Looking for a peaceful and refreshing escape in Malaysia? Here’s why Cameron Highlands is the perfect answer!
When I was backpacking through Malaysia earlier this year, Cameron Highlands was high on my list. I’ll admit, the stunning photos of rolling hills and misty landscapes drew me in, but there’s so much more to discover here than just tea plantations (though they are an absolute must-see!).
After a few weeks of exploring Malaysia’s bustling cities and sun-soaked beaches, Cameron Highlands became the perfect retreat—a chance to take a break from the crowds and the heat. Sometimes, you just need a place that feels like a world away. That’s where the highlands come in—peaceful, lush, and with forests that feel like they’re straight out of a storybook. It’s a whole different side of Malaysia.
Nestled high in the mountains, Cameron Highlands offers a refreshing change of pace from the tropical scenery most people expect in Malaysia. Whether you’re into wandering through vibrant tea plantations, hiking moss-covered trails, or picking your own strawberries, the highlands offer a unique mix of experiences.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the best things to do in Cameron Highlands and why it’s a must-visit destination.
A quick note: while I’ve included all the popular activities, I want to highlight that some might raise ethical questions. Here at Off to Get Lost, we believe in responsible travel, so I’ll provide all the information you need to make an informed choice about which experiences to support.
Off to Get Lost is reader-supported. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps keep the blog running, and I greatly appreciate it!
How long do you need in the Cameron Highlands?
How long you spend in the Cameron Highlands depends on how deeply you want to explore. If you’re short on time, one full day and an organised tour is enough to cover the highlights. These tours will take you to visit the famous tea plantations, take a stroll through the mossy forests, and explore one of the local strawberry farms. The highlands are compact enough to see quite a lot in a short stay, and the cool mountain air makes it a pleasant place to relax without feeling rushed.
However, if you’re keen to dig deeper and really soak in the peaceful atmosphere, two to three days is ideal. This gives you time to enjoy longer hikes, visit multiple plantations, and maybe even venture into some of the lesser-known spots and hikes. This extra time gives you the flexibility to enjoy the scenery and take some unhurried moments for yourself.
Top Things to Do in the Cameron Highlands
1. Explore the Tea Plantations
When it comes to the top things to do in Cameron Highlands, visiting the tea plantations is an absolute must. The highlands have been home to these iconic rolling tea fields since the early 1920s, when British businessman and Scottish planter, J.A. Russell, founded the BOH Tea Plantation.
Drawn by the cool climate and fertile soil, Russell established what is now the largest and most famous tea plantation in Malaysia, and is now run by his granddaughter. It is also free to visit, unlike some of the other plantations in the area.
Start your visit by wandering through the lush green fields where tea leaves are still hand-picked today. You’ll see workers skillfully collecting the leaves, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the plantation. And of course, don’t forget to capture those perfect shots for Instagram. It’s best to visit on a weekday or early in the morning just after sunrise to avoid the crowds that arrive with the day tours.
After exploring the fields, head to the BOH Café for a mid-morning snack Here, you can tour the factory to learn about the tea-making process (it only takes 5 minutes and is free). Then, admire the fields from the viewing balcony and grab a bite to eat at the cafe. They also have samples of different flavoured tea for you to try.
Pair it with a scone, a treat you’ll see everywhere in the highlands thanks to their British colonial history. As someone who lived in Scotland and whose entire family is Scottish, it felt a little odd seeing scones everywhere. It’s not exactly what I expected to find in Malaysia! But they’ve become part of the local culture, a nod to the region’s colonial past.
Quick tip: While BOH offers a variety of flavoured teas in their gift shop, keep in mind that these are often imported from other countries. If you want an authentic taste of Cameron Highlands, stick with their black tea. This is still grown and produced right here in the highlands.
2. Visit Mossy Forest
The Mossy Forest was, without a doubt, my favourite spot in Cameron Highlands. One moment, the moss-covered trees were glowing under clear skies, and the next, a blanket of mist rolled in. It transformed the landscape into something straight out of a fantasy novel. It’s a place where the atmosphere changes in an instant, creating a magical experience that feels otherworldly.
While you can visit on your own, I’d recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the unique ecosystem. The Mossy Forest is home to rare plant species, including orchids, ferns, and carnivorous plants. A guide can offer fascinating insights into the flora and fauna that thrive in this mist-shrouded environment.
I booked a tour through Cameron Secrets but ended up with a guide from Discover Cameron who was incredibly enthusiastic and engaging. I’d highly recommend going for the half-day tour (not the full day, but more on that later).
Only a small portion is open to the public to protect its delicate ecosystem. In fact, did you know that if moss is stepped on, it takes up to 13 years to grow back? This makes it even more important to tread carefully and respect the landscape.
