Ipoh, Malaysia: 5 Days of Family Fun and Flavor

Discover the hidden gems of Ipoh, a family paradise awaits!

14 October 2023

Ipoh, Malaysia offers a perfect family-friendly getaway, combining rich history, delicious food, and beautiful natural landscapes. Explore the enchanting Kellie's Castle and the ancient cave temples of Sam Poh Tong, providing a fascinating cultural experience for both kids and adults. Furthermore, indulge in Ipoh's renowned local cuisine, including the famous Ipoh White Coffee, ensuring a memorable trip for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Hello Ipoh, Yum Cha and Cave Crawling

  • Check into the quirky and family-friendly hotel, Banana Bungalow, with banana-shaped pillows and monkey-printed bedsheets.
  • Start your day with a delicious yum cha breakfast at Thean Chun, where steaming baskets of dim sum will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
  • Explore the fascinating mystique of Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, where stalactites and stalagmites make for a natural art gallery with a zen twist.
  • Visit Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple and be enchanted by the serene lake, limestone formations, and the ethereal light filtering through the cave's roof.
  • Treat yourselves to a seafood feast at Lung Seng Seafood Restaurant, where the aroma of chili crabs and butter prawns will lure you in like a Siren's call.
  • End the day with a stroll along Ipoh's famous concubine lane, where colorful shops and street art add a whimsical touch to your evening adventure.
Day 2

Time Travel to the Colonial Era

  • Start your morning at Burps & Giggles, a charming cafe housed in a restored colonial building, and try their legendary fluffy pancakes.
  • Step into a time capsule as you visit the magnificent Ipoh Railway Station, with its striking Moorish architecture and nostalgic atmosphere.
  • Take a ride on the Ipoh Heritage Trail, a vintage bicycle tour that will transport you back to the days of the British Empire.
  • Discover the secrets of Old Town Ipoh with a visit to the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, where you'll learn about the city's fascinating tin mining history.
  • Enjoy a leisurely picnic at the beautiful Kinta Riverfront Park, surrounded by lush greenery and serene water views.
  • Treat yourselves to a fusion dinner at The Roquette, where innovative dishes like chili-infused nasi lemak will tantalize your taste buds.
Day 3

Nature's Wonderland and Jungle Adventures

  • Embark on a half-day excursion to Kellie's Castle, a haunting and unfinished mansion that will transport you into a world of mystery.
  • Immerse yourselves in the enchanting beauty of the Lost World of Tambun, a water and theme park oasis nestled amidst limestone hills.
  • Climb up the towering limestone cliffs at Gunung Lang Recreational Park and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding lakes and landscape.
  • Explore the Kek Look Tong Cave Temple gardens, where tranquil ponds, koi fish, and blooming flowers create a serene escape.
  • Savor a scrumptious dinner at Pusing Public Seafood, a hidden gem known for its mouthwatering chili crab and butter prawns.
  • End the day with a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, where you'll feel rejuvenated and pampered.
Day 4

Art Appreciation and Street Food Safari

  • Start your morning with a tasty kopitiam breakfast at Sin Yoon Loong, a legendary coffee shop that has been brewing strong, aromatic coffee since 1937.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in Ipoh's Old Town, with colorful murals and interactive installations turning every corner into a gallery.
  • Visit the Art of Oldtown gallery and marvel at the eclectic mix of contemporary artworks and traditional Malaysian craftsmanship.
  • Relish a Nyonya feast at the family-run restaurant, Aun Kheng Lim, where generations-old recipes will take your taste buds on a flavor-packed journey.
  • Indulge in the ultimate food adventure at Ipoh's famous night market, Pasar Malam, where the aroma of sizzling satay and char kway teow will make your mouth water.
  • Treat yourself to a delectable durian feast at Sin Eng Heong, where their famous kaya puffs and creamy durian pastries are an absolute must-try.
Day 5

Adventure, Amusement, and Goodbyes

  • Head to Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village, a hidden gem where traditional Chinese architecture meets natural beauty. Don't forget your camera!
  • Let your inner child go wild at the Movie Animation Park Studios (MAPS), a thrilling amusement park featuring your favorite animated characters.
  • Have a delicious lunch at Plan B, a trendy eatery where classic Malaysian dishes are given a modern twist.
  • Explore the fascinating Geological Museum, where you can learn about Ipoh's geological wonders and discover ancient fossils.
  • Bid farewell to Ipoh with a final treat at the beloved Funny Mountain Soya Bean, where their silky smooth tau fu fa will leave you wanting more.
  • As you leave Ipoh, take with you memories of its captivating charm, friendly locals, and tantalizing flavors that will continue to make your taste buds tingle long after you've departed.

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.

More travel plans

Ipoh: From Heritage to Nature to Culture

Embarking on a budget trip to Ipoh, Malaysia allows visitors to enjoy a culturally vibrant and historic city without breaking the bank. Explore the glittering limestone caves, sip on aromatic white coffee, and sample the delectable local cuisine such as Ipoh chicken rice and bean sprout chicken – all at affordable prices. With budget-friendly accommodations and cheap transportation options, Ipoh offers an unforgettable experience without straining your wallet.

Ipoh Unleashed: A 4-Day Adventure Through Malaysia

Ipoh, Malaysia offers a magical blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the city's charming colonial-era architecture, such as the iconic Ipoh Railway Station, or immerse themselves in the vibrant street art scene found in the old town area. Additionally, nature enthusiasts can venture to the nearby limestone cave temples or discover the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding Cameron Highlands.

Ipoh, Malaysia: 3 Days of Family Fun!

A trip to Ipoh, Malaysia offers a family-friendly experience with its rich history and charming attractions. Explore the famous cave temples like Sam Poh Tong, where kids can marvel at the impressive statues and vibrant colors. Don't miss a visit to the Lost World of Tambun, a water park and amusement park that promises a thrilling day with its slides, hot springs, and petting zoo.

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Experience the enchanting city of Ipoh, Malaysia on a limited budget without compromising on unforgettable adventures. Explore the famous Ipoh Old Town and indulge in the mouthwatering street food, such as Ipoh White Coffee and chicken rice. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing limestone cave temples and take a dip in the breathtaking natural hot springs, all while staying in budget-friendly accommodations and utilizing affordable public transportation options.