 Taiping, Malaysia
7. Surround yourself with lush greenery at Taman Botani Perak - Taiping
Taman Botani Perak is the newest of the three national botanical gardens, following Johor Botanical Garden and Sarawak Botanical Garden. While it has already been opened to the public, it is still currently under development. Set on a 56-ac (22-ha) land, National Landscape Department is planning to establish 13 different gardens in the park. While the planning process is still ongoing, visitors are already allowed to take a leisurely walk here while surrounded by lush greenery. Besides serving as a public recreational area, it is also used as a scientific research and conservation site.
Taman Botani Perak - Taiping
Address: 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
8. Go ghost hunting at Casuarina Inn
Casuarina Inn has undergone a lot of transformations over the years. Originally, it was built to serve as a rest house for British troops when they occupied the town. However in1972, the Perak State Government decided to convert the facility into a cheap hotel only to be abandoned once again. Over the years, spooky stories have been associated with the establishment—and some brave tourists occasionally attempt to explore the building at night. Recently, the Taiping Heritage Society has taken the steps to lobby for the building to be restored as a heritage site.
Casuarina Inn
Address: 1, Jln Sultan Mansor, Taman Tasik, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
9. Check out animal-shaped sculptures at Rock Garden
Let your imagination run wild when you visit Rock Garden located within Taiping Lake Garden. Some of the rock sculptures that you will find here bear a resemblance to prehistoric creatures like dinosaurs. Also, be sure to explore other sections of this garden once you are done admiring the animal-shaped rocks. For real-life creatures, head to Taiping Zoo that is famous for its night safari. You can also check out the lakes, ponds, bamboo garden, a zig-zag bridge, and a clock tower, all of which can be found at Lake Garden.
Rock Garden
Address: Jalan Pekeliling, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
10. Get a glimpse of Taiping life in the olden days at Old House Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Built in the 1880s, the building was once used as a shophouse before the owners decided to convert it into a heritage museum. Various artifacts can be found here, including Chinese porcelain, antique furniture, vintage toys and appliances, and even an old slot machine. Photographs on display provide guests with glimpses of how life was like in the olden days. Found something to your liking? Check with the museum’s manager as some of the pieces on display are also for sale. He sells antiques as well, so it is possible that he may have something similar to offer to you. Since the museum is not open all the time, guests planning to visit are advised to call first.
Old House Museum
Address: 2A, Jalan Chung Thye Phin, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Website: Old House Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
11. Spend a moment of reflection at All Saints' Church
Established in 1886, All Saints’ Church is one of the oldest chapels not just in Taiping but also across Malaysia. While the building has undergone several repairs, its structure remains largely the same. Its stained glass window has stayed unchanged since it was installed in 1911. Also, it is one of the few churches that continues to maintain a pipe organ. On the church grounds is a small cemetery that serves as the final resting place of soldiers and the early settlers in the region. Although the church continues to hold religious ceremonies, it is not always open to the public.
All Saints' Church, Taiping
Address: Jalan Taming Sari, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
12. Sing your heart out at My Melody Family KTV
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Wanting to take a break from visiting local attractions? At My Melody Family KTV, guests are able to show off their vocal skills whether they are celebrating a special occasion or having a bonding session with their loved ones. The establishment offers the latest international hits among the possible song choices that guests can belt out. My Melody Family KTV takes pride in being one of the best KTV bars in Taiping that offers family-friendly fun to everyone.
My Melody Family KTV
Address: 46/48 tingkat, 1, Jalan Maharajalela, Jalan Birch, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
13. Learn how to cultivate mushrooms at WonderFarm Mushroom
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
PART TIME wonder farm / 1 & : & ...
Posted by Shigi on Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Many people consider mushrooms as one of their favorite food items but not everyone is aware of how these are grown and prepared in different ways. A tour of this family-run farm will give guests a crash course on how they can actually do all of these things. A guide takes visitors to the different sections of the farm where they can learn how organic mushrooms are cultivated and prepared, from the soil preparation to the various goods that can be produced from these edible fungi. Their products are available for sale, in case you want to try out snacks made from mushrooms. It is advisable to call ahead to arrange the tour around the farm instead of just walking in.
