visit cameron highlands from ipoh

Cameron Highlands Day Tour: Everything You Need to Know!

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

Looking for help to plan your perfect Cameron Highlands day tour? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about spending one day in Cameron Highlands. Including the top attractions to visit, how to get there, the best tours and more.

Located high in the Malaysian hills, Cameron Highlands is one of the most popular destinations in Malaysia. It’s famous for its tea plantations, hiking trails and cooler climate.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and start planning the perfect Cameron Highlands day tour for you!

• 1 About Cameron Highlands
• 2.1 How to get to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur
• 2.2 How to get to Cameron Highlands from Georgetown
• 2.3 How to get to Cameron Highlands from Ipoh
• 3.1 Enjoy the views over the tea plantations
• 3.2 Have tea at Boh Tea Centre
• 3.3 Hike in the Mossy Forest
• 3.4 Visit the Butterfly Farm
• 3.5 Eat fresh strawberries at the Strawberry Farm
• 3.6 Visit a Local Market
• 3.7 Learn about local history at the Time Tunnel Museum
• 3.8 Visit Sam Poh Temple
• 3.9 Swim in a waterfall
• 4 Best Cameron Highlands day tours
• 5 How many days do you need in Cameron Highlands?
• 6.1 In Cameron Highlands
• 6.2 In Kuala Lumpur
• 6.3 In Ipoh
• 7 What to pack for a day trip to Cameron Highlands 
• 8 Do you need travel insurance for Cameron Highlands?

Enjoying our Cameron Highlands private day tour

Essentials to book before you read on!

Best tours in Cameron Highlands

Private Cameron Highlands 2 days 1 night Trip

From Kuala Lumpur: Cameron Highlands Private Day Tour

Cameron Highlands and Mossy Forest Half Day Tour

Best hotels in Cameron Highlands

Budget: Sleepbox Hotel  

Mid-range: Hotel De’ La Ferns

Luxury: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands

Get 5% off your travel insurance here!

About Cameron Highlands

Located 200 kilometres to the north of Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands is a vast, hilly region famed for its tea plantations and cool climate.

With the area developed in the late 1920s – and the road opened in 1931 – the Cameron Highlands became a favourite of British colonial settlers in the 1930s, who came here to enjoy some relief from the sweltering temperatures elsewhere in the country.

The land was ideal for growing fresh vegetables and tea, but there were also many colonial buildings – a golf course, cottages, schools, a police office and administrative buildings.

So if you’re wondering what to do in Cameron Highlands in one day, there’s plenty!

Enjoying the views over the tea plantations from Boh Tea Centre in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

The jeep we did our private day tour of Cameron Highlands with

How to get to Cameron Highlands

Today the hill station is the highest point in mainland Malaysia that you can get to by car. There is no airport or trains that service the area, so you’ll either have to rent a car and drive yourself, go with a driver or catch the public bus.

The main cities people travel to Cameron Highlands from are…

How to get to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur

Taking a day trip from Cameron Highlands day trip from Kuala Lumpur is possible, but you’d be pushing it slightly.

The journey takes 3 hours 40 minutes to drive, while by public transport (bus) the journey can range between 4 and 6 hours (costing between RM 30-40).

Many people opt to take a day tour from KL , but personally I find this means spending the majority of your day travelling, and not enough enjoying the beauties of Cameron Highlands.

Check out prices & availability for a KL to Cameron Highlands day tour here , or click here to book the bus from KL to Cameron Highlands !

Hiking along the wooden boardwalk of the Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

How to get to Cameron Highlands from Georgetown

It’s around a 4-hour drive from Georgetown to Cameron Highlands. By bus, this is somewhere between 4.5 and 5 hours instead (the entrance fee is around RM 35-55).

Click here to book your transfer from Georgetown to Cameron Highlands!

How to get to Cameron Highlands from Ipoh

If you happen to be based in Ipoh , then a day trip to Cameron Highlands from here is much more doable. The 90-kilometre drive from Ipoh only takes around 2 hours.

By bus from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands it’s around 2 hours too, and costs RM 25-30. You can either book yourself onto a private Ipoh to Cameron Highlands day tour , or just book public buses and do your own thing.

Check out prices & availability for a Ipoh to Cameron Highlands day tour here , or click here to book your transfer from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands !

Can you spot the leaf insect?

Cameron Highlands 1-Day Itinerary

There’s a lot to mark out on your Cameron Highlands tourist map! 

If you join a Cameron Highlands full-day tour, these are the highlights included in the standard tour. If you’re visiting independently, these are the highlights that you shouldn’t miss on a trip to this lush, green slice of upland Malaysia.

Enjoy the views over the tea plantations

The first stop for most Cameron Highlands tours will be to explore a selection of tea plantations. Boh is the most famous, but there are also other tea plantations you can visit.

For example there’s also Bharat Tea Plantations, which is where you’ll find the perfectly located Cameron Valley Tea House 1 and 2 – the views from here are amazing.

Fairlie Tea Plantation is another good option, which offers tours and a place to sample tea on a beautiful backdrop.

All in all, the tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands make for a pretty place for a walk, enjoy the views and to take some pictures.

Unique views over the tea plantations of Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

My friend Arianna enjoying the views over the tea plantations in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Have tea at Boh Tea Centre

The Boh Tea Centre is an ideal stop for tea lovers, and the most common stop on most tours. This beautifully located plantation offers a glimpse into not just the tea industry, but the history of the Cameron Highlands as a whole.  

Located 5,000 feet above sea level, the conditions here – low temperatures, high rainfall, and acidic soil – make it ideal for tea growing.

You can spend time here wandering the tea garden, taking a peek inside the factory and enjoying the views over the plantations while you sip tea and have a bite to eat.

Plus it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs. Where better place to buy tea than straight from the source?

Enjoying tea and a snack from Boh Tea Centre in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Hike in the Mossy Forest

Cameron Highlands is home to some prime highland forest, where tree ferns grow and moss hangs from old branches of ancient trees.

The mist and cool temperatures create the ideal environment for lichens, ferns, moss and orchids to grow. Interesting wildlife makes their home here, from snakes and frogs to various bird species and mammals.

Exploring the wondrous realm of this particular stretch of forest – dubbed Mossy Forest – has been made easy thanks to a boardwalk that has been constructed to wind through the trees.

The boardwalk stretches from the entrance out into the Mossy Forest, does a little loop at the end and then joins back with the same initial trail.

The whole walk takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour tops, and is a great way to get up close to this beautiful nature, but still walking in relative comfort on the boardwalk.

The unique trees of the Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Visit the Butterfly Farm

Definitely on the Cameron Highlands attractions map is the popular Butterfly Farm. Comprising part of the Kea Farm, this is one of the oldest attractions in the region.

Set in a greenhouse, the Butterfly Farm occupies a sloping hillside and is filled not only with butterflies but other insects and animals too.  These include s nakes, leaf insects, huge beetles, and other animals and insects indigenous to Malaysia.

It’s open daily 8:30AM to 6PM. The entrance ticket usually isn’t included in your Cameron Highlands tour package, you have to pay it on the spot but admission is only RM 7.

Seeing beautiful butterflies at the Butterfly Farm in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Exploring the Butterfly Farm in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Eat fresh strawberries at the Strawberry Farm

With more than one strawberry farm to its name, finding somewhere to pick fresh strawberries in the Cameron Highlands is relatively easy.

It’s the centre of Malaysian strawberry production, after all, with the cold climate providing good growing conditions for the sweet fruit.  

One spot is Kok Lim Strawberry Farm (open 9AM to 5PM, it costs RM 30 to pick 500 grams of strawberries yourself). 

Personally we didn’t pick strawberries, we just visited the Strawberry Farm and purchased some strawberry products from the shop. It was a bit of an odd stop on the tour, but still pretty interesting.

Visiting a strawberry farm in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Visit a Local Market

A day trip to Cameron Highlands wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a colourful local market. The Pasar Pagi Kea Farm market is one of the biggest, while Raju Hill Strawberry Farm also has a decent vegetable market.

Here you can find all sorts of fruit and vegetables, as well as souvenirs. It’s a great place to learn about local culture. Here at night? Don’t miss Brinchang Night Market for edible delights.

Learn about local history at the Time Tunnel Museum

The Time Tunnel Museum is a must-visit museum that works as a time capsule filled with nostalgic memorabilia from Brinchang’s post-war past.

Think old TVs, barber chairs, children’s toys, and a recreation of a retro kopi tiam (traditional Malaysian eatery), among other things.

It’s the local museum in Cameron Highlands, and it’s a pretty interesting place to visit to learn about local history. It doesn’t go into a huge amount of detail, focusing more on showcasing memorabilia, but it’s still interesting.

Visiting a local market in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Exploring the Time Tunnel Museum in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Visit Sam Poh Temple

One interesting place at Cameron Highlands you should pay a visit to is Sam Poh Temple, a Chinese Buddhist temple that makes for a colourful stop to explore and snap pictures.

It’s a simple temple, but peaceful enough to make it worth visiting. It was the final stop of our Cameron Highlands day tour.

When you compare to other temples in Malaysia, like Batu Caves or Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur, Sam Poh isn’t as amazing, but it’s still an interesting cultural stop on an otherwise very nature focused tour.

Visiting Sam Poh Temple in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Swim in a waterfall

Our tour didn’t include a waterfall stop, but they do usually feature on most Cameron Highlands day tours. Thanks to the hills and wet conditions, there are several waterfalls to check out.

One is Lata Iskandar Waterfall, which is a picturesque spot where you can dip your feet in the pool, and pick up a snack from a nearby vendor if you’re hungry.  

There’s also the scenic and sizeable Robinson Falls, which features a 10-minute hike along a trail (not well marked) to get to it.

The waterfalls in Cameron Highlands might not be as impressive as Seven Wells Waterfalls in Langkawi, but they’re still very pretty.

Lata Iskandar, a beautiful waterfall on the way to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur

Best Cameron Highlands day tours

From Kuala Lumpur: Cameron Highlands Day Tour with Lunch

This Cameron Highlands day trip from KL is a shared tour. It includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, a visit to a tea plantation, the Butterfly Garden and a trip to a waterfall, as well as a stop at markets and a strawberry farm.

Local lunch at a Cameron Highlands restaurant is included in the price. It’s the classic Cameron Highlands day tour from Kuala Lumpur.

There are long transfer times, but it’s perfect for those who don’t have long in Malaysia and want to visit on a day trip.

Click here to book your Cameron Highlands group day tour from Kuala Lumpur!

Two snakes we saw at the Butterfly Farm in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

See the highlights of Cameron Highlands on this one-day trip. It’s a 12-hour private tour that begins with a pick-up at your accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, after which you’ll be whisked to the captivating landscapes of the highlands.  

You’ll see waterfalls, tea plantations, and traditional crafts, and stop for lunch at a local restaurant (included in the price), before heading to the Butterfly Farms.  

Being a private tour, you can tweak the itinerary to visit the stops that you’re most interested in.

Click here to book your private day tour to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur!

Exploring the stunning nature of the Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

This private overnight tour allows you to see all the tourist attractions in Cameron Highlands without being rushed. Taking place over 2 days and 1 night, you’ll leave the busy city behind on an adventure into the highlands.  

Getting around via a 4×4, highlights include the Mossy Forest, the famous Boh Tea Plantation, and markets. Being private, you can edit or tweak the tour depending on what you want to do.

This Cameron Highlands day tour package is a great option for those who have enough time to spend at least one night in Cameron Highlands, but don’t want to worry about having to arrange their hotel stay.

Click here to book your private overnight tour to Cameron Highlands!

Steamboat – a traditional dish from the Cameron Highlands area in Malaysia

Cameron Highland Best Tour from Ipoh (Private Day Trip)

This tour starts from Ipoh, meaning shorter travel time than from KL. It’s another private day trip , meaning you can personalise the tour depending on what you want to do.

Stop options include the Kea Farm Market, the Bharat Tea Plantation and Boh Tea Centre, amongst others.

Click here to book your private day trip to Cameron Highlands from Ipoh!

This Cameron Highlands half-day tour starts directly in the highlands themselves.

This is ideal for those who are staying here for a night or two independently, as you’ll get to tick off the highlights without having to worry about long travel times.

Pick your own strawberries, sample tea, visit a tea plantation, do a factory tour and walk amongst the trails of the Mossy Forest, amongst other things.

Click here to book your half day tour starting in Cameron Highlands!

How many days do you need in Cameron Highlands?

Despite the distance between the two, there are day trips available from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands .

These day trips allow you to see the main sights of the area in a whirlwind tour that means you won’t have to worry about getting to and from the highlands yourself.

However, as it’s quite a long drive from KL, I really would suggest spending at least 1 night in Cameron Highlands. This will give you more time to explore at a leisurely pace.

Once you’re there you can then do a full day tour starting directly from Cameron Highlands, maybe even staying another night before heading back. This is what we did as part of our wider Malaysia itinerary, and it worked well for us.

We spent the morning in Kuala Lumpur , arrived in Cameron Highlands in the afternoon, spent the next day doing a full-day tour of Cameron Highlands, and then left the next day (total 2 nights in Cameron Highlands).

It ultimately depends on how much time you have in Malaysia and what else you want to see, but I personally think one night in Cameron Highlands is the bare minimum to avoid spending hours in a minivan or bus.

Where to stay for your Cameron Highlands day tour

As I already mentioned, I recommend spending at least one night in Cameron Highlands, if not two, as it means you’ll be able to do a full-day tour without excessively long transfers.

That said, I know many travellers choose to visit on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur or Ipoh. Which is why I listed below some great places to stay in each city.

In Cameron Highlands

Budget: Sleepbox Hotel   – This hostel is a great option for budget travellers as it has spacious dorms, fun common areas, and great reviews.

Click here to book your stay at Sleepbox Hotel in Cameron Highlands!

Mid-range: Hotel De’ La Ferns – If you want something a bit more high end, but without breaking the bank, this English-vibe inspired hotel is a great option as it has spacious and clean rooms, and a delicious breakfast buffet.

Check out prices & availability at Hotel De’ La Ferns in Cameron Highlands!

Luxury: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands – If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. This charming country house inspired by English heritage is exquisitely furnished, with spacious outdoors areas.

Click here to book your stay at The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands!

The town centre in Brinchang in Cameron Highlands

In Kuala Lumpur

Budget – Chinatown Hostel by Mingle :  Located in Chinatown, this cool hostel is the place to be if you’re on a budget. From here, you can easily stroll to the night markets and main attractions of Kuala Lumpur. It also has a cool rooftop terrace to meet fellow travellers.

Click here to book your stay at Chinatown Hostel by Mingle in Kuala Lumpur!

Mid-range – ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre :  This branch of the international chain Ibis is located right in the middle of KL. It’s modern and polished, with comfortable rooms equipped with all the amenities you’ll need.  

Click here to see prices & availability at ibis KLCC!

Luxury – Ascott Star KLCC :  Treat yourself to an incredible stay at this high-end gem. Rooms come in a range of sizes and include private kitchenettes, as well as incredible views of Petronas Towers.

Don’t miss out, click here to book your stay at Ascott Star KLCC!

Going for a swim in the rooftop pool of our accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Budget: The Brownstone Hostel & Space – Located close to the centre of Ipoh, this hostel is great for budget travellers, as it has cool common areas, spacious dorms and also private rooms available.

Click here to book your stay at The Brownstone Hostel & Space in Ipoh!

Mid-range: Ipoh City Executive Suite – This apartment is spacious, modern and has a rooftop infinity pool with epic views over Ipoh, all for an affordable price. What more do you need?

Click here to book your stay at Ipoh City Executive Suite!

