Ulu Kinta

September 2, 2025

5/5 (5 Votes)

Introduction

Ulu Kinta is a serene town in Perak, Malaysia, offering a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking natural beauty and authentic local culture. Known for its lush rivers, forest reserves, and friendly community, the town provides an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. From river activities to exploring historical sites, Ulu Kinta offers experiences that appeal to all types of travelers.

Ulu Kinta was a federal constituency in Perak, Malaysia, that was represented in the Dewan Rakyat from 1959 to 1974.

Location & Accessibility

Located about 10 kilometers east of Ipoh, Ulu Kinta is easily accessible from nearby cities.

Getting There:

By Car: The town is about a 20–30 minute drive from Ipoh via the North–South Expressway.
By Bus: Local bus services connect Ipoh and Ulu Kinta. Check schedules with local transit operators.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ipoh Railway Station. From there, taxis or buses can take you to Ulu Kinta.
By Air: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh is the closest airport, around 20 kilometers away.

History & Background

Ulu Kinta grew around the Kinta River, which played a crucial role in Perak’s tin mining industry. The town retains remnants of its mining past, including old tin dredges and historic buildings. Local folklore, often centered around the river, adds a mystical charm to the area, making it culturally rich and intriguing.

Local Lifestyle & Culture

Life in Ulu Kinta is calm and community-oriented.

Traditions & Festivals: Residents celebrate Malay, Chinese, and Indian festivals such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali.
Languages: Malay is widely spoken, alongside Chinese dialects and English.
Community Spirit: Villagers are known for their hospitality, often inviting visitors to participate in cultural activities or local crafts.

Attractions & Things to Do

Ulu Kinta offers a variety of activities for visitors:

Ulu Kinta Forest Reserve – Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnics amid tropical greenery.
Kinta River Adventures – Kayak, tube, or relax along the riverbanks.
Tin Mining Heritage Sites – Explore remnants of the town’s mining history.
Temples & Mosques – Discover the town’s multicultural religious architecture.
Hidden Waterfalls & Natural Pools – Seek out secluded swimming spots for a quiet retreat.

Tip: Cycle through small riverside villages to see rubber and palm oil plantations.

Food & Local Cuisine

Visitors can enjoy authentic Malaysian dishes and local specialties:

Nasi Lemak – Coconut rice served with sambal, anchovies, and egg.
Ipoh Chicken Rice – Famous in nearby Ipoh, also served in Ulu Kinta eateries.
Curry Mee – A spicy noodle soup packed with flavor.
Street Snacks: Fried bananas (pisang goreng) and fish crackers (keropok lekor).

Local cafés and family-run restaurants provide a genuine taste of the region’s cuisine.

Top Hotels in Ipoh

1. Sunway Lost World Hotel

Rating: 4.3 (5,300+ reviews)
Price: ₹5,282 per night
Highlights: Located adjacent to the Lost World of Tambun theme park, this hotel offers themed suites like the Haku and Natia Suites, each priced at MYR 2,398 per night.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast options, and access to the theme park.

2. TUI BLUE The Haven Ipoh

Rating: 4.3 (4,200+ reviews)
Price: ₹9,807 per night
Highlights: A luxurious 5-star resort offering lakefront views, a fitness center, and a sauna.
Facilities: Spacious suites, international cuisine, and wellness amenities.

3. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Rating: 4.8 (2,300+ reviews)
Price: ₹33,197 per night
Highlights: An exclusive wellness retreat featuring geothermal hot springs, a steam cave, and private villas with personal pools.
Facilities: Butler service, fine dining at Jeff’s Cellar, and spa treatments.

4. Sunway Onsen Suites by IWH

Rating: 4.8 (57 reviews)
Price: ₹5,905 per night
Highlights: Modern suites with access to hot spring baths, fitness center, and game room.
Facilities: Infinity pool, sauna, and spa services.

5. Sunway Onsen Suite

Rating: 4.3 (153 reviews)
Price: ₹5,386 per night
Highlights: Spacious two-bedroom apartments with a living room and dining area.
Facilities: Infinity swimming pool, terrace, and free on-site parking.

Where to Eat

1. Jeff’s Cellar @ The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Rating: 4.9 (1,600+ reviews)
Cuisine: Fine Dining, International
Price Range: Premium
Address: 1, Persiaran Lagoon, Sunway 3, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Highlights: Renowned for its romantic cave dining experience, private wine cellar, and gourmet multi-course meals. Perfect for special occasions.

2. Miker Pizza Tambun

Rating: 4.8 (324 reviews)
Cuisine: Pizza, Italian
Price Range: RM 20–40
Address: Unit 1, Lot 513363, Jalan Lembah Perpaduan 9, Ipoh
Highlights: Popular for wood-fired pizzas and casual family dining.

3. Seven Grills Mybest

Rating: 4.0 (236 reviews)
Cuisine: Western
Price Range: RM 1–20
Address: 25, Jalan Sci 1/2, Ipoh
Highlights: Affordable Western-style grilled dishes and quick bites.

4. Tambun Laksa Fames (Laksa Nurin)

Rating: 4.9 (31 reviews)
Cuisine: Local Malaysian (Laksa)
Price Range: RM 1–20
Address: 23, Lengkok Perpaduan, Ipoh
Highlights: Famous for traditional Tambun-style laksa.

5. Warong The Kochie

Rating: 4.5 (43 reviews)
Cuisine: Breakfast, Local
Price Range: RM 1–20
Address: 17, Jalan Lembah Perpaduan 8A, Ipoh
Highlights: Offers authentic local breakfast options like nasi lemak and kaya toast.

Accommodation Options

Accommodations cater to all budgets:

Budget: Riverside homestays and guesthouses.
Mid-Range: Boutique hotels near the forest reserve.
Luxury: Resorts in nearby Ipoh, offering modern amenities.
Unique Stays: Eco-lodges along the river for a nature-immersive experience.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Though small, Ulu Kinta offers local markets and artisanal products:

Handicrafts: Batik, wood carvings, and other traditional items.
Fresh Produce: Tropical fruits and homemade jams from local markets.

Nearby Places to Visit

Take short trips to explore:

Ipoh City: Heritage streets, street art, and coffee shops.
Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple: Limestone caves surrounded by tranquil gardens.
Gua Tempurung: Malaysia’s largest limestone cave system for spelunking.
Perak Cave Temples: Blend of nature and spirituality.
Lost World of Tambun: Lost World of Tambun located at Ipoh is Malaysia’s premiere multi-themed action and adventure family holiday destination.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: March to October for dry and comfortable weather.
Transport: Renting a car is convenient for exploring remote spots.
Safety: Generally safe, but exercise caution near rivers and waterfalls.
Etiquette: Dress modestly in religious sites and always ask before photographing locals.
Travel Tips for Ulu Kinta Area:
Location: All these restaurants are within short driving distance from Sunway Lost World and The Banjaran Hotsprings.
Transportation: Renting a car or using ride-hailing apps like Grab is recommended to explore multiple spots efficiently.
Local Favorites: Don’t miss trying Tambun Laksa and other Ipoh specialties like white coffee and chicken rice.

Why Visit Ulu Kinta

Ulu Kinta is a charming escape that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic local experiences. Visitors can enjoy peaceful river landscapes, explore lush forests, and discover remnants of the town’s tin mining history. The friendly community, traditional festivals, and local cuisine make it a culturally immersive experience. Ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind away from busy city life, Ulu Kinta offers a unique glimpse into Malaysia’s serene and authentic side.