For photographers or anyone looking for cooler temperatures, the best time to visit is early in the morning. At this time, the forest is often draped in fog, creating perfect conditions for capturing the mystical beauty of the forest.
Read Also: Complete Guide to Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia
3. Wander Through Local Markets
No visit to Cameron Highlands is complete without exploring the local markets, where you can get a taste of the region’s freshest produce and unique handmade crafts.
Start with the Brinchang Night Market, a lively spot known for its local snacks and affordable souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to try authentic street food while picking up gifts, from freshly roasted chestnuts to sweet corn on the cob. For years, Cameron Highlands was known for its “Pearl Corn”—a unique blend of yellow and white kernels. However, most corn here is now imported from other parts of Malaysia, as few farms remain in the highlands.
For a more relaxed experience, head to Tanah Rata’s morning market. Here, you’ll find an abundance of fresh strawberries, locally grown vegetables, and handmade crafts. This market beautifully showcases the agricultural richness of Cameron Highlands, particularly the seasonal produce.
If the weather takes a turn, don’t worry—Agro Market offers an indoor alternative. Here, you can browse stalls selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs while staying dry. It’s an ideal spot to pick up local goodies and escape the rain. Agro Market also features a cooked food section, where you can sample dishes made with sweet potatoes if you don’t have the means to cook for yourself.
Read Also: How to Spend A Perfect Three Days in Kuala Lumpur
4. Hike Trails Through the Highlands
Exploring the hiking trails in Cameron Highlands is an unforgettable way to connect with the region’s natural beauty. With several trails to choose from, you can find options that cater to different skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
Cameron Valley is an excellent choice for beginners and families. This relatively easy trail takes you through lush tea plantations, offering stunning views of rolling hills and picturesque valleys. Keep your camera handy as you’ll encounter several scenic spots along the way. Make sure to stop at some of the charming tea houses where you can take a break and enjoy a cup of local tea.
For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, consider the Gunung Brinchang trail. This moderate hike leads you to one of the highest peaks in the highlands, rewarding you with panoramic views at the summit. The trail is lined with unique flora and fauna, making it a great opportunity for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Another fantastic option is the Parit Falls trail, which is also moderate in difficulty. The hike takes you through dense forest before leading to a beautiful waterfall, where you can cool off and relax. The sound of rushing water adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a picnic.
If you’re looking for more information, this post on hiking in the Cameron Highlands by Pete over at Buck Listly. It is a great guide to the different hiking trails in the area.
5. Pick Your Own Strawberries
Picking your own strawberries is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities in the Cameron Highlands. In fact, you’ll find punnets of strawberries for sale at nearly every corner. While farms like Big Red Strawberry Farm and Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farm attract many visitors, it’s worth noting that the experience can be a bit underwhelming.
The strawberry plants are often housed in plastic pots and grown under plastic covers, all looking a little sad. I’ve been to many nicer and more luscious strawberry farms in the UK, so felt it was a strange place to visit in Malaysia.
Moreover, there are some ethical concerns surrounding strawberry farming in the region. Many farms reportedly source their water unethically from the rainforest, which can drain natural water supplies and disrupt local ecosystems. This raises important questions about sustainability and the long-term impact of such practices on the delicate environment of the Cameron Highlands.
While I could only find rumours about this, it’s still worth being aware of. During my visit as part of my day trip around the highlands, I chose not to purchase any items from the farm. This way, I avoided inadvertently supporting any unethical practices, just to be on the safe side.
Read also: How to Spend 3 Days in Penang and George Town
6. Tour the Lavender Gardens
If you’re a flower fan, a visit to the Lavender Gardens is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. As you stroll through the fields, you can enjoy the calming scent of lavender that fills the air. Plus, there are other flower fields which are just as lovely to admire.
The gardens are a great spot for photography, with the vibrant purple flowers providing a lovely backdrop for your pictures. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to snap some nice shots, whether it’s close-ups of the blossoms or wider views of the gardens.
It’s a quick visit and conveniently located on the way to Tahan Nata. If you’re driving to the highlands, it’s a perfect stop during your journey.
7. Visit a Butterfly and Insect Farm
The Butterfly and Insect Farm offers visitors a chance to explore a garden filled with local butterfly species in a natural setting. It comes as part of many day tours of the Cameron Highlands. However, it’s more of a family-friendly attraction for locals. Many of the animals are not native to Malaysia, so it’s a strange thing to visit as a backpacker.
While you can admire a variety of exotic insects and small animals, I didn’t like the experience. Some of the animals appeared frightened, with birds showing signs of distress with many of them missing feathers. Plus, many of the stunning butterflies had torn or missing wings, and the enclosures seemed very small for the number of animals housed within them.
If you choose to visit, it might be worth keeping these observations in mind and considering whether the experience aligns with your values regarding animal welfare.