Luxury: Banjaran Hotsprings Resort – Tucked away into the hills, this resort is a gem and great place to treat yourself. Imagine private pool villas, massages, cave restaurants and beautiful views!

Check out prices & availability at Banjaran Hotsprings Resort in Ipoh!

Exploring Concubine Lane in Ipoh, Malaysia

What to pack for a day trip to Cameron Highlands 

Cameron Highlands can have a very variable weather, so it’s important to pack accordingly.

Waterproof jacket – even if you’re visiting in dry season, you will need one of these! We even went as far as rain ponchos , as it was just too rainy when we were there.

Adapter – depending on where you come from you might need one of these to charge your electronics. I like to use an international one so that it can work for multiple destinations.

Power bank – if you’re out and about all day you don’t want your phone to die on you just as you’re about to snap a great photo of the beautiful temples in Kuala Lumpur!

Waterproof shoes – if it ends up raining, you don’t want to get your feet wet! It’s also a good idea to pack flip-flops or a change of shoes, that way you can get out of your wet shoes at the end of the day.

Admiring “Children on a swing”, one of the famous street art pieces in Georgetown, Malaysia

Do you need travel insurance for Cameron Highlands?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Final thoughts on doing a day tour to Cameron Highlands

That’s a wrap on the ultimate Cameron Highlands day tour guide! Have you been to Cameron Highlands before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Cameron Highlands is the perfect place to escape the humid tropical climate of the lowlands. You will have the best time here, exploring tea plantations, verdant forests, flowing waterfalls and unique viewpoints.

From here many travellers continue onwards to Taman Negara, a famous tropical rainforest, but personally we chose to travel on to Ipoh, Georgetown and Langkawi .

There are different towns in the Cameron Highlands areas, all with their own charm.

I hope you found my Cameron Highlands day tour guide useful! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below.

Enjoyed reading about my Cameron Highlands 1 day tour? Pin it!

2023 CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary)

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 1, 2023 | Cameron Highlands , Itinerary , Malaysia , Travel Guide | 0 comments

Winding down the long slope in Cameron Highlands, we passed by a sea of tea plantations. Located in Pahang, this place is Malaysia’s most expansive hill station named after William Cameron, a British colonial government surveyor who went on a mapping expedition here back in 1885.  Today, Cameron Highlands is a  popular tourist destination in Malaysia  for locals and foreign tourists alike because of its cold weather, serenity and beautiful countryside scenery.  It’s a great  escape from the bustling Kuala Lumpur city. Surprisingly, despite its popularity, it remains a pretty much inexpensive place to visit. Here’s my Cameron Highlands   travel guide blog  with sample budget and itinerary to help you plan your trip here.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE 2023

How to go to cameron highlands.

Cameron Highlands is located in Malaysia, so if you are coming from the Philippines, you need to fly to Kuala Lumpur first.  There are several airlines flying between Kuala Lumpur and Manila, I recently visited Cameron Highlands via Cebu Pacific Air. They have daily flights between Manila and Kuala Lumpur. You can book your flights directly at cebupacificair.com . Estimated departure from NAIA Terminal 3 (Manila) is at 8:30 PM  and estimated arrival in KLIA2 (Kuala Lumpur) is at 12:50 AM the next  day.

KUALA LUMPUR TO CAMERON HIGHLANDS BY BUS

1.From Kuala Lumpur, you need to go to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) , the long distance bus terminal. It is right beside Bandar Tasik Selatan (BTS) train station , accessible by LRT, KTM, KLIA Transit, and Airport Bus.

To get to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) from KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur, you can ride the KLIA transit and alight at Bandar Tasik Selatan (BTS).  Fare for adults is RM 6.50 (₱82/$1.48) and fare for children is RM 2.90 (₱37/$0.66). You can also take the KLIA Transit from the airport (KLIA and KLIA2) to Bandar Tasik Selation (BTS), adult fare is RM 38.40 (₱486/$9) and child fare is RM 17.30 (₱219/$4).  You can also take the Jet Bus or any other Airport Bus from Level 1 of KLIA2 to Bandar Tasik Selatan Station, travel time is roughly 1 hour.  Bus fare is RM 12 (₱152/$3).

At Bandar Tasik Selation there is a bridge that connects to Bandar the bus terminal – TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan).  Walk for about 2 minutes to the bus terminal.

2.  At Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), you can take a bus to Cameron Highlands. First trip is at 8:30 AM and last trip is about 5:00 PM. Fare is roughly RM 38 (₱481/$8.63) and travel time is roughly 4 hours.  You can buy your tickets at the centralized ticket booth in Terminal Bersepadu Selatan or book online ahead of time to secure a seat.

• KUALA LUMPUR TO CAMERON HIGHLANDS BUS: BOOK HERE

Alternatively, if you have many luggage, you can take a taxi TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan). By the way, TBS has lockers at Level 3, in case you need to leave your bags.

IPOH TO CAMERON HIGHLANDS  BY BUS

At Amanjaya Terminal in Ipoh, you can take a bus directly to Cameron Highlands.  Bus fare is around RM 25 (₱316/$6) and travel time from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands is approximately 2 hours.  Bus usually leaves from Ipoh at 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM only. Take motion sickness pills as the road is winding.  You can your tickets online to secure a seat.

• IPOH TO CAMERON HIGHLANDS BUS: RESERVE SEATS HERE

GETTING AROUND IN CAMERON HIGHLANDS

Though there are buses that run between Tanah Rata and Brinchang for about RM 6 (₱76/$1.36), the schedule is unreliable.  Some backpackers opt to hitchhike instead. You can take a taxi for RM 30 (₱379/$7) per hour.

The most reliable way to get around Cameron Highlands is by tour package. If you are a solo traveler, traveling with a partner, or traveling in a small group (3-5 persons), you can join a group tour together with other tourists.  Half day tours costs around RM 50 (₱632/$11) to RM 75 (₱948/$17) . And whole day tour costs around RM 90 (₱1,138/$20).

CAMERON HIGHLANDS TOUR PACKAGES 2023

Once you are in Cameron Highlands, you can join group tours , book through accredited travel agencies only. You can also book online ahead of time to secure a slot. Expect to pay roughly Half day tours costs around RM 50 (₱632/$11) to RM 75 (₱948/$17) . And whole day tour costs around RM 90 (₱1,138/$20).

• CAMERON HIGHLANDS HALF DAY TOUR : RESERVE HERE
• CAMERON HIGHLANDS SUNRISE TOUR: BOOK HERE
• CAMERON HIGHLANDS TOUR FROM KL: RESERVE HERE
• CAMERON HIGHLANDS PRIVATE NATURE DISCOVERY TOUR :   BOOK HERE

PLACES TO SEE IN  CAMERON HIGHLANDS 

There are different tour packages in Cameron Highlands, depending on what you will choose. But here’s a list of Cameron Highland Tourist Attractions included in most tour packages (except for Jim Thompson House). Whatever package you choose, don’t miss the Tea Plantation tour. As I mentioned above, expect to pay around MYR 40 / PHP 465 / USD 9.34 for tour that includes the Tea Plantation, Strawberry Farm, Butterfly Garden and Mossy Forest.

  TEA PLANTATION

SAM POH BUDDHIST TEMPLE

STRAWBERRY FARM

ROSE VALLEY

HONEYBEE FARM

CORAL HILL (MINI MOSSY FOREST)

BUTTERFLY GARDEN

WHERE TO STAY IN CAMERON HIGHLANDS

The main towns in Cameron Highlands are Ringlet, Tanah Rata and Brinchang.  Most tourists stay at Tanah Rata, sprinkled with budget and midrange accommodations and Brinchang with mid-range to high-end hotels.  I stayed at Tanah Rata town since everything I need is accessible: cheap hotels, restaurants and banks. And the main bus terminal (Terminal Freesia) is located in Tanah Rata.

• Brick’s Backpacker’s Hotel
• Location: Tanah Rata

Stayed at Brick’s Backpacker’s Hotel during my last trip to Cameron Highlands. Got my own private room. This hostel is so clean and the manager is so helpful.

• Heritage Hotel Cameron
• RESERVE HERE
• Snooze Too Hotel
• Location: Brinchang
• Copthorne Cameron Highlands

CAMERON HIGHLANDS ITINERARY

Here’s a sample Cameron Highlands Sample 2 Days 1 Night Itinerary which includes a visit to Boh Tea Plantation, Coral Hill (Mossy Forest) Strawberry Farm and Buddhist Temple.

 ALSO READ: CAMERON HIGHLANDS ITINERARY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS

Cameron highlands trip budget.

Cameron Highlands is inexpensive, here’s a sample budget/expenses for a 2 day 1 night trip to Cameron Highlands. Rates may change without prior notice.

  CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL TIPS  

RENT A POCKET WIFI HERE  and pick it up at Kuala Lumpur Airport KLIA.  You can also  PURCHASE A  MALAYSIAN SIMCARD HERE. 

Bring a jacket and socks as it get quite cold in Cameron Highlands especially at night.  Bring umbrella too as it usually rains in the afternoon.

Try the steamboat offered in many restaurants sprinkled around Cameron Highlands.

Stack up cash (Malaysian Ringgit) but you can also withdraw from ATMs in Tanah Rata.

Cameron Highlands is mostly about nature and trekking.

To avoid the crowd, travel to Cameron Highlands on weekdays and avoid the holidays.

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The Ultimate Cameron Highlands Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: March 7, 2024

Categories Asia , Guides , Malaysia , Travel Guides

Nestled in the lush hills of Malaysia’s Pahang state, Cameron Highlands is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, cool temperatures, and strawberries, this region is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Malaysia and fill their eyes and souls with green tranquility. To do it efficiently, though, you need a great Cameron Highlands itinerary.

Designed to take you around the best of the region in just 2 days, this compact guide will showcase the very best of the region. If you have more time to spend there, no worries. I’ll list everything there is to do in the Highlands so you can be prepared for a memorable trip. Are you ready? Let’s go!

Where is Cameron Highlands

Located in central Malaysia, Cameron Highlands is just 200km from Kuala Lumpur and 250km away from Georgetown. Since those are the two most popular tourist places in Malaysia, Cameron Highlands may act as the perfect stop between them.

How to get to Cameron Highlands

In order to follow the Cameron Highlands itinerary, you have to get there first, right? Located up in the mountains, there are only two ways to reach it. 

The most popular one is via rented car. The most significant advantage of this option is that you’re also free to explore the area without relying on taxis. Rented cars may be expensive, though, so I recommend checking out  Discover Cars . Their tool compares all the prices in the region, and it’s not rare to find incredibly cheap offers.

The other way is to  get a bus . Plenty of buses depart from Kuala Lumpur, Georgetown, or Ipoh and go to Tanah Rata (the main town in the Highlands). If your accommodation is in Brinchang (the other big town), tell the driver, and they will make a stop there.

If you are a train enthusiast, you may catch a train from Penang or Kuala Lumpur to the nearby city of Ipoh and then take a  bus  or taxi to Cameron Highlands. The train journey takes about 2-3 hours and is a scenic ride through rural Malaysia.

Cameron Highlands Itinerary – Day 1

Boh tea plantation.

BOH Tea Plantation is the largest tea plantation in South-East Asia that produces more than 5 million tea bags daily. It’s also probably the reason you are reading this Cameron Highlands itinerary.

Spanning over 465 hectares of rolling hills and lush greenery as far as the eye can see, the plantation feels otherwordly. The visit is free and includes a small tour of the factory. There’s also a tea house (the taxi will drop you there) where you can try their famous products while overlooking the green sea of tea.

The best part, however, is not the tea house, factory tour, or the gift shop. The best experience at the BOH Tea Plantation can be enjoyed if you go out of the beaten path. Type 4.522034, 101.398218 in Google Maps (or Maps.me), save it, and make sure you don’t miss it. This is the most incredible view spot inside the plantation, and – it’s free of people! While there are hundreds and hundreds of visitors in the tea house, there’s literally no one at the most scenic spot in the area. You can reach it easily by car or even by foot. While there’s a slight uphill walk, it shouldn’t be a problem.

Tea House Working Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Monday – Closed Price: Free How to reach? Via rented car/bike or taxi/grab. There’s no public bus going there.

Explore your town

BOH Tea Plantation should take most of the first day of your Cameron Highlands itinerary, so the best you can do in the afternoon is to explore the town you stay in. Both Brinchang and Tanah Rata have plenty of local shops, farms, and restaurants to check out. If it happens to be Friday or Saturday, you can enjoy the famous Brinchang Night Market (from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM).

For dinner, I suggest trying the local Steamboat delicacy. Also known as hot pot or shabu-shabu, this dining experience involves cooking various meats, seafood, vegetables, and noodles in a boiling pot of broth. Most restaurants are buffet-style, giving you the freedom to choose your ingredients. Combining Steamboat with the fresh organic food in the region is truly a top-notch experience.

Cameron Highlands Itinerary – Day 2

Go for a hike.

If you’re a trekking and hiking enthusiast, Cameron Highlands is the right place for you (if not, you better replace this part). There are more than a dozen paths that go to (or through) Gunung Brinchang (the highest mountain in the region), Mossy Forest (scenic forest), Robinson Falls, Parit Falls, and Mount Irau (famous for its stunning views).

One of the easiest paths is number 9, which leads to Robinson Falls (it continues after that, but not worth it, imo). Here  and  here , you can find more info about the trails. The best app for navigating them is Maps.me.

Strawberry Farm

The region is famous for its farms, and I couldn’t miss having one on my Cameron Highlands itinerary. My favorite is the Big Red Strawberry in Brinchang. If you visit during the strawberry season, you can pick your own strawberries. If not, there’s still plenty of delicious strawberries to try. Actually, not just strawberries. Everything you can imagine that can be made out of strawberries. From ordinary things like jam and ice cream to weird ones like coffee (yup, they sell strawberry coffee there).

Working Hours: Mon-Fri from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM Sat-Sun from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Price: Free How to reach? If you stay in Brinchang – on foot. If you stay in Tanah Rata – by rented car/bike or taxi/grab

More than 2 days in the Cameron Highlands

If you have more time on your Cameron Highlands itinerary or you want to replace something, here are my recommendations:

Mossy Forrest

One of the biggest attractions in the area, the Mossy Forest, is a unique and enchanting ecosystem named after…well… the moss that covers pretty much everything there, creating a mystical and otherworldly atmosphere. In addition, it’s often shrouded in mist and clouds, which further adds to its mystical atmosphere and creates an incredible photo setting.  So why is it not on the main Cameron Highlands itinerary?

Well, getting to the Mossy Forrest is a bit challenging. You can try driving there yourself but may get a bit lost. You can get a taxi midway, then hike the rest of the way up or go on a brutal jungle hike through Jungle Walk number 1, but… yeah. The easiest way would be to get a tour, but that may mess up the other plans of the day. Check the tour price here

Look for Rafflesia Flower

The Rafflesia is the largest flower in the world, known for its pungent odor and striking appearance. It’s pretty hard to find, and the Cameron Highlands is one of the best places to search for it. You’re not allowed to do it on your own, though. You must get a licensed guide with you. 

So why isn’t something that unique on the Cameron Highlands itinerary?  Well, the trek for the flower may be too much for some people, and you have no guarantees you’ll find one. Check the price here

Flower festival 

The Cameron Highlands Flower Festival is an annual event celebrating the region’s vibrant and colorful floral diversity. The festival usually takes place in August or September. During the festival, you can witness parades and traditional cultural shows, flower exhibitions, and all sorts of competitions.  So why not on the itinerary?  You have to be in Cameron Highlands on particular dates to catch it.

