Table of Contents

Cameron Highlands Travel Tips & 24 Must-See Attractions

Renowned for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and emerald tea plantations, this tranquil highland region offers a serene escape into nature’s embrace.

Cameron Highlands, located in Pahang about 4 hours from Kuala Lumpur, boasts a wide range of attractions ranging from mist-shrouded forests to strawberry farms. It’s one of the local urbanites’ favorite destinations to get a respite from the tropical heat.

Join me as I take you on a virtual exploration of this captivating highland paradise!

Overview of Cameron Highlands

History

Cameron Highlands was first discovered in 1885 by William Cameron, a British government surveyor on a mapping expedition. The British administration recognized the agricultural potential of the region and developed it for tea plantations, vegetable farming, and flower cultivation.

After Malaysia gained independence in 1957, Cameron Highlands continued to flourish as a prime agricultural and tourist destination.

Geography

Cameron Highlands is situated in the Titiwangsa mountain range in the state of Pahang, Malaysia. It covers an area of approximately 712 square kilometers (275 square miles) and is renowned for its cool climate and picturesque landscapes.

The region’s elevation ranges from 800 meters (2,625 feet) to over 1,600 meters (5,250 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest areas in Malaysia.

Population

The population of Cameron Highlands is relatively small compared to other urban areas in Malaysia. As of the latest available data, the population is estimated to be around 41,000 residents, consisting of various ethnic groups, including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous Orang Asli communities.

Best Time to Visit Cameron Highlands

March to September is considered the peak season for visiting Cameron Highlands. The weather is relatively dry and sunny. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring tea plantations, and visiting gardens. However, expect larger crowds and higher accommodation rates, especially during weekends, school holidays, and festive seasons.

The rainy season in Cameron Highlands usually begins in October and lasts until February. While rainfall can occur throughout the year, it tends to be heavier during these months. Outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, and there’s a higher chance of landslides on the mountain roads.

How to Get to Cameron Highlands

By Air

Cameron Highlands does not have its own airport. The closest one is located in Ipoh (Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, IPH), approximately 90 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use a pre-arranged shuttle service to reach Cameron Highlands.

By Bus

There are many bus services going to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Penang, and other major cities.

From Kuala Lumpur, the journey takes about 4 hours, depending on traffic. Buses depart from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS).

Do note that you will go through winding mountain roads, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, prepare some travel sickness pills, mints, ointments, and/or barf bags.

By Car

If you’re driving from Kuala Lumpur, take the North-South Expressway (E1) towards the north, then exit at Tapah. From there, follow the road signs to Cameron Highlands. The journey offers picturesque views of the countryside and takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.

From Ipoh, it takes approximately 2 hours. Head south on Route A1, then veer onto Route 1 towards Simpang Pulai, following signs for Cameron Highlands.

Remember to check road conditions, drive safely, and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes along the the way.

By Tour

For a hassle-free experience, you can also book a tour online or from your hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Penang, or other cities. There are group tours and private ones to cater to different needs and preferences.

For those who are short on time, day trips are available from those cities, which typically include transportation, lunch, and guided sightseeing.

Getting Around in Cameron Highlands

Undoubtedly, the easiest way to get around in Cameron Highlands is by car, which allows for flexibility and the freedom to visit remote areas and off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are readily available in towns like Tanah Rata and Brinchang. For those who prefer a guided experience, organized tours that you can book online or from your hotel can provide transportation to key attractions, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will offer insights into the area’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

Additionally, bicycles and motorcycles are available for rent in certain areas.

24 Top Things to Do in Cameron Highlands

1. Visit tea plantations

Cameron Highlands is mostly known for its tea plantations, which sprawl across the undulating hillsides. The two main tea estates in the region are the Boh Tea Plantation and Cameron Valley Tea Plantation. Guided tours offer visitors the chance to learn about tea-making process, from cultivation to production, not to mention a bunch of photo ops among the rows of tea bushes.

Boh Tea Plantation opening hours: 8 am – 4:30 pm (Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays).
Bharat (Cameron Valley) Tea Plantation opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily.

2. Enjoy tea and scones like a Brit

Apart from visiting the tea plantations, you can’t miss out on the chance to kick back and enjoy some tea and scones, just like the Brits do. With a heavy British influence from its colonial past, Cameron Highlands is the perfect place to indulge in this classic treat.

There are plenty of spots, like the Cameron Valley Tea Houses and the Jim Thompson’s Tea Room, where you can enjoy a steaming cup of tea and warm fluffy scones topped with lashings of clotted cream and strawberry jam. Surrounded by misty hills and lush greenery, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a scene straight out of the English countryside.

Cameron Valley Tea Houses opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily.
Jim Thompson’s Tea Room, Brinchang: 12 pm – 6 pm daily.

3. Venture into the Mossy Forest

Located atop Gunung Brinchang, the highest peak accessible by road in Malaysia, this ancient forest ecosystem transports visitors into a surreal world where towering trees, draped in ethereal mosses, create an otherworldly landscape.

Guided tours lead adventurers along wooden boardwalks, meandering through the dense foliage and labyrinthine paths, offering glimpses of exotic flora and fauna. The forest’s misty veil adds an air of mystery and enchantment, enhancing the allure of this natural wonder.

Read: Hiking Mount Irau Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands: A Trip to Nature’s Magical Wonderland

4. Go hiking

Cameron Highlands is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Take Gunung Brinchang, for instance, where you can drive right up to the highest peak in the area for stunning views. Looking for something a bit more mystical? The Mossy Forest trail will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale with its misty ambiance and unique plant life (see above).

And for the daredevils among us, tackling the Gunung Irau and Gunung Jasar trails promises a challenge worth bragging about, with epic views as your reward.

5. Chase waterfalls

Cameron Highlands is home to a number of picturesque waterfalls. One must-visit spot is the ethereal Robinson Falls, which is accessible via a short but scenic hike.

Meanwhile, Lata Iskandar with its impressive height and powerful flow, invites adventurers to take a dip and cool off in the natural pool amidst the tranquil surroundings.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, Parit Falls requires a trek through the jungle, culminating in the sight of a majestic waterfall hidden amidst the wild, untouched forest.

6. Pick strawberries at strawberry farms

Picking strawberries at one of the strawberry farms in Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Highlands is celebrated not only for its tea plantations and forests, but also for its strawberry farms.

The region is one of the only places in Malaysia with the right climate for strawberries to flourish, although — if I were to be honest — they are not as big or as juicy as the ones you might get in four-season countries.

Nonetheless, visitors to Cameron Highlands can indulge in the delightful experience of picking their own strawberries, which will then be weighed and charged accordingly.

Healthy Strawberry Farm opening hours: 7:30 am – 7 pm daily.
Big Red Strawberry Farm opening hours: 8:30 am – 6 pm (Monday to Friday), 9 am – 6 pm (Saturday & Sunday).
7 Strawberry Farm opening hours: 8 am – 7:30 pm daily.

7. Try strawberry-infused delights

With the abundance of strawberries in the region, it’s hardly a surprise that restaurant owners have incorporated the fruit into their menus.

So, when in Cameron Highlands, you can start your day with some strawberry pancakes or waffles, then continue with a refreshing strawberry salad for lunch, and end it with one of the many strawberry-infused desserts, teas, and smoothies.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also some unlikely food pairings like strawberry sambal and strawberry nasi lemak!

Opah Strawberries & Jams: 8 am – 3:30 pm daily.
KHM Strawberries & Jam: 8 am – 5 pm (Monday to Thursday), 8 am – 6 pm (Friday to Sunday).
Green View Garden Cameron Highlands: 9 am – 6:30 pm daily.

8. Wander in the lavender garden

At the lavender farm in Cameron Highlands.

If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through fields of lavender in Provence, but your wallet’s feeling a bit light, Cameron Highlands has got you covered with its own slice of lavender paradise.

Although minuscule in comparison to those farms in France, it still offers some Insta-worthy sights, along with the soothing lavender scent that is known for its calming properties and therapeutic benefits. Don’t forget to try their lavender ice cream and some other lavender-themed treats at the on-site shop.

Cameron Lavender Garden opening hours: 9 am – 6 pm (Monday to Thursday), 9 am – 7 pm (Friday to Sunday).

9. Learn about bees at the bee farms

Bee farms in Cameron Highlands offer a unique experience, producing a selection of delectable honey and related products for sale and display to visitors. These farms, including Highlands Apiary Farm in Ringlet, Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm in Brinchang, and Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm in Tringkap, vary slightly in size, facilities, and honey production capabilities.

Visitors can explore these farms and often find additional attractions such as strawberry picking, souvenir shops, vegetable markets, and interactive activities for children. Due to insufficient local bee populations, the honey available here is also sourced from various wild and domestic locations across Malaysia.

Highlands Apiary Farm: 9 am – 6 pm daily.
Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm: 8 am- 7 pm daily.
Cameron Tringkap Bee Farm: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm daily.

10. Watch butterflies at the butterfly garden

There are two butterfly farms in the highlands: Butterfly Farm and Butterfly Garden (located inside Kea Farm). Both feature live showcases of butterflies, insects, and other animals. Be sure to keep a lookout for the rare Rajah Brooke’s Birdwing butterfly.

In addition to the captivating displays, they also provide amenities like cafes and souvenir shops.

Cameron Highlands Butterfly Farm: 8:30 am – 6 pm daily.
Cameron Highlands Butterfly Garden (Kea Farm): 8 am – 6 pm daily.

11. Get friendly with sheep and alpacas

Situated next to the renowned Kea Farm market, the Sheep Sanctuary allows visitors to get up close and personal with sheep and alpacas. The entrance fee includes a small box of food to feed the animals and a discount voucher for the on-site cafe. Vending machines are also available if you wish to purchase more snacks.

Small but fun, this sanctuary can get crowded, even on weekdays, so it’s advisable to visit early to avoid crowds.

The Sheep Sanctuary Cameron Highlands: 9 am – 5:30 pm daily.

12. Adopt a cactus

Cactus Valley is a botanical garden perched on a hillside with stunning views of Brinchang town center. It boasts an extensive collection of cacti, flowers, and ornamental plants in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes.

Easily accessible on foot from anywhere in Brinchang town, simply take a left after passing Star Regency Hotel (across from the Brinchang night market site) if you’re following the main road. Keep going until you spot the signboard directing you to Cactus Valley or Big Red Strawberry Farm.

After a quick but steep uphill climb, you’ll arrive at the entrance. If you wish to bring home a unique souvenir, there are rare cacti available for purchase.

Cactus Valley Cameron Highlands: 8 am – 6 pm daily.

13. Smell the roses at the rose garden

The Rose Center, situated in Kea Farm, is a leisurely garden retreat located approximately 3.5 kilometers away from Brinchang town. This attraction doesn’t only showcase rose varieties; it also features an array of other flowers and ornamental plants.

Set amidst a park-like environment along a hill slope, the garden comprises a series of steps leading to various levels of mini garden paths. Visitors can climb to the summit to see breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valley.

Rose Centre Cameron Highlands: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm daily.

14. Get spiritual at Sam Poh Temple

Sam Poh Temple, perched on the misty hills of Cameron Highlands, is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the region and also the most scenic.

Situated just a short distance from Brinchang town, the temple’s grand entrance welcomes visitors with intricately carved arches and ornate decorations.

Inside, the temple’s interior is adorned with elaborate murals, intricate statues, and flickering oil lamps.

Visitors can explore the temple complex, enjoying moments of quiet contemplation and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Sam Poh Temple opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily.

15. Play a round of golf

The Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Club Cameron Highlands offers a top-notch golfing experience in an expansive green landscape, with mature trees lining the boundaries. This 18-hole, par 71, 6101-square-meter golf course has a rich history dating back to the British colonial era and presents a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.

The spacious layout allows for long shots, while the peaceful surroundings facilitate focus and concentration.

16. Ride an ATV

If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore the rugged terrain and scenic trails in Cameron Highlands, try riding an ATV to get your adrenaline pumping. Feel the rush of the wind as you navigate winding paths, splash through muddy puddles, and conquer challenging obstacles, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of the highlands.

For those who are not keen on taking the wheel, chauffeur-driven 4×4 land rovers are also available that can accommodate up to 10 passengers.

Cameron Adventurous ATV & Safari: 10 am – 6 pm (Tuesday to Friday), 9 am – 6 pm (Saturday to Monday).

17. Explore MARDI Agro Technology Park

MARDI Agro Technology Park in Cameron Highlands is a fascinating park that offers a unique blend of agricultural innovation and natural beauty. Spanning over 300 acres, it serves as a hub for research, development, and education in sustainable agriculture, providing visitors with insights into Malaysia’s farming industry.

Additionally, the park also offers accommodation for those who wish to be surrounded by all that greenery.

MARDI Agro Technology Park opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm (Wednesday to Monday, closed on Tuesdays).

18. Shop for fresh produce and local products

Cameron Highlands’ cool climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for growing a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers, which are then sent to other parts of the country.

In Cameron, visitors can explore markets like Kea Farm Market, where local farmers showcase their bountiful harvests of strawberries, cabbages, tomatoes, and more.

In addition to fresh produce, these markets also offer a tempting selection of homemade jams, preserves, honey, and other artisanal food products.

Kea Farm Market opening hours: 7 am – 7 pm, daily.

19. Go down memory lane at the Time Tunnel Museum

The Time Tunnel Museum is Malaysia’s first memorabilia museum, offering visitors a nostalgic trip back in time through a showcase of antiques and memorabilia from various eras.

From vintage advertisements and retro household items to classic toys and iconic pop culture items, this interactive museum’s exhibits offer insight into Malaysia’s social, economic, and cultural evolution over the years.

Time Tunnel Museum opening hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily.

