Things to do in Cameron Highlands

More about Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is a renowned hill station located in the state of Pahang, Malaysia, known for its cool climate, verdant tea plantations, and stunning landscapes. Situated approximately 1,500 meters above sea level in the Titiwangsa Mountains, this popular tourist destination offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of Malaysia's lowlands.

Visitors flock to Cameron Highlands to explore its stunning tea plantations, such as the Boh Tea Plantation and Cameron Valley Tea Plantation, where they can witness tea processing and enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills covered in tea bushes. Strawberry farms dot the region, offering the chance to pick fresh strawberries or indulge in various strawberry-based treats. The Mossy Forest, a unique cloud forest ecosystem atop Gunung Brinchang, provides opportunities for nature walks amidst mist-shrouded trees and rare flora and fauna.

Other attractions include the vibrant Kea Farm Market, where visitors can purchase fresh local produce, flowers, and handicrafts, as well as the Sam Poh Temple, a serene Buddhist temple with intricate architecture and scenic views. Cameron Highlands also offers hiking trails, waterfalls like the Parit Falls and Lata Iskandar, and opportunities for birdwatching and exploring butterfly farms. The best time to visit Cameron Highlands is during the dry season from March to September when the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities. Accessible by car or bus from major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, Cameron Highlands beckons travelers with its natural beauty, cool climate, and abundance of recreational and cultural attractions.

Top Things to Do in Cameron Highlands

Mossy Forest

The Mossy Forest is a mystical and unique ecosystem located atop Gunung Brinchang, one of the highest peaks in Cameron Highlands. It is characterized by its moss-covered trees, dense fog, and cool climate, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Visitors can explore wooden boardwalks that wind through the forest, providing glimpses of exotic flora, including pitcher plants, orchids, and mosses. Guided tours are available to enhance the experience and educate visitors about this fragile and biodiverse environment.

The Sheep Sanctuary

The Sheep Sanctuary offers visitors a delightful opportunity to interact with gentle sheep amidst picturesque surroundings. Located in a serene valley, the sanctuary allows visitors to feed and pet the sheep, making it a hit with families and animal lovers. The pastoral setting also provides scenic views of rolling hills and verdant pastures, offering a tranquil retreat from urban life.

BOH Tea Garden

The BOH Tea Garden is one of Cameron Highlands' most iconic attractions, offering panoramic views of lush tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see. Visitors can take guided tours of the plantation to learn about the tea-making process, from cultivation to harvesting and processing. The on-site tea center provides tastings of various tea blends, allowing visitors to savor the flavors while enjoying the cool mountain breeze and stunning landscapes.

Cameron Flora Park

Cameron Flora Park is a botanical garden showcasing an impressive collection of tropical plants, flowers, and exotic species native to the highlands. The park features themed gardens such as the Orchid Garden, Cactus Valley, and Rose Garden, each offering a colorful display of flora from around the world. It's an ideal spot for strolls, photography, and learning about the region's diverse plant life.

Strawberry Farms

Cameron Highlands is renowned for its strawberry farms, where visitors can pick fresh strawberries or purchase various strawberry-based products and treats. Several farms offer guided tours that include insights into strawberry cultivation techniques and the chance to taste freshly harvested berries. It's a popular activity for families and couples looking to enjoy the region's famed produce while immersing themselves in the scenic countryside.

Cameron Lavender Garden

The Cameron Lavender Garden is a picturesque attraction featuring rows of lavender fields interspersed with other blooming flowers. Visitors can wander through the fragrant gardens, take photos amidst the vibrant blooms, and learn about lavender cultivation. The garden also includes charming pathways, a gift shop offering lavender-themed products, and a cafe where visitors can relax with lavender-infused refreshments.

Kea Farm Market

Kea Farm Market is Cameron Highlands' largest and most vibrant market, offering a wide array of fresh produce, flowers, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Open daily, the market bustles with activity as local farmers and vendors sell everything from strawberries and vegetables to potted plants and traditional snacks. It's an excellent place to experience the local culture, taste fresh produce, and shop for unique gifts to take home.

Cameron Highlands Transportations

Private Car or Rental Car

Renting a car or driving your vehicle is a popular choice for exploring Cameron Highlands independently. It offers flexibility in terms of itinerary and allows visitors to access remote areas and attractions not easily reachable by public transport. The winding roads up the mountains require cautious driving due to their steep gradients and occasional narrow passages.

Taxi

Taxis are available in Cameron Highlands and can be hired for short trips within the towns or for longer journeys to nearby attractions. They provide a convenient option for travelers who prefer not to drive or navigate unfamiliar roads. It's advisable to negotiate fares upfront, as taxis may not always use meters.

Bus

Scheduled buses connect Cameron Highlands with major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang. Buses offer a cost-effective and relatively comfortable mode of transport, with several daily departures from various terminals. They provide a scenic journey up the mountains, though schedules should be checked in advance as they may vary.

Motorcycle Rental

Renting a motorcycle or scooter is another option for exploring Cameron Highlands. It's suitable for travelers comfortable with riding on mountainous terrain and seeking a more adventurous way to navigate the region's winding roads. Motorcycle rentals are available in town centers and offer flexibility in exploring attractions at your own pace.

