Buzz
Experts are suggesting a blend of ancient and modern attractions in Ipoh, possibly your next destination on your Malaysian travel journey.
Ipoh – Malaysia's Rising Tourist Destination
For a long time, Ipoh has lost its position as the capital of Malaysia's Perak province. However, a fresh breeze is sweeping through the city, most notably in Old Town. Skip the usual spots and explore the following landmarks in Ipoh, as suggested by Lonely Planet:
'The Golden Triangle' – 3 Central Destinations
The West Bank of the Kinta River is home to Ipoh's most prominent historical architecture. Under British rule, royal architecture was extensively built in this area. Ipoh's train station in the early 20th century was known as the Tah Mahal for its beautiful white roof arches. The town hall here is a picturesque spot. Just a 5-minute walk from the town hall is the beautiful white courthouse and the Birch Memorial Clock Tower.
Kong Heng Street and Ipoh's Heritage
The historic villas here have been repurposed into hotels, cafes, and artisanal craft shops. Sekeping Kong Heng is the bustling heart of Old Town. Alongside the hotels are artisanal craft stalls and cafes. Bits & Bobs stall sells the famous ais kepa (shaved ice). Nearby is Ipog Craftnerds, offering handmade goods and jewelry, and Roquette – a hotspot for young crowds in captivating cafes.
Historical Concubine Lane
Tourists and locals often visit Lorong Panglima – also known as Concubine Lane. Ipoh residents often recount tales of the city's beauty. Although Lorong Panglima has not been renovated for many years, it remains a landmark on Malaysia's heritage trail. Restaurants and famous hotels are established here, notably Hotel No. 27 Concubine.
Modern Art Through Mural Paintings
Artist Ernest Zacharevic drew inspiration from Ipoh's glorious past to paint murals across the city. He began this project in 2014 with the Old Town Art project, bringing Ipoh's history to its walls. Coffee bags, coffee drinkers… are among the many subjects of the murals. There are quite a few 3D-style paintings that you can enjoy while passing through Jahan Market, Jalan Tun Sambathan, and Jalan Padang. Besides Zacharevic, street art here is also intriguing, changing with each season throughout the year.
Coffee Culture in Ipoh
Ipoh's coffee artistry has long been renowned. Kopi putih – the city's unique white coffee brewed with a special recipe. The original recipe is said to originate from Sin Yoon Loong – a place serving coffee for many years. For a taste of newer brews, head to Lim Ko Pi – a café dedicated to preserving Ipoh's traditional craft. This café is housed in a heritage building dating back to the 1920s.
Ancient Religious Architectural Marvels
The outskirts of Ipoh host ancient religious architectural wonders dating back centuries. Mostly carved into limestone cliffs, the most famous is perhaps Sam Poh Tong – a cave once inhabited by monks in the 1890s and now a complex of temples.
The solemn atmosphere in this sacred place remains intact after hundreds of years, with statues of guardian deities at the cave entrance and candles lit along the cave. Ling Sen Tong is a modern-style temple, resembling a playground for gods. Devotees can comfortably photograph the deity statues here.
According to Ngôi Sao
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour
MytourJuly 8, 2016
