There are many Malaysian spots for a quick weekend getaway near Singapore, like Kuala Lumpur or Malacca. But let’s be real, these cities are still hot, humid, and kind of overdone. If you’re looking to spice things up with a temperate place that’s also not too far away, consider making the trip up to Pahang, where there are lots of things to do in Cameron Highlands.
The current exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$0.30 as of 9th July 2025.
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Cameron Highlands gets its fair share of rainy days, so it’s best to plan your trip around the drier months of February, April, July, or August to avoid the rain. However, it’s worth mentioning that the gloomy, wet weather itself isn’t necessarily a drawback. If anything, it adds to the whole vibe of the place. Plus, any photographer will tell you that a fresh coat of rain makes everything look extra fresh and vibrant.
Whether you’re visiting during the monsoon season or not, it’s gonna be chilly either way, with the average yearly temperature hovering around 18˚C. So, here are some of the clothes you might want to pack for your trip:
If you need them on short notice, you can get all your cool weather wear at these winter apparel stores too.
Image credit: ahmad azif wajadi bin ismail azif_acai via Google Maps
Kicking off the list with an Instagrammable photo spot, Lavender Garden brims with blooms in shades of purple, yellow, and red. You’ll also find other quirky photo ops around, like gnomes, fountains, and even a castle greeting you at the entrance. As you wander around, you may even feel like you’ve been transported to a themed Gardens by the Bay exhibit.
Image credit: @moonisme91 via Instagram
Foodies, don’t leave without trying their fan-favourite Lavender Ice Cream (RM8/~S$2.40) – smooth creamy vanilla served mixed with a lavender infusion. Entry fees cost RM20/adult (~S$6.04) and RM10/child (~S$3.02), which isn’t too bad considering all the cool photo ops and sweet treats you’ll find.
Image adapted from: @white_label_company via Instagram
Lace up your boots for a full-day hike at Mossy Forest, a magical forest that looks like it belongs on the set of Avatar. The moss-covered trees and shimmering leaves get even more magical during the wetter months – perfect for that epic nature shot.
Image credit: @ariannamaurii via Instagram
The peak of the mountain sits at around 2,000m above sea level, but don’t worry, it’ll take you at most an hour to hike to the top. Once you’re there, take in the views of the low-hanging clouds to get that “top of the world” vibe without having to climb Mount Everest. If you’re new to hiking, you can find out all you need to know about it on our hiking guide.
Entry fees are cheap, at RM10/adult (~S$3.02) and RM5/child (~S$1.51).
Getting there: There is no public transport option, but you can get there by car via Brinchang road, though since it’s uphill, travellers who have done this recommend that your vehicle have at least 1.2L of fuel for smoother driving. To save yourself this trouble, it’s probably best to book a tour guide which covers the “getting there” part of the trip.
Book tickets for a half-day tour at Mossy Forest.
Image credit: @beatricce113 via Instagram
Tea enthusiasts would have likely sipped on brews by the popular tea brand, BOH, and right here in the Cameron Highlands is where the brand originated. You can get an up-close look at how your tea is cultivated and processed at the Boh Tea Plantation. For a complete experience, sign up for the factory tour, which includes a tea tasting session and plantation walk, priced at RM100/person (~S$30.20).
Book a ticket to the Boh Tea Plantation as part of Cameron Highland Full Day Sightseeing Tour.
Cameron Adventurous takes your tea plantation visit to the next level. Instead of slow serene walks through the fields, you can hop onto an ATV (RM80/pax, ~S$24.16) for an exhilarating ride through the hilly terrain.
For just RM10 (~S$3.02), you can also take a seat on a suspended swing set with the scenic tea hills as your backdrop. Don’t worry, there’s a seatbelt that’ll keep you strapped in, allowing you to redirect all your energy into looking your best for the camera.
Image credit: Cameron Adventurous via Facebook
If you’ve got kids in tow, the Safari Ride (from RM15/pax, ~S$4.53) is a safer way for everyone to get in on the fun while enjoying the same views. The staff members will drive you all through the plantations at a chill pace that’s kid- and elderly-friendly.
Just like how you don’t have to travel far to escape the heat, you also don’t have to go all the way to New Zealand to see sheep. In fact, you can do both up at The Sheep Sanctuary. Join the mini farm’s fluffy residents, who hail from Australia, on their daily walks as they wander about freely across the lawn.
Tickets are RM12 (~S$3.62) for those aged 12 and above, and RM7 (~S$2.11) for kids below 12 years old. Each entrance ticket also entitles you to a pack of feed for you to feed these adorable animals. They’re extremely docile, so you won’t have to fear getting bitten while doing so.
Book tickets to The Sheep Sanctuary.
Nestled on a quiet hill above Brinchang town, Sam Poh Temple is the 4th-largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, and the biggest religious sanctuary in Cameron Highlands. Step inside, and you’ll spot a blend of Thai and Chinese architectural styles, such as pointed gables and temple archways. Best of all, entry to this site is free of charge.
