Ipoh, Malaysia: Unveiling Charismatic Charm in 5 Days.

Discover Ipoh's charm without breaking the bank.

14 October 2023

Ipoh, Malaysia offers a budget-friendly trip filled with rich heritage and delicious street food. Visitors can explore the city's numerous historical sites, such as the iconic Ipoh Railway Station and the famous Old Town area. With affordable accommodation options and low-cost dining choices, a trip to Ipoh is an excellent choice for travelers on a limited budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Unveiling Ipoh's Charismatic Charm:

  • Check into the funky and budget-friendly Art Cottage Hotel, where every room is decorated with eye-catching artwork.
  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Restoran Thean Chun, famous for its fluffy yet crispy egg custard tarts.
  • Embark on a walking tour around the old town, admiring the captivating architectural beauty of colonial-era buildings.
  • Sip on a unique beverage at Burps & Giggles café, housed in an old Chinese medical hall and adorned with quirky vintage decor.
  • Take a stroll along the beautiful Kinta Riverfront Walk, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and soaking in the tranquil scenery.
  • End your day with a delightful dinner at Lou Wong Tauge Ayam Kueh Teow, indulging in Ipoh's famous silky smooth bean sprout chicken noodles.
Day 2

Nature and Exploration:

  • Begin your day with a visit to the mystical Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, marveling at its breathtaking limestone formations and tranquil gardens.
  • Head to the Lost World of Tambun, a thrilling theme park with water slides, hot springs, and a petting zoo for a day of adventure.
  • Enjoy a leisurely picnic at the enchanting Perak Tong Cave Temple, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic limestone cliffs.
  • Explore the charming Qing Xin Ling Leisure and Cultural Village, a hidden gem offering traditional village experiences and picturesque landscapes.
  • Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Nasi Ganja, where their famous cannabis-infused rice is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Day 3

Ipoh's Artistic Treasures:

  • Immerse yourself in art at the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, showcasing the colorful history of Ipoh's tin mining era through unique exhibits.
  • Visit the quirky Ipoh Old Town Art Space, a vibrant gallery featuring contemporary art and exhibitions by local artists.
  • Discover the stunning street art hidden in the corners of Ipoh's old town, taking Instagram-worthy snapshots along the Mural Art Trail.
  • Indulge your inner shopaholic at Lorong Panglima's vintage shops, browsing through antiques, collectibles, and nostalgic memorabilia.
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at Indulgence Restaurant & Living, a charming establishment offering delectable European cuisine in a cozy setting.
Day 4

Cultural Immersion:

  • Explore the impressive Ipoh Railway Station, a colonial architectural marvel often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of Ipoh."
  • Discover the rich history and culture of Ipoh at the Perak State Museum, home to fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
  • Visit Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple, one of Ipoh's oldest and most significant Buddhist temples hidden within limestone caves.
  • Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Ipoh's night market, Pasar Malam, sampling local delicacies and hunting for unique souvenirs.
  • Satisfy your late-night cravings at Restoran Ipoh Padang Curry House, where spicy curries and fluffy roti canai await your taste buds.
Day 5

Retreat into Ipoh's Nature:

  • Take a day trip to the picturesque Cameron Highlands, exploring its lush tea plantations, beautiful gardens, and colonial architecture.
  • Indulge in a traditional English afternoon tea experience at the Smokehouse Hotel, savoring aromatic teas and delicious scones.
  • Return to Ipoh and relax at the tranquil Bulatan Amanjaya Recreational Park, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and refreshing lakes.
  • Treat yourself to a final meal at Plan B, a trendy café known for its fusion dishes and irresistible desserts.
  • As your Ipoh adventure comes to an end, bid farewell to this charming city, taking home unforgettable memories and a newfound love for its quirks and charms.

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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