Ipoh is the fourth largest city in Malaysia and home to some of the country’s best relics from its period of colonization. Moreover, as the gateway to the Cameron Highlands, it’s a great place to stay before heading out to see the incredible rice plantations.

Main attractions in Ipoh

Arriving into the Ipoh Railway Station, you’ll immediately notice the colonial touches present in Ipoh. From the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, with its representations of the progress of civilisation and its ode to secularism, to the Art of Oldtown and its uniquely artistic coffee shops. Ipoh really Shines when you head into the Oldtown. However there’s more, especially if you head to the Padang Ipoh. This is an upscale area home to the Ipoh Cricket Club and a fair few mock-Tudor style buildings. You should also be able to find a good Ipoh Hotel in this area. You can also head to the Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple in the south of Ipoh. The Zen Gardens are incredible and well worth the look.

Neighbourhoods in Ipoh

Head to Tambun to see the Enlightened Heart Tibetan Temple. It’s a nice alternative to the Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple above, and it’s even got the largest Buddha statue in the city. Meru is home to some great accommodation and might be a good choice if you’re looking for a hotel in Ipoh. If you’re looking for a good neighbourhood you can walk around in, then the Railway station is near to the town hall and several places where you can actually get yourself a bit to eat. It’s quite picturesque.Finally, Klebang is a great location for anyone looking to find a cheap hotel in Ipoh. There are a few cheaper eateries here as well, but they’re not as fancy as ones you might find nearer to the centre of the city.

How to get around in Ipoh

• The nearest airport to Ipoh is the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport.
• You can take a taxi into Ipoh for just MYR 20 (4.60 USD).
• You can also take a train from Kuala Lumpur for just MYR 25 or 35 (5 – 7 USD) which takes 2 hours.
• You can use the local bus service in the city. Buses are frequent, if not entirely applicable to a schedule.
• You can also take a taxi. This will cost you around MYR 5-10 (1 – 2 USD) almost anywhere in the city.