IPOH, Malaysia – Known for its charming ambiance and rich cultural heritage, Ipoh has earned a spot on TimeOut’s prestigious list of the best Asian destinations to visit in 2025. The capital city of Perak was ranked fifth by the lifestyle portal’s travel experts, making it a must-visit location for travelers looking to explore Asia next year.
TimeOut highlighted Ipoh’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical allure, citing its iconic limestone cliffs, ancient cave temples, colonial-era buildings, and picturesque shophouses as key attractions. These features contribute to the city’s reputation as one of Malaysia’s top travel destinations.
Equally noteworthy, according to TimeOut, is Ipoh’s food scene, which offers a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. The city is famous for its local delicacies, including the iconic chicken rice, kai see hor fun (rice noodles with shredded chicken), nasi kandar, and the beloved kaya puffs. These dishes add to the city’s appeal as a culinary hotspot.
Moreover, Ipoh is gaining recognition for its burgeoning coffee culture. Visitors can enjoy a traditional cup of Ipoh white coffee in one of its many classic coffee houses or opt for a more modern experience at one of the city’s “third wave” coffee shops, where expertly crafted espresso drinks are on offer.
Other destinations making the list of top emerging Asian cities include Sumba, Indonesia (ranked first), Siargao, Philippines (second), and Da Nang, Vietnam (third). Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, secured fourth place, while Osaka, Japan, ranked sixth, followed by Nan, Thailand, in seventh, and Lijiang, China, in eighth.
With its mix of history, culture, and culinary delights, Ipoh is cementing its place as a rising star in the travel world, making it a destination not to be missed in 2025.
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