Perak Darul Ridzuan takes its name from
the silvery color of the rich tin deposits for which it
is renowned since perak means silver in Bahasa Malaysia. This mineral featured prominently in the
history and economy of the state. The growth of its
major towns and the rise of numerous wealthy
millionaires in bygone years can be attributed to tin.
Although tin-mining has ceased to be a major industrial
activity, visitors can still catch a glimpse of Perak's
tin-mining history at the Geological Museum in Ipoh,
its capital city.
The saga of tin-mining aside, modern-day Perak is a vibrant state and has numerous
options for those willing to traverse its over 21,000 sq
km of territory. This state has a western coastline
facing the Straits of Malacca with Penang and Selangor
lying on its north and south respectively. Ipoh, its
capital city, is appealing with its beautifully
landscaped parks, orderly streets and pleasant
surroundings. It is also known for its many fruit stalls
selling the state's famous Tambun pomelos and
groundnuts. Guava is also Leaning Tower-Teluk
mostly on what was once mining land. Another appealing
characteristic of Perak is the imposing beauty of its
limestone hills. Set within these hills are two
well-known cave temples, Sam Poh Tong and Perak Tong.
This comprehensive travel guide to Malaysia will assist
you in choosing the best tourists attractions that will
suit your interest when you are holidaying in Perak.
Kangsar, the royal town of Perak features many old
buildings and structures of historical value such as the
Ubudiah Mosque and the Iskandariah Palace. The official
residence of the Sultan of Perak is one of the
most amazing palaces you will see in Malaysia. Here, the
last surviving rubber tree of the original batch that
was brought from London Kew's Garden in 1877 by H.N.
Ridley, can be seen at the district office. Just
south of this town is the site of a unique cottage
industry producing Perak's well known earthernware,
Labu Sayong. Another tourist attraction seen here is the
Royal Museum which was Photo: Ubudiah Mosque once a royal residence.
40 km north, is home to the country's oldest museum and
the cool hill resort of Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill).
Its scenic Lake Gardens and the Taiping Zoo are
favorites with locals and visitors alike and its serene
atmosphere will help to refresh your mind and
body. There are
several other points of interest that should not be
missed. One of these is Kellie's Castle in Batu Gajah.
It was built by a wealthy Scottish rubber planter,
William Kellie Smith. Lovers of history can visit the
historical site of Pasir Salak, further west of Batu
Gajah. With its many places of interest, Perak is
described as a splendor of
Taiping Lake Gardens in Perak
history, arts and
Pangkor, Perak's island in the sun draws throngs
of visitors annually to its lovely beaches, reputed to
be among the best in the world and it is one of the most
popular resorts in Malaysia. Bird lovers should head
north for the fascinating Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary
where over 100 species of birds can be sighted. So, make
a date with these spectacular places of interest
seen in Perak and make your vacation an