Bukit Larut, Taiping (Maxwell Hill) - Hill Resort, Hiking

Bukit Larut, Taiping Overview

Located 1250 M above sea level, the majestic Bukit Larut is situated just 10 k from Taiping in the Perak district of Malaysia. Enveloped in mist, it is Malaysia's oldest and smallest hill resort. Offering a tranquil glimpse of Perak's colonial past, it was established during the 1880s as a retreat from the lowland heat. Bukit Larut was formerly known as Maxwell Hill and is popular for its fragrant, cool air, walking trails and foggy mornings.

Reaching the top of Bukit Larut is one of the most fun parts. The 10km hike from Taiping takes 2 and a half hour trek one way along with a good level of fitness. One can also arrive at the top via the government land rovers (RM10 for a round trip) available at the base station. Please note that private vehicles are not allowed on the hill road. The telecom tower at the top of the upper station of Bukit Larut offers a stunning panoramic view. Surrounded by several bungalows, nature prevails at its best here with more than 600 varieties of plant species and 200 varieties of birds.

Things to Do in Bukit Larut

Hikers will love the hiking trail of 13 KMS to the top indulging in an exotic jungle trail, an uphill climb and finally reaching the Bukit Larut Summit with an exhilarating feeling.
Bukit Larut has a small park covered by tall pine trees and little swings to enjoy the misty mornings.
The hanging bridge in Bukit Larut enhances the beauty of the place with a better option for photography.
To get a panoramic view of Taiping city from above, forget not to experience the Lookout tower.
A nice place for family picnics, this hill has scattered seating arrangements with tables and chairs to serve the purpose.
A nature lover's retreat is Bukit Larut offering an amazing bird-watching experience.
Rest House and bungalows are available in the hill with prior reservation for an extended peaceful stay in Maxwell Hill.

How to Reach Bukit Larut

The dwindling road to Bukit Larut restricts visitors to opt for private transportation services to go up above the hill. The risk involved increases with 72 bends in the journey of 13 KMS from the base to the top. Government-run Land Rover is available from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM with an extra rush on the weekends. Jeep services cost RM 10 for adults and RM 5 for children aged between 4 to 10 years. The jeep ride takes less than 30 mins to reach the top from the base. Jeep ride tickets are limited for each day up to 200. Online booking is not available.

Hikers can walk the path uphill if interested, which takes 7 hours for a round trip, depending on the fitness of the travellers.

Best Time to visit Bukit Larut

Located on the Bintang range, the aura of a hill station like Bukit Larut is best experienced from January to April. The temperature falls below 10 degrees Celsius at night, whereas during the daytime the temperature lies within 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. Avoid visiting Bukit Larut in the rainy season, especially from September to December to avoid sudden afternoon showers. The hiking trail becomes slippery and also risky to walk along. Landslides are likely to cause more disruption during the monsoon.

Tips for visiting Bukit Larut

Check Bukit Larut road conditions before heading towards the journey. Often due to landslides, transportation jeep facilities remain unavailable making Bukit Larut inaccessible to its travellers.
Transportation to Bukit Larut in Land Rovers becomes difficult at weekends. It is better to have an hour before in hand and wait in the queue by 07:00 AM.
Wear proper hiking shoes if you plan to hike to the hill and walk through the jungles.
Carry the necessary food items.
Always carry umbrellas as afternoon showers are quite frequent in Bukit Larut.