MY – Gua Musang to Ipoh

26.01.2025 – Thailand to Singapore day 19

From Gua Musang to Ipoh: A Rainy Ride Through the Mountains and a Journey Back in Time

Every motorbike journey has its own rhythm—some days are filled with adrenaline-pumping rides, while others are more about taking it slow and soaking in the experience. Our ride from Gua Musang to Ipoh was one of those days where the journey itself was as important as the destination. Despite the rain, the slippery roads, and the occasional traffic jam, the day was filled with moments of beauty, discovery, and reflection. By the time we reached Ipoh, we had covered 180 kilometers, explored a vibrant old city, and enjoyed a delicious Italian dinner. It was a day that reminded us why we love motorbike travel, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

A Rainy Start: Gua Musang to the Cameron Highlands

The day began with rain—a steady, persistent drizzle that seemed determined to follow us wherever we went. According to the weather forecast, it was going to be a wet day, which isn’t ideal for riding in the mountains. But as any seasoned motorbike traveler knows, you can’t let a little rain stop you. After a relaxed morning with coffee and tea, we geared up and hit the road at around 10 AM. We weren’t in a hurry; our homestay in Ipoh wouldn’t be ready until 3 PM, and we only had 180 kilometers to cover.

The ride started on Route 185, heading toward the Cameron Highlands. The rain made visibility poor, and the mountain views we had hoped to enjoy were shrouded in mist. The road conditions didn’t help—bad tarmac, dirt, and slippery surfaces made for a challenging ride. But we took it slow, riding carefully and staying focused. In conditions like these, patience and caution are your best allies.

Blue Valley: A Brief Respite from the Rain

As we climbed higher into the mountains, the rain finally stopped, and the roads began to dry. The air was fresh and cool, a welcome change from the humidity of the lowlands. However, the respite from the rain came with a new challenge: traffic. It seemed like everyone was heading uphill from the Ipoh side of the mountains, and the roads were soon clogged with cars and trucks.

We decided to make a quick detour into the Cameron Highlands, but after just 2 kilometers, we found ourselves stuck in a traffic jam. It wasn’t the kind of adventure we were looking for, so we made a U-turn and continued on our way to Ipoh. Sometimes, the best decision is to know when to turn back.

A Pit Stop: Coffee and a Car Wash

By the time we reached Ipoh, it was still too early to check into our homestay. We decided to make the most of the time by stopping for coffee and giving the bike a much-needed wash. The roads in Malaysia, like those in Thailand, are notoriously dirty, and our motorbike was covered in mud. The cleaning was quick and efficient, and the bike looked almost as good as new. It’s amazing how a clean bike can lift your spirits, even on a rainy day.

After the car wash, we found a cozy café and enjoyed a cup of coffee. It was a simple pleasure, but one that felt especially rewarding after a morning of riding in the rain. As we sipped our coffee, we reflected on the journey so far and looked forward to exploring Ipoh.

Fong’s Homestay: A Home Away from Home

When it was finally time to check in, we made our way to Fong’s Homestay, a place we had stayed at before and highly recommend. The homestay is clean, comfortable, and offers safe parking for motorbikes—a must for any traveler on two wheels. At 160 RM (about 1,200 baht) for two nights, it’s an excellent value for money. Fong, the host, is friendly and accommodating, making you feel right at home.

After settling in, we took some time to relax and dry off. The rain had held off for a while, but we knew it wouldn’t last. We decided to make the most of the dry spell by heading out to explore Ipoh.

Exploring Ipoh: A Journey Through Time

Ipoh is a city that feels like a living museum, with its blend of British colonial architecture, Chinese influences, and vibrant street art.

We started our exploration at the Ipoh Railway Station, a stunning example of British colonial design. From there, we visited the old post office and city hall, marveling at the intricate details and timeless beauty of these historic buildings.

The clock tower, another iconic landmark, was our next stop. It’s a symbol of Ipoh’s rich history and a reminder of the city’s colonial past. As we wandered through the old town, we discovered narrow alleys filled with street art, each piece telling a story or capturing a moment in time. The art added a modern twist to the historic surroundings, creating a unique and dynamic atmosphere.

A Taste of Italy in Ipoh

After a day of riding and exploring, we were ready for a good meal. We found a great Italian restaurant and indulged in a delicious dinner. The food was a welcome change from the local cuisine we had been enjoying, and it hit the spot perfectly. As we ate, we reflected on the day’s adventures and the unexpected joys of motorbike travel.

A Lucky Escape from the Rain

Just as we finished dinner and began our walk back to the homestay, the skies opened up, and heavy rain began to fall. We made it back to our room just in time, grateful for the shelter and the warmth of a dry bed. It was a fitting end to a day that had been filled with both challenges and rewards.

Reflections on the Day

The ride from Gua Musang to Ipoh was a reminder that motorbike travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The rain and traffic had tested our patience, but they had also given us moments of beauty and reflection. The clean, comfortable homestay, the delicious Italian dinner, and the exploration of Ipoh’s historic streets had made it all worthwhile.

As we settled in for the night, we felt a deep sense of gratitude—for the roads we had traveled, the experiences we had collected, and the memories we had made. Because in the end, that’s what motorbike travel is all about: embracing the journey, no matter where it takes you. And on this rainy day in Malaysia, it had taken us to the heart of Ipoh, a city that had captured our hearts and left us eager for more.

Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!

#dustysocks