Things to Know About Perak

Background

Perak is filled with natural beauty.

Perak is the fourth largest state in Malaysia. The literal meaning of Perak is “tin,” and the state was named for its significant role during the tin-mining era.

Perak is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in Malaysia. It is filled with tourist attractions such as beaches, rainforests, and millennia old caves, which are spread across its nine districts. It has a population of more than 2.5 million.

Geography

Perak has beaches, mountains, caves, and lots of greeneries.

Perak is located in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia. Its northeastern part is bordered by Thailand. So, if you are planning to visit Malaysia and Thailand at one go, including Perak in your itinerary would be a fantastic choice.

While Perak is often associated with Ipoh, the two are not the same. Ipoh is the capital as well as the largest city of Perak. It has limestone hills, caves, and a thriving food scene.

On the other hand, the second largest city of Perak is Taiping, which is also a remarkable tourist destination. It enchants visitors with its cooler climate. Taiping is filled with lush greenery, and has an abundance of historical landmarks.

History and Culture

Century old historic site in Perak.

British interest in Perak’s tin resources led to the state becoming one of the key territories under colonial administration. The Perak Sultanate, one of Malaysia’s oldest and most significant royal institutions, played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history.

The royal capital of Perak is Kuala Kangsar, and it houses Istana Iskandariah, the Sultan’s palace, which symbolises the enduring heritage of the Sultanate. Tourists can visit Kuala Kangsar to see the fascinating heritage of this state.

The Sultan of Perak remains a respected figure, and the lineage is deeply rooted in the region's cultural pride, with current Sultan Nazrin Shah's leadership reflecting the state's modern aspirations.

Natural Attractions and Tourist Activities

Tourist attraction in Ipoh, the capital of Perak.

Perak is home to a range of stunning natural attractions. Gunung Korbu is the highest peak in the state, which offers incredible hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Perak is also famous for its diverse tourist offerings. Nature lovers can explore unique spots like the Royal Belum State Park, a haven for wildlife and outdoor activities, and Gua Tempurung, one of the largest and oldest limestone caves in the world.

The Kinta Valley, once a booming tin-mining hub, is steeped in heritage. Tourists can learn about its mining past at the Perak Museum in Taiping and the Ipoh Railway Station, which is an iconic colonial-era landmark.

For food enthusiasts, Ipoh is a must-visit destination. Ipoh is renowned for its street food scene, especially dishes like Ipoh Hor Fun and Bean Sprout Chicken.

Perak also boasts a variety of outdoor activities such as white-water rafting in Kampar River, hiking in Bukit Larut, and exploring the hidden gems of Lumut and Tanjung Malim.

The state’s natural beauty can be fully appreciated at spots like the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, where you can enjoy relaxing in natural hot springs while surrounded by limestone hills.

Local Lifestyle

Beautiful village of Perak.

The traditional lifestyle of Perak’s locals is deeply rooted in the state’s agricultural and fishing communities.

Many reside in rural areas where they continue to uphold age-old customs and practices. Traditional Malay villages, or kampungs, feature stilt houses surrounded by lush paddy fields and plantations.

These communities value close-knit family structures, a strong sense of hospitality, and the preservation of their cultural heritage.

Perak’s diverse population, which includes Malays, Chinese, and Indians, all contribute to a rich cultural fabric and vibrant traditions celebrated through festivals and rituals, particularly in rural settings.

Cuisine

Ipoh Hor Fun is a popular street food in Perak.

When it comes to cuisine, Perak Malay food is a highlight of the region.

You can try authentic dishes like Nasi Ganja and Ayam Penyet at local eateries or hidden spots in Ipoh.

Street food plays a significant role in the food scene, with Ipoh's white coffee being one of the most iconic drinks. It is deeply tied to the state’s identity. This unique style of coffee is made from beans roasted with margarine instead of butter, giving it a smoother, less acidic taste. The secret behind its distinct flavor is also attributed to the region's perfect climate for coffee cultivation, making it a hotspot for coffee enthusiasts and contributing to Ipoh’s growing café culture.

Other street foods to sample include Ipoh Hor Fun, Popiah, and Dim Sum.

For traditional snacks and desserts, Kaya Puff and Kuih Seri Muka are beloved by locals and visitors alike, showcasing the fusion of local ingredients and Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences in Perak's culinary heritage.

Weather

Warm weather of Perak can be enjoyed in its beaches.

The weather in Perak is generally warm and humid with occasional rainfall. Hence, the best time to visit Perak is during the dry season, which is between March and October. During this time, the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring caves, and visiting natural sites.

The state experiences heavy rainfall from November to February, which can make some outdoor areas less accessible, especially the caves and rural attractions.

Accessibility

Among the rivers of Malaysia, Perak has some of the most beautiful ones.

Travelling to Perak is easy from both Kuala Lumpur and Penang. From Kuala Lumpur, visitors can take a 2-3 hour drive via the North-South Expressway or opt for a direct bus service.

If travelling from Penang, the drive is around 3-4 hours, with buses available, or you can take a ferry to Butterworth and then a bus to Ipoh.

For those seeking a quicker option, flights to Ipoh Airport are also available from Kuala Lumpur.

Accommodation

Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, a resort in Perak.

Perak offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious resorts like the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat and The Haven Resort to affordable hotels and charming guesthouses in Ipoh and Taiping.

For family-friendly travel, Perak is an excellent choice, with many attractions suitable for children, including the Taiping Zoo, Lost World of Tambun, and the Ipoh Railway Station for a taste of colonial history.

Uniqueness

The unique aspect of Perak is it blends wilderness, nature, culture, and modernity altogether.

Perak is also home to rich wildlife, with notable natural reserves such as the Royal Belum State Park housing rare species like the Malayan tiger, Asian elephants, and a variety of bird species.

The state’s diverse ecosystems provide a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Alongside its natural wonders, the Perak Sultanate holds fascinating cultural rituals and ceremonies, such as the Sultan’s coronation and annual events like the Perak State Day, which highlight the state's royal heritage.

Quirky facts about Perak also abound, like its Taiping Lake Gardens, the oldest public park in Malaysia, and the fact that Taiping has the distinction of having the most rainfall in the country. From royal ceremonies to natural wonders, Perak offers travellers a blend of history, culture, and hidden gems.

Safety Guidelines

Perak has many adventurous places.

When exploring Perak’s caves and natural sites, it’s important to follow safety guidelines such as wearing proper footwear, carrying sufficient water, and hiring a local guide for more challenging hikes. Always check weather conditions, especially during the rainy season, and inform someone about your itinerary before heading to remote locations.