Ipoh, Malaysia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Ipoh, Malaysia? If you're planning to go to Ipoh, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Ipoh, Malaysia

Based on the climate and weather in Ipoh, Malaysia, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ipoh, Malaysia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ipoh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ipoh, Malaysia by month

January

January in Ipoh can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

February

If you vacation in Ipoh during February, you will probably see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

March

March in Ipoh is a scorcher. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

April

If you visit Ipoh during April, you are likely to see that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

May

If you go to Ipoh in May, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

June

If you visit Ipoh during June, you will probably see that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

July

July in Ipoh is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

August

If you are traveling to Ipoh in August, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

September

September here can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

October

October in this region is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

November

If you vacation in Ipoh during November, you may notice that it is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

December

December in Ipoh is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Malaysia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ipoh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to a temple, such as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, wear:

Going to Perak Tong? You'll need:

What to do in Ipoh, Malaysia

Ipoh is a city of rich heritage and history and has become one of the top tourist destinations in Malaysia. From beautiful limestone caves to mouth-watering delicacies, Ipoh has something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that one must not miss:

1. Kellie's Castle - This unfinished mansion was built by a Scottish planter, William Kellie Smith in the early 20th century. The castle is an impressive example of early colonial architecture and the surreal beauty of the ruins attracts visitors from all over the world.

2. Ipoh Old Town - The old town of Ipoh is a perfect place to explore the city’s heritage and culture. You can walk around the historic streets of the city or take a trishaw ride to explore the beautiful colonial buildings and temples.

3. Perak Tong Cave Temple - With its colorful murals, stunning stalactites, and superb Buddhist sculptures, Perak Tong Cave Temple is an essential visit for those who love to explore beautiful temples and caves.

4. Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple - This beautiful cave temple is renowned for its stunning gardens and impressive pagoda. The temple has a tranquil atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and peaceful ambience.

5. Concubine Lane - The colorful and picturesque street of Concubine Lane is a famous tourist destination which is lined with cafes, eateries, and boutique shops. The street showcases the city’s historical architecture and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the locals.

6. Ipoh Railway Station - The iconic Ipoh Railway Station, which was built in 1917, is a beautiful and unique example of British colonial architecture. The station is still operational, and visitors can get a chance to experience the stunning architecture and history of the place.

7. Nam Thean Tong Cave Temple - Located on a hill with a stunning view, Nam Thean Tong Cave Temple is an ideal place to witness the religious culture of Ipoh. The temple is famous for its beautiful statues and intricate carvings.

8. Taiping Lake Gardens - This beautiful public park is located in the nearby town of Taiping. It is a gloriously manicured park with striking lakes and gardens, perfect for picnicking, fishing, or just enjoying the natural beauty of the place.

9. Lost World of Tambun - This adventure theme park is the perfect destination for families, it offers a variety of attractions such as a water park, amusement rides and animal shows.

In conclusion, Ipoh is an ideal destination to explore the historic and cultural beauty of Malaysia. The city has a lot to offer to both tourists and locals. From exploring ancient temples to tasting local cuisines and visiting adventure parks, the attractions of Ipoh are sure to delight any traveler.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Farook College Township, India, Gilbert, Arizona, United States of America, Carrara, Italy, Greenville, Kentucky, United States of America, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia, Australia, Grande Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, Two Harbors, Minnesota, United States of America, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize, Montegrotto Terme, Italy, and Maslinica, Croatia.