Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Zoo Taiping & Night Safari

Taiping Zoo established in 1961, it is the oldest zoological gardens in Malaysia. There are a lot of happening events at Taiping Zoo, like the successful Night Safari, which allows visitors to observe norturnal animals from 8:00 to 11:00pm all year round.

Officially known as Taman Mergastua Sultan Idris Shah, Taiping Zoo covers 14.4 hectares (34 acres) of land within the sprawling Taiping Lake Gardens, at the foot of Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut). At last count, there are 1300 animals of 180 species at Taiping Zoo. To create an environment that is sensitive to the animals' natural habitat, Taiping Zoo is gradually introducing new open concept enclosures.

Visiting hours at Taiping Zoo are 8:30am - 6:00pm daily, including public holidays. Entrance fee is RM12 for adults, RM8 for children. Entry for cameras and video cameras is free of charge.
While for Night Safari visiting hours 8.00 to 11.00 p.m Open every night including Public Holidays and the visiting hours from 8.00 to 12.00 a.mOn Saturday nights and eve of Public Holidays. Entrance fee is RM16 for adults, RM10 for children. Entry for cameras and video cameras is free of charge.

For the latest information on Taiping Zoo, visit its official website at http://www.zootaiping.gov.my/

Monday, January 18, 2010

Maxwell Hill Taiping (Bukit Larut Taiping)

Bukit Larut which was formerly known as Maxwell Hill is the oldest hill resort in Malaysia. It was establised in 1884 by William Edward Maxwell, Assistant British Resident of Perak to cater for the needs of the colonial officials who need a break from the heat of the lowlands. At 1,250 m above sea level, Bukit Larut's daily temperature ranges from 10 °C to 25 °C. Besides being the oldest hill, it also holds the record as the wettest place in Malaysia.

In a clear day, you will be able to see a panoramic view of the west coast of Malaysia from Penang down to Pangkor Island. Nature lovers will appreciate the daisies, tulips, pansies, marigold, roses, dahlias, petunias and sunflowers that are planted here.

Bookings for accommodation at Cendana Bungalow, Beringin Bungalow, Rumah Hijau and Bukit Larut Rest House can be done at the bottom of the hill. However, it is always better to book in advance before going by calling the Bukit Larut Recreational Area Office.

From the foot of the hill, the journey up to the summit is by government Land Rover. The roads up the hill is steep and narrow with 72 sharp bends, so make sure you sit tight as the vehicle cruise up the hill. The Land Rover operational hour is from 8am to 5pm daily with a frequency of 1 hour. Fees is about RM5 for adult and RM3 for children. Booking to take the 4-wheel drive can be done at:

Bukit Larut Recreational Area Office
TaipingPerak Darul Ridzuan
Tel : +6 05 8077 241/243