Cameron Highlands is well-known for its various farms. Wait, that’s a bit of an understatement. The Highlands are the most public-farm place I’ve seen anywhere in the world. There are farms to visit literally everywhere. 

What do I mean by public farms? Well, it’s not a regular farm like in the US but a farm open for visitation where you can pick your own product.

There’s a lavender farm, bee farms, cactus farms, lettuce farms, and countless strawberry farms.  So why are they not on the Cameron Highlands itinerary?  Well, my favorite was a strawberry farm, so it’s on the itinerary. You have plenty of options to replace it, though.

Time Tunnel

A   fascinating tiny museum near Brinchang that showcases more than 4,000 memorabilia and photos from the region’s past. Working from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM with an entrance fee of just 6 MYR (1.3 USD), it’s a nice place to spend an hour.  So why is it not on the itinerary, then?  Well, it’s not really in Brinchang but next to it, making it a hassle to reach without a car/bike.

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands

There are two main villages you can stay in Cameron Highlands:

Tanah Rata  is the bigger and more popular of the two. It has a few trekking paths and a bus station. There are more restaurant choices and even a Starbucks. My recommendation for accommodation in Tanah Rata is  ATS Cameron Hotel & Apartments . 

The hotel is close to the bus stop; the apartments are modern and stylish. They feature balconies and a lot of room options. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes (including my favorite Bake an Cafe) minutes away from your door, and the price is quite reasonable. Check the latest prices here

Brinchang  is smaller than Tanah Rata but is closer to BOH Tea Plantation and is also home to the Big Red Strawberry Farm. It has more local steamboat restaurants, a night market, and a Mcdonald’s. My recommendation for accommodation in Brinchang is  Wan Alyasa Hotel .

The hotel is situated in the center of the town, close to the Big Red Strawberry Farm, Centrum Mall, and Mcdonald’s. It offers 24hrs desk, clean, modern rooms, extra-large beds, and friendly staff. It’s also one of the highest-rated accommodation options in the area but still keeps reasonable prices.  Check the latest prices here

   See Also:   The Ultimate Thailand Itinerary

Cameron Highlands Tours

If the Cameron Highlands itinerary seems like too much hassle for you, you can go the easy way and book a tour around the biggest highlights in the area. Of course, you won’t have the freedom you have when you explore independently, but it’s pretty convenient. Check the prices here

If you want to see the beauty of the area but don’t want to add another stop to your Malaysia itinerary, you can go on a day trip from Kuala Lumpur or Penang. Again you won’t have the freedom, and you won’t see as much as you will see if you stay in the Cameron Highlands, but it’s the most convenient and time-saving way to enjoy the area. Kuala Lumpur Shared Day Trip Kuala Lumpur Private Day Trip Penang Day Trip

How to get around Cameron Highlands

While getting around the towns and trekking can easily be done by foot, getting to all attractions on the Cameron Highlands itinerary would be quite challenging without transportation. If you’ve rented an inexpensive car from  Discover Cars , you are good to go and can skip that section.

If you have no car, you can either rent a motorbike (check with your hotel for the nearest place) or via taxi. Taxis can be rented by the hour (25 RM/5.50 USD) per hour) which is the most cost-efficient way to explore the area. If you want to check just one destination though (BOH Tea plantation, for example) and spend the rest of the day hiking or relaxing, you’re better with Grab. Grab is the Uber in Malaysia that shows you the price of your ride before you book it. Way more inexpensive than any taxi. You do have to have a Malaysian SIM with data and keep in mind that in some of the more remote locations, it would be hard to find a car.

There are some legends about a local bus that connects the villages and the attractions, but during my time there, I didn’t find or see one. I also asked my hotel, and they had no idea about such a bus.

The best time to visit Cameron Highlands is generally February (13 rainy days), June (16 rainy days), and July (15 rainy days). On the contrary, the wettest months are April (24 rainy days), October (27 rainy days), and November (25 rainy days). The temperatures are pretty much the same throughout the year ranging from 12°C/53°F to 23°C/73°F. The rainy months in Cameron Highlands typically present way fewer tourists and better accommodation prices, but the heavy rain may cause landslides and flooding, making certain activities and roads inaccessible. It does bring the greenery to extra lush levels while presenting breathtaking misty landscapes, but following my Cameron Highlands itinerary may become impossible due to heavy rains. It’s up to you to risk it or not. Check out the weather here

Cameron Highlands is generally a safe location with a very low crime rate. Of course, you still have to exercise caution, but most likely, you won’t have any problems there, no matter the kind of traveler you are. Be careful on the narrow mountain roads, though, especially during the rainy months. Accidents, there is sadly not that uncommon. Being a safe place doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get travel insurance. On the contrary, it’s one of the most must-do things before you travel. I currently use  HeyMondo  for my travels because they have proven themselves to me more than once over the years. The link above will give you a 5% discount, but If you have another favorite provider, that’s ok. Just make sure you have one because you never know what may happen.

The Internet quality in Cameron Highlands may not be as fast or reliable as in major cities, but it is generally available in most areas. And while the Wi-Fi mostly sucks, if you have a Malaysian SIM card, you shouldn’t have any problems, and you can follow the Cameron Highlands itinerary without worry you may get lost.

Compared to other destinations in Malaysia, Cameron Highlands can be slightly more expensive due to its remote location and the cost of importing goods to the area. However, it’s quite an affordable destination, especially if you come from a Western-priced country. Check some average Cameron Highlands prices here

Two full days are enough to enjoy the region. However, if you need a longer break from the heat and hustle of Malaysia, you may consider recharging your batteries with a week of tea and strawberries.

Cameron Highlands is absolutely worth the trip. You escape the Malaysian heat for a moment, relax your soul with the lush green fields and eat the tastiest strawberries in Asia. Combine that with the fact that the crowds there are not too dense, and you have one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Malaysia.

That’s all from me, now you have the best Cameron Highlands itinerary. ———————————— If you haven’t planned your trip there yet, find out how I plan my trips! ———————————— I have 13 bucket list ideas for Malaysia. See my impossible bucket list of 1700+ adventures!

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Cameron Highlands Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)

Planning a Cameron Highlands itinerary in 2024? You’re in the right place! The Cameron Highlands is a beautifully unique area of mainland Malaysia and you can spend 2 to 3 days in the Cameron Highlands exploring the best things to do.

From visiting spectacular tea plantations to picking strawberrie s and hiking through the rainforest jungle . You’ll have a great time in the Malaysian highlands. Let’s find out what to do in Cameron Highlands and plan your itinerary!

The Cameron Highlands is one of the best spots to visit in Malaysia for many reasons. Its unique atmosphere makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a different country with a different climate. It’s one of the highest points in Malaysia with roads and Gunung Brinchang reaches an elevation of 2031m high above sea!

Some of the best things to do in Cameron Highlands are to take in the impressive tea plantations , taste the fresh highlands strawberries and appreciate the colder weather. Some locals come here to the Pahang District just for a break from the hot humidity of Malaysia.

Similar to other areas of Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands has a strong British history and one of the reasons is what makes the area so famous. Back in the colonial days, the British would use the Cameron Highlands as their resort town.

Houses, bungalows and retirement homes started to be built. In 1929, a man named John Archibald Russell started a tea plantation which is now the famous Boh Tea Plantation !

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Best Time to Visit Cameron Highlands

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

The best time to visit Cameron Highlands is in the dry season which is January to April and June to October. However, if you want to see the highlands fully green then November to December could also be a lovely time to visit.

It will definitely be colder in these months, but it’s an opportunity to gear up and get cosy! It’s also completely possible to plan your Cameron Highlands itinerary all year round.

The Weather in the Cameron Highlands

As Cameron Highlands is high above sea level, it can get pretty chilly! We recommend you bring a rain jacket and a warmer jacket whilst visiting here because even on sunny days it’s cold early morning and in the evenings.

Rain can come at any time which means you may be out on a hike with wet shoes and wet clothes. If you can, bring hiking shoes (although not completely essential)!

Bring along a lightweight tripod to get beautiful photos of yourself or your group when there’s no one around – We love our Joby GorillaPod and used it throughout our Cameron Highlands itinerary. There’s also a Joby Phone Tripod to get amazing videos too!

How to get to Cameron Highlands

Rent a car – You can rent a car for your Malaysia trip to enjoy the things to do in Cameron Highlands. We recommend Paradise Rent-A-Car as we’ve heard great things about this company! The journey takes around 3 hours from Kuala Lumpur. Here’s the link – Paradise Rent-A-Car Website. Alternatively, browse prices on Discover Cars !

Bus – Buses in Malaysia are amazing! You can buy bus tickets at the station or book online with 12Go , EasyBook or RedBus . You may have to get your ticket validated at a station if you book online, however, tickets may sell out if you purchase your ticket at the time of your bus. A bus ticket from Ipoh costs around 25RM and a bus ticket from Kuala Lumpur is around 40RM per person.

How to get around the Cameron Highlands

• Car – If you have your own car or a rental car this will be the perfect way to get around for the day! Beware of the weekend traffic as it gets super busy from many Kuala Lumpur day trippers!
• Scooter – There are a few scooter rentals in the Cameron Highlands! If you’re staying in Tanah Rata, we recommend using Cameron Highlands Motorbike Rental ( location here ). The prices are 40RM for half-day and 70RM for 24 hours. Petrol was around 2RM to fill up again after exploring.
• Tours – If you don’t want to drive your own vehicle, you can hop on a day tour! They’re popular in Cameron Highlands as you can’t reach every spot by bike or private car. We recommend Discover Camerons as a great tour company for your Cameron Highlands itinerary!

Day 1 – Tea Plantations, Mossy Forest & Tanah Rata

Finally. we’ll show you what to do in Cameron Highlands! So day one of your Cameron Highlands itinerary will be a great introduction to the life up here in the highlands. You can visit these places by car, bike or tour, however, Mossy Forest is only by a tour in 2024.

BOH Tea Plantations & Cafe

Visiting BOH Tea Plantations is one of the best things to do in Cameron Highlands! It’s the largest black tea manufacturer in Malaysia and spans over 465 hectares! Boh means precious in Mandarin and also ‘Best of Highlands’.

Mossy Forest & Mount Brinchang

The Mossy Forest is sometimes described as the Lord of the Rings of Malaysia. It’s home to ancient trees, beautiful viewpoints and of course lots of moss! The forest is said to be around 200 million years old, which is unbelievable. Private vehicles are no longer allowed to drive to Mossy Forest, so you have to book a tour with a 4×4.

Cameron Highlands Half-Day Tour

• BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre (free entry)
• BOH Cafe (tea from 4RM)
• Mossy Forest (entry fee: 30RM for internationals / 10RM for locals)
• Mount Brinchang Viewpoint (included in the Mossy Forest ticket)

Cameron Highlands Half-Day Tour Experience

The half-day tour was amazing! We booked the tour through our hostel Bricks Cameron Hostel and they booked us on a tour with Discover Camerons . We couldn’t recommend our guide and driver enough, he was so thoughtful about everything and pointed out so many plants for us!

The day started at 8 am when we were picked up by our driver and taken to BOH Tea Plantations ( BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre ). There were 8 of us in total and everyone was super friendly! Our guide told us information about the tea plantations and showed us a path to walk for amazing views. We then reached the cafe around 9 am as it started to get busy – the queues for this cafe can be so long in the afternoon!

Tea prices range from 4RM to 6RM with various cake options (no vegan options for food) There’s also a shop to buy tea and a short movie to watch with more info about the tea factory. Drinking tea overlooking the tea plantations is one of the best things to do in Cameron Highlands!

After the tea plantations, we headed to Mossy Forest ! It was around 10:45 am at this point and we were given an hour to climb through the rainforest which is actually more than enough time! Our guide pointed out different types of plants and offered to take more photos of us. He also helped us out with paying a local price for the entrance fee of Mossy Forest (although we can’t guarantee it will happen in the future!).

Mossy Forest was so interesting! There are a few viewpoints where you can admire the mountains and feel the highland wind. The walk up and down was all by steps and wooden bridges, it took us around 40 minutes.

On the way back our guide stopped at the tea fields to show us a beautiful view and we took some more photos of course! You pass through the tea plantations on the way back to town. He also stopped off at a market so we had the option to buy some fresh produce or snacks!

At this point, it was almost 2 pm and he dropped us back off in Tanah Rata where our accommodation is. We thought the tours finished at 12 pm so maybe we were given extra time!

Cameron Highlands Half-Day Tour Review

Overall, it was definitely worth it on our Cameron Highlands itinerary! We usually love exploring places by ourselves but as Mossy Forest isn’t possible to drive to, we had to book a 4×4 tour anyway. For the price of the half-day tour, it just made so much sense to go with this option!

We were lucky the weather was on our side all day unlike the day before. We 100% recommend booking with Discover Camerons or at least at Bricks Cameron Hostel .

Find their details here – Discover Camerons Facebook & Bricks Cameron Hostel

Browsing around Tanah Rata

After a busy first day of your Cameron Highlands 2 day itinerary come back to relax in your accommodation or town. Tanah Rata means flat ground in Malay, which is exactly where the town is located. There are many Indian & Malay restaurants to grab some food and you can even find lovely cafe’s here too.

The Lord’s Cafe is a cafe highly recommended by other travellers (unsure of vegan options!) ( location )! They have some of the cheapest scones in the Cameron Highlands and many other cakes and drinks. It’s a perfect spot if you need a rest or if it’s raining outside.

Spend your evening browsing around the markets and shops in the area before grabbing some dinner at Singh Chapati ( location !)

Day 2 – Hiking, Tea Plantations & Strawberries

So Day 2 of your Cameron Highlands itinerary will take you strawberry picking, to a different tea plantation and on a hike of your choice!

Are you still wondering what to do in Cameron Highlands? Did you think hiking would be on your list?! The highlands are full of wonderful hikes from beginner to advanced! Remember that the weather in Cameron Highlands is unpredictable so be extra prepared for sun or rain. Here are a few hikes for you to choose from:

Trail 10 into Trail 6 – Tanah Rata to Gunung Jasar to Cameron Valley

This hike is one of the best things to do in Cameron Highlands and is very recommended by many travellers! As we mentioned, you have to be prepared for the weather and unfortunately, if it’s raining a lot the path may get too slippery.

This hike is listed as moderate to hard, if you’re worried about the hard part, you may want to stick with just Trail 10 and return to Tanah Rata. You also don’t need a guide to do these trails. There’s an accurate map of the trail on Maps.Me.

How long does it take? From Tanah Rata to Cameron Valley will take you around 3 hours one way. Trail 6 is the steeper part of the trail, so be extra careful!

If you decide to go complete trail 6 you will end the trail in a lovely tea plantation – Bharat Tea Plantations ( location here ) and then you’ll need a ride/taxi back up to Tanah Rata.

Also look at our 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary and take a trip to the capital of Malaysia!

Jungle Trekking

At certain times of the year, you can go on jungle hikes searching for the biggest flower in the world – The Giant Rafflesia ! The blooming of this flower is very unpredictable, which means you’ll have to ask around if it’s possible to see one at the moment.

The Giant Rafflesia can take up to one year to grow and only blooms for 3-5 days. As it’s pretty rare it’ll be hard to plan to see this flower on your Cameron Highlands itinerary.

You can still hike in the jungle, even if these flowers aren’t in bloom! The jungle in Cameron Highlands is full of many plants and amazing species. Hiking boots would be perfect for these hikes as they can be pretty muddy, however, trainers may be okay!

Visit Bharat Tea Plantations

Just south of Tana Rata is one of Cameron Highlands tea plantations. It’s slightly less busy than BOH Tea Plantations and you can still get amazing views of the hills with tea plants. Definitely worth adding to your 2 day Cameron Highlands itinerary.

