Cameron Highlands is one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations known for its cool climate, stunning natural scenery, and rich agricultural produce. Here are the latest travel tips for visiting Cameron Highlands
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Overview of Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is a district located in the state of Pahang, divided into three areas: Tanah Rata, Brinchang, and Ringlet, situated 200 km north of Kuala Lumpur. In recent years, Cameron Highlands has emerged as a premium holiday destination with great potential, promising to become a major tourist attraction in Malaysia.
Situated at an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters, Cameron Highlands offers visitors a temperate climate with an average temperature of around 25°C during the day and 18°C at night. The region is also known for its vast, lush tea plantations, a signature feature of this fertile highland.
During the period of British colonial rule, the British planted and cultivated tea on the slopes of Cameron Highlands, and since then, the local people have continued to maintain and develop the area, making Cameron Highlands the largest tea-producing region in Malaysia.
When to Visit Cameron Highlands?
Best Time to Visit
- Weather: Cameron Highlands has a cool climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It can get chilly, especially at night, so bring warm clothing.
- Seasons: The highlands are best visited during the dry season (February to April or September to November) to enjoy outdoor activities without rain interruptions.
This is because the early months of the year have the least rainfall in Cameron Highlands, making it more convenient for sightseeing and other tourist activities. Additionally, the scenery during spring in Cameron is vibrant and more beautiful than in other seasons.
Traveling to Cameron Highlands
By Bus from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands
- Once you arrive in Kuala Lumpur, head to Pudu Sentral Bus Station to purchase a bus ticket to Cameron Highlands.
- The bus fare typically ranges from 35-37 RM (approximately 245,000-259,000 VND) with a travel time of around 3-5 hours.
By Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands
- There is no direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands, so you will need to take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh and then travel by bus to Cameron Highlands.
- Although this route may be a bit more complex compared to traveling directly from the capital to Cameron Highlands, the flight time is only around 2 hours, making it a quick option.
By Bus from Penang to Cameron Highlands
- If you are starting your journey from Penang, you can head to Penang Bus Station to purchase a ticket to Cameron Highlands.
- The bus fare is around 35 RM (approximately 10$ ) with a travel time of around 5 hours.
By Bus from Singapore to Cameron Highlands
- If you wish to travel to Cameron Highlands from Singapore, you will need to take an overnight bus, which takes around 10 hours.
- A tip is to consider taking a bus from the Grassland and Fivestar companies, with ticket prices of around 55 RM (approximately 15$) departing from Golden Mile Complex.
Transportation in Cameron Highlands
Walking
When visiting Cameron Highlands, make sure to walk around to fully enjoy the fresh air and discover the unique aspects of the local culture. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella to shield yourself from unexpected drizzle.
Motorbike
This is the most common mode of transportation for tourists in Cameron Highlands. Renting a motorbike for half a day costs around 50 RM (approximately 13$), while a full day costs around 80 RM (approximately 20$).
However, you must have a valid driver’s license to rent a motorbike, and remember that traffic in Malaysia drives on the left side of the road
Car
If you are traveling in a group and enjoy exploring winding mountain roads, consider renting a car to experience the adventure.
Keep in mind that you need a valid driver’s license and a skilled driver, as the roads in the highlands can be narrow and steep.
Bus
Buses are a popular form of public transportation in Cameron Highlands, especially in Tanah Rata. With a fare of only around 1.5 RM (approximately 4$) per trip, the bus is an excellent budget-friendly option that still allows you to reach many of your desired tourist destinations.
Taxi
Taxis in Cameron Highlands are typically hired on an hourly basis, with rates around 25 RM per hour, which can be quite expensive. Moreover, the route you take often needs to be negotiated with the driver, so consider your options carefully before choosing this mode of transportation.
Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands
You have two options when looking for accommodation in Cameron Highlands. If you prefer a lively town with numerous shops and eateries, choose the Tanah Rata area. If you prefer a quiet space for relaxation, Brinchang is the place for you.
Hotels in Tanah Rata
The Smokehouse Hotel
The Smokehouse is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Tanah Rata, close to popular attractions such as strawberry farms, tea plantations, and Robinson Falls.
The hotel features classic European architecture and offers essential in-room services such as TV, wireless Wi-Fi, hot/cold water, and a bathtub. Additionally, the hotel’s recreational activities include a swimming pool and an upscale golf course.
Price range: Approximately $80 – $150 per room (depending on the room type and time of booking).
Hotel De’La Ferns
Located on the central Jalan Besar road in the town of Tanah Rata, Hotel De’La Ferns is an excellent choice for accommodation while you’re searching for a place to stay. In addition to its notable French architectural design, Hotel De’La Ferns also attracts visitors with its attentive customer service.
Each room at Hotel De’La Ferns comes with free Wi-Fi, a bathtub, and a balcony offering panoramic views of the picturesque tea plantations.
Price range: Approximately $50 – $150 per room (depending on room type and time of booking).
Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands
Heritage Hotel offers a variety of room options catering to all types of guests, from solo travelers to groups of more than four people. Located right in the center of Tanah Rata town, you’ll have easy access to dining and entertainment options while staying at Heritage Hotel.
In addition to comfortable accommodations, the hotel provides amenities such as a gym, bar, restaurant, and recreational center, ready to cater to all the needs of its guests.
Price range: Approximately $20 – $120 per room (depending on room type and time of booking).
Hotels in Brinchang
Snooze Too Hotel
Snooze Too Hotel is an affordable hotel located in the center of Brinchang town. The hotel is renowned for its quality rooms and excellent customer service, ensuring you have a pleasant stay.
Please note that during peak tourist season in Cameron Highlands, you should book your room several weeks in advance to secure a reservation.
