If you are planning a trip to Malaysia sometime soon, don’t forget to include Cameron Highlands in your itinerary.
Whether it is the peace and solitude experienced at Sam Poh Temple, a refreshing hike in the Mossy Forest, serene long walks along tea plantations, or sampling a variety of strawberries, Cameron Highlands is a unique little world in Malaysia. Perched at 1500 metres (4921 feet) on mountains, this gem in Pahang has much to offer, deserving dedicated time during your vacation. If you are wondering what exactly to do here, we have got you covered.
Weather highlights: Best time to visit Cameron Highlands
One of the best things about this destination in Malaysia’s Pahang is its distinct weather compared to the rest of the country. Enjoying a tropical highland climate, Cameron Highlands embraces pleasant temperatures throughout the year, with a maximum of around 22°C and a minimum of around 14°C.
The best time to visit this gem is from February to April or between July and August. However, if you love rain, consider a visit during May and June or from September to January.
Navigating your way: How to reach Cameron Highlands
The closest major city is Ipoh, and the nearest airport is Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, approximately 87 km away.
Cameron Highlands is approximately 204 km from Kuala Lumpur, and easily accessible by road.
Top attractions and things to do in Cameron Highlands
Other than some of the top attractions listed below, visiting strawberry farms, exploring towns including Kampung Raja, Tanah Rata, Bertam Valley and Ringlet, as well as trying your hand at golf at Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Club, is recommended.
Additionally, indulge in a shopping spree at Cameron Square, Night Market, Medan Agro and Kea Farm. If interacting with Malaysia’s indigenous people intrigues you, then visit the villages near Tapah, Brinchang and Kuala Terla to learn more about the natives, the Orang Asli.
For a hot spring experience here, head straight to Kuala Woh, approximately 12 km from Tapah. Comfortable accommodation options in the form of bungalows and chalets can be found here.
Now, let’s explore some of the must-visit places in Cameron Highlands:
Cameron Flora Park
Imagine a picnic with your loved ones or someone special, seated on a wooden platform surrounded by thousands of fresh pink blossoms. Located in one of the most-visited places in Cameron Highlands, Kea Farm, this floral wonder named Cameron Flora Park is sure to take your breath away, with the highlight being the walkways and stairways amid gorgeous, colourful blooms.
Other beautiful gardens in Cameron Highlands include Green View Garden, Cameron Lavender, Cactus Valley, Rose Centre and Rose Valley.
Sam Poh Temple
This magnificent religious structure in Brinchang sits on a small hilltop and is known for its oriental architecture. You can offer prayers at the altar of this Buddhist temple but remember to maintain decorum and keep quiet.
Water Crest Valley
A farm specialising in cultivating watercress, a multi-purpose semi-aquatic leafy vegetable, Water Crest Valley is not just a farm – it’s a restaurant too. Located between Kea Farm and Tringkap, it serves exotic Chinese gustatory delights. Their signature serve is the herbal watercress drink, prepared using luo han guo (monk fruit), red dates and longan.
Butterfly Garden
Kea Farm’s live insect gallery and zoological garden, Butterfly Garden, is quite popular among visitors. Along with a variety of butterflies, you can see beetles, mantids and phasmids. Butterfly Garden also has a tortoise pen, scorpion pond, reptile exhibit (with snakes and lizards), aviary, petting zoo and flower garden. You can also visit the Butterfly Farm nearby.
Boh Tea Plantation
With its estates in both Cameron Highlands and Bukit Cheeding (Selangor), Boh Tea is the largest tea producer in Malaysia. Take a tour of the tea factory, buy goodies from the shopping gallery inside the heritage tea centre, or savour delicacies at the restaurants and cafes here. A small hill next to the plantation offers stunning views of the valley.
Robinson Falls
This cascading waterfall amid lush greens can be easily spotted while on the jungle walk to the peak of Gunung Berembun. Another way to reach this hidden gem is via the road past Century Pines Resort.
Gunung Irau
This mountain, sitting at 2110 metres (6922 feet) above sea level, is the highest in the area, making it a haven for trekkers. The path leading to its pinnacle starts when the Mossy Forest’s boardwalk ends, taking around three hours to complete. During this refreshing journey, you can come across pretty orchids, moss gardens, unusual shrubs and pitcher plants.
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Mossy Forest
Encounter interesting flora and fauna in the Mossy Forest, covered in mist and moisture most of the time. Some of the creatures that you can spot here include various types of insects, snakes, frogs, birds and mammals, distinct to this ecological area.
Cameron Highlands’ best restaurants, cafes and food
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When here, visiting Cameron Highlands Resort’s Jim Thompson Tea Room for your afternoon tea is a must. A quaint place with vintage vibes, laid-back seating and an array of different flavours of tea served in pretty tea sets, it is perfect for tea connoisseurs. Add to it the sweet and savoury snacks served in three-tiered trays. And yes, how can we miss the view from the glass windows?
Some of the cafes you shouldn’t miss here include The Lord’s Cafe, Naux Pastry Cafe, Yong Teng Cafe, Scott’s Cafe and Starbucks. Do try the scones served at these places.
We suggest trying a hot bowl of bak kut teh, a herbal and flavourful soup made of pork ribs, at Xin Teh Bak Kut Teh, steamed dumplings at Dian Yi Long Dim Sum Restaurant, and traditional Malay food at Uncle Chow Kopitiam. For pasta, salads and grilled delights, satiate your taste buds at Jasmine Cafe.
Also, visit C Buddy’s Steamboat if creating your own dish in a hotpot fascinates you.
Where to stay at Cameron Highlands: Hotels and resorts
From hotels featuring colonial structures reflecting an old-world charm to upscale and urban spaces, the stay options in Cameron Highlands are plentiful. These include The Lakehouse, Smokehouse Hotel, Cameron Highlands Resort, Century Pines Resort, Casa Dela Rosa and Kea Garden.
Book your stay at The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands on Booking.com
Book your stay at Cameron Highlands Resort on Booking.com
Book your stay at Century Pines Resort Cameron Highlands on Booking.com
(Feature image credit: Ravin Rau/ Unsplash)
Related: Explore Malaysia’s Hidden Gem With This Ultimate Ipoh Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there hiking trails in Cameron Highlands?
Yes, there are hiking trails in Cameron Highlands. The Mossy Forest in Mount Brinchang is your best bet for a mist-filled hike.
What is the temperature in Cameron Highlands?
The weather is mostly pleasant throughout the year with a maximum temperature of 22°C and a minimum of 14°C.
Is there a local market in Cameron Highlands?
Yes, there are many local markets in Cameron Highlands. Cameron Square, Night Market and Kea Farm are the most popular ones.
Are there accommodation options in Cameron Highlands?
Yes, there are numerous accommodation options here such as The Lakehouse, Smokehouse Hotel and Cameron Highlands Resort.
Can I visit the Boh Tea Plantation in Cameron Highlands?
Yes, you can easily visit the Boh Tea Plantation here. In fact, it is one of the must-visit places.
Does Cameron Highlands have any cultural events?
The Flower Festival around August and September is one of the most important events at Cameron Highlands, organised to honour the colourful blossoms and agricultural produce. It witnesses numerous cultural shows and competitions.
Is it possible to visit Cameron Highlands for a day trip?
If you are staying in Ipoh, then you can plan a day trip to Cameron Highlands but it is best to spend at least two days here to experience the best of everything it has to offer.
Written By
Pyusha Chatterjee
A journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times. A solo traveller by choice, she loves exploring life more than anything else, after food of course. When she isn't gardening, writing, reading, cooking or singing out loud, you can spot her watching films and series, debating with ..Read More