20. Share a hot pot (steamboat)

Indulging in a steamboat meal amidst the cool mountain breeze in Cameron Highlands is an absolute must for us locals. So much so that the trip would feel incomplete without it.

This popular culinary tradition involves a bubbling pot of broth placed at the center of the table, where diners cook a variety of fresh ingredients, including thinly sliced meats, meatballs, seafood, vegetables, and noodles, to their liking.

Whether you’re gathering with family or friends, steamboat dining offers a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal together.

21. Visit an Orang Asli settlement

Visiting an Orang Asli settlement in Cameron Highlands provides a rare opportunity to connect with Malaysia’s indigenous culture, where visitors can immerse themselves in their unique lifestyle, by observing and participating in cultural activities such as dance performances and handicraft workshops.

Best visited on a guided tour, these settlements still preserve age-old traditions, customs, and practices that have been passed down through generations.

22. Hunt for bargains at the night market

Brinchang Night Market, a lively and bustling affair, transforms the streets of Cameron Highlands into a lively spectacle of sights, sounds, and smells come evening.

As early as 4 pm, the market comes alive with colorful stalls offering a wide range of goodies from fresh produce and local delicacies to handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Pasar Malam Cameron Highlands opening hours: 4 pm – 10:30 pm daily.

23. Admire British-style architecture

A British-style bungalow in Cameron Highlands. Credit: Roysouza / Wikimedia Commons

Cameron Highlands is one of several places in Malaysia where you can marvel at colonial-era British architecture. While most of the colonial buildings in other parts of the country are shophouses and commercial buildings, Cameron Highlands boasts Tudor-style bungalows and mansions, with their pitched roofs, timber frames, and spacious verandas.

Many of these structures have been lovingly preserved and repurposed, now housing boutique hotels, cafes, and shops, while others still serve as private residences.

24. Climb to the top of the Flora Park

If you’re seeking a unique spot to elevate your Instagram game you have to look no further than Cameron Highlands Flora Park. This hidden gem within Kea Farm offers a plethora of picturesque corners just waiting to be discovered, ensuring your posts stand out from the crowd.

Not only can visitors enjoy stunning views of the meticulously landscaped garden, they can also learn about the diverse plant life on display.

Cameron Highlands Flora Park opening hours: 9:30 am – 7 pm daily.

How Long to Spend in Cameron Highlands

If you’re short on time, a day trip to Cameron Highlands is still worthwhile. You get to explore key attractions such as the tea plantations, strawberry farms, temple, and possibly the Mossy Forest. It is best to do this on a guided tour, as it will take care of transportation and curate the activities for you so that you won’t be wasting valuable time trying to figure things out.

For a more relaxed experience, consider spending 2 to 3 days in Cameron Highlands. This allows you to explore the main attractions at a leisurely pace, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or visiting gardens, and savor the local cuisine.

Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands

These are some of the top-rated accommodation options in Cameron Highlands with rating scores of over 8 out of 10:

Budget

Mid-Range

Luxury

There are also plenty of serviced apartments available for those who wish for more space and privacy.

Practical Tips

Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including rain and mist, especially if you plan to explore outdoor attractions such as the Mossy Forest or tea plantations. Bring suitable clothing, footwear, and rain gear to stay comfortable and dry.
Road Safety: Exercise caution when driving on the winding roads of Cameron Highlands, particularly during rainy or foggy conditions. Follow traffic regulations, drive at a moderate speed, and be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and wildlife crossing the roads. Avoid going during the monsoon season, as there is a risk of landslides.
Environmental Conservation: Respect the natural environment and adhere to designated trails and conservation guidelines when exploring nature reserves and protected areas. Avoid littering, damaging vegetation, or disturbing wildlife, and support sustainable tourism practices that promote environmental preservation and responsible travel.

Final Thoughts

Is Cameron Highlands Worth Visiting?

Whether Cameron Highlands is worth visiting or not largely depends on individual preferences and interests.

Cameron Highlands is a popular destination for local tourists due to its cooler climate. If you’re from a hot country yourself or have been traveling in the tropical region for a while, this mountain destination can offer a welcome respite from the heat. However, if you’re fresh off the plane from somewhere similar or colder, then its charm might be completely lost on you.

Likewise, if you have never been to a tea plantation before, you will be enthralled by the seemingly endless rows of verdant tea bushes in Cameron Highlands. But those who come from another tea-producing country like India or Sri Lanka, who are used to even bigger plantations, may not be as impressed.

That being said, if you find yourself with a day or two to spare, I strongly encourage you to consider including Cameron Highlands in your travel plans. Whether you’re exploring tea plantations, hiking through mossy forests, or indulging in local delicacies, Cameron Highlands promises a myriad of experiences for visitors of all ages.

Have you been to Cameron Highlands before? What did you like most about it? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.