Things To Do
in Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is a picturesque hill station located in Malaysia, renowned for its stunning tea plantations, cool climate, and lush greenery. Nestled at an elevation of over 1,400 meters, it offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. The area is rich in biodiversity, showcasing unique flora and fauna, including roses and various species of orchids.

With a blend of colonial charm and modern attractions, Cameron Highlands is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Highlands
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Boh Tea Plantation, where you can enjoy a guided tour and sample fresh tea while taking in breathtaking views of the rolling hills.

afternoon
:

Explore the Mossy Forest, a mystical place filled with ancient trees, ferns, and rare plant species. Join a guided tour to learn about the unique ecosystem and capture stunning photos.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Malaysian dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the night market in Brinchang, where you can shop for local handicrafts and snacks.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Cameron Lavender Garden, a beautiful spot filled with vibrant lavender fields, perfect for a morning walk and photography.

afternoon
:

Head to the Strawberry Farms, where you can pick your own strawberries and learn about strawberry cultivation. Enjoy fresh strawberry desserts at the café on-site.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a visit to the local night market in Tanah Rata, where you can enjoy local street food and shop for souvenirs before heading back to your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Noodle dish$2
🍓Strawberries (1 kg)$5
Tea (1 cup)$1.50
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$4
🚌Local bus fare$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Breathtaking scenery with lush landscapes and tea plantations.
  • Pleasant climate and refreshing cool temperatures.
  • Rich biodiversity and opportunities for outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas can be touristy, especially during peak seasons.
  • Road access may be challenging due to steep and winding roads.
  • "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
  • "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Apa Khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Selamat Makan" - Enjoy your meal

Places to Visit in Cameron Highlands

Visit one of these nice places.

Boh Tea Plantation

Stunning views of the tea fields and hills, especially in the early morning light.

Mossy Forest

A mystical atmosphere with dense fog and unique flora, perfect for capturing ethereal shots.

Cameron Lavender Garden

Vibrant fields of lavender offer a picturesque backdrop for colorful photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of local and colonial influences, making it a food lover's paradise.

Cameron Highlands Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Steamboat

A popular dish where diners cook a variety of fresh ingredients in a simmering pot of broth at the table.

Must-Try!

Strawberry Shortcake

A must-try dessert made from freshly picked strawberries layered with whipped cream and sponge cake.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brinchang Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of local street foods, snacks, and souvenirs every weekend.

Tanah Rata Food Court

A casual dining spot featuring various stalls serving local Malaysian dishes at affordable prices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cameron Highlands features a temperate climate with cooler temperatures than the rest of Malaysia. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) year-round. The region experiences consistent rainfall, especially during the monsoon season from May to September, while the dry season typically occurs from October to March. Mornings are often misty, creating a serene ambiance.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Culture

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common; saying 'Selamat Pagi' (Good Morning) is a polite way to greet locals.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal or say 'Selamat Makan' (Enjoy your meal) before digging in.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cameron Highlands is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Always stay on marked trails when hiking, and inform someone of your plans. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas like markets, and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Cameron Highlands

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally not expected, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but it’s advisable to carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March - May)

Mild and pleasant weather; ideal for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer (June - August)

Warm temperatures with occasional rain; perfect for tea plantation visits.

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler temperatures; great for hiking and photography, with misty mornings.

Winter (December - February)

Cool and sometimes chilly; enjoy warm beverages and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Cameron Highlands at Night

Cameron Highlands has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused around dining and night markets. There are few bars, but the night market in Brinchang and Tanah Rata offers a vibrant atmosphere with local food stalls, shopping, and mingling with locals and tourists alike. The cool climate makes for pleasant evening strolls, and some restaurants offer live music entertainment.

Hiking in Cameron Highlands

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Brinchang

The highest peak in Cameron Highlands, offering stunning panoramic views and a popular hiking trail.

Trail 10 (Mossy Forest)

A scenic trail through the mossy forest, showcasing unique flora and fauna with a moderate difficulty level.

Airports

How to reach Cameron Highlands by plane.

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH)

Located about 90 km from Cameron Highlands, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cameron Highlands is moderately walkable, especially in areas like Tanah Rata, where many shops, cafes, and attractions are within walking distance. However, some attractions are spread out and may require the use of a vehicle or guided tours. Sidewalks are available, but uneven terrain can be found in hilly areas, so proper footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay

The largest ethnic group in the region, they primarily engage in agriculture and tourism-related activities.

Chinese

This community is involved in various businesses and contributes significantly to the local economy, particularly in the tourism and food sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport among locals, with many community fields where residents play recreationally.

Hiking

Due to the region's natural beauty, hiking is a favorite activity for both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cameron Highlands is generally light, but can become congested during weekends and holidays due to tourist influx. Public transportation includes local buses and taxis, but services may be limited outside of peak hours. Renting a car or using guided tours is recommended for easier access to attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cameron Highlands.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inform the staff of dietary preferences.

Halal Food

Most eateries serve halal food, but checking for certification is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Cameron Highlands are limited but adequate for minor ailments. The main hospital is the Hospital Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom located in Tanah Rata, which provides basic medical services. For serious medical conditions, it's advisable to travel to larger cities such as Ipoh or Kuala Lumpur, where more comprehensive medical care is available.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide