A vacation through Cameron Highlands’ most scenic spots
By Sarah Khan
With emerald-green tea plantations that stretch on endlessly and Tudor-style architecture, it’s easy to see why you might mistake Cameron Highlands for a countryside setting elsewhere in the world.
This postcard-worthy spot is, in fact, located in Pahang. At a little over 700km², it’s roughly the size of Singapore and is one of Malaysia’s largest hill stations. Daytrippers and weekenders flock here for the cool, crisp air (temperatures can drop to as low as 12°C at night) and lush, bountiful greenery. It’s also famed for its beautiful flower gardens, fresh strawberries, dense forests, hiking trails, and of course, for being the birthplace of the legendary BOH tea. Just earlier this year, the highlands also came to life on the big screen in the HBO film adaptation of Tan Twan Eng’s novel, The Garden of Evening Mists.
Now that travel has begun to resume in Malaysia, browse the gallery below and be inspired by all the scenic spots you can look forward to on a trip to Cameron Highlands.
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On the road to Cameron Highlands. Roughly three and a half hours' drive from Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands is a popular road trip destination among urban dwellers and weekenders seeking respite and fresh air in the higher altitudes. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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BOH Tea Centre. It's not a stretch to say that Cameron Highlands has become synonymous with its BOH tea, its homegrown label established by J.A. Russell. To date, it remains the country's largest producer of premium black teas. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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BOH Tea Centre. BOH's Sungei Palas Tea Center has a hilltop cafe overlooking the surrounding undulating fields, where you can enjoy a freshly-brewed cup of tea whilst soaking up the view. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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Brinchang. One of the eight neighbourhoods that make up Cameron Highlands, this quiet and idyllic town is where you'll find the majority of its strawberry farms. There's also a night market here where you can pick up fresh produce and souvenirs to bring home. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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Cameron Lavender Garden. Besides the beautiful lavender flowers, you'll also find roses, daises, begonia in full bloom in this flower garden in Brinchang. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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Big Strawberry Farm. The cooler climate in the highlands makes it conducive for strawberries to grow year-round. Drop by the farm when the berries are in season, and can even pick them by hand. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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Mossy Forest, Gunung Brinchang. Estimated to be around 200 million years old, the forest is touted to be one of the oldest in Malaysia. Home to ancient tree species, its mistiness lends to its surreal and mysterious atmosphere. Tip: Visit in the morning when the air is cool and the forest becomes enveloped in a cloud of mist. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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A waterfall in the Mossy Forest. There are designated boardwalks you can follow in the forest which takes you through moss-covered trees, lichen and even a waterfall, either with the help of a guide or on your own.
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Kea Market. This roadside market, nestled in between Tringkap and Brinchang, sells everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to a variety of snacks like steamed corn and ice cream. It's open daily, so drop by if you're feeling peckish.
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Sheep Sanctuary. Located just a stone's throw away from Kea Market, get up close with the adorable creatures at this sheep farm. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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Cameron Highlands Butterfly Garden. This butterfly farm is one of the highlands' most longstanding tourist establishments. Live fluttering butterflies are housed here, along with other insects like the tarantula, and even a few bird species. (Photo: Shutterstock)