[Updated 28 December 2021]
Fancy a visit to Ipoh anytime soon? Why not visit Tasik Cermin while you’re there? Tasik Cermin is a hidden gem in Ipoh that you should totally explore! Literally translated as “Mirror Lake”, Tasik Cermin is tucked in between the many limestone karst formations that are synonymous with the city that is Ipoh in Perak, Malaysia. If you don’t already know, these limestone hills have earned the city the nickname “Guilin of Malaysia”!
P.S. Explore our other Ipoh guides!
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The Ultimate Guide To Tasik Cermin, Ipoh's Stunning Lake
Credit: @bobsaffandi on Instagram
Tasik Cermin is situated in Gunung Rapat, a 20-minute drive from the heart of Ipoh. The neighbouring location used to be an active quarry that has thankfully minimized its operations. While it is relatively safe to visit now, you should continue to practise caution and be extra careful when making your way to the lake.
How to get there
The secret spot that is Tasik Cermin isn’t easy to find but fret not as we’re here to help. The coordinates to the entrance of the lake are 4.559760, 101.119400. As there are no signages leading you to the location, make sure you save those coordinates on your GPS before your trip.
If you find yourself looking at an abandoned house upon arrival, you’re on the right track. Park your car and chances are you’d be approached by an unofficial parking attendant whom you will have to pay your “parking fees” of RM5 to.
Walk further down off the beaten path until you reach a dark tunnel opening. The 50-meter long tunnel might be a tad bit scary but just walk towards the light at the end of the tunnel.
We promise the beauty that unfolds itself as you get on the other side is going to mesmerize you!
Take in the natural beauty of Tasik Cermin
As you make your way to the end of the steel platform towards the middle of the lake, be in awe of the magical sight right before your eyes. It is surprisingly silent even though a quarry resides on the other side, it’s as if you’re in another world altogether.
The placid waters of Tasik Cermin give a reflective effect to its beautiful surrounding, truly living up to its name. Be at one with nature as you take in the jaw-dropping views of the lake. Photographs do not do justice to the picturesque beauty of Tasik Cermin - you have to be there yourself to witness it!
Other things to do nearby
1. Travel back in time at Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village
If you have some time to spare after your excursion to Tasik Cermin, you can drop by the nearby Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village. Literally translated as “serene hill”, this little “village” is built around a beautiful lake overlooking the iconic limestone hills of Ipoh - it truly is a wonderful sight to behold!
Travel back in time as you view the impressive collection of antiques and paraphernalia that date back to the ’60s! There are also plenty of activities that you can indulge while you’re there, from cycling to feeding fishes and not forgetting the many photo opportunities there!
P.S. You can only purchase your entrance ticket at Syarikat Perabot Kota before your intended trip (tickets are not sold at the entrance of Qing Xin Ling). There is a daily quota for visitors, so do reserve your slots in advance by calling the contact number below.
Address: 22A Persiaran Pinggir Rapat 5a, Taman Saikat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday, 9.30am - 5.00pm
Admission: RM10/person (kids below the age of 7 can enter for free)
Contact: 05-312 4140
2. Admire the architectural beauty of the local Chinese temples
There are also several temples in the vicinity of the lake (only an 8-minute drive away), namely Sam Poh Tong, Ling Sen Tong and Nam Thean Tong. These temples are built within limestone caves, each unique in its own way. Elaborate statues fill the temples in addition to the architecturally aesthetic arches and structures. Time to get your cameras clicking to the beautiful colours of the temples!
Address: Kampung Gunung Rapat, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening Hours: Open daily; 9AM-6PM
Halal food nearby
Feeling hungry after all that exploring? Head to Assam House! The restaurant serves delicious Nyonya cuisine, so be sure to get a taste of their signature dishes like the Baba Nyonya Curry Asam Fish Head and the Nyonya Lucky Platter. The mouth-watering dishes at Assam House will leave you wanting more!
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: 2 Jalan Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, Medan Gopeng, 31350 Ipoh, Perak
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun; 11AM-3PM & 6PM-10PM (closed on Mon)
Contact: +605 313 2223
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With that, we hope you’ll have a fruitful trip to Tasik Cermin and its interesting surroundings! The lake provides the perfect scenery with its backdrop of luscious green trees and towering limestone hills - truly a must-visit. You won’t regret it!