Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) Travel Guide

Formerly known as Maxwell Hill, Bukit Larut is a hill resort located 10 km away from Taiping, Perak and is approximately 1,250 metres above sea level. Much like other highland stations such as Cameron Highlands, it is a popular destination among locals looking to get away from the heat and humidity of city life. Bukit Larut is situated in one of the wettest parts of Malaysia and receives considerably high amounts of rainfall annually. 

It is the oldest hill station in the country and was originally built by William Edward Maxwell in 1884; a British Assistant Resident of Perak state at the time. Although not as well developed as other hill resorts such as Bukit Tinggi or Genting Highlands, it maintains an authentic colonial atmosphere, as seen in their bungalows and gardens. Bukit Larut is also known amongst nature lovers as being a great place for bird watching. 

Hiking the Various Trails

Bukit Larut is a place where you can go to get close to nature. There are a few hiking trails you can undertake, such as the Gunung Hijau Trail. 

Learn about the Flora and Fauna 

Variety of flora and fauna can also be found at Bukit Larut. These include but are not limited to gibbons, squirrels, and plant species such as wild orchids and the Mountain Giant Fishtail Palm. 

Leisure 

If you’re not looking to hike, you can take a relaxing stroll of the surroundings. There is also a bridge that will take you to a watch tower, giving you a stunning view of Taiping. Depending on the season, you can enjoy walking amongst flowers in the garden of the bungalow or chalet you’ve chosen to stay in.

Taiping Zoo

While making a visit to Bukit Larut, you can also stop by the nearby Taiping Zoo & Night Safari to get up close and personal with your favourite wild animals. 

Because Bukit Larut is known to have one of the highest yields of rainfall in the country, it is recommended to avoid visiting during the wet season. The dry season typically starts from March and ends in October, so it’s best to visit between these months. 

By Car 

Follow the North-South Highway and take the Taiping exit before heading towards Taiping Lake Gardens. The entrance to Bukit Larut can be found by following the road signs along Jalan Taman Tasik upon arriving in Taman Tasik Taiping. Ample parking space is available at the main entrance to Bukit Larut.  

Hiking 

The Bukit Larut Hiking Trail is a trail you can hike up to get to Bukit Larut, which is about 13km to the summit. If you choose to hike, the whole trail will take at least 7 hours to complete for a round trip depending on your fitness level. Though it is tiring, it’s also a great way to explore the jungle trail and its surroundings. However, this method of reaching Bukit Larut will not be ideal if you’re traveling with children or the elderly. 

Jeep 

Another way you can get to the summit is via a jeep ride in government authorised Land Rovers. The jeep ride takes about 30 minutes to get there. However, keep in mind that times are limited and change depending on the day, so make sure to check the jeep schedules before visiting. 

Walking is the most common method of getting around Bukit Larut.

There is only one halal café located in Bukit Larut. So, if you’re thinking of coming here for a day trip, you can pack your own food and have a picnic at the few benches and picnic tables dotted around the hill resort. 

There are a few accommodations you can choose to stay in at Bukit Larut. Some of the bungalows and rest houses located here that are available to the public are Bukit Larut, Beringin, Tempinis, and Gunung Hijau, to name a few. 

You can also opt to stay at Taiping, which is close to Bukit Larut. Hotels you can stay at in Taiping are Sentosa Villa, Hotel Grand Baron, and Flemington Hotel, among others. 

It can get chilly in Bukit Larut during the night, with temperatures ranging between 10 to 12 degrees Celcius so do pack some warm clothing. Sunscreen and a cap or hat are also recommended to bring along to protect yourself from the sun. 

If you’re planning to hike, dress in the appropriate hiking attire and footwear to avoid injury. If you’re not hiking, it is best to dress in comfortable clothing and footwear such as sneakers and sandals.