Travel

Located beside the Royal Mausoleum at Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar, the Ubudiah Mosque is considered one of the country's most beautiful mosques. Built in 1913, it serves as a symbol of pride and faith for all Muslims. It was commissioned by Sultan Idris Shah, who vowed to build a mosque of great beauty as a thanksgiving for his recovery from an illness that had plagued him in his younger days. The Sultan, however, did not live long enough to see his magnificent creation. The mosque's magnificent golden domes and minarets are testaments to the beauty of Islamic architecture. The mosque was officially opened by Sultan Jalil Karamatullah Shah in 1917.

Royal Museum

Situated near the Istana Iskandariah, which is the Sultan of Perak's official palace at Kuala Kangsar, the Perak Royal Museum is an amazing achievement in architecture. It was built without any architectural plans and without using a single nail! Previously known as Istana Kenangan, Istana Tepas, and Istana Lembah, the museum houses the Royal Regalia, photographs of the Royal Family, and illustrations and artifacts of the past and present monarchy in Perak.

Taiping Lake Gardens

The 62-hectare Taiping Lake Gardens is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in the country. With a beautiful lake abounding with freshwater fish, lush greenery, a gazebo, and a colorful profusion of flowers, this is a favorite spot with visitors and locals alike. Located also within the gardens is the oldest zoo in the country, the Taiping Zoo. Its bird sanctuary and zoo are favorites among children. Here, monkeys roam freely and are tame enough to be fed by the friendly hand. Other facilities available at the Gardens include a rest house, fishing, and aqua-biking in the lake area.

Perak Museum, Taiping

Built in 1883, the Perak Museum is the oldest museum in the country. It houses an impressive collection of ancient weapons, aboriginal implements, ornaments, and archaeological treasures. Also on display are artifacts of Perak's rich historical culture and heritage. This is an excellent place to begin an in-depth study of the state and its past achievements.

Pasir Salak

Time seems to stand still in this little village beside a slow river. Built along the Perak's river, Kampung Pasir Salak looks just like any other small village. Behind its peaceful rustic life, however, lies a bloody past. For Pasir Salak is the scene of early Malay rebellion against the British colonial powers some 120 years ago, which culminated in the killing of the first British Resident, J.W.W. Birch, and invited a violent reprisal from the British. Here stands a memorial dedicated to those who slew Birch. Pasir Salak is well-known for its ancient Malay architecture and craft. Perhaps the most striking displays are the "Kutai (ancient) Houses". These structures are unique as they were built entirely of wood using special joints and grooves and totally lacking any metal or nails. The roofs are ridge-like. In olden days, the space between the roof and ceiling was used to store rice. It also offered a refuge for beautiful maidens trying to escape lecherous men. Today, these houses display various local historical and Malay culture artifacts.

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