The highlands are an intriguing mix of rolling tea estates, lush
green vegetation, colonial history and traditional tribal
inhabitants. The highlands make a cool change from the rest of the
country, too, as they are the highest point on Peninsular Malaysia,
and the temperature rarely tops 25 degrees. The relative remoteness
of this region and off-the-tourist-beaten-path vibe make for an
inspiring high-altitude sojourn.
The Cameron Highlands is the largest of these regions, and here
visitors will discover a landscape rich in native and agricultural
flora. Since the 1930's the area has been a rich agricultural
resource, with tea and flower production the two predominant crops.
Some of the flowers that flourish in this high-altitude environment
cannot be found in other parts of Malaysia. Following the main road
through the region will take you through a string of small towns,
where accommodation and supplies can easily be found.
Fraser's Hill is another highland region that's a mixed-up but
enticing blend of colonial history and local flavour - it is named
for the 'colourful' Scotsman who established, amongst other more
legitimate businesses, the region's first opium and gambling dens.
Here you'll enjoy cool climate jungle where a golf course sits next
to a mosque, which is next to an English-style country house.