Backed by the blue-tinged peaks of the Bintang Range, Taiping is famed as the wettest town in Peninsular Malaysia. Lush gardens and spectacular rain trees are the results, lying on the doorstep of Malaysia’s oldest British hill station.

Things to do

Spend time exploring Museum Perak, the oldest museum in Peninsular Malaysia set within an impressive Art Deco building. Archaeological finds from the region are on display alongside rare animal skeletons and unique handicrafts and weavings from Perak communities.

A short drive into the mountains of Taiping takes you to the tranquil hill station of Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill after Perak’s British Assistant Resident. There are quaint English bungalows and landscaped gardens to explore, many of which date back to the late-19th century.

Visit the beautiful Taiping Lake Gardens, which were created on the site of an abandoned tin mine. The gardens are renowned for their centuries-old rain trees that hang over the lakes, with rental boats available to cruise the peaceful waters.

Want to feast on fresh cockles? Make a day trip to Kuala Sepetang to dine at one of the many seafood restaurants lining the river. You can see how cockles are harvested along the wooden boardwalk or catch a glimpse of eagles hunting from the trees above.

Getting around

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh is the closest airport to Taiping, with flights also available from Penang International Airport around 90 minutes’ drive away. The compact town center of Taiping is easily explored on foot and bicycles are available for rent if you want to get around quicker.