It costs 3RM to walk around the tea plantations and 10RM to do some tea tasting. There is also a cafe selling desserts and tea!

Pick Your Own Strawberries at Big Red Strawberry Farm

Another one of the best things to do in Cameron Highlands is to go strawberry picking! How to get to the strawberry farms?

If you don’t have a rental car, the only way to reach strawberry farms is to ask your accommodation for a taxi, book yourself onto a Full-Day-Tour or rent a scooter (details above on renting a scooter on your Cameron Highlands itinerary) !

If you pick your own strawberries at Big Red Strawberry farm – the prices are 25RM for 500 grams and 50RM for 1KG. You have to spend a minimum of 25RM and your basket will be able to fit 1KG, so be careful if you don’t want to spend 50RM on strawberries!

Other ways to find strawberries in Cameron Highlands:

More Strawberry Farms:

• Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farm ( location )
• 200 Seeds Cafe & Farm ( location )
• Kasimanis Strawberry Farm ( location )
• Healthy Strawberry Farm ( location )

Strawberry prices at markets : The best price we found was 10RM for a small box of strawberries (pictured below) and the more you buy the higher the price. There were big boxes for 40RM.

Other Things to do in Cameron Highlands

Time Tunnel Museum – A museum with a lot of collectables & nostalgic items from Malaysia’s past. (8RM per person) Find the location here !

Lavender Gardens – A small garden with rows of lavender! Very unique in Malaysia. (15RM per person) Find the location here !

Sam Poh Temple :  A large Buddhist Temple with a peaceful environment. Find the location here !

Golden Hills Weekend Night Market : Only on Fridays and Saturdays! The place to find clothes & snacks! Find the location here !

We are not recommending the butterfly, sheep or bee farms here in Cameron Highlands as we don’t believe they’re very ethical. There are many other things to do on your Cameron Highlands 2 day itinerary to keep you busy!

What to do in Cameron Highlands at night?

At night, the Cameron Highlands is on the quieter side. But you can still find a few things to do! If you pick a good accommodation you hang out in the common area and play games with other travellers.

Check out any of the markets in Tanah Rata or spend your evening at a restaurant with food and drinks.

Where to stay in the Cameron Highlands

There are 3 main towns to stay in Cameron Highlands – Tanah Rata , Brinchang and Ringlet . They all have a range of accommodations for you to choose from and if you have your own vehicle it’ll be easy wherever you stay.

We recommend staying in Tanah Rata. Tanah Rata has great restaurants and you can get budget accommodation here. It’s a great spot for travellers and you can book tours and rent motorbikes in the town or simply browse the area. Here are a few places we can recommend that are close to the things to do in Cameron Highlands:

Cameron Highlands Hotel, Hostels & Guesthouses

Bricks Cameron Hostel : $ (Tanah Rata) – We highly recommend this hostel , they have various different rooms to suit any traveller! Dorms, double rooms or triple rooms! A great location and a very great price! – Find here on Booking.com !

EagleNest at Iris House Resort $$-$$$ (Tanah Rata) – A whole apartment in between Tanah Rata and Brinchang! Feel a bit of luxury by having the whole place to yourself – Find here on Booking.com !

Check out our 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary: Best Things To Do !

Best places to eat in Cameron Highlands

• Singh Chapati – ( Location ) – Indian Restaurant
• The Lords Cafe – ( Location ) – Tea & Scones (no vegan cakes)
• Restoran Sri Brinchang – ( Location ) – South Indian Restaurant
• Restoran Bunga Suria – ( Location ) – Indian Restaurant

As you can see, we’ve recommended a lot of restaurants serving Indian cuisine! We eat plant-based, so we have to find the best spots for us! There are a few western restaurants in Cameron Highlands, serving pizza or sandwiches and there are even a few fast-food joints.

You can also find Malay food all over Cameron Highlands serving rice or noodle dishes! You won’t be too stuck for choice here. Although we do highly recommend Singh Chapati on your Cameron Highlands itinerary!

Is Cameron Highlands worth visiting?

Yes!! The Cameron Highlands is so unique compared to other areas of Malaysia. It’s close and easy to get to from Kuala Lumpur , Ipoh or Penang and there are many things to do in Cameron Highlands. We hope this Cameron Highlands itinerary has been exciting to read! We definitely recommend visiting here if you have 1 or more weeks in Malaysia!

How many days should I spend in Cameron Highlands?

We think 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Cameron Highlands . If you want to go on more hikes, add an extra day or two just in case the weather is bad. So we do recommend at least 2 days in the Cameron Highlands.

If you only have one day, it’s possible to still see the main attractions here! Now you know what to do in Cameron Highlands, you can visit without having to worry!

What to do in Cameron Highlands in one day?

The most popular activity in Cameron Highlands is to see BOH Tea Plantations, this is where you’ll see the postcard pictures of Cameron Highlands and you can try the tea for yourself.

You can book yourself on a half or full-day tour to visit all the popular sights such as tea plantations, strawberry farms and Mossy Forest!

Travel essentials for a Cameron Highlands Itinerary

Wondering what to pack for Southeast Asia ? Find everything you need to pack in our Southeast Asia packing guide .

• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – Packing cubes are a must when travelling with a backpack or suitcase!
• The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel – A lightweight towel that dries fast after it rains in the Highlands!
• Rain Mac in a Bag and a Backpack Cover are two more essentials we need in rainy weather!
• Anker Power Bank – A portable charger is always useful for those long journeys around Malaysia. Make sure to bring one on your Cameron Highlands itinerary!
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle – A bottle that’s better than plastic, we love our metal water bottles.
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit – GorillaPods are a great little tripod to carry on a Cameron Highlands itinerary, they’re lightweight and they capture some of the best photos when there’s no one around. We love our Joby GorillaPod and use it for our Sony A600 . There’s also a phone version for those TikTok’s or Instagram Reels – Joby Phone Tripod .

More Malaysia Posts:

• 4 Day Penang Itinerary
• The Best Ipoh Itinerary: 2 Days in Ipoh
• 3 Day Kuala Lumpur Itinerary: Best Things To Do
• The Best 2 Day Melaka Itinerary (Malacca)
• 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary (Mainland)
• The Best 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

That’s the end of our Cameron Highlands Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024) ! Have the best time in the Cameron Highlands and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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So green, lavender, strawberries and tea! What was your favourite tea, did you try a few?

We are not big tea drinkers so I had a classic peppermint tea and Dan had an Iced lemon tea! haha, they were both good though!

Is it ok for a 3 night trip with young kids, fed up of hot weather on singapore!

Hey! Yes, this is a great trip to do with young children! They will love the strawberry farms and the tea plantations! You can even drive from Singapore 🙂

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The ultimate guide to Cameron Highlands — everything to see and do in 72 hours

• 10 minute read

• September 21, 2020

Table of Contents

About cameron highlands, best time to visit cameron highlands: weather and temperature, how to get there: kl to cameron highlands, day 1: wander southeast asia’s largest tea plantation, check out blossoming gardens, have a scenic steamboat dinner, day 2: explore the mossy forest trail, indulge in famous scones, peruse the night market, day 3: climb gunung jasar, marvel at the lata iskandar waterfall, more accommodation recommendations.

Can’t stand the maddening 30-degree heat any longer? Perhaps you’re dreaming of a short getaway to the cooling hilltops of Malaysia’s beautiful Cameron Highlands. Here’s the ultimate travel guide you’ve been looking for. We’ve curated everything you must see and do in Cameron Highlands in this detailed 3-day itinerary that you can bookmark and bring along on your journey! We’ve also included some self-drive tips on how to get to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur, as well as recommendations on the best places to stay. Keep on reading to find out what to see, what to do, and how to get to Cameron Highlands — we’ve packed everything into this itinerary that’ll make your trip worth every second!

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Located in the southwestern tip of Pahang, Cameron Highlands is about 200 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. Three main townships make up the Cameron Highlands region: Ringlet, Tanah Rata, and Brinchang.

Steeped in colonial history, the highlands were named after British explorer and geologist William Cameron, who was commissioned in 1885 to map out the Pahang-Perak border. Following his expedition, interest in the region grew. By the 1930s, the highlands developed into a hill station, subsequently attracting an influx of British and local settlers, and ambitious vegetable growers and tea planters whose crops benefited from the climate. Today, Cameron Highlands holds onto its history, evident from the presence of the many Tudor-style mansions, English tearooms, and flourishing plantations scattered around the region.

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Cameron Highlands is located on the Titiwangsa Range. About 75 percent of the region is 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level. Owing to its unique tableland ecosystem, Cameron Highlands is blessed with a pleasant and cool climate, with daytime temperatures rarely exceeding 26°C and nighttime temperatures going down to 14°C.

The humidity here is high and the weather is significantly wetter than other parts of Malaysia, with 197 rainfall days a year! In fact, Cameron Highlands does not have a “dry season” to speak of. That said, the wettest months are October and November, so avoid an end-of-year trip. The best time to visit Cameron Highlands is from February to April, but do try to avoid the mid-March school holidays if you’d like to skip the crowds.

What to wear: You can get away with shorts and a t-shirt during the day. At night, temperatures are slightly chilly and a light jacket will go a long way. Wear closed shoes and carry an umbrella in case of unpredictable weather.

Cameron Highlands is approximately 200 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. Head north to Tapah, easily done by just following the signs towards Ipoh. After driving for about 1.5 hours, take Exit 132 and you will come to the Tapah toll booth. To reach Cameron Highlands, take the Tapah toll exit and merge onto Route 59. Continue on this road for approximately 47 kilometers and you will reach Ringlet, the first Cameron Highlands township. It is a further 12 kilometers to Tanah Rata and another 5 kilometers to Brinchang.

Tips: 

• Before you start your journey to Cameron Highlands, make sure you have more than half a tank of fuel. The drive will take three to four hours and petrol stations are few and far between. You don’t want to get stuck going up those windy roads halfway through your ascent!
• Yes, the roads twist and turn as you drive up to the top. Narrow passageways and sharp bends may be hard to navigate, so be sure to drive at a speed you are comfortable with. Remember to prepare yourself and any traveling companions who are susceptible to car sickness.

The best of Cameron Highlands: Your ultimate 3-day itinerary

Aim to arrive in Cameron Highlands by the early afternoon. After that long and winding journey up the mountains, you’ll want to check into your hotel and stretch your legs! There are plenty of accommodation options around the highlands, but if you’re looking for a dose of quintessential Cameron Highlands Tudor-style architecture, you’ll find the historical Smokehouse Hotel especially inviting. With antique furnishings, well-manicured gardens, and an old-timey atmosphere, you’ll be transported to a different era here. Check out our extra hotel recommendations at the end of the article for more ideas on where to stay.

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Our first stop in this itinerary is none other than one of Cameron Highlands’ most iconic attractions: the BOH Sungei Palas Tea Garden , located in Brinchang. There is a free open-air car park here, and once you climb some stairs, you’ll reach the famous Sungei Palas Tea Garden. The terrace up here offers amazing panoramic views of thriving tea fields as far as the eye can see. Fun fact: BOH owns the largest tea plantation in all of Southeast Asia and there are three main BOH tea fields in Cameron Highlands: Sungei Palas, Habu Ringlet, and Fairlie Estate. Visitors frequent Sungei Palas for its superb hilltop cafe and exquisite views. Kick back and relax with a mug of steaming BOH tea and snack on light sandwiches, pies, and cheesecakes, then head out into the tea fields and enjoy the fresh mountain breeze as you wander the footpaths. For a bit of history, there is also a tea factory here that offers free educational tours. Learn all about the history of BOH and how the company crafts its teas!

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Follow Route 59 north for about 8 kilometers to get to the colorful Lavender Garden , located along the main road between Tringkap and Kuala Terla. While there are plenty of flower gardens in Cameron Highlands, this is the only one that specializes in growing lavender — many different types of it, too, from mona lavender to Hokkaido lavender! With three storeys of gardens to explore, you’ll find other flowers here including seasonal hydrangeas and gerbera daisies in all sorts of cheerful colors. If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck. You can enjoy some icy cold lavender ice cream , amazingly pretty in its shade of pastel purple! Don’t forget to add some snaps to the ‘gram!

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Had your fill of pretty flowers? Head back to Brinchang to check out a different type of botanical garden. Cactus Valley is all sorts of curious, chockfull of oddly-shaped cacti in all sizes. Whether tiny or humongous, spiny or covered in a hairy fuzz, these prickly plants are certainly fascinating. Of course, you can even adopt a cactus of your own here, since this is a cactus nursery! Pick up a little pot (or two) if any of them catch your fancy. The area near Cactus Valley is also scattered with other farms you might want to check out, from strawberry farms to organic vegetable farms, and even honey farms. Make a few stopovers and pick up some fresh local produce if you’re interested in trying the regional fare!

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Ready for an authentic charcoal-fire steamboat experience? Cameron Highlands is indeed famous for its array of steamboat restaurants and you won’t find a more scenic one than Water Cress Valley . With an outdoor terrace overlooking a verdant watercress plantation, you can indulge in a sumptuous steamboat dinner while the sun slowly goes down and the temperature starts to dip. It’s perfect weather for hot soup and an exciting smorgasbord of fresh cook-it-yourself ingredients. Don’t forget to try the signature watercress drink for something healthy and refreshing!

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, put on some good walking shoes and head over to the mysterious Mossy Forest for a journey through one of Cameron Highlands’ most talked-about walking trails. Blanketing the mountains and valleys of Mount Brinchang, this strangely beautiful forest is constantly shrouded in a dense fog that creates the perfect environment for moss and lichen to flourish. This easy walk brings you through a wonderland of ferns, orchids, and pitcher plants. You might even manage to catch a glimpse of the rare and pungent rafflesia flower, which can grow over a meter in diameter and weigh up to 10 kilograms!

The trail comes to a watchtower that offers views overlooking the misty highlands. Morning temperatures here can go down to a brisk 15ºC, making for an invigorating way to start your day. Do note that road conditions to get to the Mossy Forest are rough, so unless you have rented a 4WD vehicle, we recommend joining a local tour to get there.

Journey back to Brinchang town to replenish your energy and warm yourself up with a delightful pot of hot tea at the Jim Thompson Tea Room . Located in the beautiful Cameron Highlands Resort, the Jim Thompson Tea Room is famous for its warm, delicious, buttery scones served with fresh strawberry jam and clotted cream. The ambiance here is equal parts comfortable and luxurious, with elegant colonial-era décor that embodies an old-world charm.

Drive east and you will find the Sam Poh Temple , a peaceful Buddhist temple sitting atop a small hill at the back of Brinchang town. Interestingly, this temple is the largest religious structure in Cameron Highlands. Free to enter, it is a place of tranquility where you can admire opulent statues and offer prayers at the altar. Sit by the koi pond to enjoy a lovely afternoon in silent meditation.

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If the Mossy Forest trail was too easy for you, perhaps you’d like to take up a challenge. Sam Poh Temple serves as the starting point for Trail #2 , one of the more challenging hiking trails in Cameron Highlands. Taking about 1.5 hours one-way, the trail brings you through some tough terrain requiring some surefootedness due to its uphill and downhill nature. This trail connects to Trail #3, which leads on to Gunung Beremban (1,840 m), with an elevation gain of about 520 meters. Hikers with a good level of fitness will enjoy the challenge of tackling the topography. Otherwise, we’ve got another hike lined up the next morning following Trail #10 that is not overly tough!

