Ipoh, the state capital of Perak. You can’t visit Perak without allocating time for it!
Day 3 was spent entirely in Ipoh, the fourth largest city in the country with appealing F&Bs and stylish hotels. After a most tiring tour the previous day, we thank our lucky stars that we were allowed more time to sleep in. Of all the hotels that I have stayed in, Mu Hotel has one of the best beds, trust me.
Panglima Kinta Mosque featuring Moghul & Neo-Classical architecture
kacang puteh (crunchy Indian snacks)
Our day began with a city tour around Ipoh. Among the major landmarks that tourists to Ipoh shouldn’t pass up on are Panglima Kinta Mosque, Kampung Kacang Puteh, Maha Ganapathy Alayam Hindu Temple and Ipoh Railway Station.
Maha Ganapathy Alayam Hindu Temple with impressive architecture
Ipoh Railway Station, dubbed the Taj Mahal of Ipoh
Over at Old Town
In the basement of BookXcess Kong Heng Ipoh is Yasmin at Kong Heng newseum. Fans of the late Yasmin Ahmad can delve into the works of the legendary film director, as her legacy is kept alive here at the newseum.
Read about my earlier visit HERE.
It was a Saturday when we visited and Old Town was teeming with people. As a local, I hardly head out to this section of town, especially during weekends because I am in no mood to jostle with the crowd.
fatty beansprouts from Wong Koh Kee Restaurant
Anyway, I thought that we were rather lucky to be able to “chup” two tables during lunch hour at Wong Koh Kee Restaurant, a “low jiu pai” (old brand name), for some delicious home-styled dishes.
For dessert, we hopped over to Second Mama Red Bean Ice, just down Concubine Lane.
ice kacang from Second Mama Red Bean Ice
Work out those calories
Once lunch was done and dusted, it was time to walk off those calories that had just been piled on, by visiting Perak Cave. It is one of the more popular Ipoh limestone caves to visit, probably due to its convenient location.
Perak Cave (temple)
We had about 30 minutes for some photographs. The more adventurous tourists may opt to ascend the flight of stairs for a panoramic view of the city. Do take note that a separate donation is required to enter this pathway.
Limau Tambun
Formerly known as “limau bali”, pomelo is one of Ipoh’s best “fruit” gifts, as it is a symbol of prosperity and good luck, very welcome during Chinese New Year. Besides being a refreshing fruit, my personal favourite is white flesh over red, the pomelo has many other benefits. This native natural product range is good for the hair, skin, and more.
GOChin pomelo farm
Ladang Limau Tambun GOChin pomelo farm in Ipoh is open to group tours, and a chance to taste the citrus fruit fresh from the orchard.
End the night on a high note
One of the most “atas” destinations in Ipoh is possibly The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat and its exclusive wine bar, Jeff’s Cellar. Exclusive is the keyword here as not many have pockets deep enough to wine and dine here, let alone stay the night.
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
But once in a while, we need to indulge, not for any reason. Just do so for your mental wellbeing and feel no guilt over it! Work hard, play harder, I say.
Jeff’s Cellar
Read about my earlier visit to Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat & Jeff’s Cellar. Let me know if this is the kind of setting that sparks joy in you.
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