If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, sooner or later you will come across the Cameron Highlands as it’s one of the most popular regions in Malaysia. In this complete guide to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia we’ll share everything you need to know about the Cameron Highlands.
Firstly, some general information: The Cameron Highlands is a district in Pahang, Malaysia. Similar to most European countries, Malaysia has different states with one of them being Pahang. The Cameron Highlands were once named after William Cameron, a British explorer and geologist. Moreover, this region is part of the Titiwangsa mountain range, which divides Peninsular Malaysia into east and west regions.
A complete guide to the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia
How to get to the Cameron Highlands
First of all, you obviously have to get to Malaysia somehow. We covered this part in our first timer’s guide to Malaysia and don’t want to step into too much detail here. Let’s say you’re already in Malaysia and now you’re wondering about how to get to the Cameron Highlands.
Since the Cameron Highlands are quite close to Kuala Lumpur, you can either visit them from Kuala Lumpur and drive back to the Malaysian capital or combine them with a road trip. On our trip to Malaysia we did the latter and drove from Penang to the Cameron Highlands, to Ipoh and then to Kuala Lumpur.
Both options can be done either by bus, by car or with a private driver. The public transportation system in Malaysia is well-developed, affordable and reliable. Thus, most budget travellers come to the Cameron Highlands by bus. The journey takes around 4-5 hours from Kuala Lumpur and will cost you around 35 RM.
Another option would be to rent a car and drive to the Cameron Highlands yourself. During our time in Malaysia, we rented a car in Penang and then drove all the way to Kuala Lumpur. Since car rentals are quite expensive in Malaysia, we would not recommend this option. In hindsight we could have gotten a private driver for less money. If you’re willing to rent a car in Malaysia you should know that there is left-hand traffic and that you need an international driving license to rent a vehicle.
How to get around in the Cameron Highlands
Even though we had a car, this was actually the harder part of our trip. The Cameron Highlands only consist of a single road and due to the region’s popularity, there are often traffic jams here. That’s why we decided to rent a scooter on site. From our point of view, that was the only good way to get from A to B. Of course, you can also use hotel transport or call a taxi, but then you’ll be stuck in traffic anyway.
The best time to visit the Cameron Highlands
Generally, Malaysia has rainy and dry seasons just like most Asian countries do. Hence, if you want to visit the Cameron Highlands you might want to take the seasons into consideration. The wettest months in the Cameron Highlands are October and November while the driest are January and February. If you’re planning to visit this region, it might be good to avoid October and November somehow.
In addition, you should know that the temperatures in the Cameron Highlands are significantly lower than they are in other parts of Peninsular Malaysia. Since you’ll be 1000m above sea level, you can expect around 15 to 20 degrees. Of course, the temperatures are lower in the morning and evening.
Where to stay: Complete guide to the Cameron Highlands
When staying in the Cameron Highlands you can choose between three towns: Ringlet (1,100 m), Tanah Rata (1,400 m) and Brinchang (1,450 m). Here you can find different hotels and also apartments that can be rented for a short amount of time. We recommend staying at the Cameron Highlands Resort to get the full experience of the Cameron Highlands though.
The Cameron Highlands Resort is a five star hotel in the middle of the beautiful mountain area. Here you will find old English charm, because Malaysia was once an English colony. The accommodation at Cameron Highlands Resort captures the nostalgic elegance as each room features the typical colonial design that once was so popular.
Moreover, the hotel also has a spa village where you can book treatments that are inspired by rituals of the Orang Asli. In the evening you can choose between different dining experiences: the Dining Room at the Cameron Highlands Resort offers traditional English cuisine while you can get a taste of Asia in their hot pot restaurant Gonbei.
In summary, you cannot go wrong by staying at the Cameron Highlands Resort. Even if it’s a rainy day in the mountain area, you can still experience traditional spa treatments, enjoy a walk along the property or indulge into typical Asian cuisine.
Things to see and do in the Cameron Highlands
This guide to the Cameron Highlands would not be complete without the best things to see and do while you’re there. We’ve stayed in the Cameron Highlands for two nights which was enough to explore the region and see the most famous places like the BOH tea plantation, the mossy forest or the Jim Thompson trail. We wouldn’t recommend to stay for much longer than two nights, because you’ll miss out on other places in Malaysia then.
1. Visit the BOH Tea Plantation
Of course, the BOH Tea Plantation can not be missed while being in the Cameron Highlands. And it has a place in our complete guide to the Cameron Highlands not without reason. The BOH tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands is a breathtaking expanse of vibrant green tea fields that sprawl across the undulating terrain. As you wander through the plantation, the serenity of the surroundings will enchant you, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle.
You can take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to the production of the finest teas. We didn’t join such a tour, but if you’re interested in tea-making, this might be a great idea. Nevertheless, the cool, misty air and the stunning panoramic views make the BOH tea plantation a must-visit destination.
Tip: You might be tempted to hike through the tea plantation. We’d highly recommend that you don’t do this as we the tea bushes are thick and can scratch your skin.
2. Join a guided Jim Thompson hike
If you’re still in the mood for hiking, join a guided Jim Thompson hike. This hike in the Cameron Highlands offers an incredible experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Named after the American entrepreneur and former intelligence officer who mysteriously disappeared in the Malaysian jungle, this guided hike takes you through lush and tranquil trails, adorned with exotic flora and fauna. As you navigate through the moss-covered forest and listen to the symphony of avian melodies, you’ll be captivated by the mystical ambiance and surreal beauty of this ancient ecosystem. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a serene escape into nature, the Jim Thompson hike promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Malaysian wilderness.
Tip: You should definitely book a guided hike or join the experience via the Cameron Highlands Resort. First of all, this ensures that you’ll learn something about the forests, the flora and fauna as well as the Jim Thompson story. Moreover, there’s also wildlife in the rainforests of the Cameron Highlands and it’s overall safer to go with a guide.
3. See the mossy forest covered in fog
Last but not least: A visit to the enchanting mossy forest is an absolute must-do while you’re in the Cameron Highlands. Here, time seems to slow. While walking through the mossy forest, you’ll notice that the air is saturated with a cool, earthy fragrance. The emerald mosses cling to towering trees and somehow it feels like you’re stepping into a mystical world.
A complete guide to the Cameron Highlands: Summary
Now as our guide to the Cameron Highlands is coming to an end, we hope you enjoyed this little journey through the dense forests, the sunny tea plantation and the nostalgic colonial style.
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