Discover the best of Ipoh with this crisp, practical guide. Where to go, what to eat, and what to see in Malaysia’s most charming heritage cities.

Nestled in the heart of Perak, Ipoh is a city where history, culture, and culinary wonders converge. Once a thriving tin mining hub, today Ipoh enchants travellers with its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street art, natural attractions, and a food scene that rivals any in Malaysia. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Ipoh promises a fulfilling escape packed with discoveries.

What to See: Heritage, Nature, and Art

Concubine Lane

Concubine Lane or Lorong Panglima, which dates back over 120 years to the late 19^th century, is Ipoh’s most iconic street and a living reflection of the tin mining boom era. It was reputedly gifted by the prominent Chinese mining tycoon Yau Tet Shin to his concubines, adding to its intriguing name.

Today, the lane is a pedestrian-only area bustling with colourful shophouses, boutique cafes, souvenir stalls, and vibrant street art, making it a top spot for photography and local crafts. The architecture showcases a charming blend of Chinese and European influences, featuring intricate tilework and ornate wooden shutters.

The lane is open daily to visitors. Most shops and stalls are open from 9AM to 10PM.It is located centrally in Ipoh with easy access via Jalan Panglima or Jalan Bandar Timah. It is especially lively during holidays and weekends.

Ipoh’s Colonial Core

Explore the city’s British colonial legacy with a stroll through its ‘Golden Triangle’ of heritage landmarks, showcasing Neo-Classical architecture designed by architect Arthur Benison Hubback. Start at the Ipoh Railway Station (1914-1917), often called the ‘Taj Mahal of Ipoh’ for its grand Moorish domes and minarets, open daily for passengers and visitors to admire its exterior.

Opposite stands the Ipoh Town Hall and Old Post Office (1914-1916), a whitewashed Edwardian Baroque gem featuring Ionic columns, wide verandas, and a history of hosting concerts, dances, and even Rabindranath Tagore’s symposium, which is viewable from outside as it serves administrative functions today.

Nearby, the Birch Memorial Clock Tower (1909) commemorates Perak’s first British Resident, J.W.W. Birch, with terracotta figures symbolising colonial virtues; it remains a central photo landmark open throughout the day. These sites form a compact cluster perfect for a 30 – 45 minute heritage walk.

Street Art Trail

Ipoh’s old town has been transformed into an open-air gallery, thanks to murals by international and local artists, including Ernest Zacharevic. Notable murals are found along Jalan Panglima and Jalan Tun Sambanthan. Famous murals include “Children on a Bicycle” and whimsical depictions of local life that tell stories from Ipoh’s past and culture. Visitors can pick up mural maps at local tourism centers or join guided art walks to explore these Instagram-worthy spots.

Ipoh’s Old Town has been transformed into an open-air gallery, thanks to murals by international artist Ernest Zacharevic, famous for his interactive pieces that cleverly incorporate real bicycles, swings, and everyday objects into the artwork, as well as local talents. His notable works include “Children on a Bicycle” (Jalan Panglima, where a real bike frame protrudes from the wall) and whimsical depictions of local life like “Kopi-O Break” or “Evolution,” telling stories from Ipoh’s tin mining past and coffee culture.​

Murals cluster in two main areas: the compact Old Town (around Jalan Panglima, Jalan Bijih Timah, and Jalan Tun Sambanthan) and the nearby Mural Art Lane (Lorong Panglima), separated by a 15 – 20 minute walk, or hop in a Grab taxi for RM5 – 8. Pick up free mural maps at Ipoh Tourist Information Centre (near Railway Station) or join guided art walks; the full trail takes 1 – 2 hours on foot.

Han Chin Pet Soo & Ho Yan Hor Museum

The Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, Malaysia’s first Hakka tin mining museum, showcases Ipoh’s tin mining legacy and is open daily with an admission fee; it is recommended to book in advance. Adjacent to it, the Ho Yan Hor Museum celebrates the city’s famous herbal tea heritage with informative exhibits.

The Han Chin Pet Soo Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30AM to 5PM, and it is closed on Mondays. Entry to the museum is by appointment only, and visitors must book their spot in advance through the official website.

General admission to the museum is free and aligns with the museum’s opening hours, remaining free with recommended donations of RM5 – 10 per person (or RM10 adult/RM5 child for commercial groups) to support upkeep. No walk-ins are allowed without a reservation.

The adjacent Ho Yan Hor Museum (herbal tea heritage) follows similar access; check the website for combined visits. They are open Tuesday to Sunday, 10AM to 4PM, and closed on Mondays. It is advised to book early, especially on weekends and public holidays, as slots fill up quickly.

Kellie’s Castle

A short 20-minute drive from Ipoh city centre, Kellie’s Castle is a mysterious, unfinished Scottish-style mansion built by planter William Kellie Smith in the early 20th century. Its romantic ruins, unique blend of Moorish, Indian, and Romanesque architecture, plus ghostly legends, make it a memorable visit for history and photography enthusiasts.

