On a yearly basis, many countries, cities, and regions will be selected by Lonely Planet to be featured as the top destinations to visit. In Malaysia, there are a few states listed by Lonely Planet and they are worth visiting. They are Ipoh, Penang, and Penang, and among the three, Ipoh has some of the top Airbnbs and best places to stay. From the first Movie Animation Park Studios (MAPS) to UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lenggong Valley. With so many places to visit in Perak, it is a destination you should be considering for your vacation. Perak is the fourth largest state in Malaysia and is located in the northwest part of Peninsular Malaysia. Here are some of the best things you must do in Perak, Malaysia.
1. Movie Animation Park Studios (MAPS)
This animation park studio is the first such theme park in Asia as well as Malaysia, and is a top Perak attraction. Movie Animation Park Studios is a theme park that caters to all age group of tourists and visitors. Opened about two months ago, you will get to see over 40 attractions in six themed zones. Famous animated movie characters will definitely attract families and kids to the theme park. From Malaysian own BoBoiBoy to DreamWorks characters like The Croods and The Smurfs, kids will have a chance to meet their favorite characters and take pictures with their idols.
Movie Animation Park Studios (MAPS)
Address: 3, Persiaran Meru Raya, 31200 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: Movie Animation Park Studios - MAPS)
2. Kinta Riverfront Walk
While in Perak, you need to visit the Kinta Riverfront in Ipoh. The best time to come here is at night as you will be amazed by the colorful LED lights and the capital city comes to life. There are plenty of activities for you to do here. You can either walk along the riverfront or rent a bicycle to enjoy the scenic view of the riverfront.
Kinta Riverfront Walk
Address: Jalan Lim Bo Seng, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hours
Website: Kinta Riverfront Walk
3. Lost World of Tambun
Apart from Movie Animation Park Studios (MAPS), there is another popular theme park in Ipoh and is one of the most interesting places in Perak. It is none other than the Lost World of Tambun. This is a different theme park you have ever visited, as you will get to see the unique natural hot spring at Lost World of Tambun. Bring your whole family here and have a fun day out.
Lost World of Tambun
Address: No.1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1, Sunway City Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday to Sunday, public holidays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Price: Kindly refer website for details.
Website: Lost World of Tambun
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Concubine Lanes
Time to visit the historic lanes of Ipoh. You will be surprised by its name because it is called Concubine Lanes. It is quite similar to Jonker Street in Malacca and you will find a lot of shops here. From desserts to souvenirs, taking a walk around this historic and unique lanes will cheer you up.
Concubine Lanes
Address: Concubine Ln, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hours
Facebook: Concubine Lanes
5. Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan, Perak
If Italy has the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you can also see one in Malaysia. Yes, it is located in Teluk Intan, Perak. Teluk Intan Leaning Tower is another top Perak tourist attraction, and you need to see it for yourself. It is strategically located in the center of a square and you can see it from far. So, fret not as you will find your way. Do not be deceived by its structure as it is a three-story building, not eight stories. Once you enter the tower, then you will get to see what is inside.
Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan
Address: Lot 1&2, Komplex Menara Condong, Jalan Bandar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Website: Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan
6. Lenggong Valley Archeological Gallery, Lenggong, Perak
No visit to Perak is complete without touring the Lenggong Valley. Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be surprised by the museum as well as nature around it. Get ready to see the human fossil skeleton of Perak Man. It is the rarest skeleton found by archaeologists in Perak. Lenggong Valley consists of four main sites and it will take half day to full day to visit all the sites. Do plan your time wisely.
Lenggong Valley Archeological Gallery
Address: Kampung Baru Kota Tampan, 33400 Lenggong, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
7. Taiping Zoo & Night Safari
If you happen to be around Taiping or plan to visit a zoo in Perak, then opt for Taiping Zoo & Night Safari. Be amazed by its various wildlife and get a feel of its night safari by visiting the zoo. You do not need to travel all the way to Africa to see the animals since you can do so in Malaysia. This is the oldest zoo in Malaysia and it was established in 1961. You can either opt for the day zoo visit or night safari. If you choose the night safari, take note that you are not allowed to bring flash cameras and torchlights.
