14 Best Things to Do in Taiping Perak: Itinerary & Guide
Taiping was one of those places I had somehow never properly visited, even though I’d been to Penang and Ipoh multiple times, and Taiping was sitting right there in the middle. It was somewhere I always passed through rather than stop at.
This time, though, during a road trip up to Penang, my friend and I decided to change that and build in a short stop in Taiping, with a side trip to Kuala Sepetang. What we expected to be a simple break in the journey turned into a surprisingly rewarding few days of history, greenery, and very good food.
Geography
Taiping is located in northern Perak, about 100 km south of Penang (George Town) and 70 km north of Ipoh. The town sits on relatively flat land that was once heavily mined for tin, which explains the many lakes and open green spaces around the town today.
One of Taiping’s defining geographical features is its proximity to the Bintang Range, particularly Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill), which rises sharply behind the town and influences both its scenery and weather.
History
Taiping’s history is closely tied to tin mining, which brought wealth, migration, and conflict to the area in the 19th century. Clan wars over mining rights led to instability, prompting British intervention.
Taiping became the first capital of Perak and a center for colonial administration, leaving behind a legacy of “firsts” in Malaya, including the first railway, museum, prison, and public gardens.
Although the state capital later moved to Ipoh, Taiping retained its historical character.
Population
Taiping’s population is roughly 130,000 people, the largest groups being Chinese and Malays, followed by a significant Indian community, and smaller numbers of other ethnicities.
Malay is widely spoken in official and everyday settings, while Chinese dialects such as Hokkien and Cantonese are common among the Chinese community. Tamil is spoken within the Indian community, and English is generally understood, particularly in tourism-related areas.
Islam is the dominant religion, alongside Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and traditional Chinese beliefs.
Best time to go to Taiping
Taiping is famous as the wettest town in Peninsular Malaysia, with rain possible most of the year. Moist air from the Straits of Malacca is pushed inland and trapped by the hills, resulting in frequent rain, especially in the afternoons.
The relatively drier months are May to August, which are usually better for outdoor exploring. Even then, showers can still occur in the afternoon.
If you don’t want heavy rain, avoid the wet peaks that often come with the broader monsoon periods (roughly October–April), though that’s also when the green landscapes look their best.
How to get to Taiping
By train
Taiping is well connected by KTM ETS and Komuter trains, making rail one of the easiest ways to arrive. From Kuala Lumpur, the ETS takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, while the ride from Ipoh is under an hour.
Trains are generally comfortable, reliable, and drop you right in town at Taiping Railway Station, which is within walking distance of several attractions and hotels.
By bus or car
Taiping sits just off the North–South Expressway (PLUS), so driving is straightforward. From Kuala Lumpur, the journey takes about 3.5–4 hours, depending on traffic.
Long-distance buses also run regularly from KL, Penang, and other major cities, terminating at Taiping Bus Terminal, a short walk from the town center.
By plane
Taiping doesn’t have its own airport. The closest options are Penang International Airport (around 1–1.5 hours by car) and Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh (about 1 hour). From either airport, you can continue by train, bus, or taxi.
Penang is generally the better choice if you’re arriving on an international flight.
How to get around in Taiping
Getting around Taiping is generally straightforward and low-stress. Much of the town center, including Taiping Lake Gardens, the Perak Museum, and many heritage buildings, is walkable.
There is also a Taiping Heritage Trail, which links many historical sites and can be followed on foot at your own pace.
For longer distances or trips to places like Bukit Larut, Burmese Pool, or Kuala Sepetang, using Grab or local taxis is the easiest option, as public transport is limited. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility if you plan to explore nature spots or nearby towns.
Top 14 things to do in Taiping
1. Walk (or cycle) through Taiping Lake Gardens
Established in 1880, this was Malaysia’s first public garden, created on land left behind by tin mining. I’m not exaggerating when I say this might be the most beautiful lake garden I’ve seen in Malaysia, and possibly even the world. I wouldn’t mind spending a whole day there just reading a book or lazing on the grass.
The huge rain trees lining the lakes are over a century old and still shape the atmosphere of the place. On calm days, the water can be so still it looks like glass, while the misty hills in the background quietly complete the scene.
Locals come here to jog, do tai chi, and have picnics. Walking loops around the lakes take about an hour, but you can easily stretch that by renting a bicycle, a pedal boat, or just sitting by the water watching people go by.
Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for cooler temperatures and soft light.
2. Explore Perak Museum - Malaysia's oldest museum
The Perak Museum, founded in 1883, is the oldest museum in Malaysia. The building itself is colonial, with wide verandas and tall windows. Inside, the museum focuses on natural history, ethnography, and the cultural heritage of Perak, including indigenous communities, traditional crafts, and archaeological finds.
You’ll get a better understanding of how Taiping fit into colonial Malaya, as a center for administration and research. This isn’t a high-tech, interactive museum, but it’s a good educational stop after Lake Gardens, since they’re within walking distance of each other.
3. Follow the Taiping Heritage Trail
Taiping’s Heritage Trail links around 40 historical sites across the town, including the Old Taiping Railway Station (one of the earliest railway stations in the country), the Clock Tower built in 1891, war memorials, churches, mosques, and administrative buildings from the British era, many of them still in use.
Walking the trail gives context to Taiping’s past as the capital of Perak before Ipoh took over. You don’t need to follow the trail strictly. Just pick a cluster of sites and wander between them.
4. Learn about local coffee at Antong Coffee Mill
Antong Coffee Mill, established in 1933, is the oldest coffee mill in Malaysia that is still in operation. Visiting gives you a look into traditional coffee roasting and grinding methods, which haven’t changed much over the decades. The tour is short but informative, covering the history of coffee production in Malaya and how Antong survived economic shifts.
You’ll also get to sample their coffee, which is strong and very much old-school. Even if — like me — you’re not a coffee enthusiast, the visit adds another layer to understanding Taiping’s commercial past.
5. Visit Zoo Taiping & stay for the night safari
Zoo Taiping is one of the oldest zoos in Malaysia. Set near the Lake Gardens, it spans over 30 acres and houses more than 1,300 animals from over 180 species, including Malayan tigers, elephants, giraffes, and various primates.
The layout uses relatively open enclosures, which makes walking through feel less cramped and more relaxed compared with older, cage-based zoos.
But what truly sets it apart is that it was the first zoo in Malaysia to introduce a night safari, designed specifically to showcase nocturnal animals when they are most active. Lighting is kept low and positioned to mimic moonlight, allowing visitors to observe animal behavior that’s rarely visible during the day.
6. Reflect at the Taiping War Cemetery
Walking through the Taiping War Cemetery is a quiet, sobering experience that’s very different from the other buzzy sights in town. This cemetery is the final resting place for allied personnel who died during World War II, especially from the Malayan Campaign and Japanese occupation.
There are about 850 graves, with more than 500 of them unidentified, so you’ll see rows of crisp white headstones stretching across well-kept lawns. The layout reflects different religious traditions, from Christianity to Hindu to Islam.
7. Visit the historic All Saints' Anglican Church
Built in 1886–1887, the All Saints’ Church is widely recognized as the oldest Anglican church in the Federated Malay States (essentially Malaysia’s first English church) and it still functions as a place of worship today.
The design is classic timber Gothic, complete with meranti wood walls and a louvred bell tower. One standout feature is the large stained-glass window from 1911, which miraculously survived World War II intact.
Adjacent to the church there’s a small cemetery with old European headstones, which gives you a sense of the generations who lived and worked here during colonial times.
8. Hike (or ride) up Bukit Larut / Maxwell Hill
Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill, sits just outside Taiping and was a British hill station developed in the late 19th century. At around 1,250 meters above sea level, it’s noticeably cooler than town, often shrouded in mist. Access is controlled though: visitors either hike or take a 4WD jeep, as private vehicles are not allowed up the narrow road.
At the top, you’ll find walking trails, old colonial bungalows, and viewpoints overlooking Taiping. Go early in the morning for clearer views, and be prepared for sudden showers, even if it’s sunny below.
9. Cool off at Burmese Pool
The Burmese Pool is a natural rock pool located near the foothills of Bukit Larut. Historically, it was used by British officers stationed in Taiping as a recreational bathing spot. Today, it’s a simple, no-frills place where locals come to cool off on hot days.
The pool is best visited after dry weather, as heavy rain can make the water murky and currents stronger. Facilities are basic, so don’t expect much. Bring proper footwear, as the rocks can be slippery.
10. Stroll & learn at Spritzer Eco Park
Right in Taiping, Spritzer EcoPark offers a nice contrast to the town’s colonial heritage.
