The Cameron Highlands felt like a pause button in the middle of Malaysia. After the heat, humidity, and constant movement of Kuala Lumpur, I suddenly found myself wrapped in cool air, rolling mist, and endless shades of green. Tea plantations along winding roads, jungle paths disappearing into the hills, and time seemed to slow down on its own.
This is a place best experienced unhurried. Take long walks, visit various viewpoints, get a cup of famous Cameron Highlands tea and enjoy it without checking the clock. In this guide, I’m sharing all the basics about the Cameron Highlands you will need, such as how to get here, where to stay, what to eat, and which activities are genuinely worth your time, based on my own experience.
Why Visit Cameron Highlands?
The Cameron Highlands are located in central Peninsular Malaysia and are best known for their tea plantations, cooler climate, and jungle-covered hills. The area is made up of several small towns, with Tanah Rata being the most convenient base for exploring the region. It is a perfect destination if you are seeking to spend a few quiet chill days in the nature and explore at your own pace.
How to Get to the Cameron Highlands
From Kuala Lumpur
If you’re travelling from Kuala Lumpur, there are several ways to reach the Cameron Highlands:
By Bus
This is the most budget-friendly option. One-way tickets start at around 8 USD, and the journey takes 4.5–5 hours. Buses usually arrive in Tanah Rata. Booking online is far easier than navigating ticket counters – we used 12Go.Asia to avoid confusion and save time.
Private Transport
Hiring private transport reduces travel time to around 2.5–3 hours and offers more comfort, but comes at a higher cost. Extra comfort isn’t free, but it can be worth it if you value time and flexibility. For a better overview of prices and a convenient option of booking and paying online, I suggest using 12Go.Asia as well.
By Booking A Day Trip
If you’re short on time, a guided day trip from Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh or even Penang is an great option. These usually include transport, lunch, visits to tea plantations, waterfalls, and cultural stops. It’s convenient, but expect a long day and limited flexibility.
From Ipoh
Travelling from Ipoh is quicker and, in my opinion, very logical if you’re already exploring northern Malaysia.
By Bus
Bus tickets from Ipoh start at around 6 USD, with travel times ranging from 1h15 to 2h40, depending on the route. Again, booking online made everything smoother.
By Taxi or Private Transfer
Possible, but expensive. Taxi drivers usually expect payment for the return trip, even if you plan to stay in the Cameron Highlands. Check your options here.
Travel tip
Ipoh itself is worth visiting, especially for its incredible cave temples and surrounding landscapes, which were some of the highlights of my trip to Malaysia. So I would highly recommend making the trip to the Cameron Highlands from Ipoh.
Where to Stay in the Cameron Highlands
Tanah Rata is the most practical place to stay. It’s well-connected, has plenty of accommodation options, and is close to the main attractions. If your schedule allows, I recommend spending 2–3 nights here to fully enjoy the area without rushing.
Here are some of the hotel recommendations for your stay in Tanah Rata while visiting the Cameron Highlands:
- A3A Oastel (from around 16 USD per night) – a budget-friendly co-living space. These are flats that have a shared living space – like living room, kitchen, balcony, bathroom while each guest has their own lockable bedroom (similar experience as living in a shared apartment, it’s just that strangers will be your flatmates for the duration of your stay :)). My husband and I chose to stay in a room with a private bathroom and, honestly, we barely saw anyone else in the flat, as everyone is constantly out and about. The accommodation is clean and offers an excellent value.
- The Zenith Hotel 5* (from 92 USD per night). A surprisingly luxurious option for the area, especially atmospheric at night when the building lights up on the hill.
Restaurants Recommendations in Tanah Rata
Tanah Rata offers a wide range of dining options, from busy local eateries to cosy cafés.
My personal favourites in Tanah Rata that I can recommend are the following:
- Indian: Dapur 3 Rasa, Kumar Restaurant
- Chinese: Rosette Café
- Korean: Highlands Camp Café (worth visiting for the interior alone)
- Breakfast (European & Asian): Amsterdam Café
Best Things to Do in the Cameron Highlands
Visit the Tea Plantations
Tea is what the Cameron Highlands are all about. Visiting at least one plantation is a must. I chose Bharat Tea Plantation, which had a small entrance fee of less than 1 USD. If you want a perfect day in the nature combine the visit with a hike (you will pay the fee at the exit, which is a bit confusing).
Go Hiking
There are numerous hiking trails around Tanah Rata, with information usually available at local accommodations. We hiked Trail #10 combined with Trail #6, finishing at the tea plantation. No guide is needed, but a reasonable fitness level is essential.
Sky Farm Agro Highlands
Free entry, local food stalls, souvenirs, plants, and a few animals. Easy to combine with a tea plantation visit.
Strawberry Farms
Strawberries grow surprisingly well in this climate. Visiting a strawberry farm gives a quick insight into local agriculture.
Lavender Garden
An Instagram-friendly stop with an entry fee of around 4 USD. Pretty, but more of a photo stop than a meaningful experience.
Mossy Forest (Optional)
While often recommended, we decided against visiting due to the additional entrance fee, short walking route, and limited accessibility without a tour.
Is the Cameron Highlands Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Especially if you enjoy cooler climates, hiking, and landscapes that invite you to slow down. The Cameron Highlands offer a refreshing contrast to Malaysia’s tropical lowlands and busy cities, making them a perfect stop on a longer itinerary.
Travel slowly here. Choose fewer attractions, walk wherever possible, and leave space for unplanned moments – that’s where the Cameron Highlands truly shine.
