Visitors taking a boat ride at Tasik Cermin. — Photos: Bernama
WITH just a two-and-a-half hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, urban dwellers can retreat to Ipoh, Perak, and uncover an array of hidden gems just waiting to be explored.
What makes it even more appealing is that many of the locations, each with its own distinct charm, can be explored in a single day with a well-planned itinerary, making Ipoh an ideal destination for a quick getaway.
The journey to Ipoh can begin with an early stop at Tasik Cermin at around 9am to soak in the ambience of the lush green scenery.
Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride at either Tasik Cermin 1 or Tasik Cermin 2 for a closer look at the lake’s natural beauty.
Muhammad Luqman Azli, assistant senior operations officer for Tasik Cermin Tourism, encouraged visitors to arrive before 11.30am to fully experience the lake’s clear reflection, which resembles a mirror.
(Left) The ‘Flying Lemur’ and ‘Monkey Business’ attractions at Escape Ipoh theme park. (Right) A fire show at the Lost World of Tambun, Ipoh.
“At Tasik Cermin 1, we provide ‘viewpoint’ activities that are perfect for photography, along with boat rides.
“For the best viewing experience, note that during windy or rainy conditions, the mirror-like reflection may not be as clear.
“Thus, we recommend visiting between 9am and 11.30am or in the late afternoon, in good weather,” Muhammad Luqman said.
“At Tasik Cermin 2, the only available activity is the boat ride.
“What sets it apart from Tasik Cermin 1 is that visitors can navigate through a tunnel inside a cave, which does not connect to Tasik Cermin 1,” he added, reports Bernama.
Concubine Lane in Ipoh draws some 5,000 people a day, particularly on weekends.
For Malaysians looking to experience the boat ride, tickets are priced at RM18 (children) and RM25 (adults).
For non-citizens, it is RM22 (children) and RM30 (adults).
After basking in nature’s embrace, visitors can head to Concubine Lane, located just a short distance away, to explore its vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings.
Additionally, tourists can sample a variety of popular dishes at the cafes and stalls in the area, all of which are not only delicious but also affordably priced.
Options include nuts, rainbow bread and tanghulu.
This iconic location, once rumoured to be a notorious alley where Chinese tycoons kept their mistresses, can draw some 5,000 people a day, particularly on weekends.
A fire show at the Lost World of Tambun, Ipoh.
Escape Ipoh, open daily from 10am to 6pm except Mondays, is a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts, featuring 18 attractions including the Flying Lemur, Slingshot, Monkey Business and Monkey School.
Qim Ahmad, a visitor from Kuantan, Pahang, described his experience as unforgettable, as it challenged his courage, balance and agility.
“My favourite was Monkey Business. Although there were many rope obstacles and heights, I successfully completed the challenge.
“I spent almost four hours there and had a great time,” said the content creator.
He noted that visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing and bring extra clothes to change into after.
Following a day packed with activities, unwinding in the Lost World of Tambun Hot Springs at night is the perfect way to relax.
Visitors are advised to arrive at tasik cermin before 11.30am to enjoy the mirror-like reflection on the lake.
Visitors can enjoy splashing around in the Amethyst Pool, which maintains a soothing temperature of 38 to 40 degrees Celsius.
Muhammad Izzani Islahudin, who managed to find time to visit the water theme park after a tiring day, said it was very relaxing.
“This is my second visit to the Lost World of Tambun because I wanted to soak in the hot springs again and also catch the fire show.
“I really enjoyed visiting the zoo at night,” he said, noting that the theme park is open until 11pm every day.
