Print this article if you're a tour operator, accommodation provider or touristLocation & History
Perak is the 2nd biggest state on the Malay Peninsula and has one of the richest alluvial deposits of tin in the world. The name Perak in Malay means silver owing to the shiny coloration of the abundant metal. Perak's recent history can be traced back to the Malacca Sultanate's collapse and when Raja Muzaffar Shah, eldest son of the last Sultan of Melaka fled from the Portuguese to establish a new settlement by the Perak River in 1528. The region was considered prone to attack because of its richness in tin which led to attempts at colonization from European powers.
Ipoh the capital city is known historically for its tin mining activities whilst neighbouring Kuala Kangsar (Ipoh's sleepier brother!) remains the ceremonial royal capital as the sultan and his palace are situated there. As is Malay practise, the name Ipoh is derived from a local tree pokok Ipoh. The sap of the tree is known to be poisonous and the aboriginal Orang Asli used it to coat the tips of the darts of their blowpipes.
Some contend that Ipoh's name itself is actually derived from the Cantonese word 'Yee Poh' meaning “Found treasure”. Attracted by its mines, the Cantonese were the first to move to this area and aptly introduced the name amongst their community. They then built a small town as a trade outpost for food and hardware for the miners. Today 70% of the population are Chinese.
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Ipoh and its surrounding landscape is well-known for natural relics, but you'll also find a tasteful urban setting packed with amenities and hotels. A pleasant night-time retreat from the mountains and valleys comes with MalaysiaExplorer.net's 'found treasure' and Ipoh hotel top-pick: the Impiana Casuarina, in close proximity of some of Ipoh's finest heritage architecture (pictured above) |
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The Kinta River is Ipoh's geographical centerpiece and was crucial to the settlement's early livelihood in heavy trade centuries ago. Over the course of it's colorful history Ipoh came to be known as “New Town” as the East part of the city was rebuilt in 1892 after a great fire ravaged it. The reconstruction of the New Town also made way for deliberate town planning and the symmetrical grid system found in the city. The beautiful city still retains much of the charm that enveloped it during its heyday. Many quaint and rustic Pre-World War II buildings still line its old quarter.
Things to see & do: Gua Tempurung caves
Ipoh is home to some of Malaysia's most dazzling limestone cave ranges. Gua Tempurung spans nearly 1 mile in length and is amongst the biggest limestone caves in the country. The formation of its glistening stalagmites and stalactites took place over millions of years. The name Tempurang means coconut shells in Malay and Gua means cave. Rightfully so the cave is made up of five huge domes with ceilings resembling coconut shells.
Inside the cave is a gallery of calcium and marble formations existing in differing temperatures and water levels, stalagmites, stalactites and other speleological delights.
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In keeping with its Arab honorific name, Darul Ridzuan meaning “The Land of Grace”, Perak has diversity in sights and activities to suit every palate. From mystical caves to 4X4 trails adventures to river boarding and white water rafting.
Island Getaways
You can also plan a perfect weekend getaway on Pulau Pangkor and its cluster of islands including the exotic island resort Pangkor Laut. A mere 15 km to Pangkor's south is a group of 9 gorgeous individual islands collectively called Pulau Sembilan. Secluded and mostly uninhabited these islands are known for their refreshing clear blue waters, idyllic golden beaches and relaxing spa resorts and hotels. Both diving and snorkelling are favorite pastimes here, popular with tourists and locals alike. At a depth of 15 metres just offshore, the sea floor here is home to some of the most colourful and beautiful marine habitats ever seen.
Get on board fishing trawlers to get to spectacular diving and adrenaline pumping river boarding spots. RiverBug and Nomad Adventures are some of the most popular tour operators here. With the growth of travel and tourism in the region more and more regulated tour operators are running interesting dive explorations. Stay safe by choosing a long established tour company with certification.
Water Park
The water fun continues an hour’s drive from Ipoh at Bukit Merah Laketown and its exciting water theme park. This premium eco resort has 174 comfortable rooms for its guests as well as shopping and many restaurants to feast their senses. Perak is also a haven to ecologists, conservationists and nature enthusiasts.
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Bird Sanctuary
Kuala Gula, located in the northwestern part of Perak where the Gula River meets the straits of Melaka is 8,200 hectares of bird paradise. The region is a sanctuary for migratory birds that use the large wetland area for feeding and resting enroute their migration from the northern to the southern hemisphere. Besides birds, the park is also home to various types of mammals and primates. The sanctuary is easily accessible by car from Kuala Lumpur and requires an entry permit, which can be obtained from the Kuala Gula Conservation Centre (on arrival) or The Department of Wildlife and National Parks.
Jungle Trekking
An excellent place for jungle trekking and camping is the Royal Belum State Park. Exotic fauna and flora including the popular Rafflesia abound in its somewhat unexplored rainforests. Covering an area of 134,167 hectares, the forest reserve has been found to contain new and unknown species of trees and insects. Its landscape is dotted with valleys and mountains, pristine cascades and few limestone outcrops.
Off road enthusiasts can explore the countryside in their 4WD. It is advisable to go with one of the tour specialists as the terrain could get a little difficult to handle.
Zoo
For some good old-fashioned family fun there’s also The Lost World of Tambun at New Sunway City in Ipoh, Perak royal museum and night safari at the Taiping Zoo.
Search the widest range of accommodation options and resorts in Perak's capital city Ipoh and other areas of the state with MalaysiaExplorer.net's booking partner - also find verified guest reviews™ and image galleries.
Complete your trip with our travel essentials checklist: Tours, Flights and Car Rental
- Tailor all aspects of your holiday or visit to Ipoh with comprehensive tour and package choices.
- Read our top tips on car rental to ensure you choose a suitable vehicle at a good price.
- Our guide to Malaysia flights is packed with advice and pointers on finding the best routes and super deals.
Geographically Perak borders Kedah and Yala Province of Thailand to the north, Penang to the northwest, Kelantan and Pahang to the east, Selangor southward and is along the straits of Malacca on the west. Double click the map below to zoom in on Perak, and double right-click to zoom out!
Photo Credits: nunui, Barbican Man and ultimatekldevil