Wonder Farm Mushroom
Address: Lot 1626, Lorong 1, Kampung Setia, 34700 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 12pm, 2pm - 4:30pm; Sun: 9:30am - 12pm
14. Gain knowledge of Malaysia's old telegraph system at Telegraph Museum
Launched in 2018, Telegraph Museum is the first of its kind in the country. The museum was located in a building that used to house Post & Telegraph Office in 1883. There are over 50 artifacts that are on display here. Besides telegraph equipment, there are other telecommunications memorabilia showcased in the museum, allowing guests to get a feel of how communications have evolved in the country since the 1880s.
Telegraph Museum
Address: 2664, Jalan Stesen, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 8am - 5pm; Wed - Sun: 9am - 5pm
15. Go for a swim at Coronation Swimming Pool
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Heat in Taiping can be unbearable, especially during the summer. If you are looking for a place to cool off, head to Coronation Swimming Pool in Bukit Larut. The water here is natural, fed by streams and waterfalls close to the attraction. The water here is cool and chlorine-free, which makes it a safe swimming spot for everyone including kids.
Coronation Swimming Pool
Address: Pegawai Penjaga Bukit Larut, Taiping, Perak, 34000 Taiping, Malaysia
16. Spend the day at Taiping Lake Gardens
Originally a tin mining ground, Taiping Lake Gardens was later converted into the first public garden during the British rule in Malaya in 1880. The iconic rain trees are part of the Taiping Lake Gardens. These massive rain trees lining the lakeside were planted over a century ago and their huge branches arch dramatically downwards towards the lake, almost touching the waters.
Taiping Lake Gardens
Address: Jalan Pekeliling, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Website: https://www.facebook.com/LakeGardensTPG/
Opening hours: Open 24 hrs (daily)
17. Visit Burmese Pool
The Burmese Pool is a large rock pool along a stream at the foothills of Bukit Larut and is one of Taiping’s famous places. This popular weekend nature attraction is nestled within the rainforest. Visitors need to go through the Taiping Lake Gardens and look for the signboard pointing towards the Burmese Pool. A short drive later, you’ll arrive at a car park at the end of the road. You’ll be required to pay a small fee should you need to park your car. The rock pool is spacious but mostly shallow, and its water streams in gently via a small waterfall.
Burmese Pool
Address: 153, Jalan 2, Taman Sentosa, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
18. Explore Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
Covering an area of more than 40,000 hectares, Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve is recognized as one of the most well-managed expanse of mangrove swamps in the world. Established in 1902, it is the largest mangrove reserve in Malaysia, stretching for 50 kilometres from Kuala Gula to Pantai Remis along Perak’s coastline. About 80% of the reserve is used for coal production under sustainable harvest policies, while the remainder is completely protected for biodiversity preservation. The state of Perak has received various international awards for their excellent maintenance of this mangrove. Explore this coastal habitat by walking along the boardwalk into the mangrove swamp and when night falls, take a boat ride down the river for an amazing view of flashing fireflies.
Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
Address: Kampung Kuala Sepetang, 34650 Kuala Sepetang, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday
Duration: around 3 hours required.
Contact: +60 16 319 9833
Website: Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
19. Hike up Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut)
Founded in 1884, Maxwell Hill is a charming hill resort with a nice, little, English garden and colonial-era bungalows. It is also one of the best places to visit in Taiping. To ascend the hill, you will have to hire a Land Rover, as private vehicles are not allowed. You can also walk up the hill, and you will find many people doing this as a form of exercise. But keep in mind that the trek up the 13 km hill may take up to 5 hours!
Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut)
Address: Pegawai Penjaga Bukit Larut, Perak, 34000 Taiping, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday
Duration: around 3 hours required.
Contact: +605 807 7241
Website: Maxwell Hill - Bukit Larut
20. Drive past the walls of Taiping Prison
Originally called The Perak Prison and better known as “Taiping Gaol”, this prison was established in 1879 and is the first and oldest modern prison complex in Malaysia. It was also the largest prison complex at the time. The prison still operates to this day as Penjara Taiping. Driving past the imposing yet forbidding walls, it is hard to imagine the inmates’ lives in the past.
