Visiting The Cameron Highlands | Everything You Need to Know

Introduction: Into the Highlands

Nestled on the northwestern edge of Pahang, Cameron Highlands stretch across 71,220 hectares, making it Malaysia’s most extensive hill station. At 1,830 metres above sea level, it’s not just the largest but also the highest, offering a cool retreat far above the tropical heat.

A haven of sprawling tea plantations, strawberry farms, and vibrant flora and fauna, Cameron Highlands sets the stage for a picturesque family getaway. Discovered in 1885 by British surveyor William Cameron, the highlands evolved from a colonial hill station into a flourishing tourist destination. Today, it remains famous for its tea estates dating back to the British era, its cultural diversity, night markets, farms, and botanical gardens that draw visitors from around the world.

Join us as we explore the heart of Cameron Highlands and discover why it’s considered Malaysia’s crown jewel of natural beauty.

The Journey: Road Trip from Kuala Lumpur

We began our adventure with a road trip from Kuala Lumpur, filled with excitement and anticipation. Driving ourselves gave us flexibility, especially with a baby on board and a wide array of scattered attractions.

Our friend Roman kindly served as our tour guide, making the drive smoother and part of the adventure itself. We chose the Tapah Exit 132 from the North-South Motorway for a scenic, although more challenging, route. For a gentler drive, the Simpang Pulai route is a great alternative.

As we climbed higher, the roads became lined with local fruit and vegetable stalls—early signs of Cameron Highlands’ agricultural richness. The changing altitudes brought increasingly majestic views. Each turn revealed layers of lush greenery and sweeping mountain vistas. This wasn’t just a road trip; it was a transition into serenity.

Arrival & Accommodation: Beatrix Hotel, Brinchang

We checked into Beatrix Hotel in Brinchang, where the warm hospitality of the staff made us feel instantly at home. Centrally located, the hotel served as a perfect base for our exploration.

Our room was spacious and spotless, with a picture-perfect view of lush hills and the vibrant town life below. Connected directly to Cameron Centrum, the area offered open-air shopping, diverse dining options, and plenty of child-friendly activities.

Families filled the town square, enjoying the cool climate and the slower pace of life. For our first night in Cameron Highlands, Beatrix Hotel was not just a place to stay—it was a welcoming gateway to all that the highlands had to offer.

A memorable culinary highlight was a unique ice cream shop nearby. They served doughnut-like cones filled with creamy ice cream and topped with inventive toppings—a delightful treat and a perfect sweet ending to our first day.

 Cameron Valley & Tea Plantations: Exploring BOH Tea Centre

The drive to BOH Tea Plantation was like entering a fantasy world. The narrow, winding roads reminded us of scenes from The Lord of the Rings, urging us to stop and take in the views.

The cool, crisp air felt invigorating—like the Lake District in the UK, but nestled in tropical Malaysia. BOH, Malaysia’s premier black tea manufacturer since 1929, was founded by John Archibald Russell. With over 1,200 hectares of tea gardens, it produces around 4 million kg of tea annually.

We observed skilled workers handpicking leaves, preserving traditions passed down for generations. Inside the processing plant, we learnt how modern techniques blend with heritage practices to ensure top-quality tea in every cup.

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Cameron Flora Park: A Botanical Wonderland

Just a short walk from Kea Farm Market, Cameron Flora Park was an unforgettable experience. Set within meticulously landscaped gardens, the park showcases vibrant flower beds, unique plant species, and sweeping panoramic views.

More than just eye candy, it’s an educational destination for nature lovers and families. Walking through this floral wonderland offered moments of peace and inspiration. A forest-themed playground added fun for children, making it a family-friendly haven.

Agro Market & Local Delights

The Cameron Agro Market is a must-visit. For just RM25 (adults) and RM10 (children 3+), you gain access to a variety of themed zones:

• The Aviary – A colorful collection of exotic birds
  
• Mini Santorini – A Greek-style photo zone
  
• Mini Zoo – A kid-favorite spot with various animals
  
• Top Garden – Panoramic views and fresh highland flora
  

The market is intuitively laid out and easy to navigate. Helpful staff are always available, but you’ll likely find your way easily on your own. It’s the perfect place to pick up fresh produce, organic vegetables, and locally grown tea.

Strawberry Picking at Big Red Strawberry Farm

Cameron Highlands is known as Malaysia’s strawberry haven. Among the many farms, Big Red Strawberry Farm stands out with its hydroponic techniques and scenic setting just outside Brinchang.

Thanks to the mild climate, strawberries thrive here. Visitors can walk through the farm, handpick strawberries, and enjoy them fresh on the spot. It’s a deliciously interactive activity for families and a sweet highlight of our trip.

Magical Ending: Hobbiton Village

To wrap up our highland adventure, we visited the charming Hobbiton Village. Inspired by the magical world of Tolkien, this whimsical destination allowed us to step into a real-life storybook.

Although overnight stays aren’t available, the village features hobbit houses, themed architecture, and a cosy café serving treats like the “Ogre Crush”. It’s perfect for photos, families, and fans of fantasy.

With entry priced at RM40 for adults and RM20 for children aged 5–12, it was a worthwhile and unique attraction that brought our trip to a magical close

Final Thoughts

From scenic drives and serene tea plantations to vibrant flower parks and fairy-tale villages, Cameron Highlands offers an unforgettable escape into nature, culture, and imagination. Whether you’re travelling with kids or looking for a quiet getaway, the Highlands promise memories that last a lifetime.