Malaysia’s beloved hill station became popular with visitors during the days of British occupation. The infrastructure is excellent, and there are plenty of resorts and restaurants where visitors can make the most of their holiday.
While the highlands are an essential part of Malaysia’s tourism industry, the most important industry here is agriculture. Fruit and vegetable markets abound, and area restaurants feature the freshest ingredients. Botanical gardens and floral arrangements are scattered across the countryside.
There are there major stops along the highlands motorway. The first is Ringlet, a charming town that has more to offer farmers than tourists. All the same, it’s worth a stop to stretch your legs and fill up the gas tank. If you’re running out of daylight, the LakeHouse Hotel is 10 minutes beyond the city limits.
Less than a half-hour drive from Ringlet is Tanah Rata, the government headquarters of the Cameron Highlands. Backpackers congregate here around budget guest houses, and local travel agencies arrange jungle treks and other adventure activities that are likely to appeal to budget travelers.
Brinchang is a 10-minute drive further and holds the best selection of mid-range and upscale hotels. The dining scene is also best here, and tourists can take advantage of the fruit and vegetable market that meets on Saturday evenings.
Visitors looking for actual tourist attractions can continue along the road to Blue Valley and Kea Farm. This area is highlighted by flower gardens and parks, the Sungai Palas tea plantation and little farming communities. This is where American Jim Thompson, famous for carving out Thailand’s international silk industry, vanished in the 1960s.
Hiking is the most popular organized activity. Some require guides though many are laidback and can be taken on independently. Gunung Brinching is a peak that can be reached on a walk from Brinching, while Roberson Waterfall is an option for hikers from Tanah Rata.
Getting There & Away
Access to the Cameron Highlands is from the south through Tapah via Highway 59, the north-south expressway. Tapah is connected by bus to Kuala Lumpur (2 hours), Penang (2 hours) and Singapore (7 hours). From Tapah, buses connect to Ringlet (1 hour, 30 minutes) and Tanah Rata (1 hour, 50 minutes).
Route 145 is a newer road in Ipoh and offers access from the north. From the exit at Ipoh, a 1-hour drive brings you to Kampung Raja, the northernmost town in the highlands. Bear in mind that the only gas stations are at Ringlet and Brinching.