A Backpacker’s Guide to The Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
- Martha Pillin
- Jan 24
- 13 min read
If you’ve been backpacking through Malaysia, chances are you’ve been sweating it out in cities or lounging on sun-soaked beaches. But what if I told you there’s a place where the weather is cool, the vibe is calm, and the tea is served with a side of stunning mountain views? Welcome to the Cameron Highlands.
This isn’t your typical backpacker stop - it’s a bit quieter, a little more laid-back, and, to be honest, it feels like a break from the whirlwind of bus rides, hostel check-ins, and late-night street food feasts. It’s where I went to reset, recharge, and enjoy the simple things: strawberry picking, tea plantations, jungle hikes, and the occasional scone (because, why not?).
The Cameron Highlands might not be as wild as Penang or as beachy as Langkawi, but it has its own charm. If you’re looking for a chill escape where you can sip tea and take in some epic views, this place might just be what your backpacking journey needs. Let’s dive in.
Travelling Malaysia? Read: The Ultimate Backpacking Guide to Malaysia
When to visit The Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
The best time to visit the Cameron Highlands is during the dry season, from March to September. During these months, you’re more likely to get clear skies and sunny days, making it perfect for exploring tea plantations, hiking jungle trails, and enjoying the outdoor scenery.
That said, the weather here is cooler year-round (it rarely gets hotter than 25°C), and it can rain at any time - this is a highland region, after all. If you’re visiting during the rainy season (October to February), expect misty mornings, frequent showers in the afternoons, and a slightly moodier vibe. The trade-off? The landscape is extra green, and it’s the perfect excuse to cozy up with a hot cup of tea.
Avoid weekends and public holidays if you can - things get crowded with locals escaping the city heat, and traffic jams on the narrow roads are no fun. Midweek is your best bet for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
How To Get To The Cameron Highlands
The Cameron Highlands may be a serene escape, but getting there requires a bit of effort. Fortunately, it’s doable, even on a backpacker’s budget, and the journey itself offers some beautiful views along the way.
From Kuala Lumpur
The most common starting points for the journey to the Cameron Highlands are Kuala Lumpur (KL) or Penang, both of which have good transport links to the highlands.
By Bus:
This is the most straightforward and budget-friendly option. There are several bus terminals in KL that offer direct services to the Cameron Highlands, like Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) or Pudu Sentral. The buses typically take about 3.5 to 4 hours and cost around RM 35-50 (approximately £6-9). The buses are comfortable, and some even have air-conditioning.
By Train and Bus:
While there’s no direct train to the Cameron Highlands, you can take a train to Tapah Road (the nearest train station to the highlands) from KL Sentral. From Tapah Road, you’ll need to catch a local bus or taxi to the highlands. This option is a little more complicated, but it’s another way to break up the journey.
If you’re coming from Kuala Lumpur, the bus ride is fairly straightforward but scenic. The route takes you through the lush Titiwangsa Mountains, and you’ll start to notice the temperature dropping as you ascend into the highlands. Be prepared for windy mountain roads, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to bring something to help with that.
The road conditions are generally safe, but there are sections where the roads are narrow, so keep an eye out for slow-moving vehicles. Don’t forget your camera! You’ll pass charming villages and lush, green valleys as you climb up.
From Penang
By Bus:
Similar to the KL route, you can catch a bus directly from Penang’s Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal. The journey will take about 5-6 hours, and prices range from RM 40-60 (roughly £7-10).
By Train and Bus:
There’s no direct train either, so you’d have to take a train to Ipoh and then a bus to the Cameron Highlands. This adds more time and effort, so the bus from Penang directly might be the easiest option.
Alternative: Hiring a Private Taxi or Grab
If you’re traveling with a few other backpackers and want a more flexible option, you can hire a private taxi or use Grab (similar to Uber) from Kuala Lumpur or Penang. This is more expensive than taking the bus, but it offers door-to-door convenience, and you can split the fare if you’re with friends.
Expect to pay around RM 250-350 (roughly £45-60) for a taxi from KL, or a bit less from Penang, depending on the size of the vehicle and the distance. The upside? You can arrange stops along the way, such as visiting a local town or having lunch in one of the villages on the route.
