Categories > Guides and Tips

singapore-to-cameron-highlands-banner

The Road Trip Guide from Singapore to Cameron Highlands You Need to Bookmark Now

| Last Updated: August 2024

Picture this: Tudor-style buildings perched on a mountain, views of rolling tea plantations, and a slight chill in the air. That’s the kind of vibe you’ll get when you visit Cameron Highlands. 

This picturesque place exudes major cottagecore vibes! I have very fond memories of spending some summers and holidays here, and it’s always worth the very long and winding drive from home. 

Here, I’ve narrowed down the best sights to see, things to do, and where to eat and stay during these trips. I made sure to include attractions for animal lovers, too! 

Where is Cameron Highlands?

Cameron Highlands is located in the northern tip of Pahang, a province in West Malaysia. It’s approximately 200 kilometres away from its capital city, Kuala Lumpur. 

How long is the drive from Singapore to Cameron Highlands?

The drive from Singapore to Cameron Highlands takes approximately 6 to 7 hours long. 

Traffic and weather conditions may cause delays in travel time as you drive through narrow and curved roads. 

Day 1: BOH Tea Garden, Farms, and Lots of Scenic Views

Explore the century-old BOH Tea Garden

From bohteamalaysia

Address: Jalan Sungai Palas, Brinchang
Contact Details: +60 5496 2096
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Average Duration: 2 hours
Pricing: Free
Website

The BOH Tea Garden is undoubtedly one of the most iconic attractions in Cameron Highlands, so I made sure to make it the very first stop on this road trip. 

Featuring expansive views of verdant tea fields that stretch 465 hectares, this century-old tea garden boasts a rich history dating back to the 1930s. 

Visitors can stroll through the picturesque plantation, tour the historic tea factory, shop for souvenirs at the gift shop, and enjoy a cup of fine tea at the cafe with a stunning view of the fields.

Tips: 

  • Take extra caution when driving up to the tea gardens. The roads are notoriously narrow and all drivers are required to drive slowly. Visitors driving in bigger cars (SUVs and minibuses) are encouraged to take advantage of the garden’s shuttle services (should be booked in advance by calling their hotline). 
  • There’s free parking at the base of the tea gardens. If you’re visiting with elderly and handicapped persons, you can drive up to the drop-off point (with assistance from the guards) and drive back down to the parking lot.

Ride an ATV across the highland’s famous tea plantations

From adwinaanuwi

Address: 49th miles, Cameron Adventurous ATV and Safari
Contact Details: +60 13534 2002
Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
  • Saturday to Monday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Average Duration: 2 hours
Pricing: 

  • Single ATV: RM 80 per person
  • Double ATV: RM 90
  • Safari Ride: RM 20 for adults, RM 15 for children

Facebook

Looking for an activity designed for adventurers? Consider riding four-wheeled ATVs across tea plantations in the highlands! 

The route is approximately 2.5 kilometres long and takes you to the best lookout points in the highlands. You’re free to take as many photos as you can at each stop or take your time relishing the views of the rolling hills. 

Tips: 

  • If you’re a big group, I recommend trying the Safari Guide tour wherein a staff member from Cameron Adventurous will drive you to all the lookout points across the plantations. You won’t need to drive the ATV, though, but it’s a cheaper option! 
  • You can book your ATV adventure by simply calling the number or contacting the ATV provider via their Facebook page. They also accept walk-ins, but since the ATV units are limited, you may have to wait a while before a unit is available.

Start your search for the biggest and freshest strawberries at Big Red Strawberry Farm

From bigredstrawberry

Address: Jalan Angsana 1
Contact Details: +60 5491 3327
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Pricing: 

  • RM 60 for strawberry picking
  • Free admission to the farm

Website

Do you love strawberries? Then a visit to the Big Red Strawberry Farm should be your cup of tea!

This sprawling area is home to a strawberry-picking farm and hydroponic vegetable farm. It’s one of the most popular attractions in the highlands and also the best place to get your pick of the biggest, freshest, and juiciest strawberries in Malaysia. 