Taiping Zoo & Night Safari
Address: Jalan Taman Tasik Taiping, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Website: Taiping Zoo & Night Safari
8. Royal Belum Rainforest
Ready for more excitement? You will visit the Orang Asli settlements, walk through the rainforest, enjoy fresh air and see various wildlife. How amazing is that, right? It is time to visit one of the world’s oldest rainforests.
Embark on a unique adventure to Royal Belum Rainforest. The rare rafflesia can be seen here too. It is the largest flower in the world and you need to take some pictures of the rare plant. You can have a picnic at the waterfalls as well.
Royal Belum Rainforest
Address: Pulau Banding 33200 Gerik, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hours
Website: Royal Belum Rainforest
9. Orang Utan Island, Semanggol, Perak
Fancy to have a snapshot with an orangutan? Head over to Orang Utan Island in Semanggol for a great trip. It is not an island but an orangutan conservation center in Malaysia. As one of the endangered wildlife, it is a good thing to see the survival of orangutans in the wild. You can cuddle the baby orangutan while you are at this conservation center.
Orang Utan Island
Address: A197, 34400 Simpang Empat Semanggol, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: Orang Utan Island
10. Pangkor Island
Pangkor Island is another attraction not to miss in Perak. Walk along the beautiful beach or go fishing while on the island. If you are looking for accommodations, there are many hotels, resorts and vacation rentals around the island. So, you can stay in this charming island and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Pangkor Island
Address: Pangkor Island, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hours
Website: Pangkor Island
11. Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, Kuala Sepetang, Perak
Experience wonder of nature by visiting Matang Forest Reserve to complete your vacation in Perak. Located in Kuala Sepetang, Matang Forest Reserve was gazetted as a forest reserve in 1906. Apart from the mangroves, you will get to visit various villages near the forest reserve as well as dolphins, eagles, and other rare wildlife. Pack your backpack and book your trip to Perak. It is an amazing holiday destination.
Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
Address: Kampung Kuala Sepetang, 34650 Kuala Sepetang, Perak, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Website: Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
12. Batu Gajah
For history enthusiasts, Batu Gajah offers a heritage trail where old significant buildings in the yesteryears are still standing. The total distance covered in this trail is about 5km (3 miles) which makes riding a bicycle or a car ideal for touring around. Some of the sites that you will see here are the Old wooden shophouses, Wah Onn Theatre Building, Railway Staff Quarters, Old Railway Station, Royal English School, Government Rest House, Prison or Gaol, Christian Cemetery, and the Government Offices & Court Complex. Taking this heritage trail will definitely provide you with a nostalgic feeling and an insight into the town’s history.
13. Perak Cave Temple
For some architectural inspiration, visit Perak Cave Temple. The structure is built into a limestone hill and its main “hall” is a huge cave, hence its name. Touring around the place ensures that you’ll attain your fitness goal for the day as walking and climbing would be required of you to explore the place. There are numerous stairs that you need to ascend to go deeper into the cave, to reach the highest pavilion and finally get to the summit. A panoramic view of the city and surrounding hills awaits as you reach the highest part of the cave temple. Should you want to grab a bite before going home or just buy a souvenir, you may visit the snack bars and gift shops on the temple grounds.
Perak Cave Temple
Address: Jalan Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Negeri Perak
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
14. Sam Poh Tong
Discover the artistic works of man and nature in Sam Poh Tong, a limestone hill that is said to be the biggest cave temple in the country. Its architecture unveils its influences and presents the antiquity of the structures. To have a magnificent view of its surroundings, you would need a stiff climb of 246 steps that will lead you to an open cave. Other attractions that you may see here include a landscaped garden designed around a large fish pond, a secluded garden containing the ‘tortoise pond’ and an ornate pagoda building with red roof tiles. This place undoubtedly allows you to spend time appreciating nature and architecture.
