Gua Tempurung is one of the largest limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia, measuring nearly 2 kilometres in length and over 100 metres in height. Formed more than 4 million years ago, it contains many beautiful natural limestone features, such as stalactites, stalagmites, columns, pillars and stone pools, contained within 5 dome-like structures.
Exploring the caves, crevasses and crevices in Gua Tempurung is absolutely fun and educational. There are 4 different tours which cater for different fitness levels, ranging from the leisurely Golden Flowstone Tour (4o minutes; RM6.00 per adult, RM2.50 per child) to the more challenging Grand Tour (210 minutes; RM22.00 per adult, RM11.00 per child).
Gua Tempurung is situated in Lembah Tempurung, near Gopeng and is around 15 kilometres' drive north of Kampar. From the well-signposted turning on the old Kampar-Ipoh trunk road, drive 2 kilometres along a paved road to reach the entrance and the large car park just outside the entrance.
Be prepared to be amazed when you visit Gua Tempurung. You will definitely experience and learn something new each time you go. Very highly recommended.
Visit the official Gua Tempurung website here
Kampar River (Sungai Kampar or Sungai Itek) is a popular destination for whitewater rafting. Approximately 17 kilometres in length, it boasts 14 Class I to Class III rapids. A Class I rapid is considered easy to navigate with no skill required. A Class III rapid has medium waves, and will need some experienced paddling skills.
Whitewater rafting along Kampar River is indeed an exciting adventure with lots of adrenaline and white-knuckled fun. It is suitable even for beginners and those who are unable to swim, provided that the safety instructions are adhered to at all times.
To get there, you have to first drive to Gopeng town, around 15 minutes by car north of Kampar along the old Kampar-Ipoh trunk road. Once in Gopeng, the signposts will guide you to the ecotourism and rafting site 7 kilometres away. Whitewater rafting packages start from RM155 per person.
View the Perak Tourism Kampar River site here
Lata Kinjang Waterfall
Lata Kinjang Waterfall is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state of Perak. In fact, it is one of the tallest waterfalls (if not the tallest) in the whole of Malaysia, with a vertical, multi-tiered cascade of around 850 metres. It can be seen from the North-South Highway after passing the Tapah exit (if coming from Kuala Lumpur).
Set within idyllic surroundings, it is perfect for a picnic and refreshing dip in the cool water. For a higher vantage point and more great views, climb the steps leading up towards the suspension bridge. It is possible to hike up beyond the suspension bridge to the very top of the cascade, but the route can be quite steep and challenging.
Lata Kinjang Waterfall is located near the village of Chenderiang, about 25 kilometres south of Kampar along the old trunk road or about 30 minutes' drive. Once you pass Chenderiang, you will be directed by signposts towards the waterfall and the car parking area, past Kampung Kinjang and several hawker stalls. There are no admission or parking fees.
Visit the Perak Tourism Lata Kinjang site here
Kellie's Castle has the distinction of being the only castle in Malaysia. It was originally constructed for the Scottish rubber and tin tycoon, William Kellie Smith, and work began in 1915. Among the ambitious (some may say audacious) plans for the grand castle were a rooftop courtyard, a six-storey tower, underground tunnels and even an elevator, which would have been the first of its kind in the country at that time.
However, the castle was never completed as work halted upon Kellie's untimely death in 1926. The castle fell into ruin, but fortunately, there have now been extensive efforts by the Perak State Government to restore and preserve this magnificent building. Its setting has been used in numerous local and international films, including Anna and the King in 1999.
Kellie's Castle is located near the town of Batu Gajah, about 20 kilometres north of Kampar along the old Kampar-Ipoh trunk road. From Kampar, the drive takes approximately 30 minutes. The entrance fees are RM5.00 per adult and RM2.00 per child.
Visit the Perak Tourism Kellie's Castle site here
Lost World of Tambun
Lost World of Tambun is the largest theme park in Malaysia, and is set amidst ancient limestone hills over 400 million years old. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts nearly 500,000 visitors annually.
With 5 main elements - Water Park, Amusement Park, Lost World Hot Springs, Tiger Valley and Lost World Petting Zoo - there will be plenty of fun, adventure and of thrills in store for the family, whether young or old!
It is situated in Sunway City, Ipoh, around 40 kilometres drive north of Kampar. Entrance fees are RM38.00 per adult and RM32.00 per child.
Visit the Perak Tourism Lost World of Tambun site here
