Midsize Woman

If you’re backpacking through Malaysia, Cameron Highlands is a must-visit spot. Known for its cool climate, stunning tea plantations, and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to escape the city and recharge.

This guide will walk you through the best hikes, local eats, markets, and tips to help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

With its cool climate, rolling tea plantations, and colonial charm, this hill station has earned its place as one of Malaysia’s top tourist destinations.

Why Visit Cameron Highlands?

Cameron Highlands is more than just scenic landscapes. This highland resort, sitting about 1,500 meters above sea level, offers a refreshing break with temperatures ranging between 14°C to 25°C year-round.

Visitors come here to breathe in the cool air, explore misty forests, enjoy fresh strawberries, and experience a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and British influences.

How to Get to Cameron Highlands

From Kuala Lumpur:

• By Car: The most convenient way is to drive, which takes around 3.5 to 4 hours via Tapah or Simpang Pulai. The roads are winding, especially from Tapah, so drive cautiously.
• By Bus: Regular buses run from KL’s Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) to Tanah Rata, the main town in Cameron Highlands. The journey takes about 4.5 to 5 hours.

From Penang or Ipoh: Buses are available, or you can arrange for private transport or drive yourself.

Top Things to Do in Cameron Highlands

1. Hiking from Bukit Jasar to BOH Tea Plantation

If you’re up for a real adventure in Cameron Highlands, skip the tours and hit the trails on foot. One of the most rewarding treks I did was from Tanah Rata to Bukit Jasar, then continuing through the lush highland jungle all the way to the iconic BOH Tea Plantation in Sungai Palas and yep, I even hitchhiked back to town. Here’s how to do it:

Starting Point: Tanah Rata to Bukit Jasar Trailhead

The hike starts right in Tanah Rata, the main backpacker hub in Cameron Highlands. You can easily walk to the Bukit Jasar trailhead, located just behind the housing area near Century Pines Resort (ask locals or use Maps – it’s easy to find).

Trail Info:

• Trail Name: Bukit Jasar (Trail 10)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Time to Summit: ~45 minutes to 1 hour
• Elevation Gain: ~200 meters

The trail is well-marked and winds gently through mossy forest and underbrush. It’s a bit muddy after rain, so good shoes are a must.

Pro Tip: Start early (before 10am) to enjoy the cooler temps and clearer skies.

Bukit Jasar Summit

Once you reach the summit of Bukit Jasar, you’ll be rewarded with a 360° view of the highlands, rolling hills, tea plantations in the distance, and the town below. It’s a great spot to rest, snack, and take photos.

Continue Hiking to BOH Tea Plantation (Sungai Palas)

After Bukit Jasar, the trail links up with plantation access roads and jungle paths that eventually lead you to the BOH Tea Centre in Sungai Palas.

Route Highlights:

• You’ll pass through local farms, vegetable plots, and jungle patches.
• The trail turns into dirt roads used by farm vehicles, so expect uneven ground and occasional motorbikes.
• The walk is long but not technical, mostly rolling hills and gentle slopes.

Distance from Jasar to BOH: Approx. 8–10 km. Time: ~2–3 hours depending on pace and stops. Tip: Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, there’s not much shade once you hit the open plantation roads.

Arrival at BOH Tea Plantation (Sungai Palas)

Finally, you’ll arrive at the famous BOH Tea Centre, perched high above the sweeping green hills. It’s one of the must-see places in Cameron Highlands, and totally worth the effort. What to Do:

• Enjoy a fresh pot of tea and scones at the café with panoramic views.
• Take a short self-guided tea factory tour.
• Chill on the terrace and soak in the vibe, this is what you hiked for!

Return Option: After enjoying the views and a well-deserved tea break at BOH Tea Centre, you can either hitchhike back to town, which is fairly common and safe in Cameron Highlands or grab a taxi if you prefer a more comfortable ride.

Hitchhiking usually works well from the parking area, especially if you smile and look approachable; locals and tourists are often happy to give lifts back to Brinchang or Tanah Rata. I got pick after 15 mins.

Why It’s Worth It

This trek gives you the raw, natural side of Cameron Highlands. You’ll skip the crowds, walk through real working farms and forest, and arrive at one of Malaysia’s most stunning tea plantations completely on your own steam. For backpackers and hikers, this route is a gem and best of all, it’s totally free.

