Ipoh is one of Perak’s most charming destinations — a city where colonial charm meets natural beauty and delicious local food. Just 220 km from Kuala Lumpur, it’s an easy and scenic 2.5-hour drive that makes for a perfect weekend escape.
I hit the road at 6 a.m., skipping breakfast (risky move!) and decided to grab a bite at one of the highway rest stops once I’d left the city buzz behind. The North-South Expressway is world-class — smooth, well-marked, and stretching all the way from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and further north to Alor Setar. While it can get busy during school or public holidays, most of the time it’s an effortless and relaxing drive.
My breakfast stop was a pleasant surprise — a clean, well-maintained food court with plenty of local Malaysian favourites to fuel the journey.
As Ipoh came into view, the scenery got even more spectacular. Towering limestone karst formations and lush green mountains surrounded the city — a postcard-perfect welcome! My first stop? The “Lost World of Tambun“, an adventure park where you can splash, slide, and unwind all day.
💡 Travel Tip: Book your tickets in advance on KLOOK to skip the queues and score better prices — especially if you’re travelling in a group!
The Lost World of Tambun
Lost World of Tambun isn’t just a theme park — it’s a full-on adventure playground! Splash around in the massive water park, ride the wave generator, and unwind in the soothing hot springs. Animal lovers can explore the Animal Kingdom and Rhino Kingdom, while the little ones have a blast at the “kids’ play area” with fun joyrides galore.
For adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts, the park has plenty of group activities — from rock climbing and canoeing to glamping under the stars. (Tip: check online for all the exciting options!)
Nighttime Magic: One of my favourite experiences was soaking in the hot springs under the night sky, open until midnight. The thermal wells and natural springs make it feel just like the real thing — pure relaxation surrounded by nature.
Staying at Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites
I booked online using Agoda.com platform to get an amazing two-night deal at the Kinta Riverfront Hotel and Resort. The rooms are super-comfy with a rooftop pool and amazing breakfast included in the city. I highly recommend this hotel for solo or family travellers planning to visit Ipoh.
Get Best Rates Online with Agoda.com
Amazing History of Ipoh
Ipoh, the capital of Perak, began as a small village along the Kinta River but flourished rapidly in the late 19th century during the tin mining boom. Known as one of the world’s richest tin-producing areas, it attracted Chinese miners and traders who shaped much of the city’s culture and architecture. Many of the elegant colonial buildings you see today in Old Town were built during this prosperous era, earning Ipoh the nickname The City That Tin Built.”
As the tin industry declined in the mid-20th century, Ipoh reinvented itself as a heritage and food destination.
Indulge in a foodie adventure in Ipoh
The city’s culinary fame is legendary — it’s the birthplace of Ipoh white coffee, brewed with local beans roasted in palm oil margarine and served with condensed milk. Ipoh’s streets are also filled with local favourites like bean sprout chicken (nga choi kai), salted chicken, caramel custard, and crispy dim sum, reflecting its rich Chinese heritage and multicultural roots.
Today, Ipoh blends its colonial charm, cave temples, and culinary treasures, offering visitors a nostalgic yet vibrant taste of Malaysia’s cultural heart.
In the evening, I enjoyed live music at Healy Mac’s Irish Pub in Greetown Square which is a great place to explore quaint cafes as well as night-time food markets. The lively atmosphere is very enjoyable.
Driving from Ipoh to Lamut and Pangkor Island
Our next stop was the charming coastal city of Lumut, nestled along the Strait of Melaka and gazing across the waters at Pangkor Island — a beloved getaway known for its water sports, sandy beaches, and laid-back island resorts.
The scenic drive from Ipoh to Lumut unfolds at a relaxed pace, with light traffic mostly made up of intercity buses and local vehicles. As the road winds closer to the coast, the scenery gradually shifts — from urban outskirts to quaint countryside towns dotted with colorful roadside markets, symmetrical shop rows, and elegant mosques gleaming under the sun.
I couldn’t resist stopping at a roadside Nasi Kandar stall, drawn by the aroma of spiced curries wafting through the air. A hearty plate of biryani, roti telur, and rich gravies made for the perfect lunch. These humble eateries, often run by the warm and welcoming Indian Muslim community, are culinary treasures where authentic flavors meet local hospitality — a delicious reminder that the journey is often just as rewarding as the destination.
I was surprise to find a massive shopping mall in the area with amazing imported goods, food items and drinks etc. The AEON Malls is a popular high-end shopping Malls chain in Malaysia.
Staying at Doubletree Hilton in Damai Laut near Lumut
This amazing resort spans 16 acres, covering a golf course and a spice garden. There is ample open spaces, as well as a private beach overlooking Pangkor Laut Island. The breakfast the next day was amazing, and I took a dip in the pool before heading on to Pangkor Island.
The resort has its own waterfront restaurant where we booked a seafood buffet dinner for the same evening. Residents can enjoy island-hopping tours, quad biking, volleyball, and many outdoor group activities organised by the hotel.
Day trip to Pangkor Island
Pangakor Island can be accessed by Ferry from the Marina Jetty located in Lumut. There is secure parking available at the jetty, and the booking terminal is quite modern and well-managed. I enjoyed a relaxed massage on the automatic chair while I waited for my ferry.
The ticket is around RM15, and the ride takes 20 minutes from the Jetty. Once you get off the jetty in Pangkor, you will find many small cafes, restaurants and local transport (vans) that take you around the Island or to your resort. You can also rent scooters to explore the Island or book a local taxi. There are many resorts on the Island you will need to drive around to explore most of the beaches.
The weather can be considerably hot at times, so I suggest being mindful of the weather when planning a trip to Pangkor. If you are travelling in the hot summer season, I recommend booking a resort on the Island to enjoy the activities in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
I explored the Island but did not take a tour or activity due to the heat and decided to enjoy lunch at a local cafe and take some photographs.
What is Pangkor Island Famous For?
Pangkor Island is a popular Island destination located close to Kuala Lumpur. It is known for:Stunning Beaches: includes Teluk Nipa, Coral Beach and Pasir Bogak popular for clear waters and amazing sunsets.
- Snorkelling and Island Hopping tours: Plenty of local operators offer watersports and Island Hopping tours.
- Local Villlages and seafood
- Luxury Resorts
My two-day stay was enjoyable as we enjoyed the lively nightlife in Lumut and a day trip to the perfect offbeat tropical retreat in Malaysia.
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