Located in central Malaysia, Ipoh is described as the gateway to the Cameron Highlands. Ipoh itself is known for its large limestone cliffs and caves, where you will find many temples. This is the reason for traveling to Ipoh. Stay here for a maximum of 1-2 days to visit these things to do in Ipoh.
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1. Kek lok tongue temple
The Kek Lok Tong temple is a large Chinese temple. The special thing about this temple is that it is built in a cave. You can visit the Kek Lok Tong temple absolutely free, but it is appreciated if you make a small donation. As you walk through the temple you will see a large garden at the back. This is a wonderful place to relax for a while.
You can do various activities here, think pedal boat (€1 per person), ride a lap on a tandem bike (5 minutes and €1 per person) or walk on the barefoot path. You will see many local families with small children here on weekends. It’s really fun to get in a boat or ride aroud on the tandem bike yourself.
2. Sam Poh Tong Temple
The Sam Poh Tong temple is the oldest cave temple in Ipoh. Inside the temple you will find various statues of Buddhas and gods. You don’t have to pay an entrance fee for this temple either, but it is appreciated if you make a small donation. Outside the Sam Poh Tong temple you will find a well-maintained garden with a fish pond and some other figurines. Besides the Sam Poh Tong Temple, you will find two other temples: the Ling Sen Tong and Nam Tin Tong temples.
3. Mirror Lake Tasik Cermin
Mirror Lake is hidden amongst impressive limestone cliffs. Standing here you really feel very small. Because of its ripple-free water, it is also described as a mirror lake. Admission costs 8 RM (€2) per person. After the entrance, you walk through a cave, then emerge at the lake. You can take a 15-minute boat ride on the lake for 25 RM (€5) per person.
Mirror Lake, the Kek Lok Tong temple and the Sam Poh Tong temple are all fairly close together. You can take a Grab from the city of Ipoh to any of these three attractions. Then you can easily use the Grab to visit the other sights. There are many Grabs driving in Ipoh and some drivers can also tell you a lot about the city.
4. Viewing street art
If you like the street art in Penang, you will also appreciate Ipoh. In fact, much of the street art in Ipoh was created by the same artist, Ernest Zacharevic. Most street art can be found in the old town, around the quaint street of Concubine Lane. In the old town you will also find nice coffee shops, trendy lunch spots and souvenir shops.
5. Memory Lane Flea Market
Every Sunday in Ipoh, the Memory Lane Flea Market takes place. This is a real flea market with lots of knick-knacks such as old record players, used pans, rusted knives and damaged paintings. You won’t easily pick out a gem here but it is a fun market to wander around. This market is there only on Sundays.
How to get to Ipoh
From Kuala Lumpur, you can catch a direct bus or train to Ipoh. There are also direct buses to Ipoh from Penang. Check 12GO for the best connection. For more tips, also read all about transportation in Malaysia. After Ipoh, you can travel on to a very nice area of Malaysia: the Cameron Highlands. Here you can enjoy the cool climate, hike beautifully and visit tea plantations.