Tourist Shuttles

Tourist shuttles or mini-vans operated by local tour companies provide guided tours and transportation to popular attractions within Cameron Highlands. These shuttles offer convenience for visitors who prefer organized tours or want to join group excursions to tea plantations, strawberry farms, and other sights. They typically include knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the region's history, culture, and attractions.

Recommended Cameron Highlands Food

Steamboat (Hot Pot)

Steamboat is a beloved dining experience in Cameron Highlands, especially during the cooler evenings. It involves a communal pot of simmering broth at the center of the table, where diners cook a variety of fresh ingredients like thinly sliced meat, seafood, vegetables, and noodles. This interactive meal is perfect for warming up and enjoying a hearty dinner with friends and family after a day of exploring the highlands.

Scones with Strawberry Jam

Cameron Highlands is famous for its fresh strawberries, and one of the most delightful ways to enjoy them is on freshly baked scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream. Many cafes and bakeries in the region offer this classic British-inspired treat, often served alongside a pot of hot tea. It's a must-try for those looking to indulge in a delicious and comforting snack amidst the cool mountain air.

Tea and Scones at a Tea Plantation

Visiting a tea plantation like the Boh Tea Plantation or Cameron Valley Tea Plantation is a quintessential experience in Cameron Highlands. Apart from enjoying panoramic views of lush greenery, visitors can savor a cup of freshly brewed tea paired with scones, often served with a side of sandwiches or cakes. The serene ambiance and scenic surroundings enhance the enjoyment of this cultural and culinary experience.

Strawberry Desserts

Given Cameron Highlands' reputation as a strawberry haven, various desserts featuring strawberries are popular choices. From strawberry ice cream and strawberry tarts to strawberry cheesecakes and strawberry pancakes, cafes and dessert shops abound with creative ways to showcase the region's freshest produce. These desserts offer a sweet and refreshing treat, perfect for satisfying cravings while exploring the highlands.

Hakka Noodles

Hakka noodles, a local favorite in Cameron Highlands, are typically stir-fried with vegetables, and sliced meat (often chicken or pork), and sometimes topped with a fried egg. This flavorful dish reflects the Hakka Chinese community's culinary influence in the region and is widely available in local eateries and restaurants. It's a comforting meal that combines hearty flavors with a touch of local flair.

Shopping Places in Cameron Highlands

Kea Farm Market

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce, Kea Farm Market is a must-visit for those looking to purchase locally-grown vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Located at Kea Farm, Brinchang, this market is bustling with activity daily from early morning until late afternoon. Visitors can explore stalls offering a variety of fresh produce and unique local products, making it a delightful shopping experience amidst the cool climate of Cameron Highlands.

Address: Kea Farm, Brinchang, Cameron Highlands.

Cameron Square

Cameron Square is a shopping complex in Brinchang offering a range of goods from souvenirs and local handicrafts to apparel and snacks. It's a convenient stop for travelers looking to pick up gifts and mementos. The complex also houses cafes and restaurants, making it a hub for dining and shopping in Cameron Highlands.

Address: Jalan Besar, Brinchang, Cameron Highlands.

Cactus Valley

For unique souvenirs and plants, Cactus Valley is the place to visit. Situated near Kea Farm, this attraction features a variety of cacti and succulents, along with a shop selling handicrafts and local products. It's a picturesque spot where visitors can shop amidst beautiful gardens and scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Address: Pekan Lama, 39100 Brinchang, Cameron Highlands.

Agro Technology Park in MARDI

The Agro Technology Park in MARDI (Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute) offers a fascinating shopping experience focused on agricultural products and innovations. Visitors can purchase a wide range of agricultural produce, herbal products, and handicrafts sourced locally from Cameron Highlands. It's an educational and enjoyable stop for those interested in the region's agricultural heritage.

Address: MARDI Cameron Highlands, Persiaran MARDI, Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands.

Night Market in Brinchang

The Brinchang Night Market, held every weekend, is a bustling affair where visitors can find a variety of local street food, snacks, souvenirs, and apparel. It's a lively spot filled with aromas of grilled meats and freshly cooked snacks, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience the vibrant nightlife and shopping scene in Cameron Highlands.

Address: Jalan Sungai Ruil, Brinchang, Cameron Highlands.

Best Time to Visit Cameron Highlands

The best time to visit Cameron Highlands typically is between March and September, during the dry season. This period offers mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The dry season also ensures clearer skies, ideal for capturing the stunning landscapes of tea plantations, flower gardens, and rolling hills that define the region. March to April and September are particularly pleasant, with fewer visitors compared to peak tourist months.

Tourist-worthy events in Cameron Highlands include the Cameron Highlands Flower Festival held in June or July, showcasing vibrant blooms across the region's gardens and parks. Another notable event is the Cameron Bharat Tea Fair in July, celebrating the area's tea culture with exhibitions, tea tastings, and cultural performances. These events coincide with the cooler months, offering visitors the chance to enjoy both natural beauty and cultural festivities.

While Cameron Highlands is a year-round destination, the dry season months are generally considered the best time to visit due to the favorable weather conditions and fewer crowds, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.