The 12 Icons of Perak is a collection that will surely captivate you, showcasing the stunning natural beauty, awe-inspiring landscapes, and must-visit landmarks of Perak, Malaysia. These famous sites provide travellers with a wide array of experiences, ranging from tranquil natural wonders to historically important locations, showcasing the region's abundant history and picturesque allure. For those in search of excitement, serenity, or a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture, these iconic attractions are absolute must-sees for anyone travelling to Perak.
1. IPOH OLD TOWN
The soaring limestone hills and distinctive signs that mark your arrival in Ipoh, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, become apparent as you draw near. With its colonial-era buildings, hip cafes, and vibrant mural art scene, Ipoh is the ideal combination of old and new, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose to stroll, ride a bike, or take the city's famous Hop-on, Hop-off bus, visitors really must visit the Old Town to peruse the unique gift shops and see the sights. Famous regional specialities include Nasi Ganja and Ipoh White Coffee, making Ipoh a culinary enthusiast's heaven. Among the many famous places for photography are Birch Memorial Tower, Concubine Lane, the Lost World of Tambun, and many more.
2. KUALA KANGSAR
3. LEANING TOWER OF TELUK INTAN
The Leaning Tower, an eight-story pagoda-like building constructed in 1885 as a water storage tower, is the most famous landmark in Teluk Intan, a town on the Perak River. The tower, which started to lean because of the water and the spongy ground, is now a famous sight for tourists. History buffs can simply stroll to a number of the town's other notable landmarks, including the Leaning Tower. Famous lobster restaurants in Teluk Intan include D'Tepian Sungai and Restoran Udang Galah. As for other points of interest, there is the Batu Bertenggek War Memorial, Pulau Bangau, and Ladang MOCCIS.
4. LENGGONG VALLEY
History buffs all around the globe have taken notice of Lenggong Valley since the 2001 discovery of the Perak Man, which dates back more than 11,000 years and is one of the oldest human remains in Peninsular Malaysia. Because of this monumental discovery, Lenggong Valley was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2012. Among other Palaeolithic antiquities, this Stone Age relic is on display at the Lenggong Archaeological Museum in Kota Tampan, Malaysia, providing an in-depth look at the country's past human history.
5. MATANG MANGROVE FOREST
Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve is an eco-education centre that spans more than forty thousand hectares. Guests can stroll along wooden boardwalks to learn about the mangrove environment. Attracting nature lovers and photographers, it is a great spot to see birds, particularly migrating ones. Once tourists have had their fill of the reserve, they can continue their birdwatching adventures at the Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary or learn the ancient ways of manufacturing charcoal at the Kuala Sepetang Charcoal Factory. Jeti Kelip-Kelip in Kampung Dew is the perfect place to unwind with a bowl of prawn noodles and some peaceful firefly viewing at the end of the day.
6. ORANG UTAN ISLAND
Research and sanctuary dedicated to the survival of endangered Bornean orangutans, Orang Utan Island provides a setting that nearly resembles their natural habitat. In 2000, it became a member of the Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island Foundation. Today, it is a one-of-a-kind ecotourism spot where people can see orangutans in their natural habitat, take part in feeding sessions, and gain knowledge about conservation initiatives. The island, which is part of the Bukit Merah Laketown Resort, is a great place to go for a holiday that is both instructive and entertaining because it has a petting zoo, water park, and eco-park.
7. PANGKOR ISLAND
Pangkor Island, in the Manjung district of Perak, is a famous tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, quiet fishing towns, and luxurious resorts. The island may be small, but it draws visitors from all over the world since it has something for everyone, from unusual animals to tasty seafood and trips to temples. From Lumut, you may take a ferry to Pangkor Island, a perfect destination for families, couples, or lone travellers. Perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure, this area offers a wide range of activities such as snorkelling, jungle trekking, hornbill-feeding, and touring historical monuments like the Dutch Fort and floating mosques.
8. ROYAL BELUM
A biodiversity hotspot in Malaysia, Royal Belum is a rainforest that is almost 130 million years old, making it older than both the Amazon and the Congo. Malayan tigers, Sumatran rhinos, tapirs, three Rafflesia species, and ten hornbill kinds are just a few of the uncommon, endemic, and endangered animals that call this place home. Royal Belum is being considered for World Heritage Site classification by UNESCO due to its ecological value. Houseboat activities, birding, riverboat tours, and trekking allow visitors to get up close and personal with nature while they explore the park's abundant animals.
9. 7 LATA OF SELAMA
With seven separate cascades and waterfalls, the Selama district is ideal for water sports such as white water rafting, camping, trekking, and abseiling. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. The "River over River" and the Telaga Gergasi well, which is 18 meters deep and was constructed to assist in tin mining, are two of the historical engineering marvels that Selama boasts, with its natural beauty. Selama offers guests an exciting and one-of-a-kind experience by combining ecotourism with historical landmarks.
10. SUNGAI KLAH HOTSPRINGS
Set in a verdant forest with towering peaks and crystal-clear mountain streams as its backdrop, Sungai Klah Hot Spring is the perfect place to relax and recharge. This well maintained hot spring is reputed to have natural cleansing and detoxifying effects; it is situated 200 meters above sea level in the foothills of the Titiwangsa Range. As an all-natural substitute for contemporary spas, it provides guests with a variety of relaxing and entertaining activities, including a spring spa, private jacuzzi, water reflexology, and the one-of-a-kind egg boiling experience.
11. TEMPURUNG CAVE (GUA TEMPURUNG)
The biggest limestone cave in Peninsular Malaysia is Tempurung Cave, a 400 million year old geological marvel in the Kampar District of Perak. Stunning galleries of stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations adorn this complicated cave system, which has five gigantic domes. A memorable journey awaits you along its 4.5 km, of which 1.9 kilometres are open to the public and 1.6 kilometres are located underground. Whether you're a seasoned cave diver or just starting out, there are guided trips to accommodate your needs. Cave trekking, exploration, and educational excursions are available to visitors, thus it's a great place for adrenaline seekers and environment lovers to explore.
12. TAIPING ZOO
A picturesque little town famed for its verdant landscape and long history, Taiping is also known as the "City of Peace" and the "Rain City" because of the heavy precipitation that falls there. Lush greenery abounds in this town, which is also the site of several historical firsts, such as the first railway station, zoo, and museum in Malaysia, as well as the Taiping Lake Garden, the country's first botanical wonderland. The Telegraph Museum, the Perak Museum, and the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari are all open to visitors. Taiping is a culinary haven as well, known for dishes like Yong Tau Foo and Doli Kuey Teow Goreng.