Price range: Approximately $20 – $40 per room (depending on room type and time of booking).
Another highly rated budget hotel in Brinchang is Copthorne Cameron Highlands. In addition to basic room services, Copthorne provides amenities such as a gym, spa, indoor pool, restaurant, bar, and many other facilities.
From the hotel’s balcony, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the famous Butterfly Garden in Cameron Highlands.
Price range: Approximately $20 – $100 per room (depending on room type and time of booking).
Attractions and Exciting Activities in Cameron Highlands
Visit Tea Plantations
Enjoying the scenic beauty of tea plantations is a must-do when visiting Cameron Highlands.
Known as the “tea capital” of Malaysia, make sure to explore the famous tea plantations while in Cameron Highlands. Some notable tea plantations include Cameron Valley, Sungai Palas Garden, Bharat Tea, and Boh Tea. Among these, Boh Tea is the largest and most renowned plantation.
Explore Farms
Cameron Highlands is one of the few places in Malaysia that can grow temperate crops, so be sure to visit the lush and visually stunning farms in the area.
The most famous farms are the strawberry farms, where you can see ripe, plump strawberries hanging from the plants. Some popular strawberry farms in the area include Blueberry Earthhouse, Kok Lim Strawberry, Big Red Strawberry, Raaju’s Hill Strawberry, and S’Corner Central Market.
Additionally, Cameron Highlands is home to bee farms where you can observe traditional honey-harvesting methods used by the local community.
Visit Waterfalls
The beauty of waterfalls in Cameron Highlands, such as Thompson, Robinson, and Lata Kinjang, is sure to captivate you with their grandeur. However, reaching these waterfalls can be challenging, so visitors typically spend around 60 RM (approximately 15$) for a guided tour to explore the falls.
Visit the Night Market in Brinchang
If you want to indulge in street food and purchase souvenirs to bring back as gifts, you must visit the Brinchang night market. The market offers a variety of souvenirs and local products, as well as a long line of food stalls with tasty snacks.
If you’re looking to buy fresh fruit, it’s a good idea to visit the night market instead of purchasing from the farms. Keep in mind that the market is only open from 4:00 PM on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Conquer Mount Gunung Irau
If you’re an adventurer who loves natural forests, challenge yourself to hike and conquer Mount Gunung Irau—the highest peak in Cameron Highlands. In addition, the Mossy Forest on the mountain, featuring a network of centuries-old trees, will provide a fascinating challenge for true trekking enthusiasts.
Dining and Entertainment in Cameron Highlands
In Cameron Highlands, you can enjoy the unique flavors of Malaysian cuisine such as Steamboat, Curry Laksa, Assam Laksa, Nasi Kandar, and more, which are available at various local eateries, primarily concentrated in the town of Tanah Rata.
Steamboat
Steamboat is a must-try dish when visiting Cameron Highlands. This dish is quite similar to Vietnamese hot pot, featuring a variety of toppings such as fish, pork, seafood, and vegetables.
However, the highlight of Steamboat is the spicy, piping hot broth. Enjoying Steamboat in the cool weather of Cameron Highlands is truly a delightful experience.
Curry Laksa and Laksa Assam
Curry Laksa and Laksa Assam are two well-known specialties of Cameron Highlands. These two dishes have Indian roots and are made from main ingredients such as steamed mackerel, coconut milk, tamarind, chili powder, mint, lemongrass, fried shallots, pineapple, laksa leaves, and sambal chili paste.
While Curry Laksa is rich and creamy with a fragrant coconut milk-based broth, Laksa Assam offers a tangy and spicy flavor profile with a broth made primarily from tamarind and laksa leaves. Depending on your taste, you can choose which type of laksa suits you best.
Nasi Kandar
Nasi Kandar is a traditional dish from the Penang region with Indian origins. This dish is famous for the fragrant, fluffy rice combined with the spicy aroma of curry sauce, and the irresistible smell of roasted chicken. Tasting Nasi Kandar is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Ikan Bakar
Ikan Bakar is quite similar to grilled fish in Vietnam, but the seasoning method is different. Instead of using salt and chili or other types of salt, Ikan Bakar is marinated with chili paste, placed on banana leaves, and grilled over charcoal. The cooked fish is typically served with vegetables, curry, and steamed rice.
What to Buy in Cameron Highlands as Gifts?
Famous for its tea plantations, don’t forget to buy dry tea and other tea products when you visit Cameron Highlands as gifts for your loved ones.
Additionally, you can choose fresh fruits from the region, especially strawberries, to bring home. The night market in Brinchang offers a variety of local products at more affordable prices than buying directly from farms.
Moreover, thanks to its natural landscape and lush forests, Cameron Highlands also has another “specialty”: herbs and essential oils. You can buy them at local stores or the market, making for meaningful gifts.
Tips for Traveling to Cameron Highlands
- Plan your itinerary: Make a list of the places you want to visit each day before you set out. Many farms and flower gardens are located close to each other, so planning your itinerary in advance will make your exploration easier.
- Book bus tickets online: If you’re traveling from Kuala Lumpur, book your bus tickets to Cameron Highlands online at Pudu Sentral Bus Station to avoid ticket shortages and manage your schedule more effectively.
- Traveling with a group?: If you’re traveling with a large group, consider renting a taxi. However, be aware that taxis must be rented for a minimum of 3 hours and can carry up to 3 passengers, so renting a taxi is only practical if the places you want to visit are close to each other.
- Limited dining options: Cameron Highlands doesn’t have many famous dining chains, only Starbucks and KFC.
- Avoid weekends: It’s best not to visit Cameron Highlands on weekends to avoid crowds and higher costs.