You can purchase the strawberries you picked or buy pre-packaged ones from their gift shop. If you’re feeling parched after exploring, I recommend cooling off at the cafe with a glass of their fresh strawberry juice! 

Tips: 

  • Only the strawberry-picking farm is open to the public. The hydroponic vegetable farm is only for viewing, and visitors are not allowed to enter the area. All the vegetables grown there are used in the cafe’s salad offerings. 
  • There’s a minimum weight of 1 kg if you want to pick the strawberries yourselves. That’s a lot of strawberries, and if you’re not keen on getting that much, there are other strawberry farms nearby that allow picking for less than 1 kg.

Day 2: More Farms, The Sheep Sanctuary, The Mossy Forest

Say “hello” to sheep at The Sheep Sanctuary

From aloradreams_

Address: Pasar Malam Kea Farm
Contact Details: +60 5491 4638
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Average Duration: 1 hour
Pricing: RM 14 per person 

Are you an animal lover? If you love to get up close and personal with gentle animals like sheep, then The Sheep Sanctuary is definitely a must-visit for you. 

This sheep farm lets you pet and bond with docile sheep against the backdrop of the tea plantations. It’s a family-friendly place to unwind and relax with friendly sheep (and might even leave you wishing you could bring one of them home!). 

Tips: 

  • Your entry ticket comes with food you can feed to the sheep on the farm. If you run out, you also have the option to buy extra sheep food from the staff members. 
    Just note that feed portions and times are under the supervision of the animal caregivers, so don’t try to sneak extra food inside. Don’t also try to feed them food that isn’t approved by the farm. 
  • I recommend visiting the farm on a weekday to avoid the long queues. You can pre-book tickets using Klook, but book them on a weekday to avoid squeezing your way to the sheep due to the crowds.

Walk while butterflies flutter around you at the Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm

From crispoflife

Address: MDCH 3, Batu 43, Green Cow
Contact Details: +60 5491 4638
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Average Duration: 30 minutes
Pricing: 

  • Adults: RM 10
  • Children: RM 5

If you’re a big fan of butterflies, then you shouldn’t miss out on the Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm. Here, you’ll encounter an array of butterfly species fluttering around a sanctuary of cacti, flowers, and different types of foliage. 

It’s like walking around an enchanted garden here, and I definitely recommend taking many Instagrammable photos around the farm. Don’t miss out on the chance to say “hello” to other creatures like guinea pigs, ducks, and rabbits there, too! 

Tips: 

  • Don’t be dismayed if not many butterflies show up during your visit. Some may be hiding behind bushes, and if you do spot some, please don’t catch them or shake the bushes. If you want to get closer to butterflies, simply wait for them to land on you. 
  • There is very limited parking near the farm. It’s best to visit in the morning or during lunch hour to avoid missing out on parking slots. 
  • You’re allowed to feed the other animals, but you can’t pet them, unfortunately.

Traverse the mystical Mossy Forest

From mossyforestcameronhighlands

Address: Gunung Brinchang
Contact Details: +60 13674 1406
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Pricing: 

  • Free 
  • With tour group: Rates may vary per tour guide

Website

If you want to see more of the enchanting sites the highlands has to offer, then you’ll be spoilt for choice in the Mossy Forest. This mossy forest area is known for the thick mist shrouding the trees, resulting in an eerily beautiful forest scenery. 

The trek is a challenging uphill climb of up to 2,000 metres above sea level, so prepare your legs and hiking gear. There are many guides at the base of the trek who can help you get through the forest, thankfully. 

Tips: 

  • It’s best to leave your car parked in your chosen hotel and head to the base of the forest with your booked tour guide because the road there is very narrow and rugged. You’ll be riding a 4×4 vehicle to the starting point of the trek and rates will vary depending on the tour guide and group you booked. 
  • If you’re trekking with kids, there’s a boardwalk within the forest that’s designed to make the trail a lot easier to traverse. You still have the option to take the longer and more rugged path, though.