2. Visit a Strawberry Farm

You’ll see strawberry farms all over Cameron Highlands, they’re kind of a big deal here. The cool mountain climate makes it one of the few places in Southeast Asia where strawberries grow year-round.

While many people go for the whole “pick your own” experience, I personally skipped that and grabbed a fresh pack from the Brinchang night market instead, cheaper, just as tasty, and zero effort. Still, if you’re into picking, snapping photos, or trying strawberry waffles and ice cream at the farm cafés, it’s a fun way to spend an hour or two, especially if you’re looking for something chill and local.

What to Expect at Big Red Strawberry Farm:

• Hydroponic strawberry rows: easy and clean for picking
  👉 Price: Around RM25–RM30 for 500g if you want to pick your own
• Small vegetable farm and cactus garden: a quick stroll-through spot for plant lovers
• Strawberry café: serving up all the good stuff: waffles, ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies (most items range from RM8–RM15)
• Souvenir and snack shop: strawberry jam, dried fruits, cookies, and other gifts to take home
• The place is clean, organized, and tourist-friendly, making it great for a short, easy stop during the day.

3. Lavender Garden: Flowers, Photo Spots & Purple Everything

If you’re into colorful vibes and Instagram-worthy spots, the Lavender Garden in Cameron Highlands is a fun (and slightly quirky) place to check out. It’s a bit touristy, sure but worth a stop if you’re already around Tringkap or on the way to Kea Farm.

The garden is filled with rows of lavender, daisies, roses, and other blooms plus plenty of places to snap those dreamy, flower-filled photos.

What to Expect:

• Lavender fields: not huge, but colorful and perfect for photos (especially in the morning when the light is soft)
• Other flowers: sunflowers, gerberas, petunias, and seasonal blooms depending on the time of year
• Photo props: purple houses, windmills, heart-shaped arches, and even a fake London-style phone booth (a bit kitschy but fun for a quick shot)
• Mini market stalls: selling lavender-scented products, perfumes, souvenirs, and herbal teas
• Café & snacks: the must-try here is the lavender ice cream (RM6–RM8), which tastes surprisingly good and makes for a cool photo with the garden backdrop

Entry Fee

• Adults: RM15
• Children (under 12): RM10
  Tickets can be bought at the entrance, no need to book ahead

4. Cameron Highlands Night Markets

Cameron Highlands actually has two main night markets, so you’ve got options depending on where you’re staying or what day it is!

1. Brinchang Night Market

• When: Every Friday and Saturday night (from about 5 PM to 10 PM)
• Where: Main road in Brinchang town
• Why go? It’s the bigger of the two markets, with tons of food stalls, fresh produce (especially strawberries), and souvenirs. Perfect if you’re staying near Brinchang or want a lively market atmosphere.

2. Kea Farm Night Market

• When: Every Thursday night (starting around 5 PM)
• Where: Kea Farm, near the vegetable market area
• Why go? Smaller and more local-feeling, Kea Farm night market is great for fresh veggies, local snacks, and a more laid-back vibe. It’s popular with locals, so you get a more authentic experience.

Backpacker Tips

• Both markets are great for fresh strawberries, snacks, and souvenirs
• Bring cash and small change, as card payments are rare
• Try to go early for the best selection stalls can close by 9 or 10 PM
• If you’re around on both days, definitely check out both markets to compare vibes and foods!

Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands

• Tanah Rata: Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers. Plenty of hostels, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels.
• Brinchang: Closer to attractions and the night market; offers a mix of mid-range and boutique hotels.
• Luxury Picks: Consider Cameron Highlands Resort or The Lakehouse for a touch of colonial charm.

Best Time to Visit Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands can be visited year-round, but the dry season (February to April) is ideal for outdoor activities. Weekends and school holidays can get crowded, so plan your trip during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

Useful Travel Tips

• Bring a jacket: Temperatures drop significantly in the evening.
• Book accommodations early during peak season and holidays.
• Drive slowly, winding roads and fog are common.
• Respect the environment, especially in nature areas like Mossy Forest.

Final Thought

I came to Cameron Highlands to escape the craziness of big city life for a bit, and honestly, it was exactly what I needed. The weather was just perfect cool and fresh such a nice change from the heat and hustle.

If you’re thinking about visiting, I highly recommend trying out the hiking trails. Trekking through the mossy forests and tea plantations isn’t just fun, it’s also a great way to clear your mind and reconnect with nature. There’s something about walking those quiet paths that helps you slow down, breathe deeper, and reset your thoughts.