From Kuala Tahan (Taman Negara)
Kuala Tahan is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s a great starting point if you’ve just wrapped up a jungle adventure in Taman Negara and are heading towards the highlands:
Option 1: Bus via Jerantut
From Kuala Tahan, the first step is getting to Jerantut, the nearest town with better transport connections. The local minivans or taxis from Kuala Tahan to Jerantut cost around RM 30 - 40 (roughly £5 - 7) and take about 1.5 - 2 hours. Once in Jerantut, you can catch a bus to the Cameron Highlands. Buses run from Jerantut Bus Station to Tanah Rata, and the journey usually takes 3 to 4 hours. The cost of a bus from Jerantut to Tanah Rata is about RM 35 - 45 (approximately £6 - 8).
Option 2: Private Transport
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a private taxi or a 4x4 from Kuala Tahan to the Cameron Highlands. The price for a private car will vary, but expect to pay around RM 200 - 300 (about £35 - 55) depending on the vehicle and how many people you’re sharing it with. This is a more expensive option but offers flexibility and comfort.
From Ipoh
Ipoh, a popular city in the north of Malaysia, is a common transit point for those heading to the Cameron Highlands:
By Bus:
From Ipoh Bus Station, you can catch a direct bus to the Cameron Highlands. The ride takes 3 to 4 hours, and buses run throughout the day. Bus fares are typically RM 30 - 40 (about £5 - 7). This is a relatively easy and affordable way to travel to the highlands.
By Train and Bus:
If you prefer a mix of train and bus, you can take a train from Ipoh to Tapah Road, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to the highlands. The train ride takes about 1.5 hours, and buses from Tapah Road to the Cameron Highlands typically take 1 - 1.5 hours. This option is slightly more time-consuming but could be a fun way to break up the journey.
From the East Coast (Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan)
If you’re coming from the east coast (like Kuala Terengganu or Kuantan), your journey will likely involve taking a bus to KL first, then catching a connecting bus to the Cameron Highlands.
From Kuala Terengganu:
Take a bus from Kuala Terengganu to KL, which takes about 7-8 hours and costs around RM 40-60 (£7-10). Once in Kuala Lumpur, catch a bus from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) to Tanah Rata. The bus journey from KL to the Cameron Highlands will take around 3.5-4 hours.
From Kuantan:
Take a bus from Kuantan to KL, which takes about 4 hours. Once you’re in KL, it’s an easy transfer to another bus going to the Cameron Highlands. From Kuantan, you’ll spend about 7-8 hours total (with a transfer) to get to Tanah Rata.
From Kuala Besut (Perhentian Islands)
If you’re coming off the Perhentian Islands (via Kuala Besut), the journey is a bit more complicated as you’ll first need to head to Kuala Terengganu or Kuantan, and then continue on to KL before making your way to the highlands.
From Kuala Besut, take a bus or taxi to Kuala Terengganu (about 1 hour), and then either continue to Kuala Lumpur by bus or train, and then transfer to a bus heading to the Cameron Highlands. The total journey could take around 8 - 10 hours depending on the connections you take.
Travel Tips
The journey can take a little longer during peak tourist seasons (weekends and public holidays) when buses are crowded, and traffic can be heavier. If you want a smoother experience, aim for a weekday arrival.
If you’re planning to visit during the rainy season (October to February), the roads can get slippery, so exercise caution when traveling. Always check weather conditions before making the journey.
While it’s often possible to buy bus tickets on the day of travel, if you’re visiting during peak seasons or want to make sure you get a seat, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance through BusOnlineTicket.
Getting Around The Cameron Highlands
Once you’ve made it to the Cameron Highlands, you’ll find that getting around is relatively straightforward, but a bit different from bustling cities like Kuala Lumpur. The highlands are spread out, and many attractions are not within walking distance of one another, so knowing your options will help you make the most of your time there.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting around the Cameron Highlands once you’ve arrived.
Walking Around Tanah Rata
Most backpackers stay in Tanah Rata, the main town in the Cameron Highlands, which is home to a handful of budget accommodations, local eateries, and the bus station. Tanah Rata is compact and can be easily explored on foot, so walking is a great option if you just want to check out the local scene or take a stroll around the town.
Tanah Rata Town Centre: Most hostels, cafes, and shops are located here.
The Cameron Lavender Garden: About a 25-minute walk from Tanah Rata (uphill), it’s a lovely spot to visit if you’re in the mood for a nature fix.
