Once the second command center during the British colonial era, the old and new town along with its limestone caves in between, make Ipoh Must do’s, an integral part of the Asian experience. Barely a city of 700,000, this modest yet impressive city of Ipoh, capital state of Perak, Malaysia burgeoned into one of the nation’s major cities due to the boom in the tin mining industry at the turn of the 20th century. Must do’s for the Asian adventure seeker:

1. Kellies Castle

Enigmatic in nature, Kellies castle is known to be comparable to the Taj Mahal in India as it, too, prides itself to be an edifice of love. Once an affluent man with deep fascination for the Hindu culture, Scot William Kellie Smith, built the structure for his wife and began expansion after she birthed their first son. However, not much sooner after construction ensued, Smith’s life was wrought with constant ill fortune, until he passed away in Portugal from pneumonia. From the sculptures of the Smith family greeting you upon entrance, to the many sealed-off tunnels, this mystifying and romantic fortress is much worth your visit.

2. Sam Poh Tong Temple

An embodiment of religious Asian architectural magnificence, this Chinese Buddhist temple is renowned internationally. With structures of Buddha and other deities nestling atop limestone caves, a decorated pavilion in front of the temple and meticulously landscaped gardens, there is much for your reverence. A key tip: to maximize your experience, do visit during Buddhist festivals such as Wesak day.

3. Gua Tempurung Caves

A visit to Ipoh would be incomplete without a trip to the very best limestone caves Malaysia has to offer. Stretching out through Limestone Mountains for about two km the underground rivers also boasts of grandeur. There are guides to take you on 40-minute to three-hour long treks in and out of the maze of nature’s grandeur.

4. Kampar

In addition to its aged architecture, this old tin mine town 30 km from Ipoh’s center promises great white water rafting and is also the ideal starting point for exploration of the Gua Tempurung caves, a mandatory must-do is to try the roti kari ayam dish. This delicacy of bread filled with curry chicken is one much worth the visit.

5. St. Michael’s School

Currently one of the best schools in Malaysia and likely the grandest colonial building in Ipoh, this school was opened in 1912 by the La Salle brothers. Architecture of this prestigious Christian institution is brilliant. Even the Japanese during their occupation, could not keep out and converted the structure into a center of command. The original building of the institution has been converted into a heritage site.