29.01.25 – Thailand to Singapore day 21
Ipoh to Genting Highlands: A Ride Full of Twists, Turns, and Surprises
A Journey Unfolds
Some motorcycle rides go exactly as planned—smooth roads, perfect weather, and timely arrivals. Others? Not so much. Our ride from Ipoh to Genting Highlands was one of those unpredictable journeys where the road decided our route, not us. It was longer than expected, colder than expected, and ended in an entirely different place than expected. But that’s the beauty of motorbike travel—the adventure is in the unknown.
Morning Kickstart: Coffee and the Open Road
The day began early with a hot cup of coffee, final gear checks, and an 8:30 AM departure. The first stretch—40 km on the main highway—was uneventful, just a quick warm-up before hitting the fun part: Route 59 towards Cameron Highlands.
Cameron Highlands is well known for its winding roads, crisp mountain air, and lush greenery. While the ride started smoothly, we quickly ran into one of the most frustrating aspects of riding in the mountains—slow-moving cars, braking at every curve. It seems many drivers lack the confidence (or the skill) to take corners without hesitating. Overtaking them was the only way to enjoy the curves, but just as we passed one, another would appear, forcing us to repeat the process.
Cameron Highlands: A Quick U-Turn
As we climbed higher into Cameron Highlands, we encountered something unexpected—traffic jams. For a place that’s supposed to be an escape from city life, it felt more like Kuala Lumpur’s rush hour. Tourists, cars, and buses filled the roads, making it clear that staying longer wasn’t an option. Instead, we made a U-turn and backtracked 15 km to catch Route 102, a road that turned out to be a rider’s dream.
Route 102: Where the Real Fun Begins
As soon as we hit Route 102, everything changed. No traffic, smooth tarmac, and endless twists. It was the kind of road that every motorcyclist hopes to find. We weren’t the only ones enjoying it—many other riders were out, clearly aware of how special this stretch of road is. This was pure riding bliss, the kind that makes the entire journey worthwhile.
Descending from the mountains, we rode through vast palm oil plantations, an entirely different landscape from the green tea hills of Cameron Highlands. The road took us to Raub, where we decided to find a place to stay. That plan failed—no decent accommodation available.
No problem, next stop: Bentong. Another strikeout. No rooms, no luck.
At this point, our options were running out, so we made a decision—push 90 km more on to Genting Highlands.
Genting Highlands: Malaysia’s City in the Clouds
Genting Highlands was already on our list, just not for today. But that’s the thing about motorcycle trips—they evolve on the go. With no other options, we took the main highway to get there quickly, though it wasn’t the most exciting ride thanks to heavy traffic.
Genting Highlands is unlike anywhere else in Malaysia. Sitting at 1,800 meters above sea level, it’s a mix of mountain resort, casino hub, and entertainment city. Often called the Las Vegas of Malaysia, it’s home to some of the country’s biggest casinos, theme parks, and hotels. The roads leading up to Genting can be thrilling, but they’re also packed with cars, tour buses, and weekend travelers.
A Hotel Hunt at the Peak
Genting has countless accommodation options, but we wanted something away from the casino chaos. We chose the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel, a brand-new high-rise at the highest point of Genting Highlands. Far from the flashing lights and gambling tables, it promised a more peaceful stay.
Getting there, however, wasn’t so simple. GPS showed blocked roads, and we had to figure out the route ourselves. Then came the parking debate with the hotel guards, followed by an even bigger issue—our reservation wasn’t in their system.
Two hours, multiple calls to Booking.com, and some free food while waiting later, we finally secured a room for two nights.
Living in the Clouds
Our room on the 19th floor was supposed to have an incredible view.
Instead, we were completely surrounded by clouds, seeing nothing but mist. It was surreal but fitting for how the entire day had unfolded—unexpected, unpredictable, and unforgettable.
A Brief History of Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands wasn’t always the entertainment hub it is today. The idea for a highland resort was born in the 1960s, thanks to a visionary businessman, Lim Goh Tong. Inspired by mountain resorts abroad, he saw the potential of turning these highlands into Malaysia’s premier getaway destination.
Building Genting was no easy task—it involved carving roads through steep jungle terrain and battling unpredictable weather. But by 1971, the first hotel and casino opened, and from there, it kept expanding. Today, Genting Highlands is home to:
• Resorts World Genting – Malaysia’s largest casino resort
• Genting SkyWorlds – A major theme park
• Awana Skyway & Genting Cable Car – Offering breathtaking views
• Luxury Hotels & Shopping Malls – From high-end brands to budget-friendly options
Despite its reputation as a gambling hotspot, Genting offers more than just casinos. Its cool climate makes it a favorite for locals wanting to escape the tropical heat, and the surrounding forests provide hiking trails, adventure parks, and scenic rides—perfect for motorcyclists.
End of a Long, Unplanned Day
By the time everything was settled, all we wanted was a quiet evening—no more riding, no more hotel issues, just food and rest.
370 km later, the day hadn’t gone as expected, but that’s exactly what made it special. Motorcycle travel isn’t about sticking to the plan—it’s about embracing the detours, the surprises, and the road itself.
Tomorrow? Who knows. But whatever happens, it’ll be another adventure.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!
#dustysocks
