Perak. The Land of Grace

Stark, looming limestone cliffs, green valleys and steep drops greet you as an unforgettable introduction to the northern state of Perak. Beyond lies beyond a wealth of treasures from balmy warm white sand beaches to secluded islands and tranquil lakes, virgin rainforests and relaxing hill-resorts as well as quaint old fashioned townships. The laid back charms of Perak, the land of grace, will delight you!

Geography
Perak, which means silver in Malay, is believed to have derived its name from the silvery tin ore that was once found in vast quantities here at the turn of the last century, boosting the economy of the state and attracting world attention. Located along the northwest coast of

Peninsular Malaysia, Perak, the second largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, stretches from the shoreline to the central mountainous spine of the Peninsular. The state, which covers approximately 21,000 sq km, borders Kedah and Thailand to the north, Penang to the northwest, Kelantan and Pahang to the east and Selangor to the sourth. Along the west coast it faces the Straits of Melaka.

Perak is divided into nine districts and its major towns include lpoh, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Teluk Intan and Lumut. Ipoh is the state capital while Kuala Kangsar is the royal town of Perak. Ipoh, a large town that lies almost halfway between the capital city of Kuala Lumpur and the state of Penang in the north is a favourite stopping off point for road and rail travellers. It’s attractions include wonderful parks, gardens and other sights and activities. It is also well known for its cuising and it is not uncommon for those from neighbouring states to drive in for a short break and to sample the delicious cuisine in Ipoh.

History & Culture
The history of Perak is closely linked to the fate of Melaka and its capture by the Portuguese in 1511. Upon their defeat the leaders of the Malaka Empire dispersed to the north and south to re-establish their power. The eldest son of the Sultan, headed to the north, where he became the first sultan of Perak. Today, only Perak possesses a royal house descended directly from the rulers of the legendary Melaka Empire.

The discovery of tin deposits in the mid 19th century thrust Perak into a cycle of prosperity and political turmoil involving local and foreign powers. It also led to the influx of varied ethnic communities adding to the eventual colourful mix of Perak’s resident community. Perak shared a similar fate to other states during World War II with the Japanese occupation. Towards the end of the 19th century conditions stabilized and Perak moved on to develop and grow in new directions.

Today Perak has a population of around 2.3 million. The majority are Malays, followed by a large Chinese segment, Indians and various other ethnic groups.

Getting There & About
Perak is easily accessible by air, road and rail. Malaysia Airlines operates regular flights to Ipoh from Penang and the Kuala Lumpur to Perak’s airport in Ipoh, the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport. There are taxi and bus services from the airport into town. Buses and taxis regularly ply the major routes from other parts of the country to Perak using the North-South Highway. KTM (the Malaysian Railway) also stops at major towns in Perak i.e. Tanjong Malim, Batu Gajah, Ipoh, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping and Parit Buntar.

Getting around Perak is also relatively easy using either road or rail. Most parts of Perak are easily accessible as there is an extensive network of roads. Plans are afoot to also upgrade its airport and rail services.

Heritage Discovery
Royal Museum
The Perak Royal Museum was built as a royal residence in 1926. Its 'Saracenic Moorish' architectural facets include walls are made of sliced bamboo particularly unique are the doors at the top of its stairs, which are set horizontally rather than vertically. Further, no nails were used in its construction. On display are the photographs of the Perak Royal Family, royal regalia, illustrations and artifacts belonging to the past and current monarchs of the state.

Perak Museum
The oldest museum in the country, the Perak Museum, was built in 1883. It houses an impressive collection of ancient weapons, aboriginal implements, ornaments and archaeological treasures. Other exhibits include artefacts from Perak’s rich historical cultural heritage. A dominating exhibit in the Museum is the throne of the late Sultan of Perak.

Darul Ridzuan Museum
Located along Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Wahab the over 100 year old building housing the museum was previously home to Malay Chieftains of Kinta and also the British rulers. Exhibits on display include a collection of history and interesting artefacts from the state’s mining and forestry industries.

Pasir Salak Historical Complex
The Pasir Salak Historical Complex pays tribute to Malay warriors such as Dato' Sagor and Dato' Maharaja Lela. Here you will find memorials erected in their honour such as the monument in the shape of a sundang (broad sword), a replica of the type of knife used in the killing of Mr. Birch. Other attractions at the complex are the J.W.W. Birch Monument, the  grave of Sipuntum, Datuk Maharaja Lela's fort, the Lela Rentaka cannons used against the British colonial army, and two Rumah Kutai (Perak traditional house) filled with local historical and cultural artifacts. Located by the banks of the Perak River it is often a venue for river-related activities,

Geological Museum
For a museum with a difference visit the Geologicla Museum with its impressive display of more than 600 samples of minerals, fossils, precious stones and rock specimens. The museum located at Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah is also well known for its exhibits of tin ore, which include the best specimens of cassiterite in the world.

