Think Ipoh Is Quiet At Night? Think Again. These Are The Top Things To Do & Places To Visit In Ipoh At Night To Fully Enjoy This Not-Quite Sleepy Town
Ipoh is perhaps one of Malaysia’s cities that won’t come to mind when one speaks of activities after sunset. Most would just point travellers to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia for a good dose of nightlife.
But did you know that this sleepy town is actually home to a number of thrilling experiences, informative walks, and relaxing escapades?
Think hot springs, an amusement park, an informative heritage trail featuring stunning colonial architecture, a gigantic public recreational zone, and more.
While most may think of local Ipoh food like the good ol’ Ipoh chicken rice or the traditional Ipoh white coffee when it comes to the state capital of Perak, there’s more to this city than the usual foodie stereotype. (Then again, it may just be us Malaysians thinking of food more often than not.)
Which is why we’re going to take you through the top things to do and places to visit at night in Ipoh so that you’ll get to fully enjoy this city even after the sun sets!
Top 11 Things To Do & Places To Visit In Ipoh At Night
1. Lost World of Tambun Night Park
The Lost World of Tambun’s Night Park is one of ipoh’s most exciting recreational haunts that is more than just a theme park. It’s home to natural mineral hot springs and a spa that opens from evening onwards, along with various fun attractions such as the dazzling Luminous Forest, the Tarantula Alley, and the famous night petting zoo that is essentially Malaysia’s very own Night Safari.
Let’s start with the Lost World hot springs. Here, you’ll get to enjoy several pools in various temperatures along with a steam cave and jacuzzi to really unwind after a long day of exploring Ipoh.
Next, you have the highly daring and popular Flaming Percussion performance that begins at 9pm. Watch as fire eaters, fire jugglers, and percussionists showcase their amazing skills through thrilling fire stunts and tricks. Then head on over to enjoy classic local eats at the Lost World Ipoh Street which is a food street that is made in the image of Ipoh’s past.
I highly recommend starting your evening adventures at the Lost World of Tambun’s Night Park with the night petting zoo at 6pm, followed by the Luminous Forest. Then head on over to relax tired muscles at the hot springs before going ahead to watch the 30-minute Flaming Percussion show. This sequence ensures that you maximise your time at the Night Park!
Fun Fact: Did you know that you can also go glamping at the Lost World of Tambun if you’ve always wanted to experience camping away from Malaysia’s tropical humidity? What’s more, the Lost World of Tambun has glamping packages that also gets you access to the Night Park, day-time Tambun Theme Park, and more!
Opening Hours: 6pm - 11pm, daily
Address: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 1, Sunway City Ipoh, 31150 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
2. Unwind Over Sunsets & Stunning City Sights in Ipoh’s Rooftop Bars
With Ipoh being known as a sleepy town, it’s no surprise if the idea of visiting rooftop bars in Ipoh feels like a farfetched one. But that’s why you’re here. Ipoh city is home to two particular rooftop bars that stand out (no pun intended) by offering fantastic views of the city; the Above Gastrobar and the Deck Gastrobar at WEIL Hotel.
These two rooftop bars offer a relaxing ambience complete with live bands serenading diners as they unwind over a glass or two of their favourite beverages while soaking in the sunset or views from above the city. Some may ask “but what of the popular MU Hotel Rooftop Bar?”. Unfortunately we were saddened to discover that the MU Hotel Rooftop Bar is now closed.
Visiting either one of these two rooftop bars is definitely one of the best ways to get a bird’s eye view of Ipoh city without the use of a drone.
Bonus Tip: The WEIL Hotel is home to a coworking space called “Coworking by WEIL”, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads to get some work done before ending work hours over the sunset at the rooftop bar. ;)
3. Go On A Local Food Dining Spree @ Tong Sui Kai Hawker Street
Ipoh’s famous Tong Sui Kai hawker street is found just a stone’s throw away from the Ipoh Parade Mall, and it’s definitely a place you have to visit at night if discovering the city’s culture through their food is your thing.
Tong Sui Kai is a Cantonese phrase that translates to “Dessert Street”, and it’s no surprise how it got its name because this food haven is known for the wide array of chilly local desserts it offers. Think ABC shaved ice (ais kacang), soya bean curd, cendol, lin chee kang, the refreshing lime jelly, and more.
Aside from desserts, certain hawker stalls also offer local famous food that you cannot miss out on such as curry noodles, popiah, char kuey teow, oyster omelette, chicken hor fun, and wonton noodles.
That said, do note that Tong Sui Kai is not air-conditioned as it’s an outdoor hawker street, so it’s highly recommended to complete your dinner here with a shaved ice dessert because it can certainly get stuffy on humid nights. Your best bet would be the ais kacang, lime jelly, cendol, and lin chee kang for hot evenings.
You’ll also want to wear breathable clothing like the comfortable Aero T-Shirt from Thousand Miles so that you can avoid dining in an overly sweaty and uncomfortable state. Lastly, the stalls here do not accept debit and credit cards, so do come prepared with cash on hand or QR pay!
