17 Best Things To Do In Ipoh: Ultimate 2025 Guide

If you’re traveling and exploring Malaysia, then add Ipoh to your list.

This lovely Southeast Asian city in Malaysia is filled with deep Chinese history, beautiful nature, and delicious food.

Uncover hidden street art, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and experience the natural beauty of limestone hills.

Guess what, its less crowded than other places in Malaysia.

Let’s get into the 17 best things to do in Ipoh, including bonuses and make the most of your trip.

Key Takeaways

• Ipoh is one of Malaysia underrated places to visit, its known for its rich Chinese history, vast natural scenery, and very delicious food.
• The best tourist season is March to September when weather is more dry and appropriate for outdoor tourism.
• Must-see cultural attractions are Ipoh Old Town, Kellie’s Castle, and the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, each offering a different perspective on the city’s history.
• Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, Gunung Lang Recreation Park, and the Lost World of Tambun for outdoor adventures.
• Highly recommend to try the local white coffee and local cuisines like chicken rice and curry noodles at the most crowded food stalls and cafés.
• A simple walk or go shopping at Concubine Lane and Memory Lane Flea Market provides a fun mix of souvenirs, antiques, and local snacks.
• Day excursions to the neighboring attractions of Gua Tempurung and Cameron Highlands provide thrilling experiences and beautiful scenery within convenient reach.

Get ready to explore Ipoh and make unforgettable memories!

Introduction to Ipoh

Ipoh, the state capital of Perak in Malaysia, is a secret gem that’s quickly becoming popular with visitors.

It’s famous for its retro vibe, beautiful cave temples, and amazing food, and the city has an amazing mix of the past, nature, and adventure.

Whether you’re a foodie, historian, or nature lover, Ipoh has something for you.

Why Visit Ipoh?

Ipoh is a very laid back compared to Kuala Lumpur & Penang, but it’s what you adore about it. It’s less populated, cheaper, and full of quirky things to do.

Here’s why you should visit:

• Great Food Scene – Ipoh is famous for its white coffee, chicken rice, and local cuisine. Oh and you’ll discover some of the best hawker stalls & cafes here.
• Rich History and Culture – From ancient British buildings to secret temples, Ipoh’s Old Town is perfect for history enthusiasts.
• Breathtaking Nature – Explore limestone caves, waterfalls, and green parks within a few minutes of the city center.
• Chill Atmosphere – Unlike the chaos of giant cities, Ipoh is a relaxed place that is perfect for a weekend escape.

Best Time to Visit Ipoh

Ipoh, being tropical, is hot and humid all year round. The ideal time to visit is, however:

• March to September – Fewer rains in these months are ideal for outdoor activities.

• November to January – Monsoon months (this can create a great trip if you prepare for it) translate to heavy rain and possibly disrupted travel plans.

If you are a food festival fan, come in July for the Ipoh Food Fest, where you can try all the local cuisine at one location.

Exploring Ipoh’s Colonial Charm and Culinary Delights

Ipoh is an old town with a mix of vintage buildings, ancient Chinese temples, and lively street murals like in Penang.

You’re either walking about in the Old Town or heading to famous places, there’s a lot to see.

Below are some places you need to see to learn about Ipoh’s history and traditions.

17 Best Things To Do In Ipoh: Ultimate 2025 Guide

1. Explore Ipoh Old Town Heritage

A Nice stroll through Ipoh Old Town district’s colonial-style architecture and history, with its remarkably well-preserved pre-war shophouses and colorful street art murals by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.

• Location: Ipoh city center downtown
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
• Activities: Guided self-walking tour, photography, cafe hopping
• Nearby: Kong Heng Square, Concubine Lane, Plan B cafe

This walking tour is an excellent introduction to Ipoh’s multicultural heritage.

I highly suggest to begin your stroll at the iconic Ipoh Railway Station, also known as the “Taj Mahal of Ipoh“) and explore the charming narrow streets lined with traditional shophouses.

