What to do during a weekend in Ipoh

If you’re planning a weekend getaway in Malaysia, Ipoh should be on your radar. Nestled between Kuala Lumpur and Penang, this charming city perfectly blends natural beauty, history, and relaxation.

From luxurious stays at surprisingly affordable prices to stunning natural attractions, Ipoh promises a memorable escape for families. Read on for our top recommendations on what to do during a weekend in Ipoh.

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Stay at the Haven Resort and enjoy the incredible facilities

How many countries can you stay in a 5-star resort like this for 75 USD per night? There are not many, I’m guessing, but this is where we stayed for a long weekend in Ipoh, Malaysia.

If you’ve read some of my blog posts, you’ll know that one of our favorite things about Malaysia is the excellent cost-to-value ratio.

And 75 USD wasn’t for a hotel room. We stayed in a lovely 3-bedroom condo with a kitchen and three bathrooms, which is perfect for a family.

This place is called The Haven Resort. We’d highly recommend it if you’re looking for accommodation in Ipoh.

The setup is a bit confusing. It’s kind of like a condo and resort in one. The hotel resort has rooms at a higher price than what we paid, but they’re still not extravagant.

We booked on Airbnb, which has several properties at The Haven. Homestays and Airbnb bookings are supposedly not allowed, so the check-in process felt a bit dodgy. We didn’t realize it would be quite like this when we booked, so we sent feedback to our hosts about the experience.

We could use all the facilities, though, except for the pool towels! The pools are stunning, with a lake and lush greenery as the backdrop. You’ll see monkeys swinging through the tree tops and dramatic limestone hills surrounding the property, which makes for a gorgeous setting.

I was excited to have a warm jacuzzi next to the pools! I’ve been in a few jacuzzis in Malaysia, and they have always been cold. I know the weather is hot, but still, I love going between the warm and cool.

You’ll also find a lovely path around the lake. We walked around it at night, and there were frogs everywhere!

The resort also has a restaurant, gym, kids’ playground, grass space, and a few token pets. Check it out if you’re wondering where to stay for a weekend in Ipoh!

Visit Mirror Lake

There are several lovely things to do in Ipoh. Many people visit the Lost World of Tambun theme park. But during our short visit, we decided to see Mirror Lake instead.

Mirror Lake boasts a breathtaking setting amid towering limestone and marble cliffs. There’s an old minors tunnel, where they used to mine for iron ore, which you have to walk through to reach the lake.

You need to pay a small fee to walk through the tunnel. There are two separate boat rides (approximately 20 minutes each) that you can choose from for up-close views of the limestone. At 25 RM per person, we decided one ride was enough!

Mirror Lake also has a basic restaurant. Plus, you can walk amid the limestone rocks next to the restaurant, without taking the boat trip.

So, if you’re wondering what to do during a weekend in Ipoh, check out Mirror Lake. It’s a stunning spot to spend a few hours.

What to do during a weekend in Ipoh | In Conclusion

Ipoh may not be as well-known as some of Malaysia’s other destinations, but that’s part of its charm. Whether you’re soaking in the natural beauty of Mirror Lake or relaxing in the luxurious comfort of The Haven Resort, a weekend in Ipoh offers a refreshing break from the everyday.

And there’s so much more to explore! We were only there for a short time, primarily to visit friends. So, we only touched the surface of what Ipoh offers.

From the vibrant street art in Ipoh Old Town to the famous white coffee shops, the impressive Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple, and the bustling night markets, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.

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