Lenggong Archaeological Museum
The Lenggong Archaeological Museum, the first Prehistoric Archeological Museum in Malaysia, is located on a paleolithic-era archaeological site that existed 31,000 years B.C. The Museum displays artifacts excavated from the Kota Tampan site. Among the most interesting of its exhibits is the 10,000-year old Perak Man skeleton.

Ipoh Railway Station
The Ipoh Railway Station is a famous landmark of Moorish and Gothic architecture. It carries the prestigious nickname the ‘Taj Mahal of Malaysia’ and resembles its counterpart in Kuala Lumpur. Around the station is a charming, attractive garden where you will also find the Ipoh tree, after which the town is named.

The First Rubber Tree
The first rubber tree was planted in 1877 near the Kuala Kangsar District Office. There were nine trees planted and this was the only one that survived. H.N. Ridley, the father of Malaysia’s rubber industry, brought the rubber seeds from Kew Garden in London and was the man responsible for turning Kuala Kangsar into the first rubber industry district in the country.

Teluk Intan Leaning Tower
Don’t miss Malaysia’s very own version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan which stands 25.5metres high. Although externally it looks like it comprises 8 levels it has only 3 levels. The building which stood straight when initially completed in 1885, began to tilt between 1889 and 1895. The Japanese Army used it as an observation post during the Japanese Occupation but these days it is merely a timekeeper.

Kellie's Castle
Along the road leading to Batu Gajah, you can spot the eerie looming remains of the mysterious Kellie's Castle which abounds with local tales of hidden rooms and a secret tunnel. A mansion commissioned in 1915 by English rubber tycoon, William Kellie Smith who died in England in the middle of its construction, it was never completed.

Arts & Cultural Exploration
Ubudiah Mosque
One of the most impressive mosques in Malaysia the Ubudiah Mosque was commissioned by the 28th Sultan of Perak Sultan Idris Murshidul Adzam Shah I. Its magnificent golden domes and minarets are hallmarks of classical Islamic architecture. Located at Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, it was officially opened in 1917. It is also the burial site for Perak royalty.

State Mosque
The mosque is a prominent symbol of the state’s Islamic background and a major landmark in Ipoh. A unique feature of its architecture is a 125-metre minaret, which can be seen rising above its mosaic domes from most parts of the city.

Iskandariah Palace
The Iskandariah Palace in Kuala Kangsar, the official residence of the Sultan of Perak, sprawls majestically across verdant gardens at the top of Bukit Chandan (Chandan Hill). Its structure reflects strong Moorish influence with the characteristic golden domes.

Perak Tong
In the Perak Tong Temple you will be greeted by a maze of caverns and grottos with statues and paintings of the Buddha set in nooks and a 12.8m-high sitting Buddha gazing benevolently down at you. A steep flight of 385 steps within leads to a ledge with a fantastic view of the countryside.

Sam Poh Tong
In the Sam Poh Tong cave temle, located in Gunung Rapat, statues of Buddha are set among the natural stalactites and stalagmites while tortoises amble around the pond in the inner courtyard. There is also a wishing well to help improve your fortunes! Visitors can also sample some fine Chinese vegetarian food at a restaurant outside the cave.

Great City Destinations
Gardens and parks

Taiping Lake Gardens
The Taiping Lake gardens offers 62 ha of magnificent greenery, a beautiful lake, a gazebo and a profusion of colourful blooms. The star attractions are the ancient angsana trees with their drooping, shady branches. Visitors can go boating, try out aqua bikes or relax at a rest house. The country’s oldest zoo, the Taiping Zoo, is also within the gardens.

Dr Seenivasagam Park
Located in the heart of Ipoh, this park offers a variety of flora and is ideal for picnics and relaxation. Here is where you can also get a glimpse of the famous Ipoh tree, from which the town got its name. You can also enjoy the park’s numerous recreational and amusement facilities such as a roller-skating rink, a playground, a mini train course and water rides.

Zoo Taiping & Night Safari
Established in 1961, Taiping Zoo is the oldest zoological gardens in Malaysia and one of the best managed. Situated at the foot of Maxwell Hill it is in a truly beautiful setting with lakes and streams and an abundance of flora. It is open daily from 8.30am till 6.00pm The Night Safari at the zoo, the first of its kind in Malaysia, provides a unique opportunity to see nocturnal animals in a natural setting with artful use of lights which simulates a moonlit environment.

Coasts & Beaches
Beaches & Islands

Lumut
Lumut, located about 84 km south of Ipoh, is well known for its sea sports facilities, seafood and also its shell and coral handicrafts. A fishing village here serves as the departure point from the mainland for those heading to Pulau Pangkor and Damai Laut. Other natural gems of Lumut are the wonderful sandy beaches of Teluk Batik and Teluk Rubiah. Teluk Batik is the venue of the annual Pesta Laut or Sea Festival. Some of the interesting features of the fair include sea-sporting competitions, cultural shows and funfairs. Meanwhile, golfers will love the golf courses, which offer an idyllic view of the beach and surrounding hills.

Pulau Pangkor
Forty minutes by ferry from Lumut is the famous Pulau Pangkor. Favourite beach activities here include scuba diving, wind surfing, fishing and snorkelling. The real attractions, however, are the lovely beaches on the western coastline, which are unspoiled and secluded. Its golden beaches, clear blue waters and refreshing lifestyle make it a paradise for beach lovers. Inland you find virgin forests waiting to be explored. Historical attractions on the island include the Batu Bersurat which literally means 'the Stone of Inscriptions' and the Dutch Fort which has been restored by the National Museum. There is also a chain of fishing villages particularly along the eastern shores of the island.

Cool Retreats
Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill)
Bukit Larut, formerly Maxwell Hill, the smallest hill resort in Malaysia was gazetted as a permanent forest reserve in 1910. Located about nine kilometres from Taiping this oldest and smallest hill resort stands 1,035 metres above sea level. The road up twists and turns through a tropical virgin jungle. There are several jungle trails to explore with the Gunung Hijau trail being highly recommended for bird watchers. You will also love the bungalows and rest houses here that are mostly over a century old.

Eco-Adventures
Natural Phenomenon

Lata Kijang
The majestic Lata Kinjang Falls which cascades 850-metres down a mountainside is a spectacular sight. It offers swimmers an invigorating experience. Enjoy a rejuvenating dip and laze on the big boulders by the natural pool. Nearby there is an orchid garden and a bamboo park.

Gua Tempurung
Gua Tempurung concealed within a limestone massif has hidden natural treasures. In the inner confines of these caverns are breath-taking galleries of stalagmites, stalactites, pools and other amazing rock formations.

Sungai Klah Hot Springs Park
The Sungai Klah Hot Springs Park embraces the unique concept of a free flowing Hot Springs Swimming Pool and Therapeutic Park at the foothills of the Titiwangsa Range. Nestled in the midst of lush forest, surrounded by hills, streams and rivers with scenic view of oil palm plantations and durian orchards the 6.5 ha park provides a backdrop of tranquil beauty as you are rejuvenated by the therapeutic healing effects of the hot springs.

You can either choose to soak in the open cold and hot pools, private pools for some solitude or relax as you are tended to by experienced practitioners of reflexology. The healing effects of hot springs are said to work well on stiff joints, stress related ailments, rheumatism, arthritis, insomnia, derma related complaints, respiratory complaints, spinal injuries and fractures.

Temenggor Lake
Located about 35km from Gerik, it is perfect getaway for fishing enthusiasts. Temenggor Lake, the largest man-made lake in Perak, is home to a variety of freshwater fish. Orang Asli or aboriginal people still live in the jungles around the lake. Pulau Dendana, a small island in the lake is the nature camp of the Department of Wildlife and National Parks.

Reserves and Sanctuaries
Belum Forest Reserve
The Belum Forest Reserve is one of the oldest and largest untouched rainforests in Peninsular Malaysia. Flush with flora and fauna this reserve is of great interest to ecologists, conservationists and nature enthusiasts. The presence of large mammals such as elephants, rhinoceros, tapirs and tigers makes Belum a treasure to be experienced. A permit is required if you would like to explore the reserve. Guided tours are available.

Sungkai Deer Farm
Situated in Manderang, about 82 km from Ipoh, this farm is the only one of its kind in the country. Deer of various kinds roam freely in the reserve and there is also an exotic bird sanctuary nearby. Established in 1978, its primary objective is to breed and conserve certain species of birds and other wildlife.

Agrotourism
Bersia Grazing Reserve
Managed by local farmers and located about 15 km from Gerik, this is the place to experience cattle breeding in lush green surroundings. You can help feed and round up the cattle come evening. Nearby are Orang Asli settlements which you can visit, or alternatively go fishing or just watch the fish sliding down with the currents.. A virgin tropical forest, flora and fauna and a blue lake lend a serene aura to this farm. Quaint little timber and bamboo huts offers lodging for tourists.

Herbal Farm
More than 60 species of traditional herbs are grown here for their medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Visitors can also visit the Orang Asli village or take a dip in the hot springs and waterfalls. The farm is situated 12 km from Pekan Sungkai.