Tanah Rata Viewpoint: A quick walk up to the viewpoint provides beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.
Cameron Highlands Shuttle Bus
The local bus service is an affordable way to get around the Cameron Highlands, especially if you’re looking to reach major tourist attractions that are farther out from Tanah Rata. This bus service connects Tanah Rata with key spots around the highlands, including:
Boh Tea Plantation (about 20-30 minutes from Tanah Rata)
Mossy Forest (about 30-45 minutes)
Strawberry Farms (a few minutes outside of town)
The buses are fairly regular and usually cost around RM 3-5 (approximately £1) for short trips, depending on the distance.
Travel Tip
Schedules can be a bit erratic, so it’s best to check times with your accommodation or the local tourist information centre before heading out.
Taxis and Grab
If you’re looking for a more flexible option, you can grab a taxi or use Grab, the Malaysian equivalent of Uber, to get around the Cameron Highlands. Taxis are not as common as in the cities, but they can be found in and around Tanah Rata. You can also arrange a taxi through your accommodation.
Taxis: Expect to pay RM 20-40 (roughly £3-7) for short trips within Tanah Rata or to nearby attractions like the Mossy Forest or Boh Tea Centre. Be sure to agree on a fare before setting off, as not all taxis use meters.
Grab: In recent years, Grab has made its way into the highlands, though coverage is still somewhat limited compared to major cities. Grab can be handy if you’re heading out to more remote places or if you want a more affordable and convenient alternative to taxis.
Renting a Scooter or Motorbike
For more independence, you can rent a scooter or motorbike to explore the Cameron Highlands at your own pace. There are a few rental shops in Tanah Rata that offer scooters for RM 30-50 per day (roughly £5-9), depending on the type of vehicle. Renting a scooter is ideal if you want to avoid waiting for buses or taxis and prefer a more personal, adventurous way to get around. You can stop at strawberry farms, tea plantations, and hiking spots whenever you like.
The roads in the Cameron Highlands can be winding and steep, so you should have some prior experience riding a motorbike. Make sure to wear a helmet (which rental shops will usually provide), and be cautious on the mountain roads.
Private Tours
If you want to go a bit deeper into the highlands and prefer to have someone guide you, there are plenty of private tours available. Many local companies offer half-day or full-day tours, covering highlights like the Mossy Forest, Boh Tea Plantation, Butterfly Gardens, and more. These tours typically include a guide, transportation, and sometimes even meals or tea tastings. Private tours generally range from RM 150-300 (£25-50) per person, depending on the itinerary and duration.
Hiking and Nature Trails
The Cameron Highlands is renowned for its scenic trails, so if you’re up for some adventure and enjoy the outdoors, hiking is one of the best ways to get around and explore the area. The cooler climate and lush surroundings make for an enjoyable experience, even if you’re not a seasoned hiker.
Trail 1: Tanah Rata to the Cameron Lavender Garden: A steep but rewarding hike that’ll take you around 30 minutes to an hour.
Trail 4: The Mossy Forest: A moderate hike, where you’ll trek through the mystical moss-covered trees.
Trail 10: Gunung Brinchang: One of the highest points in the highlands, offering panoramic views of the entire area.
Most trails are well-marked, and some even have guided options for those who want more information on the local flora and fauna.
Where to stay in The Cameron Highlands
Best Hostels in the Cameron Highlands
Things to do in The Cameron Highlands
Visit the Tea Plantations
The Cameron Highlands is known for its expansive tea plantations, and a visit to the Boh Tea Plantation is a must. Located about 20 minutes from Tanah Rata, the Boh Tea Plantation is one of the largest and most famous in the region. You can take a guided tour to learn about the tea production process or simply wander the vast, rolling fields, soaking in the cool, crisp air and breathtaking views. Be sure to stop at the Boh Tea Centre for a cup of freshly brewed tea while enjoying the views over the plantation. If you’re interested in seeing more, other plantations like the Cameron Valley Tea House and the Sri Thendayuthapani Swami Temple Tea Estate are also a good spot. Just bear in mind that most of these places can be very touristy.