Opening Hours: 5pm - 11:30pm on Wednesdays to Sundays
Address: Jalan Carey, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
4. Explore Ipoh’s Nightlife Across Town
This wouldn’t be a complete guide without a mention of the nightlife in Ipoh, now would it? Most locals would recommend Healy Mac’s Irish Bar if you’re looking for a night spot to chill instead of a raving dance club, but if you’re looking for the latter, then you’ll want to check out bar hopping at Jalan Lau Ek Ching.
This particular street in the Ipoh city centre is somewhat identical to Changkat in Kuala Lumpur, but on a much smaller scale. It’s home to several bars, cafes, and bistros, so even if one bar does not feel lively enough, you can always opt to hop on to the next few bars down the road.
One of the more popular places on Jalan Lau Ek Ching is Brick & Barrels. This particular bistro offers live music along with the classic combination of beer and grilled platters, which most international visitors on holiday look forward to.
An alternative to Brick & Barrels would be Euro House, which is highly recommended for those seeking affordable draft beer and western food aside from the usual pub grub. And of course, Euro House also has live music past 8:30pm. Do note that Euro House is not located in Jalan Lau Ek Ching, but rather in Jalan Hussein at Taman Jubilee.
There’s also the Atas Speakeasy Bar Ipoh, the city’s most renowned cocktail bar that’s located at Jalan Sultan Idris Shah which is a more intimate bar with delicious food and boozy cocktails. Not forgetting that there are fun board games that groups can enjoy over a cocktail or two!
5. Eat Your Way Through Ipoh’s Famous Night Markets
What’s a city without its fair share of night markets? Ipoh is home to four particularly famous night markets located in different parts of the city. These are the Gerbang Malam Night Market, the Ipoh Walk Night Market, the First Garden Night Bazaar, and the Bercham Night Market.
Bonus Tip on Night Markets: Bring one or two packets of wet wipes and tissues with you as you won’t find any available at the night markets unless you purchase one, and that’s also if it’s available for purchase.
Gerbang Malam Night Market
The famous Gerbang Malam Night Market serves as one of Ipoh’s most popular night markets. It gets incredibly lively with a mix of locals and tourists who seek great bargains on food, snacks, Malaysian handicrafts, clothes, bags, belts, and more. It’s also the easiest to visit for travellers who are visiting Ipoh on a short stay as it opens every night.
Opening Hours: 6pm - 12am, daily
Address: Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Ipoh Walk Night Market
If you’re looking to eat your way through towns and cities, you can’t miss out on the Ipoh Walk Night Market. This night market is highly recommended for travellers who want to get their fill of Malay food as this night market predominantly serves the city’s Malay community. Some of the best eats to try include the cromboloni, Siamese chicken, Niase Tomyam, and satay.
Opening Hours: 4pm - 12am on Mondays to Thursdays, 4pm - 12:30am on Fridays to Sundays
Address: Lot 158408, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah Utara, 30350 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
First Garden Night Bazaar
Ipoh’s largest night market is the First Garden Night Bazaar and it is also the oldest night market in the city, having been around for 40 years. It opens only on Fridays between 4pm - 10pm and it is a true food haven for foodies. Regulars who frequent the First Garden Night Bazaar typically return for the delicious fried sweet potato balls, asam laksa noodles, braised skewers, apam balik, and deep fried prawn crackers.
Opening Hours: 4pm - 10pm on Fridays only
Address: Jalan Taman Ng Weng Hup, Taman Pertama, 30100 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Bercham Night Market
Bercham Night Market is a popular night market amongst the Malay community as the stalls here serve halal food. If you’re seeking out a true Malay street food experience in Ipoh, then I’d highly recommend this one over the newer Ipoh Walk Night Market. That said, the Ipoh Walk Night Market is mostly shaded, which makes it a more comfortable walking experience compared to the outdoor nature of the Bercham Night Market.
Opening Hours: 6pm - 11pm on Wednesdays only
Address: Hala Bercham Timur 10, Taman Pakatan, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
6. Explore Illuminated Colonial Architecture Like the Ipoh Town Hall Along the Ipoh Heritage Walking Trail
If this is your first time in Ipoh, you simply cannot miss out on the Ipoh Heritage Walking Trail. The trail takes you through the iconic Ipoh Town Hall, Birch Memorial Clock Tower, Ipoh Railway Station, and Riverwalk Bridge, also known as the Kinta Riverwalk. All of which are historical landmarks from the days of the British colony.
But today, most of these landmarks stand as symbols of local governance with its distinctive architectural features and historical significance, like how the Ipoh Town Hall previously served as Ipoh’s main administrative building.
Fun Fact: Did you know that two of these heritage landmarks were designed by the same government architect during colonial days? The Ipoh Town Hall and Ipoh Railway Station were both designed by Arthur Benison Hubback!
The Ipoh Heritage Walking Trail is particularly enjoyable at night because these landmarks are beautifully illuminated at night, giving you a breathtaking sight unlike any other thanks to strategically placed lights around the premises. The Birch Memorial Clock Tower is not as brightly lit as the other three, but it nonetheless remains a remarkable sight at night.
If the walking trail doesn’t sound like your thing, I’d still recommend you at least visit the Ipoh Town Hall and Ipoh Railway Station as two of the best landmarks along the walking trail.
