Going on an Ipoh trip and want to know all the best things to do in Ipoh, Malaysia? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best Ipoh attraction options to plan your ultimate trip.
If you are looking for somewhere to visit in Malaysia beyond Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi and Malaysia’s beach resorts, Ipoh is definitely worth considering.
Ipoh is located inland in between Kuala Lumpur and Penang in the state of Perak. Once a small village with tin deposits, Ipoh grew when it became a British Centre of Administration for the Malay Peninsula. Central Ipoh still retains this colonial character and the main Ipoh place to visit is this colonial centre.
In recent years, more investment into Ipoh has lead to not only a revitalised Old Town but a regeneration of its Malaysian-Chinese cuisine and culture. It’s a real pleasure to walk around.
However, there is more to Ipoh than this. One of our favourite places in Malaysia, this city is full of Ipoh attraction places from its cave temples and stunning surrounding scenery to looking for pretty laneways and street art. Ipoh is also known for its great food and famous white coffee so make sure you eat everything you can while you are exploring!
Below, you will find our things to do in Ipoh blog with everything you need to know about what to do in Ipoh Malaysia, as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday in Ipoh!! There is also a handy map of the places to visit in Ipoh town and some information about visiting Ipoh with kids.
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Contents
Top 21 Things To Do In Ipoh, Malaysia
Here are the Ipoh things to do. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.
Enjoy Colourful Street Art and Murals
When examining an Ipoh tourist attraction map, be sure to look for the areas with street art. Most of the Ipoh must see street art can be found in Old Town. Doing a walking tour of all the art displays is a great way to enjoy an afternoon.
Most of the best art can be found on Mural Art’s Lane, located in Old Town near the river. You’ll also find plenty of other pieces in various lanes and alleyways around the area.
Address: Throughout the Old Town of Ipoh
Check Out the Colonial Architecture
If you’re wondering where to go in Ipoh Malaysia, why not start by exploring some of the old buildings in the area? Perak was once under British rule, and many buildings from its colonial era still exist today.
For a time, some of the buildings were beginning to fall into ruin. In recent years, Ipoh has experienced a bit of a revival. Many of the old buildings have been renovated and turned into art galleries, coffee houses, or boutique hotels. Others remain as they once were.
One of the best places to go in Ipoh to see historical buildings is Old Town. Be sure to check out the Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque and the Ipoh Station.
Address: Throughout the Old Town of Ipoh
Visit the Kong Heng Block
This is a relatively new Ipoh tourist attraction to check out. It was once the commercial centre of Old Town Ipoh, and it has been revived in recent years.
Kong Heng Block is the Ipoh best place to visit for hip eateries and interesting shops. You also won’t want to miss a visit to the Kong Heng Flea Market, which hosts many vendors selling art, handicrafts, and other souvenirs.
This area is located just west of the Kinta River at the end of Concubine Lane in Old Town. While it’s an Ipoh must go place at any hour of the day, it’s particularly busy during the evening hours. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Ipoh at night, you’ve found your spot.
Address: Jalan Panglima, Ipoh, Perak 30000
Explore Little India
Little India is another spot to include on your list of must visit places in Ipoh. You’ll find it on the southwest end of Old Town. It’s the cultural and commercial centre for the ethnic Indian community in the area, and it offers plenty of fun things to do in Ipoh.
Here, you’ll find shops selling Indian fashion as well as a few great restaurants. If you’re looking for an Ipoh place to go that differs from the rest of the city, consider spending an afternoon here. With its proximity to the rest of Old Town, you’ll be able to easily fit it into your itinerary.
Address: 12, Jalan Lahat, 30000 Ipoh, Negeri Perak
Visit the Old Town Laneways
The Ipoh Old Town Laneways are narrow alleyways filled with small shops and food stands. They’re located in the same area as most of the street art, so you can explore both elements of Ipoh at the same time.
Concubine Lane, which we already mentioned in our section about Kong Heng Block, is one such laneway. No list of Ipoh Malaysia things to do would be complete without a mention. It’s a great Ipoh attraction at night or during the day.
Address: Throughout the Old Town of Ipoh
Shop for Souvenirs at Gerbang Malam Night Market
This is an Ipoh night attraction you won’t want to miss! There’s plenty of delicious local food to be found in the area, along with stalls for clothing, accessories, and other goods. You can even get a relaxing foot massage while you take a break from shopping!
Be sure to add this location to your list of what to do in Ipoh at night. There isn’t much going on here during the daytime hours. It really comes alive after the sun goes down.
There’s a playground located in the centre of the market, so if you’re trying to figure out what to see in Ipoh Malaysia with the kids, this spot is a great choice.