For a more quaint IG photospot, Flora Park @ Kea Farm features a plethora of dainty flower installations and rose gardens for you to add to your story highlights. Channel your inner Disney princess while strolling through the photogenic spots, like the mini rolling hill of pink flowers or the windmill flower installations.
Image credit: @ch_flora_park via Instagram
If you’re here with your SO, feel free to go all out and make it an unforgettable date with a scrumptious outdoor picnic set (RM288, ~S$86.98). Set A features tangy delights like pizza, BBQ chicken skewers, sausages, and more, while Set B is more for those with a sweet tooth – it comes with a spread of scones, ice cream, fruits, and more. You can browse the full menu on the Cameron Highlands Flora Park website.
Book a ticket to Cameron Highlands Flora Park (S$ 15.05).
Image credit: @metatts_ via Instagram
Of course, no trip to Malaysia is complete without a visit to the local pasar malam, and Cameron Highlands’ got one too. Brinchang Night Market is the most popular one here, selling your usual fare of street food like sinful Ramly burgers and greasy packets of keropok lekor. What sets this pasar malam apart from the rest is that the fresh produce here comes directly from the nearby plantations and farms.
Image credit: @hobbitoonvillage via Instagram
If you’re bored of tea plantations and farms, swing by the Hobbitoon Village for a change of scenery. It’s a photo-spot inspired by the Hobbit huts from the Lord of the Rings franchise. Each “village” is a low-set cottage with cute circular doors and gardens, designed smol to fit the theme. Tickets cost RM40/adult (~S$12.08) and RM20/child (~S$6.04) aged from 5-12 years old.
Image adapted from: Hobbitoon Village via Google Maps
Once you’re done exploring the village, quench your thirst at the Hobbitoon Cafe, which serves quirky drinks like Dwarven Draught (RM19, ~S$5.74) and Ogre Crush (RM17, ~S$5.13).
Image credit: Shakira Abdul Rani via Facebook
For more flower power, Agro Market swaps the rolling hills for colourful vistas of multicoloured flowers. Plus, this one is sheltered, making it a safe venue to still get your dose of cheer on rainy days.
There’s also a mini Santorini corner here for you to pretend that you’re in Greece, making it one of the few Santorini dupes near Singapore. Entry is RM25 (~S$7.55) for those above 13 years old and RM10 (~S$3.02) for children aged 3-12.
The word “cactus” might not scream “IG-worthy photo-spot” at first, but Cactus Valley makes it work with walkways framed by rows of cacti; all in a cool maze-like setting. Tickets are priced at RM5/adult (~S$1.51) and RM2/child (~S$0.60), which is dirt cheap – no pun intended.
Image credit: @amy_nuramy via Instagram
If you picked Taman Eko Rimba Sungai Pauh as your campsite, you’ll be glad to know that Gunung Berembun is located just behind for an early morning hike to start the day. Even if you didn’t camp there, it’s still fairly accessible from Tanah Rata or Brinchang.
Image credit: @syabilmhd via Instagram
Hiking to the summit will take just under 3 hours if you take trail No.7, which is the most beginner-friendly of the lot. On the way, you’ll encounter plenty of lush vegetation shrouded in misty fog, making you feel like you’re living in a fairy tale.
Once you reach the peak, you’ll also spot signs directing you to an old World War II crash site of a bomber plane. It’s very rare that you get to see historical memorabilia like this – in its original untouched condition – instead of in a museum. This whole experience will set you back just RM3/pax (~S$0.91).
Image credit: @muslimgirlabroad via Instagram
You may think that the best views require the hardest climbs, but at Lata Iskandar, all you’ll have to do is board a bus from Ipoh Bus Terminal to Tapah Bus Terminal. From there, you can hail a taxi for a 15-minute ride to the waterfall. Dip your feet into the cooling water for the ultimate nature retreat vibes.
There are also a couple of roadside stalls along the way that sell fruit as well as souvenirs.
Getting there: If you’re driving there, take the North-South Express Highway to Tapah Toll instead, and park at the shoulder of Federal Route 59, where you’ll find the waterfall right beside. Do note that the Tapah Road is a narrower and older road, so you’ve got to be a pretty experienced driver to take it on comfortably. To be safe, it’s best to get a local cab driver to bring you there.
Image credit: @rozitaogy via Instagram
200 Seeds Cafe isn’t your regular run-of-the-mill cafe, with their menu revolving around strawberry-infused meals.The main star of the show is their Nasi Lemak Sambal Strawberry (from RM14.90, ~S$4.50) – the classic fluffy rice is infused with strawberries, giving it that candy-pink tint. Not to be outdone, the sambal is also made with strawberries, which you won’t find anywhere else for sure.
Other quirky combos available are the Naan Strawberry (RM10, ~S$3.02) and Lasagna Sambal Strawberry (RM14.99, ~S$4.53).