No trip to Cameron Highlands is complete without a visit to the famous night market . Going by many names — Brinchang Night Market, Brinchang Weekend Night Market, Golden Hills Night Market, Brinchang pasar malam — the market operates every Friday and Saturday evening from 4 pm to 11 pm. Embodying the organized chaos of most Malaysian pasar malams, this is where you’ll have the best chance to rub shoulders with the locals and enjoy some mouthwatering local fare. Find typical Malaysian street foods, grilled meats, strawberry fondue, juicy roasted sweet corn slathered with butter, fresh honey straight from the honeycomb, apam balik pancakes, and more! Have a little fun browsing the stalls and have your fill of good food.

We’ve saved the best for last! If there is any activity in Cameron Highlands that embodies the beauty and natural splendor of this amazing region, it’s the Trail #10 hike. While there are at least 14 hiking trails scattered around Cameron Highlands, those who have done the lot will likely tell you this is their favorite. Trail #10 goes up to Gunung Jasar . From Tanah Rata, starting close to Tan’s Camellia Garden , it will take you about an hour to reach the top, where you will encounter sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, including great views of the Bharat Tea Estate .

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This trail connects to Trail #6 , which takes you right down to the tea plantations at Cameron Valley. Doing this will round off your hike to about 3.5 hours. The routes are signposted, and while the journey up to Jasar is more of a climb than a walk, it is one of Cameron Highlands’ easier trails, only requiring a basic level of fitness. Your total elevation gain up to Gunung Jasar will come to about 250 meters. The combined trails provide a beautiful half-day hike that, without doubt, delivers some of the most memorable views of the region!

The last thing to do before heading back to the hustle and bustle of city life is to visit the Lata Iskandar Waterfall . Taking Route 59 back towards Kuala Lumpur, about 35 kilometers from Tanah Rata, past Ringlet, you’ll come to this popular stopping point. Witness white waters cascade over smooth rocks while you relax at one of the picnic gazebos. There is also a bridge at the foot of the waterfall where you’ll get a good view of the rapids and be able to snap a few great photos.

And that wraps up our 3-day Cameron Highlands itinerary covering some of the best things you must do. Already planning your next adventure in Malaysia? Check out our guide to The ultimate food road trip in 48 hours: KL to Penang to satisfy your cravings!

If you’re looking for alternatives to the 1939 Tudor-style Smokehouse Hotel, here are a couple of other great places to stay.

Planters Country Hotel

Location: Tanah Rata Address: Lot 55, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia

Also going by the name of Bala’s Holiday Chalet, this is a splendid Edwardian-style lodge that was once a former British schoolhouse. Taking on the charms of a lovely English countryside home, you can expect a beautiful garden courtyard, lovely breakfasts and dinners, and impressive mountain views behind the hotel.

The Lakehouse

Location: Ringlet Address: 30th Mile, Jalan Ringlet – Sungai Koyan, Sungai Khazanah, 39000 Ringlet, Pahang, Malaysia

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Tucked away on a photogenic hillside, you’ll find yet another beautiful Tudor-style country house. The Lakehouse overlooks the Ringlet Lake, and it is charmingly flanked by a backdrop of lush woodlands. Of course, as The Lakehouse is located in Ringlet, the lowest town in Cameron Highlands, it’s a little further away from most attractions. However, nothing beats its relaxing and secluded fairy tale atmosphere.

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The PERFECT Cameron Highlands Day Trip Itinerary in 2024!

Planning a Cameron Highlands one day trip? Worry not. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia, numerous tourists flock to Cameron Highlands every year to see some of the country’s best tea plantations, hiking trails, and natural scenery.

However, with so many things to do in Cameron Highlands, planning a day trip is no easy task. After visiting Cameron Highlands ourselves, we knew we had to write a blog post on Cameron Highlands. Hopefully, this will help you plan your trip, inform you what to do in Cameron Highlands in 1 day, how to get around, and the best time to visit !

Tired of planning your own Cameron Highlands day trip? Check out this day tour from Kuala Lumpur!

Is A Day Trip To Cameron Highlands Enough?

If you are planning a Cameron Highlands trip, you must wonder if one day in Cameron Highlands is enough . After all, there are tons of stunning Cameron Highlands attractions. Is one day really enough to enjoy them all?

The answer is… probably not .

From morning to night, Cameron Highlands is packed with fun activities. There are night markets, hiking trails, tea plantations, waterfalls , the list goes on and on. One day is simply not enough to fully experience Cameron Highlands.

Ideally, you would want to spend at least a weekend there. If you can only spend a day in Cameron Highlands, you will be able to see the main points of interest, but you will also miss quite a few!

If you are visiting just for a day, we recommend you take a tour to Cameron Highlands so you can get the most out of your time.

How To Get To Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Located in the center of the Malay Peninsula, Cameron Highlands is reachable by many of the big cities of Malaysia. Below we will talk about how to get to Cameron Highlands from  Kuala Lumpur  (KL), Penang, and  Ipoh .

Getting From KL To Cameron Highlands

If you want to take a Cameron Highlands day trip from KL, you must be willing to get up early . About 200 kilometers apart, it takes about 3 hours to drive from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands .

Personally, we wouldn’t recommend you to spend just one day in Cameron Highlands if you are coming from KL because you will spend half the day sitting on your butt.

Besides renting a car / having a car and driving to Cameron Highlands, you can also take the bus. The KL to Cameron Highlands bus departs at  Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) , and the journey takes about 3.5 hours.

If you get carsick easily, take a motion sickness pill. Though the journey is very scenic, it is also very windy.

Unfortunately, you cannot go from KL to Cameron Highlands by train. The train only takes you to Ipoh, where you would have to take a bus or drive to Cameron Highlands.

Due to the long commute, I recommend taking a tour from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands.

Getting From Ipoh To Cameron Highlands

If you are going from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands, you can be a lot more flexible. The journey takes a little less than 2 hours , and renting a car or taking the bus are both viable options.

For anyone flying into the Cameron Highlands airport, you are actually going into the Ipoh Airport, because it is the closest airport to Cameron Highlands.

If you are taking the  bus from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands , you will have to get it from the Terminal Amanjaya . It is located 20-30 minutes away from Ipoh center, so plan accordingly. The bus journey takes about 2 hours and you are dropped off at Tanah Rata, one of the two main towns in Cameron Highlands.

The bus schedule is as follows: 8 AM, 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM, and 6:30 PM.  This schedule changes occasionally, so it is best to reserve your ticket online before or buy your ticket at the terminal a day before.

If you are taking a taking day trip from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands, chances are you will want to take the 8 AM bus.

Getting From Penang To Cameron Highlands

Taking a day trip from Penang to Cameron Highlands is similar to taking one from Kuala Lumpur, it takes about 3 hours driving to get there. You must wake up early to avoid rush hour, otherwise it might take longer than you expect.

If driving is not an option, buses from Penang to Cameron Highlands depart at Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal daily. Frequently, there is only one bus that leaves in the AM, making your one-day trip to Cameron Highlands much more difficult.

The other option is to drive there. Having your own transportation in Cameron Highlands will be very useful.

Cameron Highlands Day Trip Itinerary

Above is an interactive map that outlines the stops on our itinerary. Make sure you take a look before visiting Cameron Highlands!

Quick summary of the morning activities in CH:

• Boh Tea Centre
• EE Feng Gu Bee Farm

Aim to arrive in Cameron Highlands as early as possible, ideally before 9 AM.

The first stop of your 1-day Cameron Highlands itinerary is the renowned  BOH Tea Centre . (Don’t get this confused with BOH Tea Plantation, which is another destination in Cameron Highlands)

Due to the moderate weather, consistent rainfall, and rich soil, the tea produced from Cameron Highlands is some of the finest tea you will find in the world.

At BOH Tea Centre, you can marvel at the acres of undisturbed tea plantations with the perfect cup of tea in hand. The tea plants stretch for miles, r unning up and down the lush hills of Cameron Highlands.

The vibrant blue sky harmonizes with the rich green, and it reminds us of the beautiful paddy fields in  Sekinchan .

If you have not had breakfast yet, their cafe serves light snacks that will keep your energy up for now.

When you are done enjoying the incredible views at their cafe, take a free guided tour of their tea processing facility . Here you will see every step of the procedure and every machinery used to create this tasty delicacy.

The free guided tours take place every 30 minutes, and you can register for them when you arrive at BOH Tea Centre.

Before you leave, make sure you check out the BOH Tea Shop , the perfect place to purchase BOH’s tea to take home!

BOH Tea Centre is one of the most crowded places in Cameron Highlands. We highly recommend you to arrive early and leave before the crowd comes.

• Admission Fee for BOH Tea Centre: Free

After you have finished visiting BOH Tea Centre, it is time to move on to the next attraction on the itinerary, the  Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm .

Featuring a small garden in the rear, visitors can observe the honey bees in action . After strolling through the garden, make a stop at their multi-level souvenir shop. Featuring cheap and locally-made honey, don’t forget to grab some on your way out!  Honey has many known health benefits!

• Admission Fee for Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm: Free

Quick summary of the afternoon activities in CH:

• Pasar Pagi Kea Farmers’ Market
• Lord’s Cafe for afternoon tea
• Big Red Strawberry Farm

After a visit to the Ee Feng Gu Bee Farm, the next stop is the  Pasar Pagi Kea Farm (Farmers’ Market) .

At first sight, this crowded farmers’ market in Cameron Highlands might look like a tourist trap. However, if you do a little bit of observing and investigating, you will notice both tourists and locals shop here.

The market is only one street long , but stalls inundate the sides of the street like the rainy season in Malaysia.

The farmers’ market mainly sells fresh produce from the region, but you will also find souvenir shops and a fair share of street food . It is also one of the best places to catch a glimpse of a local’s daily life.

If you have been following this Cameron Highlands one day itinerary, you probably have not eaten yet. Time to stuff yourself with some street food!

Chances are you the street food at the farmer’s market is just a Band-Aid on a bullet wound. If you are like us and love to eat all the time, you might still be hungry after the street food.

If that is the case, it is time to head into Tanah Rata !

Modeled after a traditional British village, Tanah Rata is a quaint walkable town in Cameron Highlands. Known for its easy accessibility, good food, and affordable accommodation, Tanah Rata is the best place to stay in Cameron Highlands.

Here in Tanah Rata, you will find your afternoon tea (or second meal).

Being an ex-British colony, Malaysia still has many traces of British traditions. In the Lord’s Cafe in Tanah Rata, you will find delicious British scones, pies, cakes , and other dishes. Their strawberry scones are known to be mouth-wateringly delicious.

After a delicious second meal at the Lord’s Cafe, it is time for one of Cameron Highlands’ best attractions, the Big Red Strawberry Farm .

Not only is Cameron Highlands climate perfect for cultivating tea, but it is also the ideal location for growing strawberries . Throughout Cameron Highlands, there are numerous amount of strawberry farms, but the one you must visit is the  Big Red Strawberry Farm .

The Big Red Strawberry Farm is exactly what the name suggests, a big strawberry farm. Visitors can stroll down its hydroponic environment and check out the strawberries growing in action. When they first start growing, the strawberries are as tiny as a peanut , an occurrence we usually don’t get to see.

Besides strawberries, the farm also grows a variety of other produce such as vegetables and flowers. They also have an on-site cafe serving food made with ingredients from the farm. The strawberry sundae is one that you have to try!

If you are visiting Cameron Highlands, chances are you would like to do some strawberry picking. At Big Red Strawberry Farm, the price for strawberry picking is 60 RM per 1 kg. If you are traveling to Cameron Highlands with kids, this is a must-do activity. 

Before you visit, give the farm a call to make sure strawberry picking is available. Though the strawberry-picking season is from May to August , it is best to confirm with the property!

• Admission Fee to Big Red Strawberry Farm: Free

Quick summary of the evening activities in CH:

• Golden Hills Weekend Night Market (only available on weekends)
• Mossy Forest (optional)
• Mount Brinchang for sunset (optional)

At this point, you are probably exhausted from your Cameron Highlands trip. While there are still many things to do in Cameron Highlands, you have seen the best.

If you have extra time, I would recommend that you visit the Mossy Forest and Mount Brinchang for sunset , though it is a bit of effort to get to both. (We will talk about these two attractions down below.)

If you are visiting Cameron Highlands on the weekend , then you are in luck. The Cameron Highlands Night Market, also known as the  Golden Hills Weekend Night Market , is happening!

The Golden Hills Weekend Night Market is the best thing to do in Cameron Highlands at night. If you thought the street food at the farmers’ market was intense, then you need to see the Golden Hills Weekend Night Market.

You can find extremely affordable meals here, great souvenirs , and lots of sweaty people . Golden Hills Weekend Night Market does not understand the concept of personal space! It surely didn’t stop us from getting a 4 RM meal here though.

If you have been to  Jalan Alor  in Kuala Lumpur, this night market is about half the size but twice the hecticness. Skewers, nasi lemak ( the national food of Malaysia ), nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), fried vegetables, desserts, there is definitely more food than you can handle!

Don’t worry about giving everything a try though because the food there is so affordable.

Though advertised as a night market, the market is open as early as 5 PM. Don’t miss it before you leave Cameron Highlands (if you are here on a weekend).

Additional Things To Do In Cameron Highlands

If you have extra time on your day Cameron Highlands one day trip, consider some of the additional things to do down below. Similarly, if you have more than one day in Cameron Highlands, you could take a  day trip to Ipoh  and check out some of the  cave temples around Ipoh .

1. Hiking in Cameron Highlands

The moderate climate and stunning views make hiking one of the most popular activities in Cameron Highlands.

There are a total of 14 hiking trails in Cameron Highlands, and each of them is conveniently numbered. Not all trails are created equal, and others such as Trail 9 is known to be overgrown and dangerous.

Personally, I would recommend Trail 10 combined with Trail 6 as the trail allows you to walk through some of the local farms and stunning tea plantations.

💪 Pro Tip: Make sure you install the mobile app maps.me before hiking and use their offline maps to avoid getting lost!

The trailhead starts right outside the town of Tanah Rata, so it is still accessible if you don’t have your own vehicle. The hike takes about 3.5 hours to complete. Just keep in mind you finish at Cameron Valley Tea House and you would need to take a taxi back to town!

Another popular trail in Cameron Highlands is Trail No.1 . Trail No.1 is a 3-hour hike that takes you up to the peak of Mount Brinchang , the second highest peak in Cameron Highlands.

The views from Mount Brinchang are said to be some of the best in Cameron Highlands, as you get a panoramic view of the lushness Cameron Highlands is known for.

If you enjoy hiking, you must check out Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest mountain, in  Sabah !

2. Visit Mount Brinchang

As we have mentioned above, Mount Brinchang is the second tallest mountain in Cameron Highlands and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding area. Luckily for you, hiking is not the only way to get there. 

Travelers can also take a taxi or drive up to Mount Brinchang. Because of the constant rain that Cameron Highlands receives, the road is not exactly in the best condition. To make matters worse, parts of the road are so narrow that only one car can fit through at once.

Many tour operators might even tell you it is impossible to reach without a 4×4. However, that is just not true. If you have a regular automobile, you will get there without a problem. If you have a motorcycle, it’s not impossible, but just a little tricky.

Is it worth the effort? Definitely YES!

3. Check out the Mossy Forest

Due to the elevation of Cameron Highlands, low-level clouds constantly cover the area with mist and moisture. The result? A perfect environment for mosses ferns, lichens, and other plants to grow .

In fact, such a phenomenon has created one of the most interesting places in Cameron Highlands, the Mossy Forest.

Mossy Forest is located a short drive from Brinchang on the same narrow road. If you visit the Mossy Forest, you should also see Mount Brinchang and vice versa.

The entrance cost to the Mossy Forest is 30 RM for foreigners and 10 RM for locals. Once you are inside the Mossy Forest, you are limited to a ~250-meter boardwalk. Some travelers say the price is too steep for such a short visit. Whether or not the price is justified is up to you! 