It’s a green, free-entry park created by the Malaysian mineral water brand Spritzer that mixes nature, fun and learning in one place.
You can take a relaxed nature walk, try out an 18-hole mini golf course, and explore exhibits about water bottling and sustainability.
Benches and shaded paths make it a good place to kick back for an hour or two.
Families like the park because there’s a Kidz Zone, picnic areas, and bike-friendly paths. There’s also a small cafe if you want refreshments while you explore.
A heads-up: monkeys are sometimes spotted in the area, so keep an eye on bags and snacks.
11. Browse treasures at Taiping Cross Street Bazaar
When the sun sets, Taiping’s Cross Street Bazaar (along Jalan Alang Ahmad) comes alive from Friday to Sunday evenings.
This is classic Malaysian night-market energy, with stalls spilling out onto the street selling souvenirs, crafts, clothes, accessories, and street food in a bustling atmosphere.
12. Splash & explore at Bukit Merah Laketown Resort
For a totally different kind of day trip from Taiping, head about 40–60 minutes north to Bukit Merah Laketown Resort for one of northern Malaysia’s larger water parks, covering around 11 acres with a variety of slides, splash zones, a wave pool and a lazy river that suits all ages.
The broader resort area includes other attractions such as petting zoos and an orangutan rehabilitation center, where you can take a short boat ride across Bukit Merah Lake to see rescued orangutans in a semi-natural habitat.
13. Learn about Malaysia's earliest communication network
To get a clear look at how long-distance communication worked in Malaya before phones, the internet, or even widespread electricity, visit Taiping Telegraph Museum. Housed in a historic building, the museum focuses on the telegraph system introduced in the late 19th century, which connected Taiping to towns like Kuala Kangsar and Port Weld (Kuala Sepetang).
It’s a nostalgic visit for the older generation who once used the telegraph, and an interesting, informative one for my generation and younger.
14. Take a side trip to Kuala Sepetang
About 30 minutes from Taiping, Kuala Sepetang is a fishing village surrounded by mangrove forests. The main activity here is a boat tour through the mangroves, where you can learn about the ecosystem, spot wildlife, and understand how the community depends on sustainable fishing and charcoal production.
Many visitors come in the evening for firefly tours, though daytime visits are equally worthwhile. Check out my Kuala Sepetang guide to plan an easy side trip from Taiping.
What & where to eat in Taiping
Friendly note to my Muslim readers: Not all of the restaurants listed here are halal-certified or Muslim-friendly. Please do your due diligence before visiting.
- Ansari Famous Cendol — For that refreshing bowl of cendol paired with pasembor.
- Roti Bakar Arang Fadzil House — Specializes in charcoal toasted bread and other hearty breakfast dishes.
- Larut Matang Hawker Center — Great variety of daytime hawker food.
- Pusat Penjaja Taiping — Evening food stalls.
- Lepak Kitchen — Chill late-night dinner and snack spot.
- Mansion 5 — Affordable fusion food in a fancy setting.
- Soon Lee Seafood Restaurant & Yu Xiang Seafood Restaurant — Seafood classics.
- Taiping Meqrizq Republic Restaurant — Locals’ go-to for Arabic and Western cuisine, although they also serve some local dishes.
- Nasi Kandar Beratur 786 @ Taiping — As the name suggests, people will queue for their nasi kandar.
- Haka Cafe — A family-run restaurant selling authentic Hakka dishes.
- Chetty Tiffin Cafe — A highly rated South Indian cafe famous for their homemade masala chai.
Where to stay in Taiping
We stayed at The Cozytainer, and it was a solid choice for Taiping. The rooms are made from converted shipping containers and culverts, but they’re thoughtfully designed, clean, and although small, surprisingly comfortable. It even has a swimming pool! If you like places that are a little different from standard hotels, this one fits nicely.
Besides that, here are a few other top-rated accommodation options in Taiping to suit different budgets:
Budget
- Sojourn Beds & Cafe — Air-conditioned dormitories and private rooms with shared bathrooms and lounge area.
- MyDusun Chalet — Air-conditioned budget rooms with private bathrooms and free breakfast. Surrounded by greenery, it also features a swimming pool and sun terrace.
- Wintel Studio — A basic, budget stay near the Tupai industrial area with simple, clean rooms, free Wi-Fi and parking.
Mid-range
- Bukit Limau Rest House — Simple chalets on a quiet hilltop, with mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere for nature lovers.
- Teratak Opah Kamunting — Literally translates to “grandma’s hut”. A cozy air-conditioned traditional Malay wooden house with one bedroom, a living room, patio, and kitchenette.
- Sense Hotel Taiping — A centrally located city hotel next to Taiping Sentral Mall and Lotus’s Taiping, offering modern rooms and practical comfort.
- Bukit Merah Laketown Resort — A family-oriented lakeside resort with a water park, eco park, orangutan rehabilitation center, and other recreational facilities.
Luxury
- Novotel Taiping — A well-liked 4-star hotel in the heart of Taiping with outdoor pools, great breakfast, and easy walking access to the zoo, lake gardens, and museums.
- Hotel Warisan — Newly built centrally located hotel with spacious rooms, a restaurant, salon, meeting room, and gender-segregated pools.
- Hotel Grand Baron — Just a short stroll from the lake gardens, this hotel has a pool, restaurant, bar, and fitness center. Some rooms come with mountain views.
How long to stay in Taiping
2–2.5 days is the sweet spot for most travelers. This gives you enough time to follow parts of the heritage trail at an unhurried pace, take a break at the lake gardens, and still fit in good food stops.
If you enjoy nature and slow mornings, 3 days works even better. You’ll have time for an early trip up Bukit Larut and possibly a side trip to Burmese Pool or Kuala Sepetang.
A stay of 4 days or more suits travelers who want a proper reset, repeated visits to the attractions, and plenty of food hunting.
Suggested Taiping itinerary
Day 1
- Start your morning with a slow walk or bike ride around Taiping Lake Gardens.
- Continue on foot to the nearby Perak Museum, where you can spend an hour or two learning about Taiping’s role in Perak’s history and getting some cultural context.
- Have lunch at one of Taiping’s hawker centers or kopitiams.
- Spend the afternoon at Zoo Taiping, or wait till later to go on the night safari.
- In the evening, return to town for a relaxed dinner near the lake or in the town center.
Day 2
- Head out early to Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill). Take time to walk the trails and enjoy the misty forest atmosphere.
- After returning to town, visit Antong Coffee Mill in the afternoon for a short tour and coffee tasting.
- If you still have time, head to Taiping War Cemetery or All Saints’ Church for an extra dose of history.
- End the day with a sunset walk around Taiping Lake Gardens or a leisurely dinner, followed by dessert or drinks at a local café.
Day 3
- Spend the morning at Spritzer Eco Park, where you can enjoy a stroll or try your hand at mini golf.
- Make a short trip to Kuala Sepetang for a mangrove boat tour, learning about the local ecosystem and fishing village life just outside Taiping. Stay for the firefly tour, or
- Return to Taiping by late afternoon for last-minute wandering, revisiting favorite food spots, or picking up simple souvenirs before wrapping up your stay.
Additional tips for visiting Taiping
- Always expect rain. Even on “dry” days, short showers can pop up unexpectedly. A compact umbrella or light rain jacket will save you a lot of annoyance.
- Start days early. Mornings are cooler, less crowded, and usually clearer.
- Bring mosquito repellent. With all the greenery and water bodies, mosquitoes can be an issue, especially around dusk.
- Cash is still useful. Many hawker stalls and smaller shops don’t accept cards or e-wallets, so keep small notes handy.
- Respect local rhythms. Taiping winds down earlier than big cities. Shops and eateries may close by evening, so plan meals ahead.
- Dress modestly and comfortably. Lightweight clothing works best in the humid weather, and modest attire is appreciated when visiting religious sites.
- Don’t overpack your itinerary. Taiping is best enjoyed slowly. Leave room for long walks, spontaneous food stops, and simply sitting by the lake.
Final thoughts
Taiping turned out to be a pleasant surprise for me and although it was only my first time visiting, it quickly became one of my favorite towns in Malaysia.
It’s stylishly vintage, full of old-world charm, but never feels touristy. It’s not ultra-modern, yet still has all the conveniences I might need. I also loved just how green the town is, and how it never feels too hot despite being in the tropics. I even joked with my friend that if I ever had to pick a place in Malaysia to retire, Taiping would probably be it.
If you’re planning a trip in Perak, don’t miss checking out my other Perak itineraries, and explore the rest of my blog for more destination guides, food recommendations, and practical travel tips across Malaysia.
