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Destinations > Asia > Malaysia > The Lost World of Ipoh - Perak

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Nature has really outdone herself in the Malaysian State of Perak. The rugged limestone landscape is a treasure trove of caves, forests, rivers and lakes, with beautiful beaches and islands along the coast. Whether you prefer mountains or the ocean, there really is something for everyone here.

Perak also provides the attractions of civilization. Historical architecture, temples, mosques, and museums illustrate the various people and rich cultural traditions that have left a lasting mark on the region. Modern resorts and even a theme park provide entertainment for the whole family.

Prior to traveling to Ipoh, Malaysia, we recommend picking up this short - and affordable - guide to navigate Malaysian customs and culture and to seriously enrich your experiences in just about every way. We find that these pocket-sized guides are the best way to multiply the value of your time in Malaysia and improving your knowledge and understanding of this new place in the world. Your memories of this adventure will last forever!

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The Lost World of Tambun

If you prefer your nature experiences more controlled check out Sunway Lost World of Tambun, a theme park also located in Ipoh. This adventure packed attraction is actually 9 parks in one – Lost World Water Park, Lost World Amusement Park, Lost World Hot Springs & Night Park, Lost World Tiger Valley, Lost World Petting Zoo, the Lost World Tin Valley, Lost World Adventure Park, Hippo Kingdom and Luminous Forest.

Surrounded by lush forests and the rugged limestone hills, the eco-adventure opportunities here could fill several days on their own. The Lost World of Tambun was actually our favorite stop in Ipoh because of its unique location in the middle of some spectacular mountains, caves, and forests. It’s no wonder that the mountains in this very park were the inspiration for the floating mountains of Pandora in the movie Avatar!

Every trip to Ipoh should have this location on its itinerary, whether you have kids or not. The natural beauty alone is worth the stop. Tickets are available here.

Other Things to do at The Lost World of Tambun

Crystal Spa Admission Ticket: If you want to seriously relax, consider grabbing this ticket to the Crystal Spa at the Lost World of Tambun. Feel at bliss as your professional masseur uses a variety of techniques and strokes to undo all the knots and tension in your muscles, removing the stress you've built up. Have your skin deeply cleansed and left looking silky and radiant. Then feel at peace from within with soothing scents of essential oils - rejuvenating your body and mind - with an aromatherapy session. If you’ve never tried it, now is the time!

Glamping at the Lost World: Yes, it is also possible to go Glamping in one of the most picturesque places of the Lost World of Tambun.

Best Caves in Ipoh, Perak

Perak Tong Cave Temple

Near Ipoh, the historically rich capital of Perak, there are several cave temples for those seeking a mysterious atmosphere. The cave walls at Perak Tong Temple are covered in murals and iconography, providing a stunning backdrop for the 40-foot Buddha.

In the back of this cave is a 450 stairwell that brings you to the top of the cave-mountain. The impressive views of Ipoh from the viewing platform on the top are perhaps the biggest highlight of this cave temple. It’s completely worth the effort.

Ling Sen Tong Temple

This is a Taoist cave temple with many brightly colored statues depicting gods, dragons, four heavenly kings, animals, and other characters from Chinese mythology and folklore. The statues depicting the story of the Journey To The West are the most famous.

You may also see a large family of monkeys playing around on the temple. Although the cave structure is rather small, it makes for an excellent place to take vivid photos. Plus, it's located just next to Sam Poh Tong Temple, which is a must-see place with a large cave. These temples are located at the base of a limestone cliff, making it all the more beautiful.

Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple - Pavilion at the back. Photo by John T on Unsplash — Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple. Photo by John T on Unsplash

Sam Poh Tong Temple Ipoh

The largest temple cave in the Ipoh area is Sam Poh Tong, with several caverns and passageways. It is reputed to have been discovered by a Chinese monk in the late 1800s who lived and meditated there for 20 years before his death. This interesting history makes it the oldest of the temple cave as well as the largest. The beautiful garden with its fish pond and pagodas adds to the mystical ambiance.

