Ipoh, the capital city of Perak in Malaysia, often flies under the radar for many international tourists, but this charming city offers a delightful blend of colonial architecture, limestone hills, and a burgeoning food scene. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious local specialties, this place is ideal for a refreshing getaway near KL.
How to get to Ipoh from KL?
Getting here from Kuala Lumpur is straightforward. The most common options are by bus or train. Buses are frequent and generally affordable, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic. However, for a smoother and faster journey, the Electric Train Service (ETS) is highly recommended. The ETS train from KL Sentral to Ipoh takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Tip: If you’re planning to take the train, it’s best to book your tickets in advance via the official KTM Berhad website: [online.ktmb.com.my].
Where to stay?
When it comes to accommodation in Ipoh, you’ll find that hotels are generally quite affordable compared to larger cities like Kuala Lumpur. For a comfortable and highly-rated stay, consider the Bedrock Hotel. This hotel boasts spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities like a capsule coffee machine and a hot and cold water dispenser. Its location is also incredibly convenient, placing you within easy walking distance of the famous Lao Huang Bean Sprout Chicken and Yi Fa Tea House (renowned for its Curry Noodles). If the weather is pleasant, a leisurely 20-minute walk will also take you to Ipoh’s charming Old Town. The hotel staff are also a highlight, offering enthusiastic recommendations for local attractions and eateries. If you need to browse for more recommended hotels in Ipoh, click this link
The best time to visit is typically during the drier months between November and February. During my visit in February, the heat was quite intense, which limited my exploration during the hotter parts of the day. Nevertheless, Ipoh offers a variety of attractions to fill a 3-day itinerary.
What to do?
- Concubine Lane & Market Lane: A vibrant and photogenic area filled with cafes, souvenir shops, and street art.
- Kong Heng Square: A heritage area with a mix of old buildings, art spaces, and eateries.
- Sam Poh Tong Temple: A beautiful cave temple nestled within limestone hills.
- Mural Spotting: Ipoh is known for its charming street art. I found interesting murals at:
- Kopi O Ikat Tepi (carpark on Jalan Tun Sambanthan)
- Old Uncle Drinking Coffee (opposite Ipoh Tourist Information Centre)
- Man With Trishaw (at the corner of Jalan Market)
- Yellow Hummingbird (on Jalan Panglima)
- Kids Riding Paper Plane (on Jalan Tun Sambanthan)
- Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat (Day tour): While I opted for a day tour, this luxurious retreat offers a unique hot spring experience.
Where to eat?
- Nam Heong White Coffee Shop: A must-visit for Ipoh’s famous white coffee.
- New Hollywood Canning Garden: A local favorite offering a wide variety of dishes.
- Funny Mountain Tau Fu Fah: Indulge in Ipoh’s silky smooth beancurd dessert.
In my opinion, three days is the ideal duration to experience the best of Ipoh without feeling rushed or bored. It allows ample time to cover the key attractions, sample the delicious local cuisine, and enjoy a good night’s rest. With its blend of heritage, nature, and fantastic food, Ipoh is definitely a worthwhile addition to any Malaysian travel itinerary, offering a different pace and charm compared to the bustling capital.
