Tempurung Cave (Gua Tempurung)
Location
Gua Tempurung is situated at Gopeng in the state of Perak. This cave is believed to have existed since early 8000 B.C. and is most probably the largest natural limestone structure in Malaysia. It is also Perak's best kept secret. The Gua Tempurung is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful white marble and limestone cave with various dimensions.Overview
Gua Tempurung consists of five large domes with ceiling which look like coconut shells. The makeup of each domes are of different formations and marble which exist due to differing temperatures and water levels. The beauty of the caves is simply out of this world as their stalagmites, stalactites and other magnificent rock formations that are just a spectacular wonder. There are several tours into the cave as that is the main attraction here. The caves are actually situated under the limestone hills and tunnels are formed that lies from east to west and is about 1.9 kilometers in length.The River Adventure is the tour which requires visitors to bring an extra set of clothes as one will sure to be drenched to the skin and full of sand. You can bring your own torch light and safety helmet but they are also available for rent. Caving here requires no prior experience and it suitable for just about anyone. Other than caving, you can go for white water rafting. Usually visitors go for the white water rafting after caving to clean themselves up. At the river, you will be in for some exciting rapids and floating down the clear river water in the middle of the green forest. This simply is the best experience you can ever have and it is a great activity to do with your friends and family.
Sam Poh Tong Temple
Location
The Sam Poh Tong Temple is a popular cave temple that is situated in Gunung Rapat. Gunung Rapat is about 5 kilometers south of Ipoh. The Sam Poh Tong Temple is said to be the biggest cave temple in the whole of Malaysia and is out of its world in terms of its work of art. You will be able to see various statues of Buddha in the cave temple which can be easily found among the stalactites and stalagmites in the cave.Overview
It was said that the cave was found in 1890 by a monk who came from China. The monk was passing through Ipoh and he decided to make the cave his home and as a place for him to meditate. The monk remained at the cave for another 20 years until he deceased. There are still nuns and monks who dedicate their lives to Buddha occupying the cave temple of Sam Poh Tong until today.Other than being a