Underrated Things to Do in Ipoh Beyond Concubine Lane

Ipoh is so much more than its famous Concubine Lane. Beyond the crowds, the city hides tranquil temples, nostalgic villages, serene lakes, and heritage spots that reveal its true character. Here are eight underrated attractions that give you a fuller, more meaningful experience of Ipoh.

1. Kek Lok Tong Temple – A Limestone Sanctuary of Calm

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Set inside a dramatic limestone cavern, Kek Lok Tong blends spirituality, natural formations, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The temple opens up to a peaceful Zen garden with two lakes, a long reflexology path, and jogging/cycling trails that locals use in the evenings.

Stroll through majestic stalactite formations and Buddha statues, relax along one of Ipoh’s longest reflexology paths, or paddle across the twin lakes.

The temple also features jogging and cycling trails popular with locals. Hours are 7am–7pm, entrance is free, and the best time to visit is before 9am.

Keep an eye on playful monkeys!

2. Perak Tong Cave Temple – Home to a Giant Golden Buddha

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Perak Tong is one of Ipoh’s most iconic cave temples, famous for its towering 12m golden Buddha and richly painted cave walls. Beyond the main chamber, you can climb 400+ steps to reach hilltop viewing decks overlooking Ipoh’s limestone landscape.

Open 9am–6pm (climb allowed until ~3:30pm) with free entrance. Wear proper shoes and bring water—the climb is steep but rewarding.

3. Ipoh World @ Han Chin Pet Soo – The Story of Hakka Tin Miners

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Housed in a restored 1929 building, this museum offers storytelling-style tours about Ipoh’s tin mining past, Hakka culture, and life during the boom era. The guided tour feels immersive, with recreated rooms, old photographs, mining tools, and even a mini tin mine.

With 1,500+ artefacts across three floors, guides share the stories behind Ipoh’s boom era. Tours require advance booking, entry is free, and expect stairs throughout the three floors.

4. Kong Heng Artisan Market – Ipoh’s Creative Corner

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Set in restored colonial buildings, Kong Heng Square is a lively artisan hub filled with handmade crafts, vintage items, art prints, boutique stores, and trendy cafés. It’s also one of Ipoh’s most photogenic spots.

Weekend stalls, photogenic alleys, and colourful murals make it a must for creatives and photographers alike.

Open on weekends and public holidays, entry is free. Morning visits give better light and fewer crowds.

5. Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village – A Nostalgic Time Capsule

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A charming cultural park set against limestone hills, Qing Xin Ling recreates Malaysian life in the 60s–70s with vintage houses, antique collections, old shopfronts, and nostalgic exhibits. The peaceful lake and mountain backdrop make it feel like stepping into another era.

Enjoy lakeside photo spots, free trishaw and bicycle rides, and a peaceful mountain backdrop.

Open Mon–Sat, 9:30am–5pm (closed Sun & PH), with an RM12 entrance fee for local adults.

Be ready for lots of walking and some uphill paths.

6. Mirror Lake (Tasik Cermin) – Ipoh’s Hidden “Glass” Lake

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Accessible through a historic mining tunnel, Mirror Lake sits enclosed by tall limestone cliffs, creating a perfectly reflective surface—hence its name. It’s one of Ipoh’s most beautiful natural landscapes and an incredible photography spot.

Optional boat rides bring you closer to the lake’s serene beauty. Open 9am–6pm, entrance RM4–10.

Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven tunnel access.

7. Sam Poh Tong Temple – Malaysia’s Oldest Cave Temple

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Built into a limestone cave, Sam Poh Tong is known for its peaceful turtle pond, tranquil gardens, and spiritual atmosphere. The temple offers beautifully landscaped grounds and a 246-step climb to an elevated cave opening.

Hours vary (~7:30am–2:30pm), and entrance is free. Monkeys roam the grounds, so watch your belongings.

8. Lost World of Tambun – Ipoh’s Nature-Themed Adventure Park

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Set in a former limestone quarry, Lost World of Tambun combines water slides, amusement rides, natural hot springs, a petting zoo, and scenic limestone scenery. Ideal for families or adults seeking relaxation, the park also offers a cooler Night Park experience.

Plan for 6–8 hours, bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and cashless payment options.