Cameron Highlands πππΆββοΈπ± A Refreshing Escape in Malaysia
The Cameron Highlands, a mountainous region in the state of Pahang, Malaysia, offers a unique contrast to the country’s tropical lowlands.
Known for its cool climate, rolling hills blanketed in lush tea plantations, expansive landscapes, strawberry farms, beautiful flowers, and hiking opportunities the Highlands provide visitors with opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and immersion in nature.
This article guides you through the key aspects of visiting this alternative destination.
Highlights
- Why You Should Ditch the Beach
- Getting to Cameron Highlands
- Cozy Chalets to Boutique Hotels
- Cameron Highland Tours
- Hiking and Nature Trails
- Markets and Local Produce
- Georgetown 𧨠Penang
- Things We Carry on the Train
- Malaysia West Coast β΄οΈ Itinerary
- Accessories for the Tropics
A Climate of Contrast
Enjoying a significantly cooler climate than the rest of Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands has temperatures averaging around 20Β°C (68Β°F) during the day and dropping considerably at night.
The refreshing climate is due to the region’s elevation, ranging from 1,300 to 1,800 meters (4,300 to 5,900 feet) above sea level.
This makes it a popular destination for those seeking respite from the heat and humidity of the lowlands.
Why You Should Ditch the Beach (just for a bit)
Let’s be honest, Malaysia is synonymous with sun-kissed shores and tropical heat.
But sometimes, you just need a break from the humidity that makes your hair resemble a frizzled bird’s nest. That’s where the Cameron Highlands come in, like a breath of crisp, clean air.
Think rolling hills covered in emerald tea plantations, strawberry farms bursting with juicy redness, and a climate thatβs more βsweater weatherβ than βsunscreen slather.β
It’s the perfect antidote to the equatorial sizzle.
Getting to Cameron Highlands
The Cameron Highlands are accessible by road. The journey involves winding passes through mountainous terrain, offering some scenic views. Buses and taxis are the easiest options, but you should also consider taking your own car or getting a short car rental.
However, drivers should be prepared for the twisting roads and potential traffic congestion, especially during peak periods.
We took a bus from Ipoh to Tanah Rata. This journey cost RM 27 per person and lasted around 2Β½ hours. The buses are comfortable and make the entire journey with no stops. Regular buses also run from Kuala Lumpur.
Stop off in Middle Earth!
If you keep your eyes open during the trip from Ipoh, you’ll see that you pass through the small town of Hobbitoon!
Yes, as in the Lord of the Rings.
This enchanting attraction, reminiscent of The Shire, transports visitors to a world of fantasy and wonder. As you enter Hobbitoon Village, youβll be greeted by a collection of quaint cottages, each adorned with round doors and whimsical details.
Hobbitoon, Malaysia!
While most cottages serve as facades for photo opportunities, one of them allows you to step inside and truly immerse yourself in the world of Frodo and his companions.
At Hobbitoon Village, you have the rare opportunity to embark on a journey to Middle-Earth without leaving Malaysia.
Donβt miss the chance to sip on specialty beverages like the Dwarven Draught, served in traditional beer mugs, or the indulgent Ogre Crush topped with Oreo bits.
Brinchang & Tanah Rata
Brinchang and Tanah Rata are the two main towns of the Cameron Highlands.
- Brinchang is known for its market, vegetable farms, and proximity to several attractions, including the BOH Tea Plantation and the Cactus Valley.
- Tanah Rata is the largest town and serves as a hub for transportation and accommodation. It also offers access to hiking trails and the Cameron Highlands Butterfly Garden.
Tea Plantation Cameron Highlands
From Cozy Chalets to Boutique Hotels
Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a bit of luxury, you’ll find a good range of accommodation options in the Highlands.
From chalets nestled amidst the tea plantations to boutique hotels with stunning views, there’s something for everyone.
Just be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Our Choice – Lucky Home, Tanah Rata
We chose a 3-bedroom apartment for our 2-night stay in Tanah Rata. The place was clean and spacious, and within walking distance of the town and bus station.
From here, it was a taxi ride to the Billion supermarket in Brinchang.
Our Lucky Home apartment had a kitchen, although we needed to call the owner to come and change the gas cylinder.
Also, since we couldn’t get any hot water out of any of the showers, it was just too cold to wash (did I say it gets pretty nippy in the Highlands?).
Lucky Home Tanah Rata Malaysia
The beds had bottomΒ sheets but no upper sheets, so we had to sleep with just a spare provision of blankets, which was uncomfortable.
On the plus side, there was a modern good-sized Samsung television
Cameron Highland Tours
After researching a number of tour companies, we chose a 4-hour tour with CS Tours.
