If you're planning to explore off the beaten path, there are many exciting things to do in Taiping, a heritage town situated in Perak. From a quiet stroll around Taiping Lake Garden to an action-packed day at ATV Adventure Park Larut, scroll down the list to see what's in store on your next road trip to Taiping!
1. Enjoy a stroll at Taiping Lake Garden
Taiping Lake Garden has been around since 1880 and it was the first public garden officiated during the British rule in Malaysia. Today, this scenic lake has become a go-to spot for morning jogs, brisk walks, cycling and family picnics. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, it's the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, so make sure to save this garden for last!
2. Take the jeep to the top of Bukit Larut
If you enjoy visiting the chilly destinations in Malaysia, you'll be glad to know that Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill, is one of them! While some hikers would challenge themselves with a 3.5-hour one-way hike to the summit, leisure visitors can hop on the Bukit Larut Jeep Ride that'll take you to the top for a minimal fee within 30 minutes.
Once you're there, immerse yourself in the chilly atmosphere complete with beautiful pine trees and colonial buildings. If you're taking a jeep ride, do note there are only 4 rides per day from the top hill and back, so do arrive on time!
3. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the Burmese Pools
If you're looking for a nature attraction to relax and unwind, look no further than Burmese Pools, which is situated at the foot of Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill). Named after a natural rock pool, the locals would visit this riverside attraction to enjoy a refreshing dip and a wonderful picnic with their loved ones.
There are also various facilities near Burmese Pools including a washroom, sundry shop and food stalls. Since it's a public area, remember to always bring your trash with you and keep the areas clean at all times.
4. Go on a thrilling ride at ATV Adventure Park Larut
If you're looking for an outdoor adventure unlike any other, chase the adrenaline rush at ATV Adventure Park Larut. Enveloped by lush greenery and muddy trails, hop on the ATV and drive through the challenging terrain with your family and friends.
We recommend signing up for the Off Road to River package where you'll go through 21 obstacles until you reach a local river as your final destination. Priced around RM145 per person, the package also includes a helmet, drinking water, safety briefing, training, first aid and an experienced guide.
5. Take your kids for a round of mini-golfing at Spritzer EcoPark
If you're planning a family trip to Taiping, make a quick stop at Spritzer EcoPark! Open to the public since 2015, your kids can try their hand at the 18-hole mini golf course and parents can also teach them a trick or two. Since this family-friendly attraction is owned by one of Malaysia's largest bottled water manufacturer, the whole family can learn interesting facts about the plant through The Discovery Tunnel.
6. Visit the Taiping Zoo
Complete your fun family trip by visiting the Taiping Zoo! First opened in 1961, it is the oldest zoo in Malaysia and home to 180 species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Besides waving hello to the chimpanzees and African lion, there are many exhibits featuring animals that are unique to our country such as Malayan tapir, Malayan elephant, and Malaysia porcupine.
7. Savour delicious street food in Taiping
After a long day of sightseeing, no trip would be complete without savouring delicious halal food in Taiping! Ranging from street stalls to Muslim-owned restaurants, make room in your itinerary for ice-cold cendol at Ansari Famous Cendol, tasty prawn noodles at Mee Udang Mak Jah Kuala Sepetang, and grilled ikan bakar at Restoran Tepi Sungai!
...And these are some of the exciting things to do in Taiping! From an action-packed ATV ride through the jungle to a delicious serving of prawn noodles, we hope you'll have the best time exploring the best of Taiping with your loved ones. If you're planning a day trip to Ipoh, continue your adventure with our recommended reads below.