This is where you’ll find eclectic specialty coffee cafes and boutiques along with hostels like Concubine Lane Residence, where dorms go for RM120-180 ($25-40) a night.

Pro tip: Make sure to get the Ipoh Heritage Trail map from the tourist information center or download the Ipoh Heritage Trail app to not miss any of the important historical sites.

2. Kellie’s Castle

Discover Malaysia’s most fascinating unfinished mansion, built by Scottish planter William Kellie Smith in the early 20th century as a gift for his wife.

• Location: Batu Gajah, about 14km from Ipoh city center
• Best Time: Morning before it gets too hot
• Activities: Guided tours, ghost hunting, photography
• Nearby: Batu Gajah town, Kinta Nature Park

This haunted ruin has a bizarre mix of Scottish, Moorish, and Indian architectural styles, complete with hidden passageways and Malaysia’s first elevator shaft.

The castle was abandoned after Kellie’s unexpected death in 1926.

Admission is RM10 ($2.25) for adults and RM5 ($1.12) for children.

Pro tip: Look for the hidden staircase that leads to the rooftop for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and rubber plantations.

3. Descend into Gua Tempurung

Explore one of Peninsula Malaysia’s largest cave systems located at Gua Tempurung with with stunning limestone formations dating back 400 million years.

• Location: 24km south of Ipoh
• Best Time: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
• Activities: Guided cave tours (dry and wet routes available)
• Nearby: Gopeng town, white water rafting operations

This amazing cave system is nearly 3km in length and offers a variety of tour levels from simple walking on lighted trails to crawling adventurously through narrow passages and underground rivers.

Tours vary from RM15-80 ($3.40-18) depending on the route and difficulty.

Pro tip: Bring a change of clothes if you’re taking the wet routes, as you’ll be walking through underground rivers and will get absolutely soaking wet!

4. Taste White Coffee at Old Town White Coffee

There is no way you skip trying Ipoh’s famous white coffee, a rich brew made from margarine-roasted beans served with condensed milk.

• Location: Multiple outlets, original outlet at Jalan Bandar Timah
• Best Time: At any time of day, but mid-morning is the best time for a coffee break
• Activities: Coffee tasting, snack
• Nearby: Ipoh Old Town area, Concubine Lane

This famous chain coffee shop is owned by Ipoh and serves the city’s beloved beverage.

Ipoh white coffee beans are different from normal coffee because they are roasted without caramelizing the sugars, resulting in a lighter, less bitter taste.

A cup costs around RM5-7 (US$1.13-1.58), and bottled white coffee can also be bought to take home.

Tip: Pair your coffee with Ipoh’s famous egg tarts for the complete local experience.

Best places to try it:

• Nam Heong White Coffee – One of the original spots serving authentic white coffee.
• Kedai Kopi Sin Yoon Loong – A local favorite with a nostalgic vibe.

5. Enjoy the View at Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

Visit this beautiful Buddhist cave, the Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple with its peaceful garden and lake.

• Location: Gunung Rapat, South Ipoh
• Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
• Activities: Temple tours, walking, meditation, photography
• Nearest: Sam Poh Tong, Gunung Rapat housing estates

Situated within a massive limestone cave, this temple offers a memorable spiritual journey in the form of its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites and numerous Buddha statues.

The rear of the cave is equipped with a beautifully landscaped garden and reflection pools and jogging trail.

Free entry but donations are accepted.

Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to have the serene garden to yourself almost, perfect for meditation or contemplative walks.

6. Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken for dinner

Indulge in Ipoh’s favorite dish, Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken for dinner – softly steamed chicken served with special plump, crunchy bean sprouts.

• Location: 49 Jalan Yau Tet Shin
• Best Time: Early dinner around 6pm to avoid long queues
• Things to do: Eating, taking food pictures
• Nearby: Ipoh Parade shopping mall, Ipoh Old Town

This no-frills eatery has been serving its signature dish for decades. Ipoh’s bean sprouts are renowned for their exceptional quality due to the local limestone-filtered water.