At RM 50 per person, they were the cheapest we found.
For this, they offer a jeep tour to the Brinchang Peak (2,000 m), plus visits to the Mossy Forest, BOH Tea Plantation and factory, and the Strawberry farm.
They packed 9 people into our jeep, which was pretty tight, especially with the bumpy roads.Β A lot of jeeps travel up together in a convoy, so it’s pretty crowded with tourists when you all arrive.
The Mossy Forest
They don’t take you to the peak of the Brinchang mountain (apparently this wasn’t allowed) and on our visit the Mossy Forest boardwalk was closed for renovation!
Instead, they took us on a short, steep and muddy walk directly up into the Mossy forest. During this climb, we spent more time watching our footing than paying attention to the flora and fauna.
Afterwards, a guide explained a little about the indigenous plants, animals and vegetation.
Mossy Forest Cameron Highlands
Tea Plantations: A Verdant Landscape
Picture this: you’re sipping a fragrant cup of locally grown tea, the air is cool and crisp, and all around you are rows upon rows of tea bushes, stretching as far as the eye can see.
It’s like being in a giant, green, calming hug.
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good cuppa?
The iconic image of the Cameron Highlands is undoubtedly its sprawling tea plantations. These meticulously cultivated hillsides, covered in rows of tea bushes, create a visually captivating landscape.
Several tea estates offer tours, providing insights into the tea-making process from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product.
Tea Plantation Cameron Highlands
You can also sample various teas and enjoy the frenetic atmosphere of the tea houses.
The BOH Tea Plantation (one of the largest in Southeast Asia) and Cameron Valley Tea House are popular choices.
Compared to the tea plantations of Sri Lanka though, the overall experience here is much more commercial.
The tea plantation, factory and shops comprise an enterprise geared to selling a large and bewildering variety of tea mixes:
(tea mixed with coffee? … anyone?).
Like the Mossy Forest, there are hoards of tourists, but with some persistence you can get some nice views of the rolling plantation hillsides.
Strawberry Fields Forever (and Ever!)
Okay, so maybe not forever, but the Strawberry Farms in Cameron Highlands are worth a visit.
Strawberry Farm, Cameron Highlands
Imagine picking your own plump, ripe strawberries straight from the plant. It’s a delightfully tactile experience, and the strawberries taste a million times better than the ones you get at the supermarket.
Plus, you can indulge in all sorts of strawberry-themed treats, from strawberry ice cream to strawberry jam to⦠well, you get the idea.
It’s a strawberry lover’s paradise!
Hiking & Nature Trails
The Cameron Highlands offer a variety of hiking trails, from gentle strolls to more challenging treks.
It’s a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the region, breathe in some fresh mountain air, and maybe even work off those strawberry treats.
Plus, the views from the top are totally worth the effort (and the occasional mosquito bite).
Hiking & Nature Trails – Cameron Highlands
There is a range of hiking trails, catering to different fitness levels. These trails wind through forests, across hillsides, and past waterfalls, providing opportunities to experience the region’s natural beauty up close.
Trails vary in difficulty, from leisurely nature walks to more challenging treks.Β It’s advisable to check trail conditions and be prepared for changing weather.
Mossy Forest Trail (click to view)
Market Mania: Where Haggling is a Sport
If you’re looking for a taste of local life (and some seriously good deals), head to the local markets in Tanah Rata. You’ll find everything from fresh produce to flowers to quirky souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Be prepared to haggle, though β it’s all part of the fun! It’s a great way to interact with the locals and get a feel for the vibrant culture of the highlands.
The night market in Brinchang is a popular spot to experience the local atmosphere and try street food.
Cameron Highlands
Final Words of Wisdom
The Cameron Highlands is a place where you can escape the heat, reconnect with nature, and indulge in delicious food and drink.
For us, the highlands was OK for a one-time visit. However, with its limited resources this area is fast becoming a victim of its own success.
In the meantime, just remember:
- Pack layers! The weather in the Cameron Highlands can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for anything.
- During our visit (end December) it systematically rained really heavily every afternoon. In this climate, if you get your clothes wet, they won’t dry very quickly.
- Bring insect repellent. There are bugs, especially if you’re planning on hiking.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Tour companies pack visitors into large, over-crowded groups, all of which arrive at the same time at their destinations, choking up the roads and detracting from the outdoor experience. If you can afford it, take a private tour and travel veryΒ early in the morning
- Take your time and enjoy the slower pace of life. The Cameron Highlands are all about relaxation and rejuvenation.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your highland adventure today! And don’t forget to pack your sweater. You’ll thank us later.
If you like the Cameran Highlands, take a look at our other Tropical Travel Plans. You may also like:
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