Ringlet

Introduction

Looking for a peaceful highland escape in Malaysia? Welcome to Ringlet, a charming town in Pahang, Malaysia, often called the gateway to Cameron Highlands. Surrounded by lush tea plantations, vegetable farms, and cool mountain air, Ringlet is the perfect spot for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Cameron Highlands without the heavy tourist crowds. With its colonial heritage, farming culture, and authentic highland lifestyle, Ringlet offers a unique travel experience that blends nature, culture, and local charm.

Location & Accessibility

Ringlet is located at the southern tip of Cameron Highlands, Pahang. It is the first town you’ll encounter when driving up from Tapah on Federal Route 59.

• By Car: From Kuala Lumpur, take the North-South Expressway (E1), exit at Tapah, and drive about 3.5 hours through scenic mountain roads to Ringlet.
• By Bus: Buses from Kuala Lumpur or Ipoh head to Tanah Rata (12 km away). From there, a short taxi ride will take you to Ringlet.
• By Train: The nearest station is Tapah Road Railway Station, about 60 km away. Continue your journey by taxi or bus.
• By Air: The closest airports are Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, Ipoh (90 km) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (260 km).

History & Background

Ringlet’s history is closely tied to the development of the Cameron Highlands during the British colonial era. The fertile soil and cool climate made it ideal for tea plantations and vegetable farming, which remain the backbone of the local economy. Farmers here supply fresh produce and flowers not only across Malaysia but also to Singapore. This agricultural heritage gives Ringlet its distinct identity as a farming town with colonial roots.

Local Lifestyle & Culture

Ringlet is home to a multicultural community of Malays, Chinese, and Indians, who have built a strong agricultural economy together. The town’s lifestyle is laid-back, centered around farming and trade.

• Languages: Malay, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tamil, and English.
• Festivals: Hari Raya, Deepavali, and Chinese New Year are celebrated with local traditions.
• Atmosphere: Quiet and authentic, offering travelers a glimpse of everyday highland life.

Attractions & Things to Do in Ringlet

Although smaller than Brinchang or Tanah Rata, Ringlet attractions are perfect for nature lovers and those seeking authentic experiences.

Top 5 Things to Do in Ringlet

1. Boh Tea Plantation (nearby) – Visit Malaysia’s most famous tea estate for breathtaking views and freshly brewed tea.
2. Vegetable & Flower Farms – Tour local farms and shop for fresh produce and colorful flowers.
3. Sultan Abu Bakar Dam (Ringlet Lake) – A tranquil reservoir surrounded by lush greenery.
4. Highland Hiking Trails – Explore scenic jungle trails around Ringlet for an adventurous day out.
5. Local Markets – Buy fresh strawberries, honey, and souvenirs from nearby farm markets.

Hidden Gems in Ringlet

• Farm Stays: Stay on a working farm for a true rural experience.
• Family-Run Cafés: Taste homestyle cooking made with fresh highland vegetables.

Food & Local Cuisine

Food in Ringlet reflects its multicultural roots. Travelers can enjoy Chinese stir-fried dishes, Indian curries, Malay classics, and highland specialties.

• Must-Try Dishes in Ringlet:
  • Steamboat Hotpot – Perfect for chilly evenings.
  • Strawberry Desserts – From jams to cakes, all made fresh locally.
  • Vegetarian Highland Dishes – Fresh farm-to-table dining experiences.
• Where to Eat in Ringlet:
  • Kopitiams (local coffee shops) – Serving nasi lemak, mee goreng, and roti canai.
  • Highland Restaurants – Offering Chinese and Indian cuisine with a local twist.
  • Farm Cafés – Freshly harvested vegetables served in unique dishes.

Accommodation in Ringlet

Ringlet offers a range of accommodations for different budgets:

• Budget: Guesthouses and homestays in the town center.
• Mid-Range: Cozy lodges and boutique hotels for couples and families.
• Luxury: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands, a Tudor-style boutique resort near Ringlet, is one of the most iconic stays in the highlands.
• Unique: Farm lodges where you can stay close to nature and local farmers.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Shopping in Ringlet is all about local products and handicrafts.

• Fresh vegetables, flowers, and fruits (especially strawberries).
• Locally packaged Cameron Highlands tea.
• Honey, strawberry jam, and handicrafts from nearby farm markets.

Nearby Places to Visit

Ringlet makes a great base for exploring other Cameron Highlands attractions:

• Tanah Rata (12 km): Bustling town with restaurants, shops, and trekking trails.
• Brinchang (20 km): Famous for the Cameron Highlands Night Market.
• Mossy Forest & Gunung Brinchang: A magical, misty forest perfect for eco-tourism.
• Lata Iskandar Waterfall: A beautiful roadside waterfall en route from Tapah.
• Ipoh (90 km): Colonial city known for heritage walks and food culture.

Travel Tips for Ringlet, Malaysia

• Best Time to Visit: February–April for dry weather, but the cool climate makes it pleasant year-round.
• Weather: Temperatures range between 14–24°C – pack light jackets.
• Transport: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore, as taxis are limited.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect local traditions and dress modestly in rural areas.

Why Visit Ringlet?

If you’re looking for a quiet, authentic highland experience in Malaysia, Ringlet is the perfect choice. With its tea plantations, farm stays, fresh produce, and peaceful lifestyle, it offers a refreshing escape from the city. Unlike the busier towns of Cameron Highlands, Ringlet allows you to slow down, soak in the scenery, and connect with local culture. Whether you’re here for a short stopover or a longer stay, Ringlet is a hidden gem worth adding to your Malaysia travel itinerary.