Designed on the site of an old tin mine, the Taiping Lake Gardens were the first public gardens established by the British colonial government in Malaysia. The gardens boast 64 hectares of landscaped garden beds, lakes and walking trails while also featuring Heritage-listed buildings and a playground.

Stroll beneath the ancient angsana rain trees, which have branches hanging over the central lake, or explore the tranquil waters on a paddle boat. Wander along the wooden bridges to ornate pagodas, then visit the late-19th-century Old Residency and Raja’s House.

Travelling with kids? Let them run wild on the playground or enjoy the roller skating rink. The gardens are adjacent to the historic Taiping Zoo, which is home to endangered native species, such as the Malayan tiger and a large group of stump-tailed macaques.

Getting there

The Taiping Lake Gardens are east of Taiping’s town centre, which is around a 1.5-hour drive from Penang International Airport. Kuala Lumpur is around three hours’ drive to the south of Taiping and is well connected by buses and trains.