One cannot claim to have visited Taiping without taking some time off to soak in the natural beauty of the Taiping Lake Gardens. Built on top of an abandoned tin mine, the gardens were opened in 1880, earning them a place in the history books as the first public garden in then-Malaya.
Huge ancient rain trees (“angsana”) line the lake; their branches stretching from one end of the road into the waters across, making the perfect backdrop for couples taking their wedding photos.
Spread over 64 hectares, the lake has ten scenic lakes and ponds, a Lotus Pool, charming bridges, tracks for jogging and reflexology, all surrounded by tropical plants, flowers, trees and wildlife. For kids, a roller-skating rink, paddleboat rides, and a playground ensure that the outdoors appeal more than the latest video game.
Heritage structures surround the lush greenery, including the Old Residency, formerly the home of the Secretary to the Resident, the Raja’s House and army officers’ residences. The nearby Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut) also makes an ideal place for jungle trekking and camping.
