Unearthing Ipoh: A Budget-Friendly 2-Day Adventure

Uncover the authentic charm of Ipoh without breaking the bank.

14 October 2023

Ipoh, Malaysia is a budget-friendly destination that offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. From exploring the beautiful limestone caves and temples to sampling delicious street food at the famous Ipoh Old Town, there are plenty of affordable ways to make the most of your trip. Whether you choose to wander around the vibrant night markets or take a dip in the natural hot springs, Ipoh is a pocket-friendly haven for travelers seeking an authentic Malaysian experience without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Cultural Oasis

  • Check in at the charming and pocket-friendly Hotel Excelsior, a vintage gem oozing with nostalgia, located in the heart of the city.
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yasmin at Kong Heng, an artsy café known for its mouth-watering kaya toast and aromatic Ipoh white coffee.
  • Immerse yourself in the historic charm of the Old Town, strolling through colonial-era buildings adorned with mesmerizing street art.
  • Discover your inner artist at the Concubine Lane, where quirky boutiques and galleries offer unique trinkets and handmade crafts.
  • Pay a visit to the magnificent Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, a former brothel turned museum, offering intriguing insights into the city's tin mining era.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Lou Wong Bean Sprout Chicken, where their legendary juicy chicken and crunchy bean sprouts will gratify your taste buds.
Day 2

Nature's Serenade and Cave Explorations

  • Rise and shine to a delectable breakfast at Sin Yoon Loong, a century-old kopitiam dishing out famous Ipoh white coffee and traditional dim sum.
  • Venture into the mystical realm of Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, a hidden gem adorned with intricate Buddhist statues amidst captivating limestone formations.
  • Embark on an awe-inspiring trek at Gunung Lang Recreational Park, where lush rainforest and serene lakes await to soothe your soul.
  • Grab a quick bite at Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng, known for its aromatic curry mee and fragrant nasi lemak.
  • Quench your thirst for adventure at Gua Tempurung, a majestic limestone cave offering exhilarating guided tours and the chance to marvel at stunning stalactite formations.
  • End your Ipoh escapade by relishing a delightful dinner at Ipoh Garden Seafood Restaurant, treating your taste buds to mouthwatering fresh seafood delicacies.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ipoh, Malaysia by plane is to fly into Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH) in Ipoh. There are direct flights available from major airports in Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and Penang International Airport (PEN). From Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach your desired destination in Ipoh.

Car

To travel to Ipoh, Malaysia by car, you can take the North-South Expressway (E1) if you are coming from Kuala Lumpur or Penang. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by car usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It is advisable to use a GPS or navigation system to ensure a smooth journey.

Train

Currently, there is no direct train service to Ipoh, Malaysia. However, you can take a train to Kuala Lumpur Sentral station in Kuala Lumpur, and from there, transfer to an express bus or another train to reach Ipoh. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh by train takes approximately 2 hours.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Ipoh, Malaysia as it is an inland city. However, if you are coming from the nearby island of Pangkor, you can take a ferry to Lumut, which is approximately a 1-hour journey. From Lumut, you can then take a bus or taxi to reach Ipoh.

Bus

The best way to get to Ipoh, Malaysia by bus is to take a direct bus from major cities in Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Johor Bahru. There are several bus companies operating regular services to Ipoh, and the journey duration varies depending on the starting point. For example, the bus journey from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh takes around 3 hours.

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