Read Also: One Day in Melaka: The Complete Guide
8. Learn About the Highlands’ Colonial History
Whilst the Cameron Highlands isn’t a huge draw for history lovers, there is some places where you can learn a little more about the area, particularly its colonial history. A great starting point to learn more is the Time Tunnel Museum, which provides an insightful collection of photographs, artefacts, and memorabilia from the area’s past.
This museum not only covers the colonial era but also captures the cultural and agricultural evolution of the region. It’s an engaging way to understand how Cameron Highlands transitioned from a British hill station retreat to the popular destination it is today.
For an authentic taste of the British colonial influence, visit Ye Olde Smokehouse, an iconic building that offers a quintessential afternoon tea experience. The building’s charming half-timbered architecture, combined with its well-manicured gardens, transports you to the English countryside.
Here, you can savour classic British treats like scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches while surrounded by the serene highland atmosphere. It’s a little strange to have so much Englishness in the middle of Malaysia (coming from a British person). However, it might help anyone feeling a little nostalgic for home.
9. Visit a Waterfall
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, the Cameron Highlands is home to several beautiful waterfalls that are ideal for a peaceful hike. Robinson Falls is one of the more popular options. It’s a moderate trail that winds through lush greenery before reaching the falls.
If you’re looking for a nice easy walk, Parit Falls is a great option. Both locations are great for a relaxed hike, and packing a picnic to enjoy by the water’s edge can make for a lovely day out.
10. Relax at a Flower Garden
The Cameron Highlands’ many flower gardens are perfect for any plant enthusiast. The Rose Centre is one of the best-known spots. It showcases a variety of roses and other vibrant blooms that flourish in the cooler climate. With its terraced layout and panoramic views over the highlands, this garden is perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Another beautiful spot is the Cameron Highlands Flora Park, which features a diverse array of floral displays and landscaped gardens. The cooler highland air enhances the experience, making it an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring.
During my visit, I also stopped by the Orchid Garden, which costs RM6 for entry as it came highly recommended. However, while the flowers were undeniably beautiful, the experience was marred by the sight of some animals that didn’t seem well cared for. It’s worth keeping this in mind if you’re sensitive to animal welfare.
Read Also: Complete Guide to Malaysia’s Paradise: The Perhenthian Islands
Should You Do a half-day or day tour in the Cameron Highlands?
Having done the full-day tour myself, I would actually recommend opting for the half-day tour instead. I didn’t much care for the extra things on the full-day tour so save your money. Instead, use your afternoon to explore on your own, especially if you enjoy hiking.
On a half-day tour, you’ll visit the famous tea plantation fields, walk through the Mossy Forest, and make a stop at the BOH Tea Cafe. These are arguably the best bits of the Highlands and the most scenic.
Plus, the guided tour offers extra insight into the workings of the tea plantations, the history of the area, and the unique flora of the Mossy Forest. It’s especially convenient if you don’t have a car or are travelling solo and want to meet new people.
The full-day tour, on the other hand, includes stops at the Butterfly Farm, a strawberry-picking farm, the Orchid Garden, and a local market. However, as I mentioned earlier, these additional stops didn’t particularly impress me. I felt they were somewhat underwhelming compared to the morning’s experiences.
Most hostels and hotels have a way to book these tours for you. Alternatively, you easily arrange one by contacting local companies via WhatsApp, such as Cameron Highlands Secrets or Discover Cameron.
Where to Stay in the Cameron Highlands
The best place to stay is in the town of Tanah Rata is the most popular area to stay. It’s centrally located and offers easy access to most of the attractions in the Highlands, including trails, markets, and restaurants. T
here are several backpacker-friendly guesthouses here, and I stayed at the Traveller Bunker. It had everything I like in a hostel – bunk beds with a privacy curtain, personal bed light and evening socials (which weren’t too loud if you don’t feel like joining). Plus, they have links to Cameron Secrets tours. You can book through the hostel and they’ll collect you right from the front door.
For those seeking something a little more upscale, consider staying in one of the resorts scattered around the area. Cameron Highlands Resort is one of the most luxurious options, offering charm and modern comforts yet is still very affordable. It’s perfect if you want to relax in a peaceful setting while being close to popular attractions like the tea plantations.
The Wrap Up: Top Things to Do in the Cameron Highlands
With its cooler climate, serene landscapes, and unique experiences, it’s a refreshing retreat from the heat and business of Malaysia’s cities.
From exploring lush tea plantations to hiking through misty forests, the Cameron Highlands provides that much-needed break from the usual tourist hotspots. Its local markets, colonial charm, and peaceful flower gardens, mean there’s plenty to keep you busy for a few days.
So, if you’re ready for a bit of calm, cooler temperatures, and a different side of Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is the perfect solution. Who’s ready to pack their bags?
