One of the most outstanding trademark of Ipoh are its caves. There are rows and rows of limestone caves lining up from Ipoh all the way to the north and south that ranges 20 kilometers both ways. This however is fast declining as more and more quarry activities are starting to cut away the limestone caves. As demand increases, the caves begin to make way for more development around the country. Although efforts has been made to further preserve the caves, many deemed that they are still insufficient and more efforts are still needed.
One of the more visitor friendly caves is the Gua Tempurung located at the south of Ipoh near the town of Gopeng where it is open for the public to visit. Gua Tempurung is one of the trademark attractions located in the state of Perak with many visiting the caves as a family outing or merely to know more about the place.
Due to its karstic formation around the city, the limestone caves are naturally a sight to behold even without going near. One is able to see some of these caves and hills from within Ipoh city itself. Travelling in and out of the city whether via the expressway or the trunk roads will give the visitor these awesome unique views.
Along the caves, somewhat by the walls along the expressway, one is able to see that there are various temples built. The Sam Po Tong temple is one of the example. The temple’s name which means Cavern of Three Precious, has a pond on the outside with tortoises are bred.
Kek Lok tong is another temple of by the caves which is located adjacent to the Sam Poh Tong. The name means Cavern of Utmost Happiness is accessible via the Gunung Rapat or Rapat Mountain route. Known to have the best view, another temple Perak Tong, which means Perak Cave consists of a tall stairway into the cave. This is very similar to the Batu Caves stairways found just outside Kuala Lumpur and provides a great view for the landscape appreciative. It is said that Perak Tong houses the tallest Buddha statue.
