Malaysia has no shortage of destinations to explore, each offering its own unique sights and experiences. However, most travellers tend to gravitate toward the country’s larger cities, often overlooking the quieter corners that hold just as much charm. Among these lesser-explored places, Perlis stands out as a hidden gem.
Small in size but rich in character, it is home to some of Malaysia’s most underrated travel experiences. Away from the usual tourist trails, the state reveals scenic viewpoints, tranquil eco-parks, and cultural pockets that remain refreshingly untouched. Here are some of the spots worth exploring in Perlis:
Galeri Gua Kelam & Secret Garden (Kaki Bukit)
Starting off, lets dive deep into nature. Just outside Kaki Bukit, about 1 kilometre from town near the Thailand border, is Gua Kelam, also known as the “Cave of Darkness.” The cave was originally hand-carved during the tin mining era, and today, visitors enter via a suspension bridge that leads into a 370-metre underground passage.
Inside, there are two main routes to explore. Gua Kelam 1 features an underground river that was previously a shortcut between Kaki Bukit and Wang Kelian. Gua Kelam 2 offers a longer, well-lit walkway of about 1.5 kilometres, where old trolley tracks, mining remnants, and carved wall markings are still visible.
At the entrance area, Galeri Gua Kelam provides context on the site’s mining history through exhibits, displays, and interactive 3D installations. Right next to it is the Secret Garden, a landscaped area with walking paths, small water features, and photo spots. It serves as a simple open space to rest after the cave visit and connects the historical site with a more relaxed outdoor setting.
Bukit Chabang Mari
Want to explore even more nature? Just a short drive from Kangar, about 8 kilometres away, lies Bukit Chabang Mari—a quiet, open landscape that has been drawing attention for its simple but striking scenery. The highlight here is the view at sunset, when the sun sets between the twin limestone hills, casting long shadows across wide green fields and open skies.
At the foothills, the setting shifts into a relaxed open space surrounded by trees, with grazing goats and other animals roaming freely. Visitors can walk around the field, spend time with the animals, or simply sit at provided benches to take in the surroundings. For those who prefer a bit of movement, a short hike is also possible, leading to higher ground with views of nearby paddy fields and the broader Perlis landscape.
Entry is minimal at RM2 per person, and the experience is designed to be simple rather than structured. Bukit Chabang Mari is often visited in the late afternoon, mainly for its sunset view and open, rural atmosphere. It works as a quick stop for those passing through Perlis or as a low-key outing for anyone looking for an open green space without crowds or complexity.
Kangar Street Art
For those who love art and photography, this is the place for you. While it is technically not a hidden gem, Kangar Street Art has become one of the most recognisable creative spots in Perlis, transforming everyday back alleys in Kangar into an open-air mural gallery.The works here were created by 15 artists from Persatuan Pelukis Negeri Perlis, with each mural reflecting local culture, stories, and landscapes.
Scenes inspired by village life, folklore, and well-known places in Perlis—such as Nat Pokok Getah, Ladang Tebu Chuping, and Awang Batil—help bring the state’s identity into a visual format that’s easy to explore on foot.The area is also designed with interaction in mind.
Some murals are created as photo spots, such as painted wings that give the illusion of flight or floor art that creates optical effects when photographed. This makes it a popular stop for casual visitors as well as photography enthusiasts looking for creative shots.
Located within walking distance of Kangar town centre and open throughout the day, Kangar Street Art is an easy addition to any itinerary. It offers a simple but engaging way to experience local creativity while moving through the city.
Tasik Timah Tasoh
For an even slower pace, Tasik Timah Tasoh offers a more open and natural setting, but one that is just as rewarding for photography. Often referred to as the “Guilin of Malaysia,” the lake is framed by limestone hills that are sometimes covered in mist, creating a layered backdrop that shifts with the light.The experience here is simple—walk along the lake, sit by the water, or take in the view from one of the swings placed along the edge.
Toward evening, the lake reflects the surrounding hills, creating a mirror-like effect that draws both photographers and casual visitors. It’s a quieter stop, but one that adds contrast to the more urban art scenes, offering wide landscapes and a slower, more relaxed atmosphere.
The Harumanis Mango
While this is not a stop, it is a must try when in Perlis. Because to travel, the experience isn’t just about where to go—it’s also about what to taste, and few things are as closely tied to the state as the Harumanis mango. Often compared to premium durians for its status, this seasonal fruit is known for its rich aroma, smooth texture, and naturally sweet, almost creamy taste that sets it apart from regular mangoes.
Available only for a short window between April and June, Harumanis has become something visitors specifically plan trips around. What makes it even more unique is that authentic Harumanis can only be grown in Perlis due to its specific soil and climate conditions, giving it a strong sense of place within the state.
Beyond its flavour, part of the appeal lies in its rarity and the effort behind it—each fruit is carefully cultivated, highly sensitive to weather, and produced in limited quantities each year.
Perlis may be small, but its variety of experiences shows that size doesn’t define what a destination can offer. From creative city corners to quiet natural landscapes, each stop adds a different layer to the state.
