Attractions in Malaysia

Location

Bukit Larut was formerly called Maxwell Hill. It is the oldest hill station in Malaysia which was founded back in 1884. It is situated about 10 kilometers from the quiet town of Taiping, north of Perak. Bukit Larut is about 1250 meters above sea level and is located at the wettest part of the country. Bukit Larut is not as developed as hill resorts like the Cameron Highlands or Genting Highlands but it is still able to preserve much of the ambience of a colonial hill station with cozy bungalows, well-maintained gardens and a cool climate. To reach the hill, one needs to get on a four-wheeled drive jeep. Private vehicles are not allowed up the hill thus the resort authority will arrange transport up to the hill.

Overview

The road up the Bukit Larut is a narrow and winding one. The road goes through tropical virgin jungle thus you will be freshen up by the fresh smell of greens and cool breeze blowing against your face. Midway up to the top of the hill is the Tea Garden House. It was once a tea estate. The view at this part of the hill is simply magnificent as you can see the whole Taiping as well as the Lake Gardens in Taiping.

At the top of the hill, you can see the West Coast of the peninsula. On a less cloudy day, you can even see the coastline all the way from Pangkor Island to Penang. Many visitors are also tempted to climb to the Cottage which also happens to be the only way to the top. The hill is full of lush greenery and flamboyantly colored flora and fauna. The cool climate on the hill also favors the golden sunflowers as the golden sunflowers here are claimed to be the largest variety in the whole of Malaysia. There is also a waterfall for photo-taking as well as to relax.

Other activities here include bird-watching. The best site for bird-watching would be at the Gunung Hijau Trail which is a winding pathway up to the summit of Gunung Hijau. The well protected woods here are also the home to many small creatures like gibbons and squirrels. You can also embark on jungle trekking while being here.

Transport

Bukit Larut can be reached by getting to Taiping. From Taiping town, drive towards the Taiping Lake Gardens and turn into Jalan Air Terjun and towards the foot of the hill. From here, the journey up the hill is by four-wheeled drive jeep which is provided by the authority.