Perak
The state of Perak is located at the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia between the states of Penang and Kedah in the north and Selangor in the south. Meaning silver in the Malay language, this name is said to have been derived from tin ore that have enabled this state to grow economically in the past. The Kinta Valley used to contain one of the world's richest tin deposit. Since then the economy of the state has diversified from dependence on tin and farming into manufacturing, tourism, trade, commerce and construction.
Ipoh is the capital of this state of over 2 million people. Other main towns are Kuala Kangsar, the Royal town. Taiping was formerly the state capital but still remain one of the most visited town in this area. Lumut is the gateway to the popular Pangkor Island. The leaning tower of Malaysia is located in Teluk Intan. As Ipoh is about 2 to 2.5 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur, most visitors will prefer to use a coach, cab or self-drive although this city has an airport that connects it to major towns of Malaysia. If you are coming in from Australia and visiting Singapore as well as Malaysia, try taking Singapore Airlines or Qantas Airlines as these two airlines have many flights to Singapore. From Singapore, there are many airlines that you take to Malaysia. Here are the key places of attractions that you may want to explore..
Pulau Pangkor Pulau Pangkor is easily accessible by
speedboat from the jetty of Lumut which takes about
30-40 minutes. This island has been developed to accommodate the many tourists that come here especially during the
weekends. There are many hotels and
resorts that have been established at the west coast of the island. Besides tourism, fishing and dried sea products are the
main industry here. If you prefer to stay in Lumut, there are a range of budget to 3 Star
accommodation that you can stay.
Teluk Batik Teluk Batik is a coastal beach which is about 35
minutes away from the town of Lumut. This beach is popular with the locals especially during the weekends and public holidays
. The place was recently refurbished with many stalls and washroom facilities for your convenience. You can swim here and
take your shower at the public washrooms which are usually open until 7-8pm.
Teluk Senangin Teluk Senangin beach is not a well
established coastal beach and the facilities here are pale in comparison with Teluk Batik. However, if you are adventures
and prefer a more quiet beach, Teluk Senangin is the place to go. You can swim and stay at some of the chalets here. The
only 4 Star Swiss Garden and Spa hotel in this area is located within the vicinity.
Teluk Rubiah Teluk Rubiah beach is about 30 minutes drive
away from Lumut. This beach is located at Teluk Rubiah Beach and Golf Resort and one can drive there for a time of
relaxation. This place is good for team building events.
Pasir Panjang Pasir Panjang beach in Segari is the longest beach in Manjung stretching about 8km. There isn't any washroom or changing facility at this beach This beach is still undevelop and used to be the nesting place for Green Turtles. In an effort to preserve this species, the Pasir Panjang Turtle Hachery Centre was setup in 1990 for this purpose.
Perak Museum Perak Museum was built in 1883 and is the oldest
museum in Malaysia. See the stuffed animals, old bicycle, old radio and history of Perak here. This museum is located in
Taiping.
Taiping Zoo Taiping Zoo is one of the best managed zoo in
Malaysia. Sit on the tram and enjoy a 20-25 minutes of ride and see the many endanger animals here.
Bukit Larut Bukit Larut is the popular highland resort that
attracts many visitors especially during the holidays. There isn't any hotel here except for government rest houses that
you have to book in advance. A good place for bird watching and enjoying the nature.
Taiping Lake Gardens Taiping Lake Gardens is one of the oldest
lake gardens in Malaysia. It was voted the Most Beautiful Public Garden in Malaysia by the Government in 1996.
Tempurung cave Tempurung cave is one of the biggest limestone cave in Peninsular Malaysia. If you are adventures, try the 4 hours exploration of the cave. Remember to come early in the morning for this feat. This cave is located in Gopeng.
Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan was built in the
year 1885. This 8-storey unique building is 25.5m tall and made of bricks and wood.
Kellie's Castle Kellie's Castle is an uncompleted mansion built in the year 1915. This place is a popular location for photographers and is located in Batu Gajah.
Sungai Klah Hot Springs Sungai Klah Hot Springs has one of the best and well managed hot springs in Malaysia. Located in Sungkai, this place is an ideal location for family outings and a time to rejuvenate yourself.
Pomelo Tambun Pomelo is a signature fruit of Perak. This juicy and sweet fruit is available throughout the year with price ranging from RM5-RM18 per fruit.
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