Getting Around Cameron Highlands

One thing travelers must be aware of is how difficult it is to get around Cameron Highlands . Without your own vehicle, the only way to get from one attraction to another is by taxi. Some of these attractions are located very far apart from each other, so be prepared to spend quite a bit of money.

Taxis can be found at the  Tanah Rata Bus Terminal , the location where your bus will drop you off if you are taking a bus. If you are planning to visit a ton of places in Cameron Highlands at once, try to rent a taxi by the hour. As always, don’t forget to negotiate! 

If you are able to drive a scooter legally in Malaysia, renting a scooter in Cameron Highlands could be an option for you. There are several scooter rental places in Tanah Rata, and they are much more flexible than taking a taxi.

Half-day tours can also be found in many of the kiosks along the streets of Tanah Rata. If you only have 1 day in Cameron Highlands and would like to see as much as possible, taking a tour might not be a bad idea. 

Best Time To Visit Cameron Highlands

When considering when is the best time to visit Cameron Highlands, you must think about what you are trying to accomplish .

Are you planning on doing some hiking in Cameron Highlands? Picking strawberries? Or do you just want to stay away from the crowd? 

For hiking , you will want to pick the months that rain the least. Months like January, February, June, and July are the best months for hiking in Cameron Highlands because it rains less frequently.

However, June and July are months of summer vacation, so you will see huge crowds and tons of traffic. The months of October and November are known to be the peak of the rainy season.

If you want to go strawberry picking , May to August is considered the strawberry-picking season. Just remember to check with the strawberry farm because there could be minor discrepancies. 

Temperature-wise , it is moderate all year round, though in the winter months (especially January and February) you might see some snow!

Where To Stay In Cameron Highlands

Staying more than 1 day in Cameron Highlands is not a bad idea, as there are so many activities to do. If you are planning to stay for a weekend or longer, here are some of our recommendations on where to stay!

Our Favorite Hotel in Cameron Highlands –  Century Pines Cameron Highlands Resort

There is no better hotel in Cameron Highlands than the Century Pines Cameron Highlands Resort. Arguably one of the most luxurious hotels in CH, this resort offers guests a sublime experience.

Nestled in nature, guests can enjoy the serenity as they enjoy their free breakfast or work out at the gym. The decor is the perfect combination of modern and cozy, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable.

Best Budget Hotel In CH –  Father’s Guest House

If you are looking for a cheap place to stay in Cameron Highlands, then Father’s Guesthouse is ideal for you. This no-fuzz private room features all the necessities such as an en-suite bathroom, hot water and complimentary tea and coffee. Guests will find a great night’s sleep on their double beds!

Visiting Cameron Highlands FAQs

Is cameron highlands worth visiting, is it better to stay in tanah rata or brinchang.

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This concludes our guide to a day trip to Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. We hope it has given you a rough idea of how to plan your Cameron Highlands itinerary!  Any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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How To Get From Ipoh To The Cameron Highlands Easily

Catching the bus from Ipoh to the Cameron Highlands is quick and painless. To an extent that is… read on to find out why 🙂

The bus station in Ipoh where you catch the bus to Tanah Rata or Brinchang in the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia can be found just around the corner from the Ipoh KTM Train Station.

In reality, you could arrive in Ipoh on the train and then walk about 500m to the bus station and then catch the bus to the Cameron Highlands.

Arriving in Ipoh on the bus from elsewhere takes you further afield, the  Medan Gopeng bus station.

The bus leaves Ipoh to the Cameron Highlands four times per day, 8:00am, 11:00am, 3:00pm and 6:00pm at a cost of RM 16.80 per adult and RM 12.60 per child, one way. There is no real need to pre-book your tickets unless it will be a Malaysian holiday (it is always a Malaysian holiday!)

As per most Malaysian buses, there are no toilets on board, if necessary, the bus driver can pull over for you, ask nicely. The bus itself is very clean and comfortable, seats recline and if you are lucky, they may play a video for entertainment however it isn't really necessary as the bus ride only takes 2 hours.

We strongly suggest you ask for seat 1, 2, or 3 on the bus up to the Cameron Highlands. The roads are extremely windy, going up and down and around hills constantly. Sitting in the front row of the bus helps with any sort of motion sickness as you can see exactly what is coming up in front of you.

Behind each seat, in the magazine holder, there should be plastic bags. No, these are not for rubbish, but for people to throw up in if need be. The bus driver also has more bags near the seat, generally on a hook for ease of grabbing.

Apart from the constant motion sickness feeling, the bus ride up to Tanah Rata through Brinchang in the Cameron Highlands was absolutely beautiful. Unfortunately, we did not take any photos as we were constantly dealing with motion sickness.

The bus stations in both Birchang and Tanah Rata are right in the centre of the towns, so it is very easy to get off the bus and walk to accommodation easily.

In short: Ipoh to the Cameron HIghlands Bus: Leaves at 8:00am, 11:00pm, 3:00pm and 6:00pm From: The bus station 500m around the corner from the  Majestic KTM train station. Travel Time: 2 hours of motion sickness up and down and around hills and valleys. Cost: $16.80 per adult, $12.60 per child.

To view our posts written about Ipoh, Malaysia, click here . To view our posts written about the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia click here.

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You can no longer get a bus direct from Ipoh bus station to Cameron Highlands. You have to get a local bus T30a or T30b, every half hour or so during the day from there to Amanjaya terminal on outskirts of Ipoh. If you are coming from KL it is easier and cheaper to get a bus direct from there to Tanah Rata

Thank you for the update 🙂

thank you so much for all this info! we are about to head to Malaysia and your blog is so helpful for planning the rest of our travels

More than welcome! We hope you have a fabulous time in Malaysia. The strawberry shakes are pretty good up in the Cameron Highlands. Oh, and the tea. How could I forget the tea!

Thank you for the information! Very clear and helpful!

more than welcome 🙂

can I back from cameron to melaca

of course! anything is possible in Malaysia!

Hi Tanya! Thank you for this information! I was trying to find this in google and bumped in to your site accidentally. I have now bookmarked your site and will be reading more for my future travels….and by the way I am also an IT person working in a bank trying to escape and trade my current life for a rewarding experience on the road.

are there any bus services from the new bus terminal in ipoh Amanjaya to Cameron Highlands ?

Yes. The buses now leave from amanjaya, not from the terminal near the train station. This changed in Jun 2015. If you go to the bus terminal near the center and buy the ticket they’ll give you a free trip to amanjaya. But this trip takes a while cause the buses leave infrequently. So you have get there early, maybe an hour to be safe.

It is hard for us to stay completely up to date so thank you for the update 🙂

Thank you! This post is super helpful for us as we plan our travels in the Cameron Highlands area. I’m definitely popping motion sickness pills before I get on these buses!

Glad you found it helpful 🙂

hi，thanks for your sharing。is it still service now？

great information we are going to Ipoh tomorrow and I was wondering how to get to the Cameron Highlands

Hi Andrew & Tanya – Thanks much for the post its very useful , however we need to travel from IPOH to Cameron Highlands after 7:00 PM is there any transport available and is it safe ? Thanks again

We don’t know about travel in the evening unfortunately.

Given the winding roads there is an element of risk but bear in mind that buses trek back and forth along this route many times a day without incident.

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Cameron Highlands travel guide – a hidden gem in Malaysia

I don’t know about you, but I love a good cup of tea (it’s the Brit in me!). And if you love tea, then I know you’re going to love the Cameron Highlands.

A hilly region in the Pahang state of Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is one of Malaysia’s biggest hill stations. It’s home to a strong tea and vegetable production industry.

Part of its great appeal lies in the refreshingly cooler temperatures of the area, when compared to the rest of the country’s stifling humidity. Trust me, it was a very welcome temperature change!

Known for its expansive green tea plantations and dense jungle, I’d recommend the Cameron Highlands as a good destination for hiking and discovering abundant fauna and wildlife.

For British tourists, I love that it feels a little like a home from home, with afternoon tea and rolling green countryside.

In my guide to visiting the Cameron Highlands, I explain all you need to know about this unique pocket of Malaysia.

From how to get there to the best things to see and do, and everything in between.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

A quick bit of history

The Cameron Highlands is named after William Cameron, a British explorer who first surveyed the area in 1885.

40 years later, colonial explorer Sir George Maxwell decreed that the region should be developed into a hill station.

Over the following years, plantations were developed and the area became a popular destination for holidaying Brits.

I found the British influence in the Cameron Highlands to be very strong. You’ll find cream teas and beef Wellingtons on menus, as well as hotels with Tudor-style period features.

The area gradually grew in popularity with expats from all over the world. Today, it is a popular tourist destination to visitors exploring Malaysia.

Where is the Cameron Highlands?

The Cameron Highlands is located on the westernmost edge of the Pahang district in Western Malaysia.

It is 85km from the nearest city, Ipoh, and 200km from Kuala Lumpur. The area is very hilly, with the highest point being 2,000m above sea level.

How to get to the Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is easily accessed from Kuala Lumpur and Penang by road. There are reliable bus services from these cities to Tanah Rata, the main town in the Cameron Highlands.

The bus service from Kuala Lumpur takes three hours, costs RM35, and leaves from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan.

The bus from Penang takes four hours, costs RM40, and leaves from Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal.

The last two hours of the journey to Cameron Highlands involves steep winding roads. As a result, the area is not accessible by train or plane.

The nearest station is in Ipoh, where you can get a 90 minute bus from AmanJaya Bus Terminal.

Alternatively, you can travel as part of a wider travel tour or private tour service. This way, your tour operator will arrange all the travel for you (which is what I did).

If you have more budget then you can take a taxi from Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, you can hire a car from the main cities if you prefer the freedom of driving.

When to visit the Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is a year round destination, but I think the best time to visit is during the off-peak season. As such a popular destination, the area can get extremely busy during peak times.

I’d advise avoiding school holidays, festive periods, and major public holidays where possible. The traffic can get really bad during these peak periods, with traffic jams a common sight.

Weekends are understandably more busy too.

Weather in the Cameron Highlands

Rain is common in the Cameron Highlands, which is what makes it such a great place for harvesting tea and vegetables.

The monsoon season is between November and February. There may be more rain but this is when all the beautiful green plantations are in full bloom.

But given that the area is stunning all year round, you may prefer to avoid these months if the rain is a concern.

Although there is rain all year round, the amount of rain will be less in the dry season of February, March, and April, as well as during the summer months of June, July, and August.

These months are popular times to visit. But as mentioned earlier, try to avoid school holidays if you can.

Temperature in the Cameron Highlands

Temperatures are noticeably cooler in the Cameron Highlands, when compared to the rest of the country.

It’s one of the great appeals of the Cameron Highlands, as it is a refreshing respite from the intense humidity elsewhere in Malaysia.

Throughout the year, temperatures range from 14 to 28 degrees Celsius. The coolest months are in December, January, and February.

Other considerations

When you visit may depend on what you intend to see and do while in the Cameron Highlands.

If you want to visit the Brinchang Night Market, then you’ll need to visit at the weekend. Or if you want to go hiking, then I’d strongly recommend avoiding the rainy season.

The trails can get slippery and are often closed as a result.

Top places to visit & things to do in the Cameron Highlands

There are plenty of interesting places to visit and unusual tourist attractions in the Cameron Highlands.

Many of the activities won’t take long and can be squeezed into a relatively short space of time. Here is my pick of the best things to do in the Cameron Highlands:

1. Tea plantation tour

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 08:30 – 16:30

Entrance fee: Free

Given that the Cameron Highlands is famous for its tea production, a visit to a tea plantation is a must.

I’d recommend touring the Boh Sungei Palas Tea Plantation to learn all about the process of tea harvesting and growing. There’s also the Cameron Bharat Tea Estate for an alternative option.

At the Boh plantation, you can enjoy a delightful afternoon tea in the glass-fronted cafe.

Situated on an inviting terrace, you can enjoy a cuppa against the backdrop of spectacular panoramic views over the emerald tea plantations.

I have a very fond memory of enjoying a great cup of tea while tucking into some delicious carrot cake against the backdrop of epic views.

You will be spoilt for choice with tea blends and flavours; honestly, I think it gives Fortnum & Mason a run for their money!

You can also buy some tea in their tea shop – the perfect souvenir or gift for someone back home.

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2. Hiking trails & jungle trekking

I love that there are a number of wonderful hiking trails in the Cameron Highlands. Wind through dense forest, cascading waterfalls, and discover plenty of wildlife.

There are several marked trails with varying degrees of difficulty, so be sure to choose according to your trekking experience and fitness levels.

More challenging trails require a guide and a permit, but are generally rewarded with breathtaking scenery.

Heavy rain can mean regular trail closures, so I’d advise checking before you head out. Make sure that you wear appropriate footwear too, so you’re prepared to tackle any mud and slippery paths.

My favourite Cameron Highlands hiking highlights:

• Discover Robinson Waterfalls on trail number 9. It’s only a 10 minute walk and is a truly serene spot.
• Mossy Forest is another great place to hike to. It is teeming with tropical plants and fauna, as well as monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
• Look out for Rafflesia flowers, the world’s largest flower which is currently endangered.

3. Climb Mount Brinchang

At 2,000 metres high, Mount Brinchang offers spectacular views across the Cameron Highlands. The trail is easily accessible, starting on the northside of Brinchang.

It takes around two hours to hike, but you can also drive to the top. I’d say hiking is preferable though, as you get to discover the beautiful jungle trails along the way.

4. Visit a Strawberry farm

Opening times: Daily 08:00-18:30

At Raaju’s Hill Strawberry Farm, you’ll will find rows and rows of juicy red delicacies. Just waiting to be picked and devoured with lashings of cream!

I think a strawberry farm tour is a great activity for families visiting the Cameron Highlands. It also includes the opportunity to pick your own strawberries.

Even if you don’t pick your own, you can’t possibly leave without a punnet of fresh strawberries to be devoured on the way home.

Top tip: Try the strawberry milkshake – it’s wonderfully refreshing and utterly delicious.

5. Wander around a Butterfly farm

Opening times: Daily 08:00-18:00

Entrance fee: RM7

I’d recommend a visit to the Butterfly Farm to see the intricate patterns and vibrant colours of the beautiful butterflies with their large wing spans.

The butterflies are free-flying, so it’s great for seeing them in their natural environment. That said, if you don’t like any kind of creature flapping around you then I’d say it’s probably best avoided!

But if you’d like to get up close to these stunning insects, plus a range of other cool species (guinea pigs included) then I think it’s really worth a visit.

6. Sample Steamboat cuisine

A culinary staple of the Cameron Highlands is Steamboat cuisine – and I think you simply have to try it when in the region!

Similar to the cook-your-own style of European fondues, it involves a large bowl of bubbling broth to which you add your chosen raw ingredients.

The ingredients you add are up to you, whether it’s meat, fish, vegetables, noodles, or tofu. It may not be to everyone’s taste but it’s a fun and unique experience when in the Cameron Highlands.

There are plenty of Steamboat restaurants to choose from, so I’d suggest getting a recommendation from one of the locals.

7. Explore the Night Market

Opening times: Friday & Saturday 16:00-23:00

Note: The night market is also open every day during Malaysian school holidays.

Brinchang Night Market, sometimes known as the Golden Hill Night Market, takes place every Friday and Saturday.

There are around 150 local vendors selling a range of products. These include:

• Fresh produce, such as strawberries, honey, and vegetables
• Hawker stalls which sell grilled meats and other tasty treats

The produce is all very affordable, and the atmosphere is vibrant and lively. There is a car park just a five minute walk away from the market, with a small fee to park.

