Beyond the Theme Park Gates: Discovering the Hidden Gems in Ipoh

If you’re fascinated by history, architecture, and marvels or simply want to experience a unique slice of Malaysia‘s culture, then visit Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No. 5.  Located in the Kinta District of Perak, this is a surviving tin dredge from when Malaysia was the world’s largest tin producer. Its name is derived from the tualang tree, and later, it was given the name Toh Allang Chinese Tin Ltd. Thus, this colossal industrial relic stands as the last surviving tin dredge of its kind. It has been operated for nearly 50 years until 1982. Visitors can have a combined experience by visiting the historical dredge and having delicious meals at famous town restaurants known for their large-head freshwater prawns.

Location and Access

•  Kinta District Perak, Malaysia,
• Tanjung Tualang is approximately a 45-minute drive from Ipoh.

If you happen to be in Teluk Tjen, don’t miss the chance to marvel at this architectural wonder- the Leaning Tower of Teluk. Located in the small Perak of Teluk Inter, the 25-metre tower that appears from the outside seems like an 8-story building inspired by Chinese architecture; the tower boasts stories three stories with a height of 5 metres, each with a total of 110 steps. Initially, the tower was divided into three stories. Constructed in 1885, the building initially served multiple purposes, such as storing water during the dry season, acting as a fire precaution, and functioning as a timekeeping mechanism. Interestingly, the tower transported various claims from Britain to Japan during their colonisation of Malaysia in 1941, when it was used as a watchtower. After Malaysia became independent, the Tower became a significant part of history, becoming a national monument.

Location  and Access

• Lot 1 and 2, Komplex Menara Condong, Jalan Bandar, Pekan Teluk Intan, 36000 Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
•  Visitors can easily assess the tower by all means available in the town.

Besides all the modern attractions and marvels, Malaysia is a land intensively steeped in history and culture that echoes in every nook and cranny. Scattered with numerous temples and diverse historical sites,  the Tua Pek Kong  stands distinct. Not as far as the Sitiawn and Lumut, it is said to be a 100-year-old temple. Facing the vastness of the sea, the temple premises are loaded with giant white stone statues, including Tua Pek Kong himself, flanked by other deities, tigers, lions, and monkeys. 

Influenced by proficient Chinese architecture, several distinctive designs reflect the age-old civilization in the construction. The interior walls are covered in panels depicting scenes from The Ten Chambers of Hell, alerting sinners to the horrible fate ahead in the hereafter. The temple also includes a pagoda, which elevates its visual appeal. Over time, the temple has undergone rapid alteration in recent years due to modernization efforts and increased tourism. Visitors can also enjoy a serene Koi Pond within the grounds, adding a peaceful ambience to the temple.

Location and Access

• The temple is located at Jalan Pasir Panjang, Sitiawan, Perak
• Head towards Kampung Koh direction and pass by, and it will lead you to Jalan Pasir Panjang.

The Victoria Bridge, also known as Enggor Bruge, is a single-track bridge located in Karai in the Kuala Kangsar District. The bridge is one of the oldest railway bridges in the country, with its construction spanning from December 1897 to March 1900. The purpose behind its creation was to facilitate transportation across the Perak River, primarily serving the local tin mining industry. Although the Victoria Bridge was scheduled for rail transportation in 2002, a wider concrete bridge was constructed in parallel to the rail load. Efforts have been made to preserve the historical structure with ongoing maintenance. Presently, the Bridge stands as a minor tourist attraction. Its picturesque setting also makes it a popular spot for photoshoots.

Location

•  Victoria Bridge, Off Jalan Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, Enggor, Perak, Malaysia

Capture the magic of Mirror Lake and immerse yourself in the tranquillity. Discover the hidden gem nestled within the limestone hills. Tesil Cermin, known as Mirror Lake, is a captivating lakeside spot surrounded by limestone cliffs in Ipoh, Perak. Situated near the Gunung Rapat in Ohoh, visitors can pass through a former miners’s tunnel to reach the lake shoes. The water level in the lake varies from 30 to 60 feet deep, so it is advisable to tread carefully. The best way to experience the lake is to take a boat ride guided by the local experts. The Tasikl Cermin was an industrial mining site where limestone was extracted. In recent years, it has undergone an astounding transformation into Ipoh’s main tourist attraction. It is recommended to visit during the early morning to capture the serene beauty of the lake.  With its mirrored beauty, Tasik Cermin awaits those who love the outdoors, are interested in history, or are just looking for a quiet getaway.

Location and Access

• Located near Gunung Rapat in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
• The mirror lake can only be accessed through a former miner’s tunnel. 

• Respect the culture-historical significance of each spot.  
• Dress appropriately, especially when you are visiting temples.
• Follow the rules and regulations provided by the authorities at each location. 
• Carry a water bottle, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect from heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes while some attractions involve a lot of climbing and walking.
• Keep the environment clean and dispose of waste properly.
• Hire local tour guides and get the most out of your visit.
• Check the weather forecast and plan the visit accordingly.

The Ipoh of Malaysia is a unique destination with several unique and fascinating attractions. With the surviving dredge of Tanjung Tualang and the picturesque lake found in the limestone hills, the land is more than something else. Picking from the  prominent Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan, Tia Pek King Temple in Sitiawan, and the Victoria Bridge in Kuala Kangsar,  the travellers can fully immerse themselves in the rich heritage while exploring the natural beauty of the region. Wherever you are in history, architecture, or engineering, whatever your taste, the Ipoh has all your preferences tailored to make your journey memorable.

Is Ipoh Malaysia worth visiting?

Ipoh is Malaysia’s charming sleepy town with exciting food, culture, and arts scenes. Besides good old Ipoh white coffee, tau fu fah, and murals, Ipoh is also home to beautiful limestone karst mountains, caves, and serene hot springs.

What is Ipoh popular for?

The city is also well known for its cuisine and natural attractions, such as its limestone hills and caves within which Buddhist temples were built.

How long is the journey from KL to Ipoh?

The journey takes approximately 2h 23m. How far is it from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh? The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh is 174 km.

Which airport is closest to Ipoh?

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IATA: IPH, ICAO: WMKI) is an airport that serves Ipoh, a city in the state of Perak, Malaysia. It is located 6 kilometers (3.7 mi) away from the city center.

How many days in Ipoh is enough?

We recommend spending at least two days in Ipoh to explore the unique old town and experience the temples outside of the city. With more than two days you can visit even more sights outside the main city center.