Lucious forests, verdant tea plantations, and a delightfully calm atmosphere beckon at the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia’s very own oasis. From trekking to strawberry picking, this destination is awash with outdoor experiences.
It’s not what you first think about when you land in Malaysia’s big cities like Kuala Lumpur. You can spend your days strolling through the forest in search of hidden waterfalls, curling up with a good book with beautiful hill views, and sipping on a cup of locally sourced tea.
Time in the Cameron Highlands trickles by more slowly… So leisurely is the pace of life!
Of course, it goes without saying that the MOST essential part of any trip is finding the right accommodation. Let’s check out the best places to stay in Cameron Highlands!
- Top 3 Recommendations for Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands
- Cameron Highlands Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Cameron Highlands
- 3 Best Areas to Stay in Cameron Highlands
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Cameron Heights
- What To Pack For Cameron Highlands
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands
Whether you’re planning a quick stay in Cameron Highlands or a backpacking trip across Malaysia, be sure to check out my top 3 picks for where to stay!
Cozy Studio for Two | Best Airbnb in Cameron Highlands
An ideal home base for solo travelers or couples, this studio commands an excellent location at Kea Farm.
The studio is housed in a well-equipped complex that even houses a 7-Eleven- perfect for when you don’t feel like cooking! When you want to explore, you can always check out the nearby Parit Waterfall and the Strawberry Farm.
Hikers Sleep Port | Best Hostel in Cameron Highlands
Commanding an excellent location right at the heart of Tanah Rata, Hikers Sleep Port is housed in a century-old guesthouse with modern amenities.
Guests can take their pick from classic dormitories or tents. Groups also have the option of sharing a triple or double room.
Onsite amenities include laundry facilities, bicycle hire, and a tour desk. Oh, and did mention that you’ll be treated to a complimentary breakfast every morning?
Zenith Cameron | Best Hotel in Cameron Highlands
If you don’t mind splurging, I can absolutely recommend a stay at the luxurious Zenith Cameron, one of Malaysia’s most popular hotels!
One of the best places to stay in Cameron Highlands, Zenith Cameron provides numerous room configurations, including family suites for up to 4 guests. You’ll find heaps to do onsite, with a sauna, fitness center, outdoor pool, and a restaurant. The hotel lies close to the Time Tunnel Museum, Cactus Valley, and Tanah Rata Park.
Tanah Rata
Just landed in Malaysia and wondering where to stay in Cameron Highlands? Well, I can totally vouch for Tanah Rata, one of the most happening neighborhoods in the area! This ridiculously charming place lies 5 hours from both Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Ringlet
Sitting at nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, Ringlet seems a world away from Malaysia’s famously decadent malls!
Brinchang
Okay, the Cameron Highlands may be super laid-back and relaxed, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring! If it’s nightlife that you’re after, I would recommend that you drop anchor in Brinchang, a small but upcoming town.
Packed with picturesque landscapes, the Cameron Highlands offers a refreshing respite from Malaysia’s famously bustling cities. Bordered by Kelantan in the north and Perak in the west, this district is famous for its unique ecosystem and cool climates.
While Cameron Highlands is admittedly not packed with activities, it’s an excellent destination for getting away from it all and connecting with nature. The good news is that this hill station is pretty compact, so it’s quite easy to navigate between the different areas.
First-time visitors can consider staying in Tanah Rata, which is something of a retail and transportation hub. Best of all, this area is super well connected to other Malaysian destinations!
The Cameron Highlands isn’t known for being expensive, but if you want to cut back even further on costs while you’re staying in Malaysia, you may wish to drop anchor in Ringlet which can best be described as a nature lover’s dream come true! Surrounded by picturesque trails and tea plantations, Ringlet offers easy access to the Robinson Waterfall and the Bee Farms.
If it’s nightlife that you’re after, there’s really no better place than Brinchang, home to numerous karaoke bars, clubs, and a night market where you can shop for fresh produce, souvenirs, and street food.
3 Best Areas to Stay in Cameron Highlands
Now that you know a bit more about the Cameron Highlands, let’s take a look at the 3 best areas that you can consider for your trip.
1. Tanah Rata – Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands for First-Timers
Just landed in Malaysia and wondering where to stay in Cameron Highlands? Well, I can totally vouch for Tanah Rata, one of the most happening neighborhoods in the area! This ridiculously charming place lies 5 hours from both Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
If you’re coming after staying in Kuala Lumpur, you’ll definitely notice the instant change in climate as you make your way to Tanah Rata. Located in the highlands, this area provides some much-needed respite from the sweltering heat and humidity. Vivid emerald-green tea plantations beckon, fringed by hilly mounds, strawberry farms, and jungle galore.
Boasting an exceptionally relaxing vibe, Tanah Rata also has the advantage of being quite compact, so you definitely won’t be wasting precious vacation time trying to figure out how to get from point A to point B! In fact, virtually all of the main amenities are located on the ‘Big Road’.
Like most places in the Malaysian Highlands, hiking opportunities are endless- so remember to grab your best shoes! You’ll also find plenty of tea plantations to explore and shop for some brews to bring back home.
As the primary township in the Cameron Highlands, Tanah Rata is something of a transport hub, which makes it an ideal home base for exploring nearby areas.
Cameron Fair 2-Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Tanah Rata
Perfect for families and small groups of friends, this space easily sleeps 4 in two bedrooms. Spend a day exploring nearby attractions like the Mah Meri Art Gallery and Robinson Falls, then return to the apartment to rustle up a meal in the well-equipped kitchen.
There’s even a balcony with gorgeous views of the highlands where you can relax and take in some fresh air.
Hikers Sleep Port | Best Hostel in Tanah Rata
Commanding an excellent location right at the heart of Tanah Rata, Hikers Sleep Port is housed in a century-old guesthouse with modern amenities.
Guests can take their pick from classic dormitories or tents. Groups also have the option of sharing a triple or double room.
Onsite amenities include laundry facilities, bicycle hire, and a tour desk. Oh, and did mention that you’ll be treated to a complimentary breakfast every morning?
Zenith Cameron | Best Hotel in Tanah Rata
If you don’t mind splurging, I can absolutely recommend a stay at the luxurious Zenith Cameron, one of Malaysia’s most popular hotels!
One of the best places to stay in Cameron Highlands, Zenith Cameron provides numerous room configurations, including family suites for up to 4 guests.
There’s plenty to do onsite, with a sauna, fitness center, outdoor pool, and a restaurant. The hotel lies close to the Time Tunnel Museum, Cactus Valley, and Tanah Rata Park.
Things to Do in Tanah Rata
- Explore a tea plantation and learn more about the harvesting process.
- Hike Trail No. 10, is a popular trail that stretches from Tanah Rata to Gunung Jasar.
- Visit the Mah Meri Art Gallery, home to an extensive collection of Mah Meri carvings.
- Trek to Robinson Falls, accessible via a beautiful jungle trail.
- Check out the Agro Technology Park.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Ringlet – Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands on a Budget
Sitting at nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, Ringlet seems a world away from Malaysia’s famously decadent malls!
Like Tanah Rata, Ringlet has a pleasantly relaxing vibe to it, with plenty of lush greenery and a laidback charm that’s bound to win over even the pickiest travelers. As they enter the town, visitors are welcomed by a massive strawberry-shaped statue, a nod to Ringlet’s farming community.
Not only is this area quite affordable, but it also provides the ideal setting for travelers who want to unplug from the daily grind and escape to the middle of nowhere.
Nature lovers will no doubt delight in the abundance of beautiful Malaysian hiking trails. Tea aficionados may wish to check out the famous Boh Tea Plantation that’s tucked away in the valley.
While Ringlet certainly offers some respite from urbanized attractions, it’s quite compact and there’s not a whole lot to do in this leisurely hill destination. Don’t let that deter you though: Ringlet happens to be an excellent jumping point to some of the best attractions in the Highlands, including the Cameron Lavender Garden, the Bee Farms, the Robinson Waterfall, and the popular Mossy Forest.
3 Bedroom Apartment for 9 | Best Airbnb in Ringlet
Tucked away in one of the most scenic Cameron Highlands neighborhoods, this apartment lends itself well to groups and families.
With three bedrooms for up to 9 guests, this apartment does provide a modern, well-equipped kitchen where you can rustle up your own meals.
Both the Taman Pelangi Ringlet trail and the Boh Tea Estate lie just a short distance away.