The site is open daily from 9:30AM to 6PM. Entrance fees are RM10 for foreign adults and RM8 for children, or RM5 for Malaysian adults and RM3 for children; tickets can be purchased online via the official website. It typically requires 1-2 hours to explore, including the underground tunnels and rooftop views.

Sam Poh Tong & Kek Lok Tong Temples

Ipoh’s limestone hills hide two of its most spectacular cave temples: Sam Poh Tong and Kek Lok Tong. Sam Poh Tong is the largest cave temple in Malaysia, featuring serene gardens and scenic turtle ponds, while Kek Lok Tong is known for its dramatic caverns and tranquil walking paths, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the city’s heat. Visitors are advised to dress modestly when entering these religious sites to respect local customs.

Sam Poh Tong Temple is open daily from 8 AM to 6PM. Entrance fees are RM3 for foreigners; Malaysians and children typically enter for free.

The Kek Lok Tong Temple also welcomes visitors daily from 8AM to 6PM, with similar entrance fees: RM3 for foreigners and free for locals and children.

Neither temple has a dedicated official website, but they are well featured on tourism portals, including Ipoh’s official tourism page and travel guide websites. The temples are located near each other along Jalan Kuala Kangsar and are easily accessible by car or taxi.

Gunung Lang Recreational Park

For a refreshing dose of nature just 5 km north of Ipoh city centre, Gunung Lang Recreational Park spans 30 hectares around a scenic lake framed by limestone hills like Gunung Lang and Gunung Bilike. Highlights include boardwalks over swamps, lookout towers, a man-made waterfall, children’s playground, mini zoo, and optional boat rides across the lake to explore further—ideal for families, photographers, and casual outings.​

The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. These timings represent the official park opening hours (with minor variations: Monday-Thursday 8AM to 12PM and 1:30PM to 7PM; Fridays slightly shorter; weekends/public holidays until 6:30 PM), and visits typically last 2 hours.​

Entrance remains free, but boat rides cost RM3 for adults and RM1.50 for children (3-12 years) or seniors (55+); no booking is needed. Check the weather forecast before visiting, as rain can make boardwalks slippery and outdoor activities less enjoyable. No dedicated official website exists, but check Tourism Perak for updates. Carry mosquito repellent, water, and watch for monkeys.

What to Do: Activities for Every Traveller

Heritage Walks

Join a guided heritage trail to uncover Ipoh’s history, architecture, and hidden gems. Popular heritage trail options include:

• Ipoh Heritage Trail by Ipoh World: This guided walking tour lasts about 2-3 hours and covers highlights like Concubine Lane, Ipoh Railway Station, colonial buildings, and street art spots. The fee is approximately RM50 per person, with smaller private group options available. Booking and detailed itineraries can be done via the official IpohWorld website.
• Ipoh Street Art Walking Tour: Focused on exploring the vibrant mural scene, this tour costs around RM30-RM40 and typically runs for 1-2 hours. Local operators like Discover Ipoh offer bookings through their websites or in person at tourist centres.
• Self-Guided Heritage Walk: Maps available at the Ipoh Tourist Information Centre or downloadable through the Perak Tourism website offer DIY exploration at no cost, allowing a flexible pace and time.

Night Markets

Experience Ipoh’s vibrant local buzz at its popular night markets, Gerbang Malam and Memory Lane, offering vintage trinkets, street snacks, fresh produce, clothing, and affordable souvenirs in a lively atmosphere perfect for evening strolls and people-watching.​

• Gerbang Malam (Pasar Malam Gerbang Malam): This bustling weekly night market runs every Wednesday evening from 5PM to 11PM along Jalan Raja Dr. Nazrin Shah. It features hundreds of stalls with hawker food like satay, grilled meats, and desserts, plus household goods.
• Memory Lane (Pasar Malam Memory Lane): Held every Friday evening from 5PM to midnight at the old cinema area near Concubine Lane (Jalan Bijih Timah). Known for nostalgic vibes, street food such as rojak and grilled fish, and quirky vintage items.

These markets operate only on their specific days (Wednesdays for Gerbang Malam, Fridays for Memory Lane), not every evening—plan accordingly and arrive early for the best spots. No entrance fees apply.

Shopping

Image Credit: Ipoh Parade

Ipoh Parade and AEON Station 18 stand out as the city’s top malls, blending local and international brands alongside dining, entertainment, and everyday essentials for a complete retail experience.​

• Ipoh Parade: This five-story landmark features global names like Adidas, Vans, Converse, Champion, Bath & Body Works, Bata, and Al-Ikhsan Sports, plus local favourites such as Hanzo, Etrend (with over 27 international and six Malaysian brands), High Cultured, and Swaganz for streetwear. Additional outlets include Caring Pharmacy, Box Hunt for gifts, and eateries.​
• AEON Station 18: A family-oriented spot with international staples like Charles & Keith, Adidas, Skechers, Hush Puppies, Starbucks, and Secret Recipe, complemented by local beauty, fashion, and grocery options in its massive AEON hypermarket.​

Both malls operate daily from 10AM to 10PM, offering air-conditioned comfort, cinemas, and parking; perfect for rainy days or casual browsing.