21. Check out Taiping Railway Station
Malaysia’s first railway station was situated in Taiping and was opened in 1885 when the Taiping-Port Weld Railway Line opened. The current modern station is the third railway station to be built in Taiping. The old station has been discontinued and conserved into a small haven of cafes. Now, it is an excellent photo spot and place to go on dates!
22. Visit Perak Museum
Founded in 1883, the Perak Museum is the first and oldest museum in Malaysia (1883). To date, the museum has accumulated over 8,000 artifacts, consisting of cultural collections, nature collections, and archaeological items. There is also a guided tour for those who are interested.
The museum still preserves its original colonial architecture, a striking white Moorish building that sits along Jalan Taming Sari, which is just a short walking distance from Lake Garden.
Perak Museum
Address: Jalan Taming Sari, Taiping, 34000 Perak
Price: USD 0.45 / RM2 (Free admission for children below 12 years old and children in school uniforms)
Opening Hours: Opens daily from 9.00 am - 6.00 pm. Closed only on Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidil Adha.
Duration: around 2 hours required.
Contact: +605 807 2057
Website: Perak Museum
23. Try sumptuous dishes
If you’re still wondering what to do in Taiping, why not try some of their sumptuous dishes?
Lian Thong Restaurant: One of the oldest restaurants in Taiping, Lian Thong Restaurant is a place for nostalgia with its old-style tiles and décor. Do try its specialty — Bomb noodles — which is a bowl of crispy, deep-fried Chinese Ee-Fu noodles.
Fried noodles at Larut Matant Food Court with Taiping’s famous char kuey teow with fish balls. There are four stalls selling this local specialty here, but do try Stall 63’s version — it is sweet and tasty!
Famous Taiping cendol: Try the amazing Ansari Famous Cendol at a small outlet on Jalan Chung Thye Phin, Taiping.
24. Witness an encounter with unique fauna at the eco-friendly Taiping Zoo
When traveling with kids and in families, a great activity to check out when in Perak is the night safari at Taiping Zoo. This zoo has been around since 1961 which gradually became a refuge for over 1,200 animals in Malaysia. To date, this zoo stands out in contrast to other Southeast Asian zoos for its profound and in-depth conservation measures developed in their own research center. Due to many unsafe conditions and mishandling of animals from various parts of the world, Taiping Zoo puts in loads of effort to preserve endangered species and properly care for the animals that are sent to this world-renowned zoo and conservation facility. Bring your children to this one of a kind experience, and hopefully learn a few interesting facts about animals as well as their care and safety measures when visiting Perak.
Taiping Zoo
Address: Jalan Taman Tasik Taiping, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Website: Taiping Zoo
Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Sundays to Mondays; 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Saturdays
Price: 10 USD to 20 USD
25. Get a snapshot of the historic Colonial Clock Tower
A must-see Taiping attraction is the Colonial Clock Tower, which has been in a landmark in Malaysia as far as 1881. As part of the development of British colonial structure in Malaysia, this tower is unique in its own right as it is made of timber, which was then replaced with bricks in order to further preserve it. It’s a landmark many architect-buffs will definitely enjoy seeing in real life and outside of Google Images. The Colonial Clock Tower has served as a city clock and timekeeper, as well as a police and fire station but today, it is a Taiping information center for tourists. Make a pitstop at Perak’s most iconic clock tower and check it off your Malaysia bucket list in just a jiffy!
Colonial Clock Tower
Address: Jalan Kota, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Price: free
26. Experience the beauty of Taiping with a morning bike tour (from USD 21.0)
Bike around this gorgeous city and discover its hidden gems. This tour lasts for about two hours and is the perfect activity for both kids and adults alike. With Taiping Lake Garden as your starting point, you’ll have a great time appreciate the garden’s natural beauty. You’ll also get to visit a couple of heritage places as you cycle your way into the heart of the city. Delight in the city’s stunning, must-visit sites, rich history, and even its delicious dishes. The tour guide is thoughtful enough to suggest some of the best local food shops. When in Taiping, this morning bike tour is something you definitely shouldn’t miss.