8. Visit Cactus Valley

Entrance fee: RM4

Located in Brinchang, the Cactus Valley is home to an impressive variety of cacti. From small and spiky to big and spiky!

Visitors will also discover giant cacti, with some up to 60 years old. There is also a range of other flora in the valley, including wild flowers and apple orchards.

9. See the Lavender Gardens

Opening times: Daily 9:00-18:00

Entrance fee: RM10

I’d recommend exploring the vibrant landscaped gardens of the lavender farms. Breathe in the wonderful scent of lavender which fills the air.

The gardens also feature various other continental flowers on display. It’s a truly Instagram-worthy spot!

Once you’re done admiring the gorgeous display, be sure to taste the lavender ice cream before you leave.

10. Visit Sam Poh Temple

Opening times: Daily 07:00 – 19:00

Sam Poh Temple is the fourth largest temple in Malaysia, situated one kilometre away from Brinchang. It is a colourful Chinese temple set against a backdrop of verdant jungle.

Visitors will find beautiful golden warrior statues inside and the fourth largest Buddha statue in Malaysia.

I’d recommend it as a great spot to discover a bit of imperial Chinese art and history.

Visiting the Cameron Highlands

Here’s everything I think you need to know if you’re planning a visit to the Cameron Highlands. From where to stay and what to eat, to how to get around and what to pack.

Where to stay in Cameron Highlands

Tanah Rata is the main hub where travellers base themselves. It has bus links to connect you to various day trip locations, plus many hiking trails start from the outskirts of the town.

There are a variety of hotels, homestay, Airbnbs, and other unique places to stay in the Cameron Highlands.

Where you choose to stay will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the type of experience you’re after.

For a tudor-style boutique resort that brings a bit of luxury, I’d recommend staying at The Lakehouse . Or for a more budget option, try an authentic homestay like Moon River Lodge .

Browse and book hotels in Cameron Highlands .

What to eat

There are plenty of budget-friendly places to eat within the towns and villages of the Cameron Highlands.

If you’re visiting at the weekend then I’d recommend trying some traditional Malay street food from the hawker stalls at the night market.

Fresh strawberries from a strawberry farm are also a must – the perfect refreshing snack during the day.

For another authentic experience, visit a Steamboat restaurant. Cameron Organic Produce, Gonbei, and Jin Jin are good steamboat options.

But it’s always good to get a local recommendation for the best places to eat.

Transport in the Cameron Highlands

There are three main ways to get around the Cameron Highlands: on foot, by taxi, or by shuttle bus.

The shuttle bus leaves from Tanah Rata and goes to Brinchang and Kampung Raja. It is a budget-friendly option but does have an irregular schedule.

There are plenty of taxis available for use, and they can often be found outside the main tourist attractions and resorts.

Car rental is not available in the Cameron Highlands; you would have to hire a car from Kuala Lumpur or Ipoh.

Alternatively, you can hire bicycles and motorbikes if you’d prefer a more unique and independent means of getting around.

What to bring and pack

In terms of what to wear, I’d suggest bringing light clothing as it is still quite humid in the Cameron Highlands.

I’d also advise bringing something warmer for when the temperature drops in the evenings.

If you plan to go hiking, make sure you pack accordingly. Bring long trousers, a waterproof jacket, and appropriate footwear.

Hiking boots are preferable but anything that will survive the trails will suffice.

How long to spend in the Cameron Highlands

I’d say only a day or two are needed to take in the sights of the Cameron Highlands. Any longer and you may run out of things to do, and get a little bored.

One night is enough, although you may want that extra night just to make the most of the glorious cool temperature before it’s back to the unbearable humidity! 

I’d only recommend staying for longer if you plan on doing a lot of hiking. Even still, a few days would be more than enough.

Is Cameron Highlands worth visiting?

Cameron Highlands is a very popular destination, which means it’s a hot spot for tour groups. The traffic can be almost unbearable, especially at peak times.

There’s no getting around the fact that tourism is having a detrimental effect on the area. So I’d suggest choosing your tour operator and guides carefully.

As long as you try to visit off peak, I think the Cameron Highlands is certainly worth a visit if you’re exploring Malaysia.

It’s a unique place and offers something quite different to the rest of the country. Just don’t spend too long there, and make the most of the refreshingly cooler temperatures while you’re visiting.

Have you visited the Cameron Highlands? Let me know any of your recommendations in the comments! If you’re looking for more South East Asia travel inspiration, you may also like:

• 10 amazing things to do in Georgetown, Penang
• Ultimate guide to visiting the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand
• 11 tips for solo travel in Thailand
• 21 fun things to do in Singapore

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Dive Into Malaysia

19 Best Things To Do In Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Going on a Cameron Highlands trip and want to know all the best things to do in Cameron Highlands? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best places to visit in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia to plan your ultimate trip.

With its lush landscapes reminiscent of the English countryside, sweeping tea plantations, hiking trails and a touch of colonial nostalgia, Cameron Highlands manages to entice young families, culture lovers and travellers from all around the globe.

Located 1200-2000 meters above sea level, this place offers you a different side of Malaysia with its respite from the heat in its cool climate.

It’s also easy to get here from the cities located on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur. From Kuala Lumpur, there are buses that ply directly to Cameron Highlands which take approximately 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or van.

Below, you will find our things to do in Cameron Highlands blog with everything you need to know about what to do in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia, as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday. There is also a Cameron Highland tourist attraction map.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Top 19 Things To Do In Cameron Highlands

If you’re wondering where to go in Cameron Highlands and what to do in Cameron Highlands, we’ve compiled a list of the best attractions and activities to do in the area. The different altitude of Cameron Highlands to much of Malaysia leads to different experiences.

This Cameron Highland attraction blog will walk you through the must-see places, provide you insight on the best places to go in Cameron Highlands and finally, give you a peek of the Cameron Highland Malaysia attractions.

Here are the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia things to do. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.

Visit The Boh Tea Plantation

If you’re looking for what to do in Cameron Highlands in one day, head over to Boh Tea Plantation. Founded in 1929, the Boh Tea Company is one of Malaysia’s famous tea brands. This Cameron attraction place is a must visit to see and experience Cameron Highland’s iconic tea plantations.

One of the top places to visit in Ringlet Cameron Highlands, take in the sweeping views and the lush green terraces while learning the process of how tea is harvested and grown. There’s also a tea shop where you can taste a couple of signature brews and even buy a couple of packets as a souvenir.

The vistas nestled across the plantation are also where you can soak in the breathtaking scenery. To witness the plantation in its full glory, the best time to visit is during the mornings as the clouds can roll in during the afternoons and evenings. Without a doubt, it’s one of the top places to see in Cameron Highlands Malaysia.

Harvest Your Own Fresh Strawberries

There are lots of strawberry farms in the Cameron Highlands, so make sure you visit one and pick your own! You can also save some money and time and buy a fresh punnet, although it is fun to wander round the garden picking your own.

Strawberry farms are among the top attractions in Cameron Highlands, and some farms you can visit are Kok Lim Strawberry Farm, Raju Hill Strawberry Farm and Big Red Strawberry Farm.

Revisit History At Time Tunnel Museum

This history museum is known to be the country’s first memorabilia museum. It houses over 4,000 relics that range from antiques, black and white photographs and old posters.

Check out their Aboriginal Section to know more about the Orang Asli, the country’s indigenous people, as well as their mysterious lifestyle. You can see a timeline from 1885 about the developmenet of the region and much more.

If you’re a culture lover and want to know more about the region’s history, then this is one of the best Cameron Highland place to go.

Take Time To Smell The Roses (Mrs. Robertson’s Rose Garden)

Can’t get enough of flowers, roses in particular? If you’re searching for Cameron Highlands things to see and do, why not take your time to smell the roses in Tanah Rata and Brinchang.

A well-known garden in the area is Mrs. Robertson’s Rose Garden. This garden is located on a hilltop, and it has amazing views from its ten-level terrace. It’s beautiful/

Visit The Sam Poh Temple

Sam Poh Temple is an atmospheric place to visit. You can find it on the outskirts of Brinchang. It is home to one of the largest Buddhas in the country. There’s also beautifully hand painted tiles and huge statues.

It’s a distinctive yellow and red colour and the location is peaceful and serene, surrounded by hills.

The structure was built in 1972 in honor of Zheng Ho, a well-known medieval Chinese eunuch admiral.

Have A Taste Of The Lavender Ice Cream At Cameron Lavender Garden

A Cameron Highland new attraction is Cameron Lavender. You can wander in the gardens and discover different varieties of lavender flowers from various countries. It’s a great opportunity to admire the beautiful lavender blooms.

The Cameron Lavender Garden is one of the top things to do in Cameron Highlands and has a bee history gallery, a shop and a cafe and tea room where you can stop and take in the views. Finally, don’t leave without trying their lavender ice cream!

Enjoy Your Afternoon Tea At Jim Thompson Tea Room

If you go to Cameron Highlands, you’ll hear a lot of stories about Jim Thompson, an American businessman who was successful in reviving the Thai silk industry back in the 1950s and 1960s. His disappearance in the Cameron Highlands became one of the biggest land searches in the history of Southeast Asia and remains a mystery until today.

Inspired by the same name, Jim Thompson Tea Room, one of the top Cameron Highland Malaysia attractions, is nestled against a backdrop of rolling hilltop landscape and a golf course. Their afternoon tea is a popular choice for guests. They also sell a wide-selection of mini-pastries, fresh strawberries and sandwiches.

Enjoy The Butterflies At The Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm

The Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm is found near Kea Farm in Brinchang and houses a variety of butterfly species such as the Raja Brooke.

If you’re searching for a Cameron Highland good place to visit, witness these colorful butterflies fluttering around a garden filled with breathtaking flowers and lush greenery. This is an excellent stopover, and a great place to put on your list if you have children.

The farm offers guided tours as well and is home to other animals such as tortoises and ducks. There’s also a restaurant and a gift shop on the premises. It’s one of our favourite Cameron Highlands what to do.

Tour The Sri Thendayuthapani Swami Temple

The Sri Thendayuthapani Swami Temple is definitely a Cameron Highland must go attraction. This temple was built by early Indian settlers and is known to be the biggest Hindu temple in the area.

Found in the main stairway and the walls of the temple are vibrant figures that represent different Hindu deities.

Visit The Night Market

When it comes to what to do in Cameron Highlands at night, on a Friday or Saturday, you should definitely head to the night market at Golden Hills in Brinchang. It opens around 5pm and runs late.

You’ll find several native products being sold here such as tea blends, strawberries and other notable souvenirs.

You can also find local produce and street food here, and it’s a place where you can put your bargaining skills to test.

Shop At Cameron Square

You wouldn’t expect to find a shopping mall in the highlands, but Cameron Square is the first and only mall in the area. This Cameron Highland attraction is popular among local and international tourists.

Don’t expect it to have crowds like in the city though. It’s a one-stop place where you can find several retail outlets, restaurants and cafes.

Explore The Mossy Forest

Still wondering what to visit in Cameron Highlands? The Mossy Forest is a natural environment that you can explore at one of the tallest elevations in the Cameron Highlands. It’s located on Gunung Brinchang (mountain). It’s the perfect place for a hike.

It’s the oldest forest in Malaysia at around 200 million years old. Low-level clouds blanket the forest. The mist and moisture in the air make it an ideal location for moss, ferns, orchids and lichen to grow and thrive.

It’s also quite stunning with Lonely Planet listing it as the 5th most Instagrammable forest in the world!

The road up here is steep and tricky and it’s best to do this on a tour. Once there, there is a boardwalk and hiking trails.

Click here to join a tour now.

Relax At Lata Iskandar Waterfall

Lata Iskandar Waterfall, notably one of the most interesting places to visit in Cameron Highlands, is nestled in a well-known park when you’re on your way to the Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur. It’s by the main road after Tapah.

Take a relaxing dip in the pool, near a stream of refreshing water that cascades into multiple tiers. You can also find several food stalls and vendors near the attraction.

Visit A Bee Farm

Another recommend activity in this what to do in Cameron Highlands blog is to visit a bee farm in the area, the Ee Feng Gu Honey Bee Farm.

This traditional apiary offers some interesting attractions inside such as an indoor maze. It’s an excellent choice for families because you can admire the colorful bees and enjoy the maze. There’s also a gift shop that offers a different variety of honey-assortment souvenirs.

Play Golf At Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Club

If you’re wondering what to do in Cameron Highlands Malaysia and playing golf is your thing, then make sure you drop by Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Course. Sandwiched in between Tanah Rata and Brinchang, this 18-hole golf course is the only one that you can find in the area. You can rent the equipment on-site.

Breathe in the chilly air, and you’ll feel as if you’re in a completely different continent. This golf course also provides you with sweeping views of mountain ranges and tea plantations.

Check Out Cactus Valley

Searching for a nice place to visit in Cameron Highland? Nestled close to Brinchang on a forested hill is the beautiful Cactus Valley, known for its different varieties of cacti. Witness a plethora of vibrant species, little spiky ones to towering specimens in this attraction place in Cameron Highlands.

You can also spend some time taking photos of other kinds of plants and flora such as wildflowers and apple orchards.

Admire History at the Mah Meri Art Gallery

Art lovers should make their way to Mah Meri Art Gallery. This Tanah Rata Cameron Highland attraction is packed full of indigenous art. There are many wooden carvings made by the Mah Meri. They are an indigenous tribe in the Carey Islands, Malaysia.

There are hundreds of masks, sculptures and statues out of the local mangrove hardwood. The craftmanship and quality lead to this receiving the Seal of Excellence by the UNESCO authorities.

This is one of the top places to visit in Tanah Rata Cameron.

Explore the Orang Asli Native Villages

Orang Asli directly translates to “original people” and is used to describe the indigenous people of the area. One of the Cameron Highland interesting place to visit is an Orang Asli village.

You can visit the Semai tribe, known for their blow-pipe hunting techniques and for practising “shifting cultivation” in a short drive from the central Cameron Highlands.

On a visit, you can see their traditional bamboo huts and learn how they are built, learn about medicinal plants the tribe use, how to use a blow dart and more.

To visit, you need a guide who can tell you all about the local Orang Asli traditions and customs as well as information on the surrounding forest.

Enjoy A Steamboat Dinner

Steamboat restaurants are popular in the Cameron Highlands with locals loving a steamboat dinner. It’s also great for anyone as it’s quite delicious and you can tailor it to your taste buds.

Steamboat is a Chinese style of cooking where you’ll have a big pot of soup cooking at your table. You can order and add various ingredients of your choosing. This can be types of meat, vegetables, noodles, egg or tofu.

It’s another of the top things to do in Cameron Highlands at night, and it works well in the cooler climate of the highlands.

Try Restoran Taman Apple Cameron Steamboat & Grill in Tanah Rata.

Cameron Highlands Tourist Attractions Map

Best Place To Stay In Cameron Highlands

Take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city as you soak in the cool climate and peaceful atmosphere of Cameron Highlands.

If you’re planning to visit Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, there’s definitely something for everyone in this laid-back portion of Malaysia-from stylish hotels, to sprawling resorts that reflect Cameron Highlands’ colonial past.

BEST – The Lakehouse Review

Lakehouse is a colonial-style boutique hotel with its own historic charm. Nestled in a hillside overlooking the Sultan Abu Bakar Lake, this Tudor-style country home offers 19 stylish rooms and suites filled with antique decor, colonial-era furnishings and modern-day amenities such as an espresso machine.

The area also has beautifully manicured grounds coupled with wicker lounge chairs and beautiful wrought-iron tables and chairs under the shade facing the lake. Guided hikes are available every morning.

Keeping with the colonial vibe of the place, there’s a restaurant and bar that serves mouthwatering British food. The hotel features a spa that offers Malaysian massages as well.