Address: Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar, 30300 Ipoh
Explore Sunway’s Lost World of Tambun
Any Ipoh attraction blog that doesn’t mention Sunway’s Lost World of Tambun is incomplete! This theme park is an Ipoh must visit location, especially for travellers with kids to entertain. It features six different themed areas, including a water park, a petting zoo, wildlife viewing areas, and more.
While Lost World of Tambun doesn’t offer huge roller coasters or other such thrill rides, it does include a small number of rides for children. If you’re seeking a rush, you’ll want to head for Adventure Park, the section designed for thrills. Here, you’ll find a zip line, ropes course, kayaks, and other heart-pounding activities.
There’s also Tin Valley, an area of the park where you can pan for tin and learn about the history of the area. If you’re making an Ipoh what to see list of educational locations, this should be added. Getting in the water and panning for tin can be a lot of fun!
Wondering what to do at night in Ipoh? At Lost World of Tambun, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. In addition to enjoying the theme park during the day, this is also somewhere to consider if you are looking for places to visit in Ipoh at night.
Hot Springs Night Park requires an additional ticket, but it’s worth the extra price. Not only will you gain access to the relaxing hot springs and lush surrounding gardens, but you’ll also be able to enter the Luminous Forest, a musical experience complete with glowing jungles and a history lesson. This unique experience makes Lost World of Tambun one of the top places to go in Ipoh at night.
You can buy discounted tickets for this attraction by clicking here or read our full review here.
Address: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway, Sunway City, 31150 Ipoh
Discover the Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple
In the limestone hills near Ipoh, there are caves with temples inside. The Kek Lok Cave Temple is one of the most notable. Of all the things to see in Ipoh, this Buddhist temple should be a top priority. The tranquil gardens and lovely views make it an Ipoh interesting place to visit.
If you choose, you could spend some time meditating inside the temple with the other visitors. You could also just walk around and enjoy the peaceful energy. Remember that this is a spiritual place, which means you should dress in appropriate clothing when you arrive.
Address: Pesiaran Sepakat 3, Taman Endah Jaya, 31350 Ipoh, Negeri Perak
Eat
When determining places of interest to visit in Ipoh, much of your list should be made up of restaurants and other food-based attractions. After all, Ipoh is known for its food!
Malaysia’s white coffee originates from Ipoh. If you’re wondering where to go, a coffee house is a great start. The city is also known for its delicious noodles and sweet treats. If you’re going to try any of these popular dishes or drinks, it makes sense to do it while in Ipoh.
Ipoh Noodles
The city is known for its rice noodles, which are typically flat and prepared using local spring water. Kai see hor fun is a chicken, prawn, and noodle soup served with spring onions. Some versions come with a dark gravy, and others include an egg. Try a variety of noodle dishes during your stay, and you may come away with a new favourite!
White Coffee
There’s a reason Lonely Planet named Ipoh one of the top coffee towns on Earth. Ipoh white coffee is world famous and available at many Ipoh Malaysia attractions. The beans are roasted with palm oil and served with condensed milk, resulting in a sweet and creamy beverage.
Ice balls/Ais Kepal
An ice ball is simply a large ball of hard-packed ice bits covered with a tasty and flavorful syrup. They’re a staple food in Ipoh, especially during sweltering weather.
If you’re trying to determine where to visit in Ipoh that would serve ice balls, head for one of the Old Town Laneways. Specifically, look for a place called Bits & Bobs, which serves the chilled deserts.
Check out Birch Memorial Clock Tower
Birch Memorial Clock Tower is one of the top things to do in Ipoh. The tower has a rich and controversial history. Located in Old Town in front of the Ipoh State Mosque, the tower was designed to represent the British administration and commemorate the death of James Birch, a colonial hero.
Since many of Perak’s Malays were against the British colonisation, the tower remains a controversial location in the city. Two nearby streets were named after the men who were executed for the assassination of James Birch. This Ipoh famous place to visit provides a history lesson and a glimpse into the city’s turbulent past.
Address: 31650 Ipoh
Enjoy shopping at Memory Lane
This Ipoh new attraction was created by renovating one of Ipoh’s old laneways. The buildings on either side of the lane were redone using the original design style. In them, you’ll find little coffeehouses and souvenir shops. All of the old lanes are interesting to explore, but Memory Lane is ideal for shopping.
Address: Kinta City Shopping Centre, 2, Jalan Teh Lean Swee, Taman Ipoh Selatan, 31400 Ipoh
Tour the Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple
If you’re wondering what to do in Ipoh day trip, consider a visit to one of the city’s oldest cave temples. Of all the places to see in Ipoh, this one is a must. It features a beautifully landscaped ornamental garden as well as a columbarium designed to hold the ashes of the departed.
Along with the main cave temple, there are other smaller caves located nearby. Being able to explore a few temples at once makes this activity a must do in Ipoh. Once again, be sure to dress in respectful attire when visiting the temples.
Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh
Visit Ipoh World/Han Chin Pet Soo
Along with learning about tin mining at Lost World of Tambun, you can also educate yourself at Han Chin Pet Soo, Malaysia’s first museum dedicated to tin mining and its history. This Ipoh Perak attraction is highly rated on TripAdvisor.
Inside Han Chin Pet Soo, you’ll find photographs, collectibles, artifacts, and other items. There are also murals documenting the experiences of mineworkers.
If you’re seeking things to do in Ipoh town, this museum is a great option. You can easily walk here from other areas of Old Town. However, you’ll need to book your tickets prior to arrival. You can book online or in person.
This attraction is free, however the museum requests a donation of RM 10 for adults and RM 5 for children and students.
Address: No. 3 Jalan Bijeh Timah, 30100 Ipoh
Visit the Gaharu Tea Valley
Gaharu Tea Valley is a nice place to visit in Ipoh, especially for those who love the outdoors. This expansive agarwood plantation, which features more than 200,000 trees, has only been open to the public for a few years.
Agarwood is believed to have medicinal properties. It’s also cherished for its intense fragrance. The demand has led to it becoming a diminishing resource, but the plantation is working hard to ensure the trees don’t become extinct. You can support their cause by picking up a few items at the plantation’s retail shop, which sells Gaharu teas, cookies, fragrances, and more.
You’ll find the plantation just outside of Gopeng, Perak, which is south of Ipoh.
Address: Lot 9840, Mukim SG Teja 31600 Gopeng
Explore Kellie’s Castle
This legendary castle should be included in any list of Ipoh top attractions. It’s an extravagant structure that was meant to have a large tower, a rooftop entertainment area, and even an elevator. When its owner and creator, William Kellie Smith, passed away during construction, the project was halted and left unfinished.
Since the castle has been turned into a tourist attraction. You can explore the interior and take in some lovely views of the surrounding area from the roof.
Legend has it that the castle is haunted. Some visitors have claimed to see ghostly figures in the windows or other areas around the property, making this an Ipoh must do for anyone interested in spooky lore. For everyone else, the castle is still an Ipoh nice place to visit.
The castle is located near the town of Batu Gajah and can be reached by travelling south from Ipoh.
Address: Jalan Gopeng, Batu Gajah 31000 Batu Gajah
Take a Walk Along the Ipoh Heritage Trail
Be sure to include the Heritage Trail on your Ipoh to do list. It’s a self-guided walking tour that will show you many of the best places to visit near Ipoh Old Town and the business district. You can find it here.
The tour will take you by 27 points of interest, including the Town Hall Building, the Birch Memorial, and the Ipoh Railway Station. You can complete the tour all at once or at the pace of your choosing. It’s a great way to familiarise yourself with the area after first arriving in town.
Address: Throughout the Old Town of Ipoh
Explore the Ling Sen Tong Temple
If you’re trying to figure out what to visit in Ipoh, consider dedicating some time to the Ling Sen Tong Temple. This is a Taoist temple located at the foot of a limestone mountain on the southern side of Ipoh. It features many statues of deities and animals as well as a nice garden.
Address: Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh
Visit the Geological Museum
This museum is another of the city’s treasures and should be included in the list of Ipoh interesting places to visit. The museum is free. You can enjoy a guided tour or explore on your own.
The exhibits feature a huge variety of mineral, gemstone, and fossil specimens. There are also several large educational murals and an area dedicated to Ipoh’s mining history.
You can find the Ipoh Geological Museum east of Old Town near Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreation Park.
Address: Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 31400 Ipoh
Have Fun at Funtasy House Trick Art
This interesting location could be considered the best attraction in Ipoh! This Ipoh new place to visit opened in 2015. It combines an art gallery with a funhouse to create a unique experience.
All the works featured at Funtasy House create optical illusions to thrill, confuse, or fascinate visitors. Many pieces are designed for guest interaction and make for excellent photo opportunities.
Tickets to the gallery are RM 19 for adults and RM 10 for children, students, and seniors. It’s a fun place to bring the entire family. However, the gallery closes in the evening hours, so if you’re looking for where to go in Ipoh at night, you’ll need to choose a different destination.
Address: No. 16, Jalan Market, 30000 Ipoh
Discover Perak Tong Cave
This is another of Ipoh’s amazing Buddhist cave temples. The cave is massive and has many interesting rock formations.
While there are a number of cave temples mentioned in our what to do in Ipoh blog, this one in particular is great for anyone looking to get a bit of exercise. The temple itself is located on the ground level, but there’s a staircase you can climb to get to the top of the hill.
Flowering bushes and other lush plant life surround the temple, making for a relaxing environment. Inside the cave, you’ll find stunning paintings that depict celestial beings, flowers, and other images of spiritual significance.