Day 3: Cameron Lavender Garden, Cameron Highlands Flora Park, and Cactus Point

Take Instagrammable photos at the Cameron Lavender Garden

From cameronlavender_

Address: 59, Brinchang, 39100 Tanah Rata
Contact Details: +60 5496 1208
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Average Duration: 30 minutes to 45 minutes
Pricing: 

  • Adult: RM 20
  • Children: RM 10

Website

Cameron Lavender Garden is an agricultural complex that looks like it came out of a postcard. This lavender-themed garden is home to a colourful lavender field and beds of continental flowers. 

The matching statues and rustic decor set the European countryside vibes in stone here, so it’s a haven for cottagecore lovers. You can also wander through a spacious flower nursery, a strawberry farm, and a small market located near the exit.

Tips: 

  • Don’t miss out on the garden’s famous lavender soft serve. They sell the treat in the small market.
  • The best time to visit this place is in the morning (as soon as it opens) and during the lavender season (June to September). 
  • They only accept cash in the garden, so prepare to bring some with you to purchase the entrance ticket as well as gifts, snacks, and drinks.

Go up a “stairway to heaven” at the Cameron Highlands Flora Park

From ch_flora_park

Address: Lot 191, Kea Farm
Contact Details: +60 12654 3657 
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 am to 7:00 pm
Average Duration: 30 minutes to 45 minutes
Pricing: 

  • Adult: RM 50
  • Children: RM 10 ( 4 to 11 years old)

Website

Another Instagrammable spot in the highlands is Cameron Flora Park. The park is known for its white-clad Floral Hills staircase, lovingly dubbed as the “Stairway to Heaven” in the rolling hills. 

This is only a quick pitstop to take photos, but while you’re there, don’t miss out on the indoor flower garden as well. There’s also Petunia Garden, Golden Maple Bridge, Sakura Garden, Four Season Flower Garden, and Hobbiton Village! 

Tips: 

  • Take note that the park does regular fertilising activities to maintain the flowers. This means that some sections may be closed, so it’s best to check out their Instagram page for announcements and updates. 
  • Unfortunately, the park is not wheelchair-friendly. The pathway leading up to the park is also not senior citizen-friendly, so you might want to reconsider your visit if you’re dropping by with elderly or handicapped persons.

Marvel at the ornate architecture of the Sam Poh Temple

From kevin_ong1991

Address: Jalan Pecah Batu
Contact Details: +60 5491 1393
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Average Duration: 30 minutes to 45 minutes
Pricing: Free
Website

Sam Poh Temple is an underrated tourist spot in the highlands, and I never miss out on telling people to visit it when they’re in the area. This ornate temple is situated on a hilltop that can be accessed by a narrow road from the Iris House Resort. 

The temple is primarily Buddhist, but you’ll also find other deities from different religions adorning the steps and pagodas. Admission is completely free, but you’re expected to observe silence and admire the temple quietly. 

Tips: 

  • Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the main temple complex, especially in the prayer areas. 
  • While admission is free, you can donate a small amount to the temple before leaving. 
  • Take note that the temple is known to house lots of stray dogs. Many of them are docile, though!

Explore through rows of beautiful cacti at Cactus Point

From kitkat_nelfei

Address: 42, Jalan
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Average Duration: 30 minutes to 45 minutes
Pricing: Free

In addition to lavender, strawberries, and bees, Cameron Highlands is a prime destination for viewing and purchasing cacti. One of the best places to do that is at Cactus Point. 

It’s actually one of the oldest attractions still standing in the highlands and is frequently visited by plant and animal lovers alike. You’ll find a myriad of cacti and exotic plants here, including Venus fly traps, air plants, orchids, pitcher plants and more. 

Tips: 

  • There’s a hidden garden just by the public toilets. If you walk to the very back of the garden, you’ll find a small area dedicated to strawberry picking. You can pick strawberries here with a smaller minimum weight requirement. 
  • Feel free to purchase cacti here if you have extra money. Just remember to bring cash with you in case online payment terminals are unavailable due to low signal.

Where to Eat and Drink in Cameron Highlands

The Smokehouse

From smokehousehotel

Address: By the Golf Course, Tanah Rata
Contact Details: +60 5491 1215
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Pricing: $$$
Facebook

If you love cottagecore, then brunch or dinner at The Smokehouse should be a must-do. This Tudor-style hotel and restaurant serves British classics like fish and chips, steak, Full English breakfast, and tea. 

It’s not the most affordable dining option in the highlands, but it’s definitely worth the splurge if you’re celebrating an anniversary or special occasion. I recommend pairing your meals with a bottle of red wine (you can ask the staff for their suggestions!). 

Tips: 

  • Make sure to check out their Facebook page for limited-edition tasting menus around the date of your visit. Advanced bookings are recommended, especially during the Christmas season, to ensure you get good seats. 
  • Take the time to stroll around the restaurant’s gardens. The whole hotel and restaurant are designed to mimic traditional British Tudor homes and landscaping, so snap as many Instagrammable photos as you can here!

Uncle Chow Kopitiam Cameron Highlands

From foodielah

Address: C2-G, 1, Jalan Royal Lily 4/2, Taman Royal Lily
Contact Details: +60 13574 8273
Operating Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Pricing: $

If you love eating a full and hearty breakfast, then the best place to get your day started is at Uncle Chow Kopitiam. The ambience here is similar to what you can find in Singapore kopitiams, but here, they serve mostly vegetarian Malay fare. 

The bestseller is the nasi lemak ayam goreng berempah, or flavoured fried chicken with coconut rice. The portions are huge and it’s best paired with a cup of strong Hainanese coffee and kaya toast! 

Tip: 

  • Be ready with your phones to order! Although the signal isn’t always so great in the highlands, the kopitiam encourages customers to order through their online or QR code system. If you need any assistance, don’t be afraid to ask the staff members for help!

BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre

From bohteamalaysia

Address: Jalan Sungai Palas, Brinchang
Contact Details: +60 5496 2096
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Pricing: $$
Website

What’s a visit to Cameron Highlands without tasting the freshly brewed tea they’re known for? Even better, you can indulge in an afternoon tea session in BOH Sungai Palas Tea Centre, the iconic plantation that basically started it all in the highlands. 

The cafe is perched on a hilltop, offering scenic views of the rolling tea plantations while you sip on fresh tea. You can pair it with servings of their cheesecakes, scones, strawberry pastries, and more. 

Tips: 

  • You can book a tea session in advance if you prefer a more private and exclusive tea experience. You’ll also be taught how tea is cultivated, harvested, and brewed during the session. For more information, shoot the management an email. 
  • Has your tea run out? You can refill your tea pot with boiled water for another RM 0.50. Your ordered tea packets can still be used for up to two servings!

Scott’s Cafe

From scotss.cafe

Address: No 24, Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata
Contact Details: +60 14305 4775
Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 10:00 pm
  • Friday to Sunday, 8:30 am to 10:30 pm

Pricing: $$

If you’re looking for a restaurant in Cameron Highlands for all-day dining, I highly recommend Scott’s Cafe. From their warm scones to perfectly cooked and juicy steak, the food has been exceptional for breakfast, lunch, and dinner whenever I’ve visited.

The breakfast selection is a highlight for me, especially with dishes like the Londoner and American Breakfast, which pair perfectly with their quality coffee and pancakes. Overall, a great place to get your day started! 

Tips: 

  • There’s Wi-Fi available inside the cafe, so you can get some work done if you need to. 
  • The best time to visit the cafe is on Sundays. There’s parking available across from the cafe, and it’s usually not as packed on Sunday mornings and afternoons.

