Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill)

Bukit Larut

Malaysia's oldest hill station, at about 1,250 m. A Land Rover climbs through rainforest to sea-of-clouds views and colonial-era bungalows.

Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill, was established in 1884 as the earliest British colonial hill station in Malaysia. At about 1,250 m, it is roughly 10°C cooler than Taiping town. The upper road is narrow and steep, and private cars are banned, so you must board an official four-wheel-drive vehicle at the Land Rover Station at the foot of the hill. The one-way ride takes about 30–40 minutes and runs on limited schedules, so during public holidays it is wise to book by phone in advance. Fit hikers can walk the road in about 3–4 hours. On the hilltop are colonial-era holiday bungalows, old tea plantation sites and viewpoints. On clear days you can see Taiping Lake and the Strait of Malacca, and it is also a birdwatching hotspot. The road is occasionally closed for maintenance, so check before you set out.

Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill)

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby