8 Gorgeous Natural Sights near Ipoh, Malaysia

Gunung Lang Recreational Park sits a few kilometres to the north of Ipoh’s Old Town, along Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman. Limestone hills and outcrops form the backdrop against the lake and a 30-hectare park. Apart from making an attractive place to spend an afternoon, tourists can walk along the two-kilometre (1.24 miles) boardwalk over the swamp, enjoy views from lookout towers and visit the cascading waterfall.

Stretching for 100 kilometres (62.1 miles) through Perak State, the Kinta River meanders and traverses through limestone cliffs and divides the Ipoh’s old and new towns. The Kinta Riverfront in Ipoh uses decorations and LED lights to create an atmospheric environment for an evening stroll. Visit during the day and walk from the bridge near Mural’s Art Lane north alongside Garden D.R Seenivasagam. At the end, turn left and find a little-known Hindu temple and Buddhist cave temple.

While the Kampar River might not be the best natural attraction for a casual stroll, it is among Malaysia’s thrill-seeking centres. Located approximately 24 kilometres (14.9 miles) south of Ipoh, tourists can spend the morning or afternoon on the river. Kampar meanders through lush jungle and consists of 14 rapids between Class I and Class III. Join either the 9:00am or 1:00pm session; Prices start at RM170 ($43) per person. What can be a better way to marvel at the gorgeous nature near Ipoh than from a raft?

Tempurung Cave, one of West Malaysia’s most extensive limestone cave systems, sits approximately 29 kilometres (19 miles) south of Ipoh in Gopeng. From the outside, the craggy limestone cliffs look similar to the others found around Ipoh. But step inside and discover a 4.5-kilometre (2.8 miles) path leading through five chambers. Expect to pass stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites protruding from the floor as thousands of bats squeak in the empty darkness above. Visitors can choose between joining a wet or dry tour as they pass through the cavernous obstacle course. The wet tour passes water. Prices to see the incredible natural phenomenon of Tempurung Cave near Ipoh starts at RM20 ($5.10) to RM50++ ($12.70) depending on the package.

The majestic Mount Yong Belar towers 2180 metres (7152 feet) and is just 30 kilometres (18.7 miles) east of Ipoh, as the crow flies in the Titiwangsa Mountains. While climbing can be challenging even for experienced hikers, visiting as part of a day trip to admire the beauty of the surroundings is a possibility. For those who do want to tackle its summit, expect to spend one night on the mountain. Access is from Kampong Raja approximately 69 kilometres (43 miles) from Ipoh.