Xin Teh Bak Kut Teh

From celestialdelish

Address: Lot G-18(B), Ground Floor, Cameron Square Mall, Jalan Aranda Nova, Greencow
Contact Details: +60 12636 8884
Operating Hours:

  • Monday, Wednesday to Friday, 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm
  • Saturday to Sunday, 11:30 am to 9:00 pm

Pricing: $
Facebook

Craving for a hot bowl of bak kut teh to warm yourself up in the highlands? Get yourself a bowl (or two) from Xin Teh Bak Kut Teh and satisfy your palate! 

The dry and herbal options are both delicious, with the dry version offering a perfect balance and aroma, while the herbal soup is flavourful without being too salty.

The restaurant’s cosy ambience makes it an ideal place for a warm and hearty meal, especially on chilly days. Whether you choose the dry or soupy bak kut teh, this place promises a delightful culinary experience in the highlands.

Tips: 

  • This eatery is pretty hidden inside the mall. Head over to the very back part of the mall (where floor-to-ceiling walls overlook the rolling hills) and look for a stall with a back sign. Occasionally, they put up red lanterns at the front, so keep an eye out for them!
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for hot water from the staff if you wish to rinse your utensils. They usually serve it together with your order, but feel free to ask for more!

Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands

The Smokehouse Hotel

From smokehousehotel

Address: By the Golf Course, Tanah Rata
Contact Details: +60 5491 1215
Check In: 3:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Facebook

Do you remember The Smokehouse? That charming English Tudor-style restaurant is also a hotel that offers guests comfy and fairytale-like accommodations for days on end. 

The ambience, decor, and overall design of the hotel are the real showstoppers, in my opinion. They’ve been around since the 1930s and even after many years of my frequent visits, the hotel hasn’t lost its charm. 

Tips: 

  • There aren’t many rooms in the hotel, so advance booking is a must if you want to stay here. 
  • Tune in to their Facebook page for monthly promotions. The hotel occasionally offers special room and dining rates for two people or up to a family of 4!

The Lakehouse

From thelakehousecameronhighlands

Address: 30th Mile, Jalan Ringlet
Contact Details: +60 5495 6152
Check In: 2:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$$
Website

Another fairytale-like hotel in the highlands is The Lakehouse. It’s one of the pricier options in the area, but I honestly think the splurge is worth it especially since you really get what you pay for here. 

The picturesque Tudor-style building with perfectly landscaped gardens and tastefully decorated rooms will transport you to a storybook. If you’re celebrating an anniversary, this hotel is the best place to make your fairytale dreams come true! 

Tips: 

  • The hotel offers a jungle trekking course around the hills surrounding the gardens. You’ll first need to ask the concierge for assistance and guidance, as it is an hour-long trek. It’s also not recommended for children and elderly guests, so be prepared for a slightly challenging trail. 
  • Sadly, the rooms are not soundproof, so you may hear traffic sounds from your room if you book one near the lobby. I recommend requesting for a room facing the gardens for a slightly quieter stay (plus you get the best views!).

Strawberry Park Resort

From strawberryparkresort

Address: Lot 195 & 196, Jalan Strawberry Park
Contact Details: +60 5491 1166
Check In: 3:00 pm
Check Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Website

Nestled on a scenic seven-acre hill between Tanah Rata and Brinchang, Strawberry Park Resort offers guests stunning views of the highlands.

A stay here is not just about enjoying a comfortable room and delicious meals. You can also partake in rainforest walks, tea plantation tours, and excursions to Gunung, the tallest mountain in the region.

My personal favourite thing about this hotel? Getting a Balinese massage at their Wild Orchidaceae Spa! 

Tips: 

  • The hotel offers free electric vehicle charging at their charging station by the front entrance. You are only allowed to use it for a maximum of 2 hours at a time, though. 
  • You can also rent the tennis and pickleball courts on a per-hour basis if you and your family or friends want to play. Courts are open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm and cost RM 30 per hour.
Related topics