Bonus Tip: It can get stuffy and humid during April, May, and June, so do remember to bring a portable pocket fan, wear breathable clothing, and bring ample water with you to keep cool and stay hydrated.
7. Enjoy A Relaxing Stroll Or Cycle By The Kinta Riverfront Walk
The Kinta Riverfront near the Kinta Riverfront Hotel is particularly notable for its scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere at night. But did you know that this river got its name from the Kinta Valley that surrounds Ipoh, which was home to the largest tin field in the world?
Today, the Kinta Riverfront is a beautiful promenade that is perfect to enjoy a leisurely walking session, jogging, and cycling activities. It’s also one of the rare places to visit in Ipoh that are lively at night.
This happening spot is home to various shops and food stalls surrounding the riverside with live bands on certain weekends, and it is also part of the Ipoh Heritage Walking Trail. Many photo spots line the way, so you’ll want to have a good camera or phone camera on-hand to capture stunning night shots.
There is also a cafe along the riverwalk that serves coffee, tea, and refreshing frappés right up until midnight, making it a good spot to unwind after cycling or jogging.
Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily
Address: Kinta Riverfront Ipoh, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
8. Dine In A 260-Million Year Old Natural Limestone Cave At The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
Travellers who are curious explorers and connoisseurs of the finer things in life will not want to miss out on fine dining in a 260-million year old natural limestone cave at the ultra luxurious Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat.
This resort is located about 25 minutes from Ipoh city by car and it is one of Malaysia’s most luxurious spa resorts with many facilities. Think natural hot springs to the Garra Rufa Pool Fish Spa, the ice dipping pool, and steam cave. And not forgetting the main attraction, the 260-million year old limestone cave where the iconic Jeff’s Cellar Restaurant makes its home.
Travellers with deep pockets can enjoy the curated wine selection alongside Jeff’s Cellar’s signature menus or a degustation for a true fine dining experience that is unlike many in Malaysia.
But if you’re not too keen on fine dining or shelling out a huge sum for a luxurious staycation here, you can always opt for a day-pass to explore the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, enjoy soaking in their natural hot springs, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the resort.
9. Enjoy A Budget-Friendly Soak In Natural Hot Springs @ Trong Hot Spring
Soaking in the hot springs at the Lost World Of Tambun Night Park and the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat costs a pretty penny. So if you want to experience the hot spring’s healing benefits on a budget, there’s really no better place than the Trong Hot Spring.
It’s perhaps the only affordable hot springs spot in Ipoh that opens all the way up to 12 midnight. Trong Hot Spring is popular amongst the local elderly as the natural hot spring water is known to provide relief to joint and bone ailments, along with headaches.
That said, this hot spring is a very spartan, village-style hot spring zone so don’t expect a resort or well decked-out facilities. Locals basically go there, enjoy a soak for up to an hour and head on back home.
The best part of Trong Hot Spring is how you get to choose between the public hot spring pool or the private one. I recommend going for the private one to fully enjoy the experience if this is your first time in a hot spring. The water tends to be hotter in the private pool as well since it’s regularly refreshed. Just be sure to book it in advance as it’s highly popular!
Bonus Tip: Bring your own towel and a change of clothing. You must have your swimwear on as you’re not allowed to soak bare!
10. Unwind With A Night Picnic At Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah, A.k.a. Meru Raya Park
The Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah is Ipoh city’s largest recreational park that’s located in the middle of a giant roundabout. It’s the perfect place for recreational activities past sundown such as walking, jogging, cycling, football, nighttime kite-flying, and more. There’s even a go-kart track where you can race against your friends in a fun go-karting session amidst a neon setting!
This particular park is one of the best places, if not the only place to have a night picnic in Ipoh. That’s because there are many spots for you to either spread out your picnic mat and just enjoy the cool night’s breeze, or opt for a spot on the grandstand by the entrance instead.
There are a handful of food stalls and food trucks selling food and drinks that you can enjoy if you don’t feel like preparing a picnic basket of food from home. It’s also a fantastic place for kids as there are brightly illuminated electronic rides they can hop on at a fee, and a playground on-site as well. If you’re lucky, you may even catch some events or a live performance during the weekends!
Opening Hours: 6am - 10pm, daily
Address: Persiaran Meru Raya 1, 30020 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
11. Sing Your Worries Away With Karaoke @ AEON Kinta City Or Ipoh Parade Mall
Looking to skip the usual Ipoh nightlife experiences of a pub crawl or any activity that involves moving about? Let’s go back to the basics with a classic karaoke session at Kbox Karaoke in the AEON Kinta City Mall or Ipoh Parade Mall! (Because let’s face it, sometimes us travellers need a familiar sense of normalcy.)
These particular malls are the best places to be at especially during rainy periods where the grounds are wet and simply not conducive for walking tours or outdoor explorations. So with karaoke, all you have to do is take your pick from the array of songs and sing the night away.
And the best part? Malaysia's karaoke joints come with hot food and an assortment of beverages just waiting to be ordered, so you can rest easy knowing you won't be facing any hunger pangs in the midst of singing!
