Things To Do
in Ipoh

Ipoh, Malaysia, is a charming city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant food scene, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between lush limestone hills, it is the capital of Perak state and serves as a gateway to the northern region of Malaysia. The city boasts beautiful parks, stunning caves, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.

With a growing reputation as a foodie haven, Ipoh offers an array of local delicacies that reflect its diverse influences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ipoh's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ipoh Railway Station, an architectural marvel, followed by a stroll around the nearby Birch Memorial Clock Tower. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of kaya toast and kopi at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Perak Cave Temple, known for its stunning murals and serene atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Lost World of Tambun, a water park and hot springs resort.

evening
:

Wind down at Concubine Lane, where you can enjoy street food and shop for souvenirs, followed by dinner at a local restaurant serving Ipoh's famous chicken rice.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, a beautiful temple set within a limestone cave, surrounded by gardens. Next, hike at the nearby Kledang Hill.

afternoon
:

Visit the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum to learn about Ipoh's tin mining history, followed by lunch at a local hawker center.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant night market at Jalan Lim Bo Seng, where you can sample various local dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Local Meal$2-4
Coffee$1-2
🍕Pizza$5-10
🏨Budget Hotel$20-40
🚕Taxi Ride$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Delicious and diverse food scene
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Limited vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transport options are limited
  • Hot and humid climate can be uncomfortable for some
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Ipoh

Visit one of these nice places.

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple

A stunning temple nestled in a limestone cave with beautiful gardens.

Ipoh Railway Station

A historic building with beautiful architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of colonial Malaysia.

Birch Memorial Clock Tower

A landmark in the city center, offering a glimpse into Ipoh's colonial past.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ipoh

Ipoh's culinary scene is a delectable mix of heritage and innovation, featuring local dishes that are both flavorful and unique.

Ipoh Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Kandar

A rice dish served with a variety of curries and side dishes.

Must-Try!

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Steamed chicken served with fragrant rice and chili sauce.

Kway Teow

Flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, bean sprouts, and eggs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Malam

Night markets bustling with food stalls offering a variety of local snacks and dishes.

Ipoh Street Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce and street food delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ipoh has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round. The city experiences a wet season from May to October, with heavy rainfall. The dry season from February to April is sunnier, making it ideal for outdoor activities. December and January are cooler, providing a comfortable climate for exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and remove shoes when entering temples.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders; it is common to greet them first.

Using Right Hand

When giving or receiving something, use your right hand as it is considered polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ipoh is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding deserted areas at night and securing your belongings. Always stay vigilant in crowded places.

Tipping in Ipoh

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and major credit cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (February to April)

Expect sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Wet Season (May to October)

Frequent rain showers; it's advisable to carry an umbrella and plan indoor activities.

Cool Season (December to January)

Mild temperatures make it a pleasant time to visit, ideal for sightseeing.

Festive Season (Chinese New Year)

A vibrant time to visit with colorful celebrations and special food offerings.

Nightlife Guide

Ipoh at Night

Ipoh's nightlife is relatively laid-back, focusing more on food and social gatherings than vibrant party scenes. Popular spots include cafes and bars that offer live music and a relaxed atmosphere. The night markets come alive with food stalls and local crafts, making for a unique evening experience.

Hiking in Ipoh

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Kledang

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Gunung Lang

An accessible hike with beautiful scenery and a lake, perfect for families and casual hikers looking to enjoy nature.

Airports

How to reach Ipoh by plane.

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport

Located approximately 5 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to major Malaysian cities and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ipoh is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, cafes, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city is friendly for pedestrians. However, some areas may lack pedestrian crossings, so caution is advised when crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chinese Community

The largest demographic group in Ipoh, contributing significantly to the local culture and cuisine.

Malay Community

A significant demographic group that influences the cultural and social landscape of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Ipoh, with local teams and matches drawing significant crowds.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played, with many locals participating in recreational and competitive matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ipoh is generally manageable, with congestion mainly during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, although the bus network may not cover all areas extensively. Most attractions are accessible by walking or short taxi rides.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ipoh.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's best to inquire about ingredients.

Halal Food

Ipoh has a good number of halal-certified eateries catering to Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ipoh has several public and private hospitals offering quality healthcare services. Major hospitals include KPJ Ipoh Specialist Medical Centre and Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and access to medication as some specialties may be limited.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide