Perak is the second-largest state by landmass in Peninsular Malaysia, with the beautiful city of Ipoh standing as its capital. There are plenty of magnificent tourist destinations scattered across this north-western Malay province, from the Chinese-influenced town of Teluk Itan to the historic settlement of Pasir Salak. However, the holiday jewel of the state has to be Pangkor Island, which is less than an hour away from the capital.
Don’t MissThis massive state is home to a seemingly endless array of landmarks and attractions.
The royal town of Kuala Kangsar, which is just 48kms from the capital city, is a fantastic place to explore. Here, tourists can experience the glorious Palace of the Perak Sultan, and other unbelievably beautiful architecture. The Ubudiah Mosque is another treasure located within the town that cannot be missed.
Pangkor, a renowned island just off the western coast of Perak, is home to some of Malaysia’s more glorious beaches. No other destination in the state provides tourists with unspoiled beaches and inviting ocean waters like Pangkor. In addition, there are dozens of small fishing villages that are not only welcoming, but also fascinating to visit.
The built environment of Ipoh is simply stunning, and cannot be ignored. This major city has a rich history and it shows throughout the landscape, with plenty of impressive architecture. Sites like the Memorial Clocktower, the British-influenced Ipoh Railway Station and historic Kong Heng Square are just a small sample of what to expect when exploring this majestic capital city.
Restaurants and BarsOne of Perak’s top draw cards is its magnificent cuisine, which ranges from local Malay delicacies to Indian and Chinese specialties. The coastal areas are famous for their seafood and fresh-water seafood, especially towns like Sitiawan and Tanjung Tualang. Arguably the most noteworthy dishes in the region are the flat noodle delicacies in Ipoh, known as kai shi hor fun. Dining is generally affordable and always spectacular. The capital city is where much of the nightlife can be found. Despite this, it is pretty tame compared to Kuala Lumpur. Bandar Baru Medan is the best spot in Ipoh to enjoy a drink after hours.
ShoppingLike most parts of Malaysia, Perak is home to both local and Western shopping delights. Ipoh is where many of the ‘Western’ shopping malls reside, including the Kinta City Shopping Mall and Ipoh Parade. Of course, night bazaars and market places dominate much of the state’s shopping culture. The Pasar Malam night markets in Ipoh are always bustling with locals and tourists seeking a good buy.
