In the 19th century, Taiping was capital of Perak Province though this honor fell to Ipoh after WWII. Today, it’s a modest two-street town with hints of British influence still visible.
Taiping benefited from the tin mining boom and went from sleepy backwater to prosperous capital in the 19th century. But the city caught fire in 1880 and was redrawn by the British authorities into a compact and easily-navigated grid pattern. You’ll have no problem seeing the city on foot.
There’s a strong Chinese Buddhist demographic descended from the miners of the 1800s. Indian Muslims are a minority here and there are two prominent mosques in town. Many of the locals picked up Christianity from Dutch and British colonists and continue to worship in 19th century churches.
Despite Taiping’s sleepy atmosphere, there are several sites worth checking out if you’re in the area. The country’s oldest museum and largest urban parklands headline the attractions. The city center has hung on to a few 19th century heritage buildings.
Getting There & Away
Taiping is easily visited from Penang, where the international airport shuttles tourists in and out of the region. The North South Expressway connects the two cities and the journey takes 1 hour, 30 minutes when traffic is good. You can also take the train as far as Kuala Lumpur, but that’s a long-haul journey.
Things to Do
Taiping Attractions
- Mohammad Hanafi Mosque
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Serving ethnic indians, this important mosque was built in the 1970s.
- District Office
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Completed at the end of the 19th century, this is one of the finest victorian buildings in taiping.
- Perak Museum
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Malaysia’s oldest museum boasts a fascinating collection of artifacts related to the indigenous orang asli culture, fighter jets, ceramics and a huge rhinoceros skeleton. the building itself is worth visiting.
- Lake Gardens
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This is malaysia’s largest urban park and is popular with joggers, picnickers and anyone else looking for a quick escape into nature.