Hey guys, it’s Kenny again — still on this mission to explore all 13 states in Malaysia with my backpack, my never-ending hunger for local food, and a camera roll filled with awkward selfies. This time, I found myself in Perak — a state that kinda flew under my radar until I actually went. And let me just say… Perak really said, “Bro, don’t sleep on me.
Before this trip, I only knew Perak for two things: Ipoh white coffee and that iconic leaning clock tower in Teluk Intan. But after actually spending time here — wow. This state quietly flexes its charm with colonial vibes, mystical limestone hills, and food that made me loosen my belt more than once.
I started off in Ipoh, expecting a sleepy town, but instead got hit with a full combo of hipster cafes, art-lined laneways, and uncles in singlets selling legendary chicken rice. Then the nature side hit me — caves, waterfalls, hot springs, and those ridiculously dramatic hills that look like they came from a Chinese painting.
Perak is the kind of place where every corner has a story — whether it’s an abandoned castle, a hidden temple in a cave, or just a kopitiam that’s been around longer than your grandparents. If you’re into chill vibes with a side of history, nature, and carbs… Perak will win you over fast.
NUM 1 : Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple — Serenity in a Limestone Sanctuary (Free Entry)
I didn’t expect to find peace inside a cave, but here we are. Kek Lok Tong is not just another cave temple — it’s like someone mixed nature and zen into one big Instagram-worthy moment. The temple is built into the cave, and behind it? A secret garden with lotus ponds and joggers who somehow manage to look calm while running. I sat there for 30 minutes doing nothing — which is rare for me.
I didn’t expect to find peace inside a cave, but here we are. Kek Lok Tong is not just another cave temple — it’s like someone mixed nature and zen into one big Instagram-worthy moment. The temple is built into the cave, and behind it? A secret garden with lotus ponds and joggers who somehow manage to look calm while running. I sat there for 30 minutes doing nothing — which is rare for me.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Gunung Rapat, Ipoh |
| Prices | Free |
| Hours | 7 AM – 5:30 PM |
NUM 2 : Concubine Lane — Old Charm, Modern Snacks (Free Entry)
Yes, the name is scandalous, but the lane is full of life. Picture narrow alleyways lined with colourful shops, iced drinks in quirky cups, and random street performances. I got a mango smoothie in a lightbulb-shaped bottle — don’t ask, just try it. It gets crowded on weekends, but it’s all part of the chaos and charm.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Ipoh Old Town |
| Prices | Free (but snacks and drinks will tempt your wallet) |
| Hours | 10 AM – 6 PM (best visited on weekends) |
NUM 3 : Explore Perak Like a Local: Honest Travel Tips from a Malaysian Chinese Guy
I almost missed this place because Google Maps got confused — but thank goodness I didn’t give up. After a short tunnel walk through a quarry, the view opened up to a lake so calm it looked like a giant mirror. I just stood there with my mouth open, feeling like I walked into a fantasy movie. It’s quiet, reflective (literally), and feels like a well-kept secret.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Gunung Rapat, Ipoh |
| Prices | RM 5 |
| Hours | 9 AM – 6 PM |
NUM 4 : Kellie’s Castle — Haunted Romance or TikTok Spot? (RM 10)
This unfinished mansion built by a Scottish planter is eerie, romantic, and slightly dramatic — kinda like a TVB drama. Some say it’s haunted; others just come for the views and aesthetic windows. I walked through empty hallways and half-expected a ghost to photobomb my selfie. Worth a visit if you like spooky stories or colonial history with a twist.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Batu Gajah |
| Prices | RM 10 (locals), RM 20 (non-Malaysians) |
| Hours | 8 AM – 6 PM |
NUM 5 : Sungai Klah Hot Springs — Soak & Boil Eggs (RM 15)
I wasn’t planning to cook eggs on this trip, but here we are. This place has natural hot springs where you can soak your feet, chill in pools, or literally boil eggs in special sections. It smells a bit sulphur-y, but you get used to it. Plus, it’s surprisingly relaxing. Just don’t overstay in the hot water or you’ll end up feeling like a sleepy dumpling.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Sungkai, about 1.5 hours from Ipoh |
| Prices | RM 15 (Malaysians), RM 18 (non-Malaysians) |
| Hours | 8 AM – 6 PM |
Perak gave me more than I bargained for — not just in steps walked or calories consumed, but in moments that made me pause, laugh, and say, “Wah, Malaysia really got flavour.” It’s not as flashy as some tourist hotspots, but maybe that’s what makes it special. Perak has that laidback charm where you can eat well, explore freely, and discover something memorable around every bend. So if you haven’t explored this gem of a state yet, don’t wait too long. Your stomach (and camera roll) will thank you.