Traveller Bunker Hostel | Best Hostel in Ringlet
Located just 20 minutes from Ringlet, this hostel offers mixed and female-only dormitories as well as quadruple rooms. All rooms feature balconies with city views.
Guests of the hostel will have access to a shared kitchen, lounge, tour desk, and onsite ATM. With a stay at the Traveller Bunker Hostel, you’ll be close to the Gossip Corner Restaurant, Tanah Rata Park, and the Roberston Rose Garden.
The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands | Best Hotel in Ringlet
Housed in a quaint, English-style country house, this hotel features Deluxe Rooms and Suites with four-poster beds. Overlooking Sultan Abu Bakar Lake, the property also boasts a games room, restaurant, and a Reading Room with a fireplace.
Best of all, the hotel offers guided jungle treks, ideal for exploring the area!
Things to Do in Ringlet
- Wander around the Highlands Apiary Farm where you can see the bees working and buy fresh honey.
- Take a day trip to the historic Kellie’s Castle, a hauntingly beautiful Scottish mansion
- Experience the scenic 5-kilometer-long out-and-back hiking Taman Pelangi Ringlet trail.
- Treat yourself to a tea-tasting experience at the nearby Boh Tea Estate.
3. Brinchang – Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands for Nightlife
Okay, the Cameron Highlands may be super laid-back and relaxed, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring! If it’s nightlife that you’re after, I would recommend that you drop anchor in Brinchang, a small but upcoming town.
One of the coolest places to stay in Cameron Highlands, Brinchang is especially famous for its night market where you can practice your haggling. Expect plenty of stalls selling street food, souvenirs, handicrafts, and various types of produce. Known for its vibrant and delightfully noisy atmosphere, this is the ideal place to interact with Malaysians and take in the local culture.
In addition, Brinchang has quite a few entertainment centers offering bowling and pool tables as well as clubs with karaoke evenings.
Cozy Studio for Two | Best Airbnb in Brinchang
An ideal home base for solo travelers or couples, this studio commands an excellent location at Kea Farm.
The studio is housed in a well-equipped complex that even houses a 7-Eleven – perfect for when you don’t feel like cooking! When you want to explore, you can always check out the nearby Parit Waterfall and the Strawberry Farm.
The Cocoon Cameron Highlands Capsule | Best Hostel in Brinchang
Wake up to a complimentary light breakfast every day with a stay at the Cocoon Cameron Highlands Capsule hostel!
Guests can take their pick from mixed or female-only dorms as well as triple, quadruple, and family rooms. Other onsite amenities include laundry services and a common room fitted with a PlayStation. With a stay at this hotel, you’ll be close to the Mossy Forest.
Hotel Yasmin | Best Hotel in Brinchang
Located near Cactus Valley and the Time Tunnel Museum, Hotel Yasmin offers Standard, King, Deluxe, Triple, and Family rooms to accommodate up to four guests.
With a 24-hour reception, the hotel lies close to attractions like Cactus Valley and the Time Tunnel Museum. Nearby, you’ll also find eateries like Restoran Fauzi Tomyam & Steamboat.
Things to Do in Brinchang
- Stroll in the Mossy Forest which features abundant flora and scenic hiking trails.
- Mosey around the Time Tunnel Museum which contains plenty of antiques.
- Sing along with live bands at the Strawberry Club, known for its epic Karaoke Nights.
- Browse through the Night Market on Friday and Saturday.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Cameron Heights
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Cameron Heights and where to stay.
What To Pack For Cameron Highlands
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cameron Highlands
When you’re traveling anywhere, getting cover is really important. But when you’re having crazy adventures in the Cameron Highlands, you’re going to need good insurance that covers Malaysia.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands
There you have it- all the best places to stay in Cameron Highlands!
I hope this guide made it easier for you to narrow down your choices, but if you’re still having trouble deciding, I can recommend Tanah Rata.
Because it’s not as isolated as Brinchang and Ringlet, Tanah Rata offers the ideal blend of escapism and adventure! Since it’s a transportation hub, you’ll also be just a bus ride from other attractions in the vicinity. And speaking of Tanah Rata, I can totally vouch for the Zenith Cameron hotel which offers super comfy rooms and numerous onsite amenities.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