Morning Bicycle Tour in Taiping
27. Have a fun-filled family day with the kids at Kidzooona Taiping (from USD 1.0)
This highly rated Taiping attraction is best for kids aged 2 to 12. Kidzooona is an interactive space that encourages and hones each child’s interests and talents. Children can play make-believe and do role plays in situations and tasks that are a reflection of real life. Apart from this, kids can also enjoy some other activities like playing around with other kids as well as having fun in facilities like a ball pit and a bounce house. Let the kids develop their coordination, communication skills, cooperation, and creativity. Spend some time in Kidzooona for a memorable family day out when in Taiping.
Kidzooona Ticket in Ipoh, Taiping and Kelantan
Duration: 1 Day(s) Duration
28. Visit the impressive, 11-story, one-stop-shop Taiping Mall
Located in the center of Taiping, in Negeri Perak, Taiping Mall is your one-stop-shop for commercial activities. Being right at the intersection of Jalan Panggung Wayang and Jalan Tupai Wayang makes it convenient to get to, and the area is well serviced by public transportation. With abundant parking and 11 floors, Taiping Mall has an assortment of international and local brands, as well as clinics, banks, and even a movie theater. A number of great restaurants are also available and the food court serves ice-cold beer. Popular with locals and tourists alike, Taiping Mall is certainly worth a visit for some shopping fun.
Taiping Mall
Address: Persiaran Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Website: Taiping Mall
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 10:30pm
29. Have an amazing cup of coffee that's full of history in Aun Tong Coffee Mill
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Antong Coffee Mill on Sunday, April 12, 2020
Aun Tong Coffee Mill creates and sells some of the best coffee in all of Malaysia. Located on Jalan Assam Kumbang in Taiping, this facility is the perfect place for coffee aficionados looking to learn about how different beans are roasted to bring out the ultimate depth of flavor. Aun Tong Coffee Mill claims to be the oldest charcoal coffee mill still in business, and the quality of their coffee is second to none. Should you decide to visit, you can get a tour of the facility and taste some of their coffee - brewed carefully by expert hands. An assortment of unique flavors like durian coffee and charcoal-roasted white coffee are definitely worth trying.
Aun Tong Coffee Mill
Address: No. 8A, Jalan Assam Kumbang, 34000 Taiping, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Website: Aun Tong Coffee Mill
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
30. Explore Taiping Cross Street Bazaar and find the perfect souvenir
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Cross Street Bazaar Taiping on Friday, December 23, 2016
Don’t leave Taiping without buying some souvenirs. Make your trip to this city memorable and take home a small piece of it with you. If you’re wondering where to buy some of the best souvenirs, then Taiping Cross Street Bazaar is a great start. You can buy loads of stuff here; accessories, bags, clothes, little trinkets like key chains, fridge magnets, wood carvings, and home decor items are available. Situated in the city center, Taiping Cross Street Bazaar is easy to locate, and the best part is that it’s open until late (12 am), so you’re sure to have more than enough time to shop to your heart’s content.
Taiping Cross Street Bazaar
Address: Jalan Alang Ahmad, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: Fri: 7am - 12am; Sat - Sun: 12am - 1pm, 7pm - 12am; Mon: 12am - 1pm (closed from Tue - Thu)
Taiping: a leisurely stopover
Taiping is a small town often considered Malaysia’s top retirement towns, but is often overlooked as a travel destination. However, Taiping’s colonial tin mining history has bestowed it with rich architecture. Now with the modern convenience of the domestic train system, why not make Taiping your next destination while travelling up north? You can even travel a couple of hours down south and enjoy the beautiful beaches while staying in one of the beautiful Airbnb vacation rentals in Pangkor Island.
Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Taiping, Malaysia
1. Which are the top attractions to visit in Taiping?
Some of Taiping’s top attractions include Taiping Lake Gardens, Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, Perak Museum, and Burmese Pool. Enjoy your trip to Taiping and immerse yourself in nature - these picturesque locations are definitely a must-see.
2. What are the best outdoor activities in Taiping?
Cycling and walking around Taiping Lake Gardens, trekking in Bukit Larut, visiting Taiping Zoo & Night Safari, and swimming and relaxing in Burmese Pool are just some of the best outdoor activities in Taiping.
3. What are the most popular things to do with kids and family in Taiping?
Visiting Taiping Zoo & Night Safari is a must-do for families with kids. The morning bike tours and Kidzooona are also two of the most popular things to do for a fun-filled family day in Taiping.
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