Ipoh Tambun Lime Plantation
This is the biggest lime plantation in the country and it spreads over 0.81 ha. Take this great opportunity to learn about the methods used for producing high quality limes. The plantation is only two kilometres from Tambun.

River Terrapin Breeding Project
This breeding farm is located at Bota Kanan, 40 km south of Ipoh. The farm was opened in 1967 and its primary objective is to conserve the River Terrapin (Tuntung). Between November and March visitors can witness migrating river terrapins laying eggs along stretches of the riverbank.

Culinary Delights
Perak offers a variety of delicious food, especially in Ipoh as is evident from the names given to Malaysian favourites such as Ipoh Chicken Rice, Ipoh Kuey Teow, Ipoh Hor Fun and even Ipoh White Coffee. These mouth-watering local dishes can be found in many spots around Perak. The main locations however are hawker stalls and centres in and around the capital, Ipoh. Lumut on the other hand would be your choice destination for affordable and great seafood choices.

Sports & Recreation
Golf
Perak offers a variety of choices for avid golfers. Courses on the mainland include Bukit Jana Golf Club in Kamunting, Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort in Batu Gajah, Damai Laut Golf & Country Club in Lumut, Meru Valley Golf & Country Club in Ipoh and the Royal Teluk Rubiah Country Club also in Ipoh.

Tranquility, calm, peacefulness and harmony with nature captures the essence of the Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort. Encompassing over 100 acres, the resort features 350 acres of shimmering lakes, old majestic raintrees, fruit trees, and a menagerie of birds and myriad tropical fishes. Tim Woolbank designed this unique 27-hole golf resort. The Raintree Nine and Lakes Nine are said to be among the most challenging and picturesque courses in South East Asia while the Wetlands Nine, a unique Par-3 course, is an ideal challenge for those seeking a short satisfactory game.

Theme Parks
There are two major theme parks in Perak which offer fun and entertainment for the family. The Bukit Merah Lake Town Resort, the largest water park in Peninsular Malaysia, a rather unconventional theme park boasts of eco-related attractions such as the Orang Utan Island and the Eco Park. Regular fun is also available with the Skycycle (an elevated monorail), waterides, Games & Shopping Arcade, jungle trekking, fishing, water sports and lake cruises. The Lost World of Tambun, set amidst lush greenery, limestone hills and caves, transports visitors to a world of wonder and adventure. Here you can ride a river to the doorway of an ancient silver mine, dodge water sprays, track wild tigers, hurtle down a mine shaft in a cart or simply unwind in mineral rich hot springs.

Entertainment & Shopping
Shopping
Perak is known for high quality and beautifully crafted clay and porcelain ware, particularly the black sayong pottery and its traditional tapestry ‘tekat’ - golden thread embroidered tapestry.

Among the popular spots to shop for local handicrafts are at Kampung Padang Changkat, Kampung Berala, Kampung Kepala Bendang and Enggor. Handicraft stores can also be found along the Ipoh-Kuala Kangsar trunk road. For demonstrations of weaving and craftwork you could try visiting their handicraft centres among which is the Pulau Tiga Handicraft Centre. The Perak Branch Handicraft Development Corporation of Malaysia, the most comprehensive one stop centre for local handicrafts, specialises in the manufacturing of ceramic products such as the 'labu sayong' (water gourds made from semi-porous blackened burnt clay). The 'Labu' is an earthenware pitcher used traditionally to store drinking water. It is believed that it not only keeps its contents cool but it is also claimed that the water stored this way cures certain ailments. Other products available here are are terracotta and glazed pots which are converted into flowerpots, potpourri vases, lamp bases and wall decorations. Other areas to acquire Perak’s famed ceramics would be at Kraf Semanggol for export quality ceramic items and also at the Kuala Kangsar souvenir stalls, located near the banks of Sungai Perak.

Perak is also well known for its citrus delights such as seedless guavas and pomelos. These juicy fruits make ideal gifts for your friends and family. Off late it is also gaining a reputation for providing quality durian fruit. Many roadside stalls sell a wide range of freshly-picked local fruits.

Entertainment & Nightlife
Nightlife in Perak can be found mainly in the capital, Ipoh. The Greentown area is also an entertainment hotspot with a hive of activities with restaurants, food outlets, cafes and other entertainment outlets booming. Medan Ipoh (formerly known as Metro Ipoh Baru) is a favourite for many younger people with its offerings of varied entertainment outlets, F&B outlets and even cybercafes!

Tourist Information Centre

Lumut Tourist Information Centre,
Jalan Sultan Idris Shah,
Lumut 32200,
Perak
Tel: 605-683 4057  

Taiping Visitors’ Information Centre
Tel: 605 – 805 3245