Perak Travel Guide (West Coast/Malaysia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Perak

Located on the west coast of Malaysia, Perak is a state that boasts an array of attractions to suit all types of travellers. From historical sites and natural wonders to mouth-watering cuisine and bustling cities, Perak offers something for everyone. Its strategic location between Kuala Lumpur and Penang makes it an ideal destination for a quick getaway or even an extended holiday with plenty of outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences, and immersive activities to enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Perak

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

A trip to Perak is incomplete without exploring its rich history and diverse culture. The state has preserved its cultural heritage through historical sites and museums, including:

Lenggong Archaeological Museum, where you can discover the ancient civilisation of Lenggong Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Kellie’s Castle, a fairytale-like mansion that was abandoned before its completion and has since become an iconic spot for photography enthusiasts.
Ubudiah Mosque, one of the most magnificent mosques in Malaysia, with stunning architecture adorned with gold and marble.

Natural Attractions of Perak: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Perak is also home to various natural wonders and exciting outdoor activities that will keep outdoor enthusiasts enthralled:

Royal Belum State Park, where you can embark on a jungle trek, take a boat ride, or kayak along one of the world’s oldest rainforests.
Gua Tempurung, one of the most extensive limestone cave systems in Peninsular Malaysia, with four show caves that are open to the public.
Taiping Lake Gardens, a serene parkland designed by British resident William Edward Maxwell with majestic trees, scenic lakes, and a diverse collection of flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Perak

Perak offers a range of outdoor activities for adventurous travellers. The state has different routes and trails for hiking, biking, and trekking. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes are:

Rafflesia Trail at Sungai Sedim Recreational Forest, home to the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia flower.
Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill, offers various hiking trails through lush forests with scenic views.
Kampar River White Water Rafting, for adventure lovers, you can experience the thrill of the rapids and enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding it.

Best Things to Do in Perak: Activities and Tours

Perak is a destination rich in activities, tours, and experiences for all ages and tastes. Here are some of the must-try things to do in Perak:

Kellie’s Castle Night Tour, an eerie but fascinating tour of the abandoned castle, set against the backdrop of the night sky.
Belum Rainforest Trek, an exhilarating tour through the Royal Belum rainforest, with opportunities to spot wildlife and rare flora.
Ipoh Heritage Walk, a guided tour through the old town of Ipoh, with its colonial-style buildings, street art, and famous culinary scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for Perak

Perak is an excellent place to explore for a week-long trip. Here’s a suggested itinerary to experience the best of Perak:

Day	Activity
1	Visit Ipoh Old Town and try its famous food, including bean sprout chicken, kaya toast and white coffee
2	Explore Taiping’s scenic attractions, including Taiping Zoo, Lake Gardens, and Perak Museum
3	Experience the adrenaline rush with caving at Gua Tempurung and white water rafting at Kampar River
4	Discover the ancient civilisation of Lenggong Valley and take a dip in the waterfalls
5	Take a trip to Royal Belum Rainforest and spot wildlife including tigers and elephants
6	Trek to Bukit Larut and enjoy a panoramic view of Taiping
7	Visit Kuala Kangsar, the royal town of Perak, and marvel at the majestic Ubudiah Mosque and Istana Kenangan

Food and Drink Scene of Perak

Perak is known for its mouth-watering food and a thriving food scene that caters to all preferences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Bean Sprouts Chicken (Nga Choy Kai) - A dish made with chicken, served with juicy bean sprouts, and doused in savoury soy sauce.
Curry Mee - A spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, chicken, and bean sprouts.
Ipoh White Coffee - One of the most famous beverages in Perak, a coffee with a distinct flavour, roasted with margarine and palm oil.

Local Beverages

Cendol - A dessert drink made from coconut milk, pandan-flavoured jelly, and palm sugar syrup.
Herbal Tea (Teh halia) - A tea flavoured with ginger.

Where to Stay in Perak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Perak offers a range of accommodation options to fit all types of budgets and preferences. From budget hostels to luxury hotels and resorts, here are some recommendations for your stay in Perak:

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat - A luxury retreat set amidst the lush tropical jungle with a geothermal spa.
Symphony Suites Ipoh - A modern hotel located in the heart of Ipoh, close to famous attractions and culinary hotspots.
Bedrock Hotel - A quirky, themed hotel inspired by the Flintstones, located in Kampar.

What to Buy in Perak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Perak is home to unique and traditional craftwork that are perfect souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. Some top items to purchase include:

Royal Belum Honey - A rare honey extracted from the rainforest of Royal Belum.
Ipoh White Coffee - A perfect souvenir to remember the distinctive coffee of Perak.
Tin Products - Perak was once the world’s largest tin producer, and tin craftsmanship is still celebrated today. You can buy tin souvenirs such as keychains, plates, and unique jewellery.

Local Culture and Customs of Perak

The ethnic groups of Perak generally practice diverse cultural and religious traditions. Malay culture dominates the majority, with numerous annual festivals celebrated, including:

Perak State Arts and Cultural Festival (PESTA) - A month-long festival celebrating the rich heritage of Perak, with performances, competitions, and cultural events.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri - An annual festival celebrated by Muslim communities, marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Thaipusam - A Hindu festival celebrated in February, featuring pilgrims carrying kavadis (ornate structures) in a procession to seek blessings.

Best Time to Visit Perak

Perak is an all-year-round destination, thanks to its tropical climate. However, the best time to visit is from March to September when the weather is drier and less humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Perak

Here are some cultural do’s and don’ts of Perak:

Do:

Dress appropriately, especially when visiting cultural or religious sites.
Learn some Malay phrases, but English is widely spoken.
Take off your shoes before entering a place of worship.

Don’t:

Smoke in public areas.
Be disrespectful towards traditional customs and beliefs.
Take photos of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Perak

Perak is generally safe for travellers; however, it’s essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas. Here are some safety tips to follow:

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you.
Take taxis or private transport after dark, especially in unlit areas.
Be cautious when using ATM machines and avoid using them late at night or if suspicious-looking individuals are nearby.

Health in Perak

Perak is a relatively low-risk destination in terms of health concerns. However, visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites that can cause dengue fever or Zika virus. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water and avoid tap water when possible.

Getting to Perak: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Perak

The main airport serving Perak is the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, with domestic flights connecting to Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

Bus Stations Near Perak

Perak has regular bus services that connect the state with major cities in Malaysia. Some of the major bus stations are:

Amanjaya Bus Terminal, Ipoh
Medan Gopeng Bus Terminal, Gopeng
Terminal Bas Kuala Kangsar, Kuala Kangsar

Other Options

Visitors can hire a private car or taxi for their travel within Perak. Ride-sharing services like Grab are also available.

How to Get Around in Perak

Perak has an extensive public transport network that includes buses, trains, and taxis. Visitors can also hire a car or take Grab services to explore the state.

Where to Go Next from Perak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Perak is ideally located between Kuala Lumpur and Penang, making it a convenient base to explore nearby destinations. Some popular nearby destinations include:

Penang - A food paradise, an island state renowned for its historical architecture, street art, and sandy beaches.
Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia’s bustling capital with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers, street markets, and delicious street food.
Cameron Highlands - a mountainous region known for its tea plantations, hiking trails, and fresh produce.

Conclusion

Perak is a gem of a destination in Malaysia, rich in history and culture, and offering an array of outdoor adventures, city delights, and natural wonders. Explore its vibrant cities, hidden gems, and mouth-watering cuisine on a journey through this diverse and exciting state.

Belum Temenggor Forest Reserve