Ipoh Tourist Attractions
A colonial importance shines in your experience of Ipoh. In the grand old buildings, in places like the Ipoh Railway Station, the Town Hall, and the old Post Office. Ipoh was, during the British Colonial era, Malaysia's second administrative centre after the first, Kuala Lumpur. The impact of the era is still so vibrant as during the post-independence economic decline, few new modern buildings were built, keeping the Colonial architecture in place.
Ipoh colonial heritage
So, get your camera out, pack your sunglasses and indulge in the historical significance of the British Colonial era. The Railway Station has a very cool cafe in it and is no problem for families to attempt this outing. The Town Hall was our favourite, even though it was not the most grandiose thing we saw. It is located in the old town of lpoh and is nearby the railway station. It is obviously also on the heritage walk route. We captured some magnificent photographs both during the day, and when the lights where glowing at night.
Ipoh Mural Trail
While you are exploring the Old Town, you may find that as you turn the corner and expect to see another shop, or greyed out wall, you find a magnificently crafted piece of street art. The feeling of charm and an appreciation for things greater than yourself sets in. This, if you did not know about it before, will see you stumbling through the entire Ipoh Mural Trail with your mouth wide open and your eyes scanning the world hopefully. On the Ipoh Mural Trail, you will stumble across seven pieces by the famous Ernest Zacharevic, the same man who produced some of the best street art from George Town. Be sure to check out the kids on a paper plane, the hummingbird and the incredible depiction of Ipoh transforming through the mining revolution.
Temples in Ipoh
If you like temples, you will want to soak in the surrounds of biggest cave temple in country. I’m fairly sure of this. Sam Pog Tong Cave Temple is so very beautiful. Countless Buddhas and limestone stalactites falling from the cave ceiling. The temple provides the opportunity to the traveller looking for something serene, natural and away from the beaten tourist path. The trip to the cave temple is short, being just 5km south of Ipoh.
Museums
Continuing through the long list of cultural sights in Ipoh, a great place to see is the Hoh Yan Hor Museum. It is located on Treacher Street and entrance is free of charge. The opening hours are from 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Sunday. The history of a family, and of tea production in Ipoh in general is explained. A host of fascinating paraphernalia fill the walls of the museum. It was a great stop that we discovered on our way through the Ipoh Mural Trail when we saw one of Ernest Zacharevic's pieces on the wall. Definitely worth your time as you are gallivanting through the streets.
Concubine & Wife Lanes
A fantastic sequence of photo opportunities exist in the Concubine Lanes. Concubine Lane, First Concubine Lane, and Wife Lane are all to be traversed in your visit. Beautiful antiques, TV's, vinyls, and hundreds of bits and pieces from a bygone era reside in several antique stores. Pop up stalls line the streets and so, so many snacks and sweets are available. Quick yes to a Kaya Puff.
Take the time to take in the way of life, the architecture, the shops, the people, and the things that these people are selling. It is a fantastic way to spend a few hours and take many memorable photos of a life differently lived.