Ipoh has countless temples to visit. Of these, cave temples are particularly worth visiting since they are unique to Ipoh. And they are all free to visit.
We will name a few of our favorites here so you can decide which to visit. You could see several in a day but it can get repetitive, so we suggest picking 2 or 3.
Without further ado, here are our recommendations!
1. Kek Lok Tong
Let this be the cave temple to see if you only have time to see one in Ipoh. We say this because it has the most impressive natural chamber – not one but a few actually.
This temple is also well managed and there are wheelchair ramps and a lift throughout the compound.
They even have vending machines in case you get hungry!
And when you’re done climbing up to see all the unusual rock formations inside the temple, the back of the temple has a staircase that goes down to the spacious gardens.
These gardens serve as a recreational space for the local community. There are even paddle boats and bicycles that you can rent to explore the gardens further.
Address: Persiaran Sepakat 3, Tmn Endah Jaya, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 8am to 4:30pm
2. Sam Poh Tong
Don’t let the size of this humble temple fool you, this is the oldest cave temple in the city.
The front of this temple boasts lovely marble walls and a grand archway. These complement a stunning fishpond.
There are other temples within walking distance to this Sam Poh Tong, and they are of a different style altogether – brightly colored as typical of Taoist religious sites.
Sam Poh Tong does not look like much on the inside, but the inner chambers utilize natural cave walls.
There is a hidden passage that will take you to the back of the temple where there is an abandoned pagoda.
It makes for quite a photo opportunity, surrounded by greenery and the hills behind.
And a tortoise sanctuary – you can feed the occupants vegetables sold at the counter at the front of the temple.
Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 9am to 4pm (Closes at 1:30pm on Wednesdays, and 3pm on Saturdays)
3. Perak Tong
This majestic looking temple stands out from its shabby neighbors along the main road of Jalan Kuala Kangsar.
The symmetry of the temple’s exterior and formal gardens lend it a grand appearance that looks like an oriental palace.
It too, has prayer halls that with natural cave walls and ceilings. And some of these walls feature beautiful paintings of Chinese figures.
There is a staircase at the back of this temple that visitors can use to reach the top of the hill where there are several gazebos to stop at.
The view from the top is quite nice on a sunny day although you must be careful where you place your footing as many steps are not maintained.
Address: Jln. Kuala Kangsar, Kawasan Perindustrian Tasek, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm
Conclusion
Of so many cave temples in Ipoh, these are the top 3 that we recommend first time visitors to check out.
All have something interesting to offer. And we if we had to name our favorite, it would be Kek Lok Tong for its stunning natural beauty and how well the temple and its grounds are maintained.
Want more things to do in Ipoh, check out our suggestions here.
Ipoh Private Tour Service
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