Amazing Travel Tips for Every City
Things to do in Taiping
1. Explore Taiping Lake Gardens
Spend some time in the beautiful Taiping Lake Gardens, a scenic public park known for its lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and vibrant floral displays. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bicycle to explore the various sections of the gardens, including the popular Lotus Lake, Raintree Walk, and Taman Tasik Taiping. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and peaceful ambiance.
2. Visit the Taiping Zoo
Discover a wide variety of wildlife at the Taiping Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Malaysia. Stroll through the sprawling park and observe animals like tigers, elephants, orangutans, gibbons, and various bird species. The zoo also offers interactive feeding sessions and animal shows for visitors to enjoy. Don't miss the night safari, where you can see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat.
3. Explore the Perak Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of Taiping by visiting the Perak Museum. This museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds, natural history exhibits, traditional costumes, and ancient weaponry. Learn about the history of Perak and its indigenous people as you explore the different galleries. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions and workshops, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the local culture.
4. Hike Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill)
Embark on an adventurous hike up Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill, and be rewarded with breathtaking views of Taiping. This hill station offers several hiking trails catering to different fitness levels. Enjoy the cool climate, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife as you make your way up to the summit. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, you can also reach the top by taking the heritage Land Rovers available for hire. Don't forget to bring drinking water and snacks for the hike.
5. Explore the Taiping War Cemetery
Pay tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War II at the Taiping War Cemetery. This beautifully maintained memorial site is the final resting place for over 800 soldiers from the British Commonwealth who lost their lives during the war. Take a quiet stroll through the rows of white gravestones and reflect upon the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. The cemetery provides a serene and solemn atmosphere for remembrance and contemplation.
6. Visit the Taiping Heritage Trail
Embark on a self-guided tour of the Taiping Heritage Trail to discover the town's rich history and architectural heritage. This trail takes you through various historical landmarks, including the Old Clock Tower, colonial-era government buildings, a Chinese temple, and the iconic First Galleria. Along the way, you'll learn about Taiping's role during the colonial era and its significance in Malaysian history. Pick up a map from the Taiping Tourist Information Center to navigate the trail efficiently.
7. Explore the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve
Venture outside of Taiping to the nearby Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve for a unique nature experience. Take a boat ride through the mangrove forest and be mesmerized by the intricate root systems and abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, monkeys, and even the occasional crocodile. You can also explore the forest on wooden walkways, allowing you to observe the flora and fauna up close. Don't forget your insect repellent and binoculars.
8. Discover the Burmese Temple
Visit the Taiping Burmese Temple, also known as the Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram, and admire its stunning Burmese architecture and intricate decorations. The temple is home to a massive reclining Buddha statue, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, measuring at 33 meters long. Take in the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds and explore the other ornate structures and shrines. Don't forget to remove your shoes before entering the temple out of respect for the religious traditions.
9. Shop at the Taiping Sentral Mall
Indulge in some retail therapy at the Taiping Sentral Mall, a modern shopping complex in the heart of Taiping. Browse through a wide range of local and international brands, and enjoy various dining options in the mall's food court. The mall also features a cinema, entertainment center, and a supermarket for your convenience. Take a break from sightseeing and relax in this air-conditioned shopping destination.
10. Experience the Taiping Night Market
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Taiping Night Market, also known as Pasar Malam Taiping. This vibrant street market comes alive in the evening, offering a wide array of local street food, snacks, clothing, accessories, and household goods. Stroll through the colorful stalls, try popular local dishes like char kuey teow and rojak, and haggle for souvenirs. The Taiping Night Market provides a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to sample delicious Malaysian street food.