Lost World of Tambun

This family-friendly theme park, located 20 minutes from Ipoh city centre, combines thrilling water rides, hot springs, a petting zoo, and adventure zones: ideal for kids and the young at heart. A must-try ride is the Jurassic Rapids Adventure, a high-speed rafting experience through roaring rapids and dino-themed obstacles that delivers adrenaline alongside family fun.​

The park operates weekdays from 11AM to 6PM (closed Tuesdays except school/public holidays) and weekends from 10AM to 6PM.

Night Park (hot springs focus) runs 6PM to 11PM daily. Book tickets online in advance via the official website to skip lines.​

• Walk-in Rates (MYR, inclusive of tax) are Adult (13+): RM150; Child (90cm-12 years)/Senior (60+): RM140;
• MyKad Rates (Malaysians): Adult RM115, Child/Senior RM108
• Children under 90cm enter free. Tickets cover all rides/attractions except pay-per-ride extras like Zip Line (RM20) or High Rope Course (RM100). Prices may vary; check the site for promos.

 What to Eat: Ipoh’s Signature Flavours

Ipoh is a food lover’s paradise, celebrated for its unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and local flavours. Here are the must-try dishes and where to find them:

Bean Sprout Chicken (Tauge Ayam)

The city’s most famous dish features succulent poached chicken with crunchy bean sprouts and fragrant rice.

Restoran Tauge Ayam Ong Kee at 49, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, and Lou Wong at 49A, Jalan Yau Tet Shin.

Ipoh White Coffee

A local institution, Ipoh’s white coffee is brewed with margarine-roasted beans for a creamy, aromatic cup. Sip it at Nam Heong or Sin Yoon Loong, both legendary Old Town coffee shops.

Silky Tau Fu Fah (Soybean Pudding)Don’t miss this ultra-smooth tofu dessert, best enjoyed at Funny Mountain, where queues move fast and the pudding is always fresh.

Dim Sum

Start your morning with a dim sum feast at Restoran Chooi Yue Dim Sum, famous for its variety and old-school atmosphere.

Nasi Ganja

For a spicy local twist, try Nasi Ganja, a curry rice dish so addictive it earned its name, at Yong Suan Coffee Shop.

Kaya Puff & Egg Tarts

Sample these flaky pastries at Sin Eng Heong or Choy Kee, perfect with a cup of white coffee.

Where to Stay: Best Neighbourhoods

Ipoh offers a range of neighbourhoods to suit every traveller. Old Town is perfect for heritage buffs and food lovers, Ulu Kinta appeals to families and spa-goers with its proximity to hot springs and theme parks, whileTaman Meru and Ampang Baru provide quiet, residential comfort ideal for longer stays.

M Boutique Hotel

A stylish, industrial-chic hotel located near Old Town with Instagram-worthy interiors.
📍 Old Town | Website
From: S$40 per night

Sarang Paloh Heritage Stay

A boutique hotel in a restored colonial building in Old Town, rich in character and charm.
📍 Old Town | Website
From: S$60 per night

Weil Hotel

A modern hotel connected to Ipoh Parade mall, offering rooftop dining and city views.
📍 Taman Meru | Website
From: S$85 per night

Meru Suites at Meru Valley Resort

A resort-style stay in Taman Meru, with golf, nature views, and family-friendly facilities.
📍 Taman Meru | Website
From: S$95 per night

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat 

A luxury wellness resort in Ulu Kinta with natural hot springs and villas surrounded by limestone hills.

📍 Ulu Kinta | Website
From: S$500 per night

Practical Tips

• Getting There: : Ipoh is accessible by ETS train from KL Sentral (2-3 hours), long-distance buses from major cities, or flights into Sultan Azlan Shah Airport with connections from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and other Southeast Asian hubs. Taxis or Grab rides from the airport cost RM20-40 to city centre.
• Getting Around: The city centre is compact for walking, but use ride-hailing apps like Grab or inDrive for competitive fares). Both support cashless payments and English interfaces.
• Best Time to Visit: November to March offers cooler, drier weather (25-32°C), ideal for outdoor exploration; avoid monsoon peaks in October and April.​
• Language: Bahasa Malaysia is official, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, Old Town eateries, and hotels; Mandarin and Cantonese are common among locals.​
• Emergency Contacts: Dial 999 (police, ambulance, fire) or 112 from mobiles. Key Ipoh numbers: Police HQ (05-245 1500), Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun (05-208 5000), Ambulance (05-522 2506 or 1300-80-9111), Fire (994). Tourism Infoline: 1300-88-5050.​
• Tips: Carry cash for street food/markets (small notes), use mosquito repellent, dress modestly at temples, stay hydrated in the heat, and download offline Google Maps. Tap water is safe boiled; bargaining is fine at markets.

The Perfect Weekend Getaway

Ipoh is a city that rewards the curious. With its mix of heritage, food, art, and nature, you’ll find plenty to fill a weekend or longer. Come hungry, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with Malaysia’s most underrated gem.