Perak

As you leave the busy hub of Selangor and head north towards Perak, the character of the land changes from an urban profile to a scenic, undulating countryside. Here and there, you will spot pleasant plots of farmland and palm oil and rubber plantations set against a background of green jungle and jagged limestone hills.

Covering some 21,000 sq.km., Perak lies between Kedah in the north and Selangor to the south. The Main Range mountains cut across the state of Perak, standing in dramatic juxtaposition to the flat, steaming plains of the western coastline.

Often referred to as 'The Land of Grace' for its laid-back, timeless beauty, Perak is divided into nine districts.

Each district has its own characteristic beauty and history, and tourist attractions include old-style Anglo-Malay and Chinese mansions, colonial buildings, ancient limestone caves, temples and cool hill stations such as the Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) station.

Perak's capital, Ipoh is a slow-moving, quiet town full of quaint old bungalows and is famed for its simple yet excellent hawker food. This food has such a reputation that it is not unusual for Malaysians from other towns to drive for up to three hours just for a bowl of delicious noodles!

Perak has a western coastline facing the Straits of Melaka and not far off its coast are a number of islands. The nearest is Pangkor Island, off the coastal town of Lumut. Pangkor's unique island lifestyle offers visitors a variety of experiences and some outstanding beaches. And wait until you taste the cheap, fresh and delicious seafood here!