Address: Jalan Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh
Day Trip to Cameron Highlands
If you’re looking for an Ipoh nearby attraction, you might want to consider a day trip to the Cameron Highlands. The Cameron Highlands is located around 2 hours from Ipoh and makes an excellent destination for a day trip.
The Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s main region for tea cultivation. The high elevation results in cooler weather, making this a great place to get out for some hiking. Here, you can spend hours exploring the beautiful landscape, which features green rolling hills and plenty of tea plantations.
Attractions in the highlands include Mossy Forest, a lush forested area that’s known for its misty cloud formations and mossy trees, and a local weekend night market where you can purchase a variety of meats, produce, and snacks. You’ll also find plenty of hiking trails in the area, some with lookout points that feature amazing views.
Click here to see all our Cameron Highlands travel guide.
Best Places To Visit In Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia Map
Best Place To Stay In Ipoh
Considering things to do in Ipoh Perak is an important part of planning your trip. What’s equally important is figuring out where you’re going to stay. There are plenty of options in Ipoh Old Town and in the outskirts of the city.
No matter your budget or preferences, you’ll find an Ipoh hotel that’s perfect for you. Here, we have listed a few options based on budget level.
BEST – The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat Review
If you have plenty of money to spend during your stay in Ipoh, consider booking a room at this highly rated resort. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is located near Sunway City and offers everything you could possibly need for a luxurious and rejuvenating stay in Ipoh.
The hotel grounds are simply magical. You’ll find thermal steam caves, hiking trails, crystal caverns, meditation spots, and plenty of green jungles in the surrounding area. The resort offers a gym, spa, pool, and restaurants.
You’ll be able to choose between lake, water, or garden villas for your stay. All rooms feature king beds, coffee makers, and private geothermal hot tubs.
Click here for the latest prices.
MID-RANGE – Regalodge Hotel Review
This mid-range hotel is just a short taxi ride from Old Town. If you’re interested in Ipoh what to do at night, this could be a great option. It puts you within easy access of all the best nightlife.
Regalodge offers standard and deluxe rooms, executive suites, and family suites. Standard rooms have been renovated to include a fun and colourful motif. There are also rooms with classic or contemporary décor, so you’ll be able to book a space that’s aligned to your preferences.
In a standard room, you’ll get two single beds, free Wi-Fi, a coffee maker and mini bar, air conditioning, television, and toiletries. The hotel has an indoor pool, gym, restaurant, and movie theatre.
Click here for the latest prices.
BUDGET – Beds In Garden Hostel Review
Beds in Garden Hostel offers both private and shared rooms for budget travellers. It’s located in the core if Ipoh, putting you within walking distance of Kong Heng Block, the Old Laneways, and other attractions.
You can book either a private room or a bed within a dormitory. There are both coed and female dorm rooms. Beds within the dormitories come with their own privacy curtain, and there is free Wi-Fi in the rooms.
The hostel grounds feature a community kitchen and living area, a garden terrace, and a restaurant and bar. One important thing to note is that this is an adult hostel. It’s not suitable for parents travelling with kids.
From the clean bathrooms to the well-kept gardens, it’s clear that the owners have put a lot of work into the place. If you’re a budget backpacker travelling solo or with a group of other adults, this might be the perfect place for you.
Click here for the latest prices.
Click here to see all our recommendations for the best hotel in Ipoh.
How To Get To Ipoh
It’s easy to get to Ipoh by bus, train or car. If you have your own car, great! You are good to go.
If you need to take a bus, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices.
If you prefer trains, click here for the latest information.
You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here.
The easiest way to get to Ipoh is to take a private taxi from anywhere in peninsula Malaysia. We can book a taxi for you with a safe and trustworthy local operator.
Click here for more details and prices.
It’s also possible to fly to Ipoh, but with barely any flights, it usually makes more sense to travel here overland from Kuala Lumpur or Penang.
In Penang? Click here for our detailed guide on getting to and from Ipoh to Penang.
Ipoh With Kids
Ipoh is a great place to visit with kids and many of the tourist attractions in Ipoh, Malaysia make great things to do in Ipoh with kids too.
Our kids loved walking around trying to spot the street art first and visiting the cave temples. The trick art is also fun although definitely the best Ipoh attraction for kids is Sunway Lost World of Tambun. It is perfect for family fun!
Final Words
As you can see, this area of Malaysia has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a travelling family or a solo adventurer, you won’t have any trouble figuring out what to do in Ipoh Perak. Come for a few days, or stay a few weeks. Either way, you’ll be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.
If you need help planning your Ipoh itinerary click here or if you’re travelling to or from KL to Ipoh – find out exactly how to get there here. Read more Ipoh guides here and find the best places to stay in Ipoh here.
Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
