Is This Ipoh's Best-Kept Secret? Finding the Hidden Mirror Lake (Tasik Cermin)

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A Gem I Found on TV

Ipoh, the capital of Perak, Malaysia, is a city on the rise. Its beautiful natural surroundings, the unique charm of an Old Town steeped in history, and a culinary scene that captivates foodies have made it an increasingly popular destination.

For me, it's my wife's hometown, so it's far from unfamiliar. If I had to describe it, I'd say it's a quiet and peaceful place that, if you look closely, has its own quirky and interesting corners. It doesn't shout for attention, but it occasionally reveals a new, shy charm.

I believe Tasik Cermin, or the Mirror Lake, is one of those hidden gems. I stumbled upon it one evening last year while channel-surfing, when I saw a Korean travel show featuring Ipoh. As familiar sights passed by, a picturesque lake I had never even heard of suddenly filled the screen.

"Whoa," I thought, "I have to go there."

Instantly, a new item was added to my mental checklist for my next Ipoh visit.

The Chaotic Drive to a Hidden Paradise

It wasn't long before I got the chance to visit Ipoh again. I made a point to find this ominously named 'Mirror Lake.' It's about a 20-minute drive from the city center, and the roads are mostly fine, except for the final unpaved stretch.

However, I faced a small challenge: I had to drive a compact car left behind by my brother-in-law from Australia. I wasn't used to the car, and more importantly, the left-hand traffic still felt subtly awkward, even after driving in Malaysia sporadically for 20 years.

As a result, the sharp and witty nagging from my wife, who has spent those same 20 years honing her Korean, drilled into my ears like a rap song from a top-tier artist. Thankfully, I deployed my signature "I don't understand Korean" technique, followed by my secret weapon: "in-one-ear-and-out-the-other" noise-canceling skills. This combination allowed me to avoid a total mental breakdown and arrive safely at our destination.

(PS: If she happens to read this... it was all just for laughs, honey. Please don't take it seriously!)

Anyway, the moment I stepped out of the car, the majestic limestone cliffs were truly a sight to behold.

Through the Tunnel: The Magic of Tasik Cermin 1 & 2

After parking, the first thing we had to do was buy boat tour tickets at the counter.

These tickets were necessary to enter the tunnel leading to Tasik Cermin 1. Normally, you could walk this path, but it was flooded due to high water levels after the rainy season, making the boat tour mandatory for access on this particular day.

The tunnel itself is a walking path. As you emerge from the darkness into the light, you're greeted by a breathtaking landscape that feels completely disconnected from the outside world. It was a stunning vista, enough to stir a slight tremor in my own emotionally weathered and dried-up heart.

This is Tasik Cermin 1. Sheer limestone cliffs and lush trees encircle the lake like a folding screen. Below, the calm surface of the water reflects the entire scene in perfect vertical symmetry, like a decal. The nickname "Mirror Lake" is no exaggeration.

While I'm not much of a social media person, I could suddenly understand why all the young "influencers" flock here to take pictures. What more can be said about a natural landscape that the state government of Perak has designated as a "Geopark"?

The Hidden World: Is Tasik Cermin 2 Even Better?

But there's more. Here, you'll also find a second mirror lake, known as the 'Hidden World' or Tasik Cermin 2. This one is only accessible by boat through a long, dark water tunnel. To enter, you'll need to purchase a separate boat tour ticket specifically for Tasik Cermin 2.

The moment the boat emerges from the darkness of the tunnel into another light-filled sanctuary is honestly gasp-worthy. (Quick PSA: mind your head in the tunnel!) It felt like entering a mythical realm. It's a silly, country-bumpkin thought, but for a second, I wondered if this is what Valinor, the Elven paradise from 'The Lord of the Rings,' might feel like.

Unlike the first lake, the fact that you can only reach this one by boat through a tunnel creates a profound sense of isolation, adding to its mystique. The scenery felt slightly surreal, like a painting where time had stood still. It had the cozy feeling of a secret childhood hideout. It's hard to describe, but its ambiguous charm is undeniable.

If I had to choose only one, my personal pick would be Tasik Cermin 2.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to Tasik Cermin

Here are a few essential tips for anyone planning a visit.

- Best Time to Visit: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The morning sun is said to create the most beautiful reflections on the water.

- Entrance Fee: Please note that Tasik Cermin 1 and Tasik Cermin 2 are operated separately, and you need to purchase separate tickets for each. For foreigners, the ticket for each lake is RM30 for adults and RM22 for children/seniors. It's slightly cheaper for Malaysian citizens.

- Getting There: As far as I know, there is no direct public transport. The most convenient way is by car or using a ride-hailing service like Grab. The parking area is quite spacious.

- Consider a Tour: If you're short on time in Ipoh, a day tour from a major city like Kuala Lumpur can be an option. However, finding a package tour that specifically includes Tasik Cermin can be rare. It's best to check the detailed itinerary of a general Ipoh tour to see if it's part of the schedule.

▶ Explore Ipoh Day Tours from Kuala Lumpur on Trip.com

※ Note: Even if a tour goes to Ipoh, it might not include the boat ticket fee for the lake. Always confirm the details before booking.

A Gem Worth Discovering

While Ipoh has many well-known attractions, it's hidden gems like Tasik Cermin that offer unexpected delights. This visit has certainly added another quiet, unforgettable memory to my time in Ipoh. Besides, a little sweat and heat is a small price to pay for a view like this, right?