This is also one of the main highlights on the Ipoh Secrets tour.

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple Zen Gardens back Ipoh Malaysia

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple and Zen Gardens

Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple is a little more out of the way than many of the other cave temples in the Ipoh area, but worth seeking out as it lives up to the meaning of its name, Cave of Ultimate Bliss. The airy feeling of the large cavern and the peaceful gardens surrounding it definitely provide an atmosphere that brings happiness.

While the cave structure is quite tall and impressive, the view from the cave staircase leading to the gardens - with the mountain backdrop - is magical. This is another highlight on the Ipoh Secrets tour.

Tempurung Cave (Gua Tempurung Tour)

If you’re more interested in experiencing the natural side of caves, rather than a cave temple, then Tempurung Cave in Gopeng is not to be missed. The range of tours offered gives everyone from serious spelunkers to curious tourists an opportunity to explore this 3 km cave’s giant domes, showcasing thousands of years of nature’s artwork.

You’ll be welcomed by a stream that moves through the cave system, green openings from above, and a variety of colors and chasms throughout. It is truly a magnificent cave system!

Only a few minutes away are the High Ropes course, White Water Rafting/Tubing experience, and Waterfall Abseiling - some seriously adventurous activities that are totally worth checking out if you’re in the area!

Cermin Lake, near Guanyin Cave. Photo by harith irfan wahid on Unsplash

Guanyin Cave Ipoh (Kwan Yin Tong)

Another cave temple worth checking out is Guanyin Cave, or Kwan Yin Tong Temple, which is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Guanyin, who is also known as the Goddess of Mercy. More than 75 Guanyin statues line the brightly lit and mural-covered walls. With a Japanese-style wishing fountain and a beautiful terra cotta pagoda, this small, serene temple is a lovely contrast to is larger neighbors.

Just around the corner from this cave is also Cermin Lake, which is another amazing sight!

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Best Things to See near Ipoh, Perak

Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

Ipoh is also home to the Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village, which has great scenery and activities for families. Bicycles and rickshaws are available for getting around the village, but walking is a great way to experience everything from the cultural displays to the peaceful pond where you can feed the fish.

This one came recommended to us from our Airbnb host, who is a traveler himself. He described it as a must-see place in Ipoh, a Malaysian-hipster type of a village, filled with traditional Malaysian culture, breathtaking scenery, and informational historical huts. We really enjoyed our stroll around!

The entrance fee was RM 10 per adult when we visited. Our 1 year old son was free.

Bukit Kledang Ipoh

Bukit Kledang is a popular spot for exercise in Ipoh. The hill has several trails that hikers, bikers, and runners all take advantage of. Partway up there is a lovely waterfall, and the panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside may prove distracting from your exercise. Even if you keep your focus all the way to the 808-meter summit, you can’t help but enjoy your surroundings at the same time.

Gunung Lang Recreational Park

Located just north of Ipoh, Gunung Lang Recreational Park provides another glimpse of the awe-inspiring natural formations found throughout Perak. Centered around a lake with unique limestone formations, there are boardwalks through the swamp where you can check out various types of local wildlife in their habitats. The man-made waterfall there is a favorite feature.

Kledang Saiong Forest Eco Park

Another of the natural wonders available in Perak is Kledang Saiong Forest Eco Park. There is no admission charge to experience the lovely forest and it is easily accessible from Ipoh, just 5 km from the city center. While there are several outdoor activities and facilities available, the highlight of the park is the Nepenthes Garden. For a small fee you can see more than 70 different species of pitcher plants from all over the world. The interactive displays allow visitors to learn about trees and other plants, in addition to the pitcher plants.

Eco Park Bandar Seri Botani. Photo by Alfred on Unsplash

Lubuk Timah Resort (Lubuk Timah Waterfall)

Lubuk Timah Falls and hot springs are a great location for an afternoon of fun adventures in beautiful surroundings. Likely a remnant of the tin mining industry, the reservoir located 15 km outside Ipoh has silted up, but the dam has two spillways making beautiful waterfalls. The nearby hot springs provide a lovely setting to relax and play, and are accompanied by facilities such as playgrounds and restaurants.

Kellie Castle Ipoh

For those interested in the paranormal, Perak has an outlet for your inner ghost hunter. Kellie’s Castle is a colonial-era mansion that is supposedly haunted. Accounts vary regarding the inspiration for the structure, but the building was abandoned by the widow of a wealthy Scottish planter when he died. Never finished and eerily half-ruined, the castle makes for some fascinating explorations.

You can see Kellie Castle on the Ipoh Secrets tour as well.

Kuala Kangsar Perak (Ubudiah Royal Mosque)

While enjoying the historic architecture of the region, Ubudiah Royal Mosque in the royal city of Kuala Kangsar is a definite must see. The foundation was set in 1913, and though the building process was interrupted by elephant fights and the First World War, the mosque opened in 1917. The golden dome, minarets, and imported marble provide a beautiful backdrop for the congregation’s devotion.

Istana Iskandariah Kuala Kangsar Perak

Whether royal watching figures high on your to do list or you’re just interested in architecture – Istana Iskandariah, the royal palace of the Perak sultanate – in the royal city of Kuala Kangsar, provides a treat for your eyes. It is the current residence of the sultan and his family, so seeing the inside might be tricky without an invitation – but the view from the street is still impressive. The building’s style mixes European colonial architecture with that found in western Asia, particularly the distinctive onion domes and pointed arches.

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Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple secret garden land before time

Must See Places around Ipoh, Perak

With its natural wonders and fabulous historical and cultural additions, it’s easy to see why Perak is a popular destination for Malaysians and international tourists alike.

There are so many amazing things to see here that it's hard to boil it down to a single day! If you only have one day we'd recommend picking highlights that best fit your tastes in Ipoh. Here are our recommendations:

Option 1

For amazing beauty, culture, animals, fun, and relaxation.

A full day at The Lost World of Tambun

Option 2

For eye popping Cave Temples and magnificent photos, either take the Ipoh Secrets tour or go to these main highlights on your own:

Perak Tong,
Sam Poh Tong, and
Kek Lok Tong Cave Temples with a stop at the
Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village

Option 3

For the high adrenaline adventurers looking for a unique experience.

Tempurung Cave with White Water Rafting and Canyoning

Whatever you choose it's sure to be an amazing day that you'll remember forever – especially if you choose to learn more about the customs and culture of Malaysia before you go!

FAQ’s

What are the operating hours for the Lost World of Tambun?

The Lost World of Tambun operates from 11 am to 6 pm on weekdays and extends its hours from 10 am to 6 pm on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for any changes in operating hours, especially during festive seasons or special events.

Is there a dress code for visitors to the Lost World of Tambun?

While there is no strict dress code, it is recommended that visitors wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for water activities and walking around the park. For safety and hygiene reasons, swimwear is required for all water attractions, and it's best to bring a change of clothes.

What are the accommodation options near the Lost World of Tambun?

Visitors have various accommodation options ranging from the on-site hotel at the Lost World of Tambun, which offers direct access to the park, to other nearby hotels and guesthouses in Ipoh catering to different budgets and preferences. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

(1) The Lost World of Ipoh - Perak, Malaysia - REmotiFIRE by EatWanderExplore. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/the-lost-world-of-ipoh-perak-malaysia.

(2) Lost World Of Tambun - Theme Park, Hotel and Hot Springs. https://sunwaylostworldoftambun.com/.

(3) Historical Malacca: Delicious Food, Culture, and Colonial Influence .... https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/historical-malacca-delicious-food-culture-and-colonial-influence-malaysia.