Cameron Highlands tourist and travel guide
Enjoy walks through tea plantations
It is easy to see why European administrators have been flocking to the cooler climbs of the Cameron Highlands for nearly 100 years. And today it is tourists from all over the world that seek a little refreshing relaxation in the verdant green countryside of the area.
The Cameron Highlands has been a hill station ever since British colonisers discovered the lush landscape and decided to settle here to escape the searing heat of the coast. And if the idea of tea plantation, scones with strawberry jam and dipping into crisp freshwater pools appeals, then include the Cameron Highlands on your itinerary of Malaysia.
Below is a quick introduction to the region but see 1stopMalaysia for our comprehensive guide to the Cameron Highlands.
Visiting the Cameron Highlands from Singapore
Tea plantations is one of the first things that come to mind when one considers the Cameron Highlands. The crop was established here by the British and soon came to flourish in the lofty reaches as it does in India and Sri Lanka.
Experienced immigrants from China and the subcontinent were brought in to take care of producing tea, and this influx has had a notable influence on the food and culture of the highlands. The most important population centre of the Cameron Highlands is called Brinchang, but generally it is more convenient for tourists to reside five kilometres away in the small village of Tanah Rata instead.
Tanah Rata is a quaint collection of guesthouses and cafés with a bohemian artists feel, and it is possible to while away a few days here wandering in the surrounds and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. But active people will not be tearing their hair out with plenty to see and do including waterfalls within easy reach.
What to do in the Cameron Highlands
Europeans have found it difficult to adjust to the blistering Southeast Asian heat ever since the Dutch and Portuguese first came to the region, and so the temperate climate that characterises the Cameron Highlands is welcome relief and has been attributed therapeutic qualities.
Cameron Highlands are famous for strawberries
Hiking is the principle activity of choice here and there are maps and guides available from practically all hostelries which feature a variety of routes and trails that encompass different attractions. But remember to leave enough time to get back to your lodging before darkness falls, wear sensible waterproof clothing and tell someone your planned route before setting off.
Picturesque Robertson Waterfall is very close at hand and easily accessible from Tanah Rata by foot. Many people choose to take a picnic from the town up here and relax by the cool freshwater swimming hole for a few hours.
Boh Tea Centre is a must-see Cameron Highlands attraction as well with a working plantation plus factory to tour and lovely veranda to relax on while enjoying a refreshing cuppa. Gunung Brinching mountain is an excursion for only the most dedicated hikers as journey to the summit takes around three hours and involves some perilous manoeuvres. More on Cameron Highlands activities.
Many Cameron Highlands attractions have the benefit of being easy hiking distance from each other, so a fun day trapsing around the countryside can include a little sightseeing as well. Fruit and Vegetable farms, butterfly enclosures, nurseries for flowers and a notable museum are just some of the things worth visiting. Many visitors to the Cameron Highlands choose guided tours of aboriginal Orang Asli villages as well as tea plantations. More on Cameron Highlands sightseeing.
Hospitality in the Cameron Highlands
There are options for accommodation in the Cameron Highlands for every possible pocket ranging from five star spa resorts to backpacker hostels with roaring fires and all home comforts. The travellers’ enclave of Tanah Rata is blessed with most of the inexpensive choices although there are enough decent offerings in Brinchang to consider staying there as well. Camping or cheap dorm beds can be found for those on the tightest of budgets while there are also some intimate boutique hotels which boast top notch creature comforts. More on Cameron Highlands hotels.
Cameron Highlands nightlife is generally low key and most people make do with just a large evening meal with a few beers before retiring to bed. So while you may not be dancing til dawn, the standard of food is (mercifully) extremely good with a smattering of top notch Chinese and Indian establishments plus some expat-run eateries serving up Northern European and international fare. More on Cameron Highlands restaurants and bars.
Getting to the Cameron Highlands
Getting to the Cameron Highlands is no major headache with direct VIP coaches linking Tanah Rata with Singapore and KL. If coming from farther afield then Tapah is the main transport hub of the region and only two hours by bus from Tanah Rata. If approaching the Cameron Highlands via rail then Ipoh is on the main Singapore to Bangkok route and is where those wanting to jump on a train should aim for. More on getting to Cameron Highlands.
See 1stopMalaysia for more on the Cameron Highlands.