For a unique “pasar malam” experience, head over to the newly opened Tokyo Town Cameron. Explore 50 stalls of Japanese fare, cultural exhibits, and carnival games all under 1 roof. Dig into dishes like sukiyaki, ramen, and the viral flowing somen before exploring the rest of the space, with cool installations like a snowy sakura tree park and the iconic Japan Railway train.
While there are tons of great places to stay at, we’ve narrowed it down to these 3 standout options, each with their own unique vibe. For a more comprehensive list of places that’ll make you think you’re in Europe, check out our article on the best cottages in Cameron Highlands.
We’re all familiar with the concept of glamping, but Stellar Goldenhill takes it up a notch by adding a fun road trip twist to it too. Think cosy caravans, beach umbrellas, and your very own projector to set up an impromptu movie night with bae. Everybody knows that a road trip ain’t complete without roasting marshmallows over a campfire under the stars, and that’s entirely possible here too.
Image credit: @celeste.chingyee via Instagram
A night in The Cozy Caravan starts from RM988/night (~S$298.38/night), coming with a complimentary barbecue dinner set as well. If that isn’t your cup of tea, just pop by Stellar Cafe – the estate’s own cafe, which caters meals ranging from RM10-RM50 (~S$3.02-$15.10).
Image credit: @amirdarz via Instagram
Adventurists who want a real outdoor experience in the woods can camp at Taman Eko Rimbah Sungai Pauh. Don’t worry, even though it is in a forest, it’s as well-maintained as any public park out there, with staff on-site 24/7 to help you out with anything you might need.
In terms of amenities, there are communal barbecue pits and bathrooms available, so you’re pretty much covered. Entry to the forest is priced at RM20/pax (~S$6.04/pax), but you would have to book a slot online first on the National Forest Website as slots get snapped up fast.
Image credit: Amoss Farmstay
A’Moss Farmstay puts a different spin on camping, combining glamping with a luxury star gazing experience. Each tent comes with its own private outdoor patio, where you can catch sweeping views of Cameron Highlands at different times of the day and night.
Image adapted from: Amoss Farmstay, @kentwongbug via Instagram
For the most bougie experience, book a night in the Crystal Dome (from RM400/night, ~S$120/night), which is fully transparent with a queen-sized bed that can sleep up to 3. More importantly, it means that you’ll have an almost 360˚ view at night that’s perfect for stargazing.
There are even rooms with moving beds that electronically slide from inside the room to the balcony!
Address: Amoss Road, Kampung Gerak Sepadu, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
Image adapted from: Google Maps
Driving directly to Cameron Highlands is a long but scenic journey, taking about 7-9 hours. The quickest route is to travel up via the North-South Express Highway – just head up Simpang Pulai Road and exit at the Simpang Pulai Toll. In total, this drive should take roughly 7 hours to complete.
If you’ve got time to kill, you may opt for the slightly longer Tapah route instead. Also running along the North-South Express Highway to Tapah Toll, this way will take you past Lata Iskandar waterfall, but more on that later.
If driving all that distance sounds like too much of a hassle, a private hire car is an option worth considering. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but it’s also probably the most convenient too, since you can select the exact drop-off point you want. You won’t need to worry about any bus transfers or stopovers too, since you can toh anytime you want.
For example, booking a ride for 4 passengers at SGMYTaxi.com starts from $500 for a 1-way trip, and $950 for a round trip. Alternatively, you may rent a car in JB and drive there directly.
Image credit: @flyscoot via Instagram
If you’re short on time, hop on a 1-hour flight to Ipoh, before catching a 2-hour bus ride to Tanah Rata Bus Terminal. Flights from carriers like Scoot start from $71 for a 1-way ticket and $169 for a round trip. If you go by the mantra that it’s not about the destination, but the journey, take a flight to either KL or Penang for a fun stopover before heading up to the highlands.
For the full lowdown, check out our detailed guide on getting from Singapore to Cameron Highlands.
The best way to get around Cameron Highlands is by car as there’s no public bus system for getting around, and Grab is sparse. At the Tanah Rata Bus Terminal, just approach the taxi counter there and they’ll link you up with a cab driver to ferry you around for the rest of the trip. Most drivers will charge you around RM25-RM35/hour (~S$7.55-$10.57) for a minimum of 3 hours, which is fairly reasonable.
Just like getting there via private hire cars, you can also book their services in advance for your whole trip. A typical 3 day–2 night trip from SGMYtaxi starts from S$1,400, with rates varying based on peak or off-peak travel season.
Another option is to enquire with whichever hotel you’re staying in if they have their own chauffeuring services to get you to whichever attraction you want to visit. For tour services, consider joining reputable companies like Discover Cameron Travel & Tour and Explore Camerons.
As one of the few places in Malaysia where you can safely escape the heat and humidity of the tropics, there are many cool things to do in Cameron Highlands, both literally and figuratively. Add them to your travel itinerary planner for your next long weekend getaway.
For other Malaysia-related reads, check out:
Cover image adapted from: @moonisme91, @rozitaogy via Instagram, Amoss Farmstay
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