Explore the Mossy Forest
Situated at the peak of Gunung Brinchang, about 30 - 40 minutes from Tanah Rata, this high-altitude forest is shrouded in mist, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. It’s home to unique plants, moss-covered trees, orchids, and rare fungi, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The best way to explore the Mossy Forest is with a guided tour, where you can learn about the biodiversity and the role this unique ecosystem plays in the highlands. There is also a Mossy Forest boardwalk that provides a more accessible way to walk through the forest, taking in the views and sounds of this natural wonder. For an even better experience, head to the Gunung Brinchang viewpoint, which is located nearby.
Trek the Cameron Highlands Trails
If you enjoy a good hike, the Cameron Highlands offers several scenic trails that take you through misty forests, over hills, and to panoramic viewpoints. One of the most popular hikes is Trail 10, which leads to the summit of Gunung Brinchang, the second-highest peak in the region. The trek takes around 2 - 3 hours, and the views from the top are spectacular, offering a 360-degree look at the surrounding valleys, forests, and plantations. If you’re looking for something a bit shorter but still rewarding, Trail 1 is a great option. This hike starts in Tanah Rata and leads to the Cameron Lavender Garden. It’s a moderate, steep climb, but the colourful flower gardens you reach at the end make the effort worthwhile. For those interested in exploring the unique ecosystem of the highlands, Trail 4, which takes you through the Mossy Forest, is another must-do, offering a chance to see rare plants and wildlife in a mist-covered setting.
Visit the Strawberry Farms
The Cameron Highlands is famous for its strawberry farms, and visiting one of them is a fun, interactive experience. Many of the farms around Tanah Rata and Brinchang offer you the opportunity to pick your own strawberries straight from the fields. This is a great activity if you want to get your hands a little dirty while enjoying the scenic countryside. Some farms also have small cafés where you can enjoy fresh strawberry-based treats like strawberry ice cream, jams, and cakes. It’s a lovely way to spend a few hours and a perfect spot for those looking for something lighthearted and delicious amidst the natural beauty of the region. The Big Red Strawberry Farm and Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farm are two of the most well-known, both offering plenty of photo opportunities and fresh produce for sale.
Explore the Local Markets
For a taste of local life and a chance to pick up some souvenirs, make sure to visit the local markets in Tanah Rata and Brinchang. The markets here are vibrant and full of fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious snacks. At the Brinchang Night Market, you’ll find everything from fresh strawberries and vegetables to local snacks like sweet corn and coconut jelly. It’s a fun way to spend the evening, trying new foods and browsing the stands for local handicrafts and clothing. The markets are also a great place to pick up some locally made tea blends, jams, and other specialty products unique to the highlands.
Visit the Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden in the Cameron Highlands is a small but fascinating stop for nature lovers. Here, you can get a close look at some of the area’s most beautiful butterflies, along with other insects and reptiles. The garden is well-maintained, and as you stroll through, you’ll encounter a wide variety of butterflies flitting around, each more vibrant than the last. The Butterfly Garden is a peaceful, educational spot where you can learn about the different species of butterflies and their role in the local ecosystem. It’s also a good place for photography, especially if you’re into capturing nature at its most colorful.
Visit the Local Temples and Shrines
The Cameron Highlands has several temples and shrines that offer a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the local culture. The Sri Thendayuthapani Swami Temple in Tanah Rata is a beautiful Hindu temple with intricate architecture and a serene atmosphere. Another notable spot is the Chinese Temple in Brinchang, where you can admire the colorful and ornate designs of the structure. These temples are not only places of worship but also offer visitors a peaceful respite from outdoor activities, and they provide insight into the spiritual practices of the local communities.
Places to Eat and Drink
Here’s a mix of cozy cafes, local eateries, and unique spots to grab a bite or drink in the Cameron Highlands:
Local Eateries
Singh Chapati Urban Restaurant - very good Indian food here!
Kumars Restaurant
Restoran Sri Brinchang
OK Tuck Restaurant
May Flower Restaurant
Cafes
Lord’s Café - great spot for breakfast!
The Mossy Forest Café
Tea’Ria Café
Jim Thompson Tea Room - they do the BEST afternoon tea!
Scott’s Cafe
Barracks Café
Bars & Nightlife
Jungle Bar - feels abit random but the drinks are cheap!
Traveler’s Bistro and Pub
Smokehouse Bar
The Cameron Valley Bar
These spots offer a range of cuisines, from traditional Malaysian dishes to Indian and Western options, as well as a selection of places for a cozy drink or nightlife vibes.
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