Tucked away in Kampar, Perak, the quiet town of Gopeng might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your next vacation. But if you’re into peaceful stays and a quiet respite, Gopeng is a mere two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur and 30 minutes away from Ipoh. Also, Gopeng is underrated. From adrenaline rush activities to learning about the Gaharu tree, you’ll be surprised by what you can find in Gopeng.
Where to stay
1. Zarania Caravan
Caravan stays might not be popular in Malaysia, but we crave them. Once we found Zarania Caravan in Gopeng, we had to put it on the list for simply being such a unique find in Malaysia.
Situated beside the riverbank, Zarania is well-equipped with barbecue and cooking utensils and a separate prayer room for their guests. Since Gopeng is known for its adventure and extreme sports, you just have to pick them at Zarania. Not forgetting, you can also sing your heart out during the karaoke session.
Price: From RM240
Location: Jalan Kampung Pintu Padang, Kampung Pintu Padang, Gopeng
2. The Kandu
We found the Kandu when we randomly drove into a village heading to the Hoga Tea Valley. This hidden gem boasts a one-in-a-million scenery due to its location just beside the Kandu Cave. The resort has all comfort and adventure all in one roof. So you don’t need to worry when boredom strikes.
Price: From RM65
Location: Kampung Gunung Mesah Hulu, Kampung Gunung Panjang, Gopeng
3. Bagas Zakariah
When we first laid eyes on the Bagas Zakariah, we fell in love instantly! The 100-year-old traditional Malay home sits preserved amidst five acres of lush greenery. It reminds us of childhood Hari Raya visits, where you take photos while seated at the flight of stairs of the handcrafted wood entrance. There are three homes ranging from RM700 to RM1100 per night. The homes can easily fit up to 20 pax combined.
Price: from RM700
Location: 65, Lot 32 804, Jalan Besar, Kampung Lawan Kuda, Gopeng
4. Sahom Valley Resort
Sahom Valley Resort has a similar concept to Bagas Zakariah, where nature meets tradition. Curious about Orang Asli homes? Try their Bamboo Village Chalet for a one-of-a-kind experience. Those with kids will be excited to see the freshwater pool slide and even dine in the river at D’Batu Dinding Cafe. For nature lovers, kayaking back with the mountain view and caving at Gua Tempurung are some of the things you can look forward to.
Price: From RM150
Location: Kampung Sahom, Kampar, Perak
5. Gopeng Glamping Park
We know Gopeng Glamping Park might be just the right choice for those who are into luxury camping. From as low as RM150 per pax, enjoy the site by cycling around the area, relaxing at the treehouse, or grouping up for caving, rafting, or trekking activities. Whatever you decide to do, you’ll head back home having had tonnes of fun. Breakfast is also included in your room rate.
Price: From RM150 per pax
Location: LOT 10846, Jalan Besar, Kampung Chulek, Gopeng
Where to eat
1. Mee Kari Ami
Mee Kari Ami is a regular stall secluded in the village of Jahang, but despite that, the queues to get a table were snaking. And that’s how we chanced upon it in the first place — noticed that there was a queue to enter! Known to the Perak locals, it has gone viral on social media for its delicious mee kari unlike no other.
Opening hours: 8.30am to 6pm
Location: Mee Kari Ami Pintu Padang, Gopeng.
2. Gopeng Antique Kopitiam
For some reason, the entrance of Gopeng Antique Kopitiam reminds us of Kung Fu Panda, exuding those old Chinese kopitiam vibes. We love the nostalgic feel of being served aromatic coffee and presented with a Western and Asian menu in a rustic setting. For Muslims, this kopitiam serves pork, so it is non-halal.
Opening hours: 5pm to 11pm
Location: 3, Jln Pasar, Pekan Gopeng.
3. Warong P. Ramlee at the Kandu
Have you watched the legendary story of Bujang Lapok? Warong P. Ramlee at the Kandu has become a popular spot amongst cafe hunters and is secluded in nature — so you can enjoy your cuppa in peace. You wouldn’t think to find an antique cafe here. Sometimes, the cafe holds live band performances and their menu mostly consists of rice and noodle selections.
Opening hours: 11am to 9pm
Location: Kg Gunung Mesah Hilir, Gopeng
Things to do
1. Hoga Tea Valley
This popular tourist spot derived its name, Hoga, from the phrase ‘Holistic Gaharu’. Established in 1992, unlike the tea valleys of Cameron Highlands, Hoga Tea originates from Gaharu or Agarwood trees aged up to 25 years.
A tour of the valley will take you through three stops where you’ll be able to see the Gaharu tree up close. Not to mention, they have tons of picturesque spots for you to go snap happy.
Opening hours: 9:15am to 6pm
Location: Gaharu Technologies, Lot 9840, Mukim Teja, Gopeng
2. Batu Putih Hill
Calling all hikers! If you’re planning to visit Gopeng, you’ll love Batu Putih Hill at sunset. We used to chase sunrises or sunsets whenever we found a spot, and Batu Putih Hill is one of them. The trail is short and well-marked, taking less than 30 minutes (depending on your pace). If you stop frequently for a breath of fresh air or photos, an additional 30 minutes or so is required to reach the top. But if you are not in a rush, then why not take your time?
3. Tempurung Cave
Caving activities are commonly found at Tempurung Cave (Gua Tempurung) and we couldn’t help but love the mystical scene that overwhelmed us as we entered the cave’s mouth.
We wouldn’t recommend people with claustrophobia explore it though, as you’ll have to follow a narrow path. However, those who are okay with confined spaces will jump with excitement at nature’s beauty.
Entrance fee: From RM20 (caving requires separate arrangements, usually at the resort or glamping park)
Opening hours: 9am to 4pm
Location: Pusat Pelancongan Gua Tempurung, Gopeng
4. Treasure at Taman Herba Gopeng
Treasure at Taman Herba Gopeng is a recreational park with a villa by the lake exclusively for botanical enthusiasts. The 22-acre park is home to myriad species of herbs dedicated to educating the public. Since they reopened in 2021, the park is more lively than before, and we just love the lake view campsite.
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm
Location: Batu 1, Jalan Simpang Pulai, Kg. Kepayang, Perak Batu Gajah, Gopeng
