An elegant city in the Malaysian hills, Ipoh has long been the gateway to the picturesque tea country of the Cameron Highlands and beautiful Pulau Pangkor. Once a wealthy tin mining hub, Ipoh offers heritage architecture, fascinating museums and heaps of activities for foodies, adventurers and culture buffs alike. Very much a worthy destination in its own right, Malaysia’s fourth-largest city has an excellent array of great B&Bs and hotels for couples, friends or families. Most of the best places to stay in Ipoh are set close to the city centre, but we do also recommend one very special rainforest retreat.
Take a guided walking tour to explore Ipoh’s heritage centre, admiring landmarks such as the Ipoh Railway Station, Birch Clock Tower and the Old Post Office. Mural Art's Lane is the place to go for street art, whilst street-side hawker stands brim with delicious local specialities and there’s a buzzy evening scene in the heart of the city. Culture aficionados can sate their curiosity at the Tea Museum, the Geological Museum and the Yasmin Ahmad Museum.
Perched close to the Kinta and Kampar Rivers — perfect for kayaking, rafting and boat trips — Ipoh is also surrounded by jungle. Hike through lush landscapes, bathe in healing hot springs, or delve into Sam Poh Tong, Malaysia's largest cave temple. Trekkers will adore discovering the hill settlements, farms and dense, waterfall-studded forests of the Cameron Highlands. Return to one of the best places to stay in Ipoh for evenings of delicious food, bustling night markets and chic bars.