It is safe to say that Taiping is one of the many hidden gems in Malaysia. Although it may seem unassuming at first to people who have never visited this place, let’s not underestimate all that Taiping has to offer! Did you know that Taiping was recognised as among the top three sustainable cities in the world? This prestigious international award was given at the 2019 Sustainable Top 100 Destination Awards at a travel trade show in Germany. Not to mention the beautiful nature that you can enjoy here; as well as the beautiful architecture and a town with heritage so rich.
With that said, here are a few attractions you can visit to help you discover more of Taiping:
1. Taiping Lake Gardens
Taiping Lake Gardens is the first public garden established during the British rule in Malaysia. Your visit to Taiping will not be complete if you have not come to this place. The gardens were built on top of an abandoned tin mine and were only opened in 1880. Visitors who drop by this place will be in awe of the enormous ancient rain trees lining the lake; with their branches stretching from one end of the road to the waters across.
Not only that, but this former tin mine also has ten scenic lakes and ponds, a jogging track, beautiful bridges, a Lotus pool, and reflexology paths. Visitors will have a time of peace and tranquillity as they are surrounded by a wide variety of tropical plants, trees and wildlife. Besides that, there are also children-friendly facilities available such as a children’s playground, paddleboat rides and a roller-skating rink.
Address : Jalan Pekeliling, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak
2. Taiping Zoo
On your visit to Taiping, the Taiping Zoo is also a favoured local attraction. An exciting feature about this zoo is that it is open at night as well; so that visitors can enjoy the night safari there. This zoo is a zoological park located in Bukit Larut. It is also known as the oldest zoo in Malaysia, having been established in 1961. Unlike other zoos, Taiping Zoo doubles up as a conservation and research centre.
This zoo is a habitat to 1200 animals, which also comprises 140 different species. Some of these animals consist of tigers, lions, elephants, hippopotamus, giraffes, hornbills, orangutans and many more. Not to mention, another unique thing about the Taiping Zoo is that visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature with the streams, lakes and lush greenery present at the zoo. The night safari here is also an exciting event as visitors can observe nocturnal animals. It is also encouraged to keep a low volume when you’re visiting the night safari to ensure a peaceful environment and the ability to hear the sounds of the night creatures.
For more information and the ticket prices, you can check out Taiping Zoo’s official page.
Address : Jalan Taman Tasik Taiping, Taman Tasik Taiping, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak
Operation Hours : 8:30 am to 6 pm, 8 pm to 11 pm (open daily)
3. Taiping’s Heritage Trail
You cannot miss the beauty of Taiping’s heritage sites on your visit here! Another great way to explore Taiping is by taking the Heritage Trail. This trail covers 11.5km and lets you experience about 40 attractions here in Taiping. Some of these attractions include beautiful landmarks, colonial buildings, historical monuments and eye-catching architecture.
If you’re up for an adventure, why not give this Heritage Trail a try? It will definitely be worth your time. A few things you can see as you journey on is the iconic Taiping Clock Tower at Jalan Kota. Besides that, the old railway station, Perak Museum, the Anglo-Indian-style Peking Hotel and Taiping Market. Of course, there are other places along the way where you can enjoy the beautiful colonial architecture such as the King Edward VII School and religious places of worship such as the Buddhist and Hindu temples, churches and mosques.
You don’t have to worry about getting lost because you can get a map and suggestions from the tourist information office inside the Taiping Clock Tower. They will be happy to assist you for an unforgettable trip!
Address : 55, Jalan Kota, 34000 Taiping, Perak
4. Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill)
Bukit Larut, otherwise previously known as Maxwell Hill, is the oldest hill resort in Malaysia. The area was established in the 1880s under the guidance of William Edward Maxwell, the Assistant Resident of Perak at the time. Bukit Larut is very well-known for its cool climate and spectacular views overlooking the town of Taiping.
Visitors who would like a cooler holiday experience can head over here. The slightly lower temperature here also means that you can see different types of flora and trees. If you’re wondering what else you can do here, there are exciting activities such as jungle trekking, visit the small park and playground, walk along the hanging bridge, hang out at the lookout tower, bird-watching and have a picnic! Hiking is also an option. However, if you don’t feel like tiring yourself out for about three hours, a jeep is available to take you on a bumpy ride up the hill. You can also stay the night at the hostels and hotels near Bukit Larut.
Address : Jln. Bukit Larut, 34000 Taiping, Negeri Perak
5. Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
The Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve is also an ideal destination for travellers who would like to enjoy nature and the outdoors. This forest reserve was billed as a Permanent Forest Reserve in 1906. Today, it is known as the best managed sustainable mangrove ecosystem in the world. The Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve is rich in diverse wildlife that gives visitors a chance to explore the wetlands and its resources.
This forest reserve is also notable as a breeding ground for many species of marine crustaceans such as crabs, shrimps, lobsters, horseshoe crabs, prawns and other shellfishes. Some activities you can do here is strolling along the wooden boardwalk, fishing, bird-watching, and get a boat ride to witness blinking lights of fireflies at night.
Suppose you’re looking to visit this place but have no idea where to stay, not to worry because there are a few hotels located near the area. For more information and pictures on this Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, head to its page here.
Address : Kampung Kuala Sepetang, 34650 Kuala Sepetang, Perak
Operation Hours : 8 am to 7 pm (daily)
6. Perak Museum
Do you want to give the museums here a try? We recommend that you do! Visitors can find the Perak Museum nestled in the town of Taiping. Fun fact, this museum is the oldest in Malaysia. Even so, you’ll be surprised by its ancient British architecture. This museum is rich in ethnological, historical, archaeological and ethnobiological collections. Some of these collections are classified as rare collections over a hundred years old, possessing fossils and artefacts which are either extinct or extremely hard to find.
There are a few galleries here that you can explore. For example, there is the Nature Gallery, Cultural Gallery, and the Clay and Indigenous People Gallery. If you want to understand the exhibits more, a guided tour is available upon request.
Address : Perak Museum Jalan Taming Sari, Taiping, 34000 Perak
Operation Hours : 9 am to 6 pm (daily)
That’s a wrap for today! Are you convinced now to visit this hidden gem otherwise known as Taiping? We’re glad if your answer is ‘yes’! Have a great holiday at this award-winning city!
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