A meal for two costs around RM30-40 ($6.80-9)

Pro tip: Order the chicken with both steamed rice and hor fun (flat rice noodles) to experience the full flavor spectrum of this local favorite.

7. Wander Through Concubine Lane

Explore Concubine Lane this crowded, narrow street lined with food stalls, trinket shops, and fascinating history.

• Location: Old Town neighborhood
• Best Time: Weekends for full marketplace atmosphere
• Things to Do: Shopping, picking up snacks, photos
• Closest Nearby: Ipoh Old Town, Birch Memorial

Dedicated to the concubines which were allegedly maintained by wealthy Chinese tin miners here when Malaysia was under colonial rule, this nostalgic lane has been restored as a lively tourist precinct.

Pro tip: Try the retro-style pomelo skin candies or Ipoh-style ice balls with rainbow-colored syrups for a trip down memory lane in Ipoh.

8. Day Outing to Gopeng Adventure Hub

Get your adrenaline fix at the Gopeng Adventure Hub, on white water rafting, abseiling waterfall, and trekking cave nearby in Gopeng.

• Address: Gopeng town, 20km south of Ipoh
• Peak Season: Weekdays to avoid crowds, monsoon season for greater rapids
• Activities: Abseiling, caving, white water rafting
• Attractions nearby: Gopeng Heritage House, Gua Tempurung

There are several adventure operators in this historic tin mining town, offering half-day and full-day packages to cater to all levels of experience.

Adventure packages are RM150-300 ($34-68) per person depending on activities.

Tip: Try Radak Adventure or Nomad Adventure for best-in-class guided adventures and highest level of safety standards.

9. Visit Perak Tong Cave Temple

Gawk at this huge Perak Tong Cave Temple and its magnificent golden Buddha figure along with breathtaking city views.

• Location: 6km from the city center of Ipoh
• Best Time: Early morning
• Activities: Temple visit, climb 450 steps for viewing spot
• Nearest: The Lost World of Tambun, Tanjung Rambutan

Dating back to 1926, this stunning temple has multicolored murals, Chinese calligraphy, and dozens of Buddha figures everywhere in its limestone caves.

Free admission but donations are welcome.

Pro tip: Hike up to the top viewing platform for stunning views of Ipoh city and the surrounding limestone karsts, but be prepared for a hot climb up steep stairs.

10. Unwind at The Lost World of Tambun

Unwind at The Lost World of Tambun, this multi-dimensional theme park with hot springs, water slides, zoo experiences, and explorations of limestone caves.

• Location: 11km from city center
• Best Time: Weekdays to avoid crowds
• Activities: Hot springs soaking, water park, petting zoo, amusement rides
• Nearest: Tambun Pomelo orchards, Perak Tong

There is something for everyone at this theme park, from thrilling water slides to natural hot springs where you can soak in mineral-infused waters amidst limestone formations.

Admission fee is RM90 ($20) for adults and RM80 ($18) for kids.

Pro tip: Visit late afternoon and stay till evening when the hot springs area is nicely lit, providing a night spa atmosphere.

11. Street Art Tour

Follow the route of murals and 3D paintings that tell the history and culture of Ipoh.

• Location: Everywhere in Old Town and New Town
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect for photos
• Activities: Photography, walking tour
• Around the corner: Old Town cafes and shops

The street art scene in Ipoh started thriving after Ernest Zacharevic (of Penang fame) installed several pieces here in 2014.

Local artists have since added murals depicting the city’s mining history, signature dishes, and cultural heritage.

Pro tip: Pick up the Ipoh Street Art map from the Tourism Perak website or grab a hard copy from the tourist information center to find all the hidden spots.

12. Haggle at Memory Lane Flea Market

Bargain shop at this sprawling Memory Lane Flea Market – Sunday market that sells everything from antiques to street food.

• Location: Jalan Lim Bo Seng
• Best Time: Sunday mornings (6am-12pm)
• Activities: People watching, breakfast, bargain hunting
• Nearby: Ipoh Parade Shopping Mall

This Saturday bazaar is a favourite attraction for thousands of locals and tourists searching for antiques, collectibles, second-hand goods, and local street food.

It’s a fascinating glimpse into local trading life and culture.

Tip: Arrive early (earlier than 8am) for the freshest selection and cooler climate. Bring some small bills for easy bargaining and transactions.

13. Explore Han Chin Pet Soo (Hakka Miners Club)

Uncover Ipoh’s Han Chin Pet Soo tin mining past in this stunningly restored Hakka association building museum.

• Address: 3 Jalan Bijeh Timah, Old Town
• Best Time: Weekdays
• Things to do: Guided museum tour
• Nearest to: Old Town White Coffee, Concubine Lane

This old swanky club for rich Hakka tin miners is now a museum which showcases the life of the Chinese tin miners during the golden days of Ipoh as well as elements of gambling, opium smoking, and other evils of the time.

RM10 ($2.25) is the entry charge but on an advance-booking basis.

Tip: Pre-book at least a day ahead on their website as they don’t do non-guided visits and grab slots quickly.

14. Sample Dim Sum at Foh San

Dim Sum at Foh San – treat yourself to some of Malaysia’s best dim sum at this iconic Ipoh institution.

• Address: 51 Jalan Leong Sin Nam
• Recommended Time: 6-10am for freshest options
• Things to do: Eating
• Close by: Ming Court Hong Kong Dim Sum, Kinta Riverfront

This gigantic restaurant serves up over 100 varieties of homemade dim sum, from classic har gau (prawn dumplings) to unique Ipoh creations.

Pay RM40-60 ($9-13.50) for a satisfying meal for two.

Pro tip: Arrive by 8am to avoid the notorious long queues, worse on weekends when locals and tourists who drop by here for breakfast choke the place.

15. Visit the Enlightened Heart Buddhist Temple

Marvel at this stunning new Enlightened Heart Buddhist temple with its striking architecture and garden settings.

Unlike the ancient cave temples, the new complex features dramatic modern Buddhist architecture against the backdrop of limestone hills.

• Location: Ampang, about 7km from city center
• Best Time: Morning weekdays
• Activities: Visits to the temple, photography, meditation
• Nearby: Sam Poh Tong, Kek Lok Tong

The centerpiece is the 13-story pagoda topped with a revolving Buddha statue.

Admission is free but donations are appreciated.

Pro tip: Go during one of the Buddhist festivals to see the temple filled with ceremonies, chanting, and beautiful lantern displays.

16. Cool Off at Qing Xin Ling Cultural Village

Beat the heat in this tranquil Qing Xin Ling Cultural Village by the lakeside enclave constructed to recreate the ambiance of countryside Malaysia in the 1960s.

• Location: Jalan Gopeng, 10km from city center
• Best Time: Weekdays or early weekend mornings
• Activities: Swimming, photography, looking at vintage exhibits
• Close to: Kledang Hill, Taman DR Seenivasagam

This little gem has a charming natural swimming pool fed by mountain springs, surrounded by traditional wooden homes and nostalgic displays of home-spun Malaysian products of days gone by.

Admission is RM10 ($2.25) per individual.

Pro tip: Pack a picnic to be enjoyed lakeside pavilions, and a camera for the numerous photo shoots with retro-themed props and backgrounds.

17. Gunung Lang Recreational Park Hike

Enjoy the panoramic views of Ipoh from this hilltop Gunung Lang Recreational Park built around an abandoned mining pool.

• Location: 5km from city center of Ipoh
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
• Activities: Hiking, boating, picnicking
• Nearby: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, Ipoh City Centre

This lovely park features a man-made waterfall, boardwalks over mini forests, and boat rides across the lake to reach the main recreational area with walking trails, lookout stations, and playgrounds.

Entrance is RM3 ($0.68), with boat rides an additional RM5 ($1.13) per person.

Pro tip: Hike up to the upper observation deck for optimum views of Ipoh city surrounded by towering limestone hills – a picture-perfect view which highlights Ipoh’s stunning topography.

Bonus I: Local Dishes You Must Try

Ipoh cuisine is filled with delicious dishes that can’t be found elsewhere. Here are the must-haves:

• Ipoh Chicken Rice – Steamed chicken served with fragrant rice and soy sauce.
  • Lou Wong or Ong Kee for this.
• Salted Chicken – Marinated, salt-roasted chicken dish that’s soft & flavorful.
  • Aun Kheng Lim is best.
• Curry Mee – Spicy coconut-flavored noodle soup with chicken, tofu & fresh mint.
  • Xin Quan Fang is strongly recommended for this.
• Chee Cheong Fun – Rice noodle rolls with sweet sauce or spicy curry.
  • Canning Garden Chee Cheong Fun is a great option.

Best Hawker Stalls and Cafés

For the best street food, go to and try these hawker stalls and cafés:

• Tong Sui Kai (Dessert Street) – A night market with everything from noodles to sweet soups.
• Thean Chun Coffee Shop – Famous for its caramel custard and hor fun noodles.
• Plan B Café – A modern café with great coffee and fusion dishes, perfect for a chill afternoon.

Ipoh’s culinary world is a realm of bold flavors & filling meals. Whether at a street stall or a humble café, every morsel is delicious.

Bonus II: Two Hours Away

Cameron Highlands Excursion

A must for all, especially firs timers in Malaysia, Cameron Highlands is a great day trip. Situated some 1.5 to 2 hours away from Ipoh, this hill resort is renowned for its tea estates, strawberry farms, and cool climate.

These spots are a must to visit:

• Boh Tea Plantation – Walk through lush green tea fields, and enjoy a cup of fresh tea with a scenic view.
• Strawberry Farms – Pick your own strawberries at farms like Big Red Strawberry Farm.
• Mossy Forest – A mystical forest with misty trails and unique flora.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the cool weather.

Cameron Highlands (keep out for an article dedicated just to Cameron Highlands) gives you a nice escape from town, whether you’re looking for excitement or just wanna chill in the wild.

Bonus: Masjid India Muslim (India Muslim Mosque)

Visit Ipoh’s most historic and architecturally significant Masjid India Muslim mosque, a beautiful fusion of Moghul and Victorian design elements dating back to 1908.

• Location: Jalan S.P. Seenivasagam (formerly Hume Street), near Ipoh Padang
• Best Time: Outside prayer times; visitors welcome between prayers
• Activities: Cultural visits, photography, architectural appreciation
• Nearby: Ipoh Padang, Birch Memorial Clock Tower, Old Town district

This stunning white and mint-green mosque was built by the local Indian Muslim community during Ipoh’s tin mining boom.

Its distinctive onion domes, turrets, and intricate façade make it one of the most photogenic religious buildings in the city.

Pro tip: While visitors are welcome (modest dress required), it’s best to visit between 10am-12pm or 2pm-4pm to avoid prayer times. Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair.

The caretakers are often happy to explain the mosque’s history and architectural significance if you show genuine interest.

Final Thoughts

Ipoh is a relaxed hidden gem that provides the perfect blend of the past, along with refreshing breathes of nature, & diverse delicious foods.

Whether you stroll along the quaint streets of Old Town, visit stunning cave temples, or enjoy a taste of genuine Ipoh white coffee, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

From vintage attractions such as Kellie’s Castle to outdoor activities in Gunung Lang Recreational Park, there are many thrilling things to do.

If you’re traveling to Southeast Asia & want to get the most out of your experience, Nomadic Southeast Asia is a great resource.

Whether you need advice on traveling, information on living overseas, or even help with monetizing your passion as a blogging career, this site has everything.

So, what are you waiting for?

Pack your backpack, map out your plans, & prepare yourself to enjoy the best of Ipoh!

If you’re a food enthusiast, history romantic, or a nature lover, you’ll find that this place provides you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

And in case you need additional ideas for your trips, do check out Nomadic Southeast Asia for top-notch tips & guides to assist you with planning your travels.

Safe travels. 🚀

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