Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh, Perak
Mention “hot springs” and you’ll probably think of the famous Japanese onsen towns or hey, maybe our Sembawang Hot Spring Park. We’re here to offer you another hot spring hang slightly closer to home: Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat.
Located in Ipoh, Perak, this wellness retreat is a short 15-minute drive from Ipoh’s city centre. You’ll find natural hot springs and caves here, and stunning rock formations and greenery that make the place a perfect getaway. Here’s what you can expect:
Chill in geothermal hot springs & explore chio caves
Image credit: @michellenxyi via Instagram
Hot springs? Yes, please. Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat’s top USP is probably its natural geothermal hot spring, with temperatures ranging from between 40°C and 70°C. As you soak all your stress and worries away, you’ll also be treated to unblocked views of the surrounding greenery. BTW, this is also where singer Narelle Kheng from The Sam Willows got proposed to!
Image credit: @aizuddinazmi via Instagram
Even if you’re not a pool gal, you can also chill and pose in front of the picturesque scenery – the towering rock formations give off Bukit Batok Town Park’s Little Guilin vibes. Your friends on the ‘Gram will definitely be begging you to drop the location.
Image credit: @isme_lin via Instagram
If you’d like to cool off from the heat, consider taking a quick dip in the pool. You can also book a massage at the resort’s spa for a much needed pampering session. They have a wide range of services available, including head and body massages, facials, and cleansing scrubs. They’ll also draw a rose petal bath for you to relax in.
Image credit: @aizuddinazmi via Instagram
And here’s something we don’t get to do back in Singapore – cave touring. More specifically, limestone caves. Once you’ve soaked to your heart’s content, mosey on to the well-maintained caves and explore these natural formations. There are 3 to explore: a grand crystal cave, a cosy meditation cave, and a naturally heated steam cave.
Stay in villas with private whirlpools & balconies set amidst nature
The Water Villa.
Image credit: Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
If you’re planning an overnight stay, you can choose between 3 villa sizes – the Lake Villa (RM1,950, ~S$567.68), Water Villa (RM2,350, ~S$685.58), and Garden Villa (RM2,650, ~S$772.23). Prices are on the steeper end, but this resort is uber luxurious.
Image adapted from: @rahaf.lens via Instagram
All villas come with a private pool that’s naturally heated, so you can enjoy the geothermal waters in the comfort of your own place. For those who want major pampering, go for the Water or Garden Villa – these rooms come with an outdoor rain shower and geothermal hot spring whirlpool too.
Dine in an ancient limestone cave
Image credit: @acastaldi78 via Instagram
There’s much to do at this resort, including dining in a 260-million-year-old limestone cave. Don’t be wary of the cave’s age as it’s still mighty sturdy. The restaurant, Jeff’s Cellar, has a variety of farm-to-table dishes and an extensive wine list to choose from – making it the ideal date night location.
The view from Pomelo.
Image credit: @aizuddinazmi via Instagram
If you’re more of an outdoorsy person, you can also dine at Pomelo. This all-day dining establishment has indoor and outdoor seating, so those who love an alfresco moment can opt to have their meals here. There’s also a doctor fish pool nearby, where you can let little Red Garra nibble away the dead skin on your feet post-dinner.
Getting there: take a 15-minute cab ride from Ipoh city centre, or book the resort’s pick-up services from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Detox your mind & body at Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
As much as we love our concrete jungle, it’s nice to have an occasional change of scenery. Embark on your Eat, Pray, Love journey at Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, where you can immerse yourself in nature and chill tf out. The best part – you don’t have to travel 9,432,506km to get to your destination since it’s located in Malaysia.
Sign Up with TSL Connect
More things to do in Malaysia:
Cover image adapted from: @asha.sulaiman, @thebanjaranhotsprings & @aizuddinazmi via Instagram