Sam Poh Tong
Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4pm (daily)
15. Street food
Find out more about the food culture of Perak by exploring the dining scene on its streets. Enjoy and familiarize yourself with the palette of the locals by having some street food. Some of the delicacies that you can try are Chee Cheong Fun, Hakka Mee, Fried noodles, Pork & Chicken Satay, Kaya Puffs, Tau Fu Fah and many more. For those who have a sweet tooth, you may have Caramel Egg Custard, which is perfect to cap off your food trip. Trying out these dishes will certainly make you full enough to sustain you to explore more of Perak and gives you a memorable experience eating the local way.
16. River tubing in Gopeng River (from USD 12.65)
If you find yourself near the city of Ipoh, in the state of Perak, make sure you don’t miss out on this exciting experience. Travel down Gopeng River while tubing and climb down the waterfalls of Ulu Geruntum. Looking for even more adventure? Challenge yourself with white water rafting down Kampar River. Transportation from the meetup location to these various activities is provided, but make sure you pack a change of clothes - because you will get wet!
River Tubing and Waterfall Abseiling Experience in Perak, Malaysia
17. Tempurung Cave
Perak is full of some incredible caves to explore and spelunk through, but Tempurung Cave is perhaps the most widely known. This guided tour is certainly worth checking out, and the local guide is fairly knowledgeable about the area. Make no mistake, this cave is long, with plenty of chambers and corridors to discover, and full of stunning rock formations. This experience also includes eating a delicious meal right inside of the cave while surrounded by its beauty. Some parts Tempurung Cave do get wet, so keep that in mind when choosing footwear and clothing.
Tempurung Cave Exploration in Ipoh, Malaysia
18. Kellie's Castle
Kellie’s Castle, known alternatively as Kellie’s Folly, is a sprawling mansion in Batu Gajah, built in a mix of Moorish Revival and Indian styles. Started in 1915 and abandoned by 1926, this unfinished castle was commissioned by rich Scotsman William Kellie-Smith, allegedly as a present for his wife. William died before it was ever completed. During the construction, Spanish flu devastated William’s workforce, resulting in several deaths. This has led to claims of the castle being haunted, with stories of the spirit of William’s daughter especially drawing in tourists. Situated close to the gorgeous Raya River, on beautiful green grounds, Kellie’s Castle was also the filming location of Anna and the King in 1999 and boasts cafés and souvenirs as well.
Kellie's Castle
Address: 31000 Batu Gajah, Perak, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 5:30pm; Fri - Sun: 9am - 6pm
19. SUP at Kampar River (from USD 33.0)
While in the area of Gopeng, why not go stand-up paddleboarding at Kampar River? This three-hour experience is more relaxing than white-water rafting, allowing you to take in the bountiful nature that surrounds you. There are different types of paddleboards for those who want more of a challenge, and all the safety equipment and private transportation are provided. The guides are friendly and always eager to give tips for first-timers, and there is even a tasty lunch break as well.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding on Malaysia’s Sungai Kampar
Duration: 3 hours
20. Perak Museum
Perak Museum in Taiping, Perak, has the distinction of being the oldest museum in Malaysia – established in 1883. Built in a gorgeous architectural style, it contains a vast assortment of human, cultural, and natural history, with some items from founder Sir Hugh Low’s initial collections. Perak Museum has a stunning garden and many eye-catching exhibits. The Nature Gallery has an assortment of fossils and unique species not found anywhere else, while the Indigenous People Gallery is a window into the culture and handiworks of Malaysia’s past. If you are in the area, make sure to stop by and immerse yourself in the story of Malaysia.
Perak Museum
Address: Jalan Taming Sari, 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
Website: Perak Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Worthy holiday destination for everyone
Perak is the best holiday destination for families, couples, friends, first-timers, and adventurers. If you have not been here, it is time to visit this state. After all the beautiful Pangkor Island, the historic Concubine Lanes and various UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located in this state. Be sure to take note of these things you must do in Perak in your itinerary!
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to