Click here for the latest prices.

MID-RANGE – Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands Review

This breathtaking Tudor hotel is nestled 1,500 meters above sea level, being surrounded by the vistas of Tanah Rata. It offers guests 238 rooms and suites with a Tudor-style theme that fuses modern concepts with a more traditional design for a warm and cosy ambiance.

Amenities include a minibar, LCD TVs, complimentary tea and coffee making facilities and a private balcony. Suites range from Superior, Deluxe, to Presidential Suites.

They have an on-site restaurant that’s open daily and serves delectable continental and oriental dishes. The hotel also has a traditional English pub offering a pleasant ambiance for drinking pints. It’s ideal for anyone seeking comfort, while enjoying the full line of on-site facilities.

BUDGET – Ria Cameron Hotel Review

If you’re traveling on a budget, Ria Cameron Hotel is a great mix of value, comfort and convenience, offering a wide array of amenities like a 24-hour front desk, free wifi, free parking and an on-site restaurant.

There are double, triple and family rooms. As you would expect at this price point, they are quite basic.

It’s also conveniently located to popular attractions in the area like the Big Red Strawberry Farm, Cactus Valley and Sam Poh Temple.

Read our full guide to where to stay in Cameron Highlands here .

Cameron Highlands With Kids

I have visited Cameron Highlands with kids and without them. It’s great in either case!

It’s a good destination for all ages as many of these attractions are perfect for families. Kids will love picking strawberries, going to the bee and butterfly farms and much more.The Cameron Highlands seems almost tailor made for kids!

When we last visited, there was also a small amusement park called Holiday Park located next to the Nova Highlands Resort and Residence. There’s a small range of rides undercover and it was a great way to unwind at the end of the day.

How To Get To The Cameron Highlands

It’s easy to get to the Cameron Highlands by bus or car. If you have your own car, great! You are good to go.

If you need to take a bus, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices.

You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here .

Your other option (the best one!) is to take a taxi. We can book a taxi to the Cameron Highlands from KL or anywhere else in Malaysia. Click here for more information and prices.

You can also read our full guides to getting to Cameron Highlands from:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Taman Negara

Final Words

Located approximately 1500 meters above sea level, Cameron Highlands is nestled in a mountain plateau above the river valley.

With a plethora of exciting activities, stunning hotels and attractions in the area, it manages to lure both locals and globetrotters from all around the world. Hopefully, our review of places of attraction in Cameron Highlands will help you plan your next trip!

Read more Cameron Highlands guides here . You can also listen to our full podcast about visiting the Cameron Highlands here.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Ipoh to Cameron Highlands

Best options, other options, ipoh to cameron highlands schedule, transportation from ipoh to cameron highlands.

• Buses RUB 600
• Taxis RUB 7,142
• Trains are not available
• Ferries are not available
• Flights are not available
• Vans are not available

Facts about the transport from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands

Popular routes.

• Ipoh → Singapore
• Ipoh → Kuala Lumpur
• Ipoh → Penang
• Ipoh → Malacca
• Ipoh → Kuala Lumpur Sentral
• Kuala Lumpur → Ipoh
• Singapore → Ipoh
• Penang → Ipoh
• Kuala Lumpur Sentral → Ipoh
• Butterworth → Ipoh

From Cameron Highlands

• Cameron Highlands → Penang
• Cameron Highlands → Kuala Lumpur
• Cameron Highlands → Ipoh
• Cameron Highlands → Taman Negara
• Cameron Highlands → George Town

To Cameron Highlands

• Kuala Lumpur → Cameron Highlands
• Penang → Cameron Highlands
• Singapore → Cameron Highlands
• George Town → Cameron Highlands
• Malacca → Cameron Highlands

Popular Routes in Malaysia

• Kuala Lumpur → Penang
• Penang → Kuala Lumpur
• Penang → Langkawi
• Kuala Lumpur → Malacca

How to get from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands

When you want to get from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands, you have a few options to consider. Traveling between these destinations is possible by different means of transport:

If you’re looking for a quick trip, it’s recommended that you use Bus. However, if you’d rather take your time with a slower, more affordable travel option, you can book a Bus ticket.

The cost of travel will depend on the means of transport you choose for your trip. A taxi ticket is the most expensive option - it will cost you about RUB 10,977 . If you want to save on transportation, it’s better to take a bus as a bus ticket costs as low as RUB 596 .

How far is Ipoh from Cameron Highlands?

If you’re traveling by land, it’s important to know the distance from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands. Your trip will be a total of 38 miles (61 km). The flying distance is 38 miles (61 km).

How long does it take to get from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands?

The travel time from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take from 2 to 3 hours.

How much does it cost to get from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands?

The cost of the trip from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands varies according to what means of transport you choose for your journey. The most affordable operator is CS Travel: travelling by bus expect to pay as low as RUB 596 for your ticket.

However, if you’re after more upscale travel . The most expensive variant is to opt for a taxi - a one-way taxi ticket can cost as much as RUB 10,977 .

Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands:

• Bus tickets - RUB 600 to RUB 639 ;

You can order a taxi, too - an estimated cost of the ride is from RUB 7,142 to RUB 10,975 .

How many trips per day are there between Ipoh and Cameron Highlands?

Depending on your choice of transportation, the number of daily trips varies.

• Buses start plying the route from 10:30 - you can also take a bus as late as 16:30. There are 5 available bus trips every day.
• Taxis are a good option to consider for this route, too. Book a cab to take you from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands any time of the day.

Which means of transport is the best for the route?

How to choose the most convenient way of travel from Ipoh to Cameron Highlands? In order to make your choice of transportation easier, we asked 1000 users to range their preferences for this route. Here are the results of the poll:

• 100% decided to go for a bus.
• Cameron Highlands
• Transport Options

Top 4 Tea Plantations To See In Cameron Highlands

No trip to Cameron Highlands is complete without a visit to a tea plantation! Especially if it is your first time coming here.

And the most famous of these is the Sungai Palas plantation of BOH Tea Cameron Highlands. This is why the one-way road into the plantation is usually full of tourists.

In this guide, we’ll run through this popular tea plantation and its highlights. Along with other tea plantations that you can visit as an alternative.

Table of contents:

• Kuala Terla Tea Plantation
• BOH Sungai Palas Tea Plantation
• Bharat Tea Plantations
• Fairlie Tea Plantation
• Tea Factory Tour
• Getting To Cameron Highlands

Notes On Tea Plantations In Cameron Highlands

Large tea estates up in Cameron Highlands are primarily owned by BOH Plantations or Bharat.

The best tea plantation in Cameron Highlands is arguably the Sungei Palas estate owned by BOH as the drive into the valley is as lovely as the rolling plantations themselves.

Still, it’s good to have some alternatives to go to. This is in case you would rather not compete with other tourists cramming to get into the Sungai Palas estate!

The infamous jam along the one-way road can take  1-2 hours  from the main road on public holidays and weekends during peak hours (10am to 1pm).

1. Kuala Terla Tea Plantation

At this plantation, you can have a go at riding an ATV with Cameron Adventurous ATV & Safari through the tea plantation!

It’s especially interesting (but tiring) if you’ve never tried riding an ATV before! And you get a rewarding view all the way to the top of the hill as this plantation is no less beautiful than other tea plantations, albeit smaller.

However, the ATVs are not in perfect shape . Nor are safety precautions very convincing. So, if that is not agreeable with you, you can opt for the  jeep  ride instead!

Or you can just take a leisurely walk through the plantation.

• 4×4 safari RM20 per pax
• ATV safari RM80 (Single), RM90 (Double)
• Air Swing RM10 per pax
• The plantation is roughly 22km from Tanah Rata. Foreigners pay ~RM10-20 more than locals!
• For inquiries, call +6013-534 2002

Plus, there is an on-site café on this plantation:

Cameron Valley Tea House KT (Kuala Terla)

Cameron Valley Tea House KT is one of 3 tea houses owned by Bharat. Not a bad place to stop enroute to Tanah Rata as the tea house overlooks the plantation.

It’s also known as the 3rd teahouse under Bharat. Or Cameron Valley Tea House 3.

The tea  shop  here sells an assortment of locally produced tea. Their  masala tea  and  scones are good !

There are usually not that many people here, so  parking is a breeze  too. Just prepare yourself for the questionable number of flies.

PS: Flies are a common sight in Cameron Highlands, especially if the weather has been hot with regular rain (which is most of the year).

• Location: 49th Mile Kuala Terla, Cameron Highlands, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang, Malaysia
• Opening Hours: 9 am–6 pm
• Contact: +605-498 8180
• Entrance Fees: RM4 to enter the garden

2. BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre, Brinchang, Pahang

True that it’s not easy to get to:

But that doesn’t stop everyone from wanting to visit the impressive plantation in Brinchang (and the BOH Sungei Palas Tea Centre).

Some squeezing is necessary as the  narrow road  that winds into the estate does eventually reach a width that can only accommodate  1 car  at a time!

There may be staff to manage the traffic which eases the stressful situation a lot.

Once you get to the estate, you can leave your car at the  free and large visitor car park .

There are stairs leading up to the visitor center that hangs over the plantation. The building also houses two seating lounges with a shared kitchen, a  small gallery  and of course, a  shop  for BOH tea products!

Note: If you have elderly in your group, you may want to drive straight up to the visitor center instead.

Quick  tours of the tea factory  by a staff member are available at regular intervals. Read more about BOH Sungai Palas Tea Plantation in this post .

The café (like the plantation) is open to visitors from 9am to 4:30pm every day except on Monday .

Expect lots of people regardless of whether it’s a weekend or a weekday!

Items on the menu are suitable for brunch, breakfast, or high tea .

Cake flavors to try are their banana cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake or their unconventional  nasi lemak  cheesecake!

They also have scones as well.

• Location:   BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre, Brinchang, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 8:30am – 4:30pm; Monday: Closed (the exception is school and public holidays)
• Contact: +605-496 2096
• Entrance Fees: Free

3. Bharat Tea Plantations Sdn. Bhd. At Tanah Rata

Maybe you’ve come across a local tea brand called “ Cameron Valley Tea ”. This is in fact, the signature tea of Bharat Tea Plantations !

Their main estate by the main road from Ringlet to Tanah Rata has not one but two tea houses !

Have a cup of their  signature tea.  Or try their other  Indian-inspired tea blends  like their Masala Chai or Cardamom Tea.

Both tea houses have decks that look out over the valley and a shop where you can buy their various tea blends.

Different tea flavors you can get:

Food they serve:

• Croissants and other pastries
• Mango cheesecake
• Carrot cake

Cameron Valley Tea House 1

From Cameron Valley Tea House 1, visitors can take a stroll down to a small park and waterfall in the valley.

There are not as many seats to go around at this open-air cafe as with Cameron Valley Tea House 2. But because of this, the dining atmosphere is quieter.

• Location: 34, Mile Cameron Highlands, Tanah Rata, 39000 Cameron Highlands, Pahang
• Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: 9am to 6pm; Friday to Sunday: 8am to 7pm
• Contact: +605-4851454
• Entrance Fees: If you want to explore the estate, it costs RM4/ person to walk while the buggy costs RM12/ person .

Cameron Valley Tea House 2

There’s no doubt that the second tea house is  bigger  to comfortably fit more visitors! It can be noisy here with a lack of staff to clean the tables.

But visitors will appreciate the  larger parking lot .

• Location: 34.5, Mile Cameron Highlands, Tanah Rata, 39000 Cameron Highlands, Pahang
• Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: 8:30am to 6pm; Friday to Sunday: 8am to 7pm
• Contact: +605-4915100
• Cameron Highlands Night Market : Brinchang Night Market One-stop Guide
• Kea Farm Market At Cameron Highlands : All Covered Including Food & What To Buy

4. BOH Tea Plantation (Fairlie Tea Plantation)

The Fairlie Tea Plantation (or  BOH Habu Tea Estate ) is the other lesser-known estate owned by BOH Plantations.

This plantation in  Habu  has scenic views too. Not exactly like the Sungai Palas estate, but still very green and with fewer crowds. The latter is a big plus point for us.

Plus, there are short hikes  (~10 minutes) to viewpoints if you don’t mind the lack of maintenance for the trails.

Simple refreshments and tea are available at their small  on-site café . You can also get tours of the tea factory at this plantation.

Note: Inexperienced drivers will be more comfortable with the road going into this estate than the one for Sungai Palas!

• Location:   BOH Road Habu, 39200 Ringlet, Pahang
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9am – 4:30pm; Monday: Closed (except for school and public holidays).
• Contact:  +605-493 1324

Read more: Mossy Forest of Cameron Highlands – Don’t Miss This Scenic Hiking Spot in Malaysia!

Cameron Highlands Tea Factory Tour

Fancy getting a tour of a tea factory? There are only two tea plantations in Cameron Highlands that currently offer such tours.

And these are both managed by BOH.

1. BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre Tour

Free educational tours for the factory begin at 8:45am and occur every 30 minutes after. You don’t need to make any reservations beforehand to join the tours.

The only thing to note is that the tours may not be available on the day you go depending on factory operation .

We joined this tour recently and didn’t find it very interesting.  The factory is dimly lit so you cannot see much of the process close. And the explanations are only surface level.

2. BOH Tea Plantation Tour (Fairlie Tea Plantation)

Factory tours are available here too. They occur every 15 minutes and only take about 10 minutes to complete!

The tour gives a brief introduction into how tea is collected and processed at the plantation and factory. The tours at Fairlie and Sungai Palas are not that much different.

Both are very short tours. And neither tour gives you the opportunity to view the full process from beginning to end.

After the short tour or while waiting for your tour to start, you can try a quick hike to a viewpoint at the plantation for beautiful scenery in a cool environment.

Note: If you have any breathing difficulties or weak stamina, you might want to skip the hike!

Getting To Cameron Highlands From Ipoh

Prepare yourself for the windy road and possible traffic jam up to Cameron Highlands.

Locals will take any excuse (e.g. public holiday, hot weather, school holiday, etc) to come here for the weekends!

With moderate traffic, it can take  2 hours  from  Ipoh to Cameron Highlands .

Which means it’s possible to make a day trip to Cameron Highlands from Ipoh.  Hotels in Cameron Highlands  do tend to be pricier anyways!

Private Tours To Cameron Highlands From Ipoh

If you don’t plan to drive up there yourself, you can always take a private tour service ( RayTheTour ) from Ipoh up to Cameron Highlands!

Tours include:

• Transport up to Cameron Highlands
• Comfortable vehicle with ample seating and luggage space depending on your group size
• Local tour guides who know the best spots
• Transport around Cameron Highlands
• Transport back down to Ipoh (on the same day)
• Pick up service from anywhere in Ipoh

Leave RayTheTour a message on WhatsApp to book or inquire about their customizable private tours!

Further reading:

• How To Go To Cameron Highlands From Kuala Lumpur
• How To Go To Cameron Highlands From Singapore

Anyone who goes up to Cameron Highlands for the first time will be sure to include at least one tea plantation into their plans!

And since everyone has the same tea plantation on their mind (Sungai Palas BOH Tea Estate), it’s not a bad idea to plan a back-up.

Or you can wake up really early or reschedule your dates to avoid the crowds!

Other posts you might like:

• Time Tunnel Museum In Cameron Highlands : Notalgic Place To Check Out
• 29 Interesting Places In Cameron Highlands
• Cameron Highlands Itinerary : Cameron Highlands One Day Trip, 2D1N & 3D2N Itinerary
• 4 Best Rose Gardens In Cameron Highlands
• Lavender Farm In Cameron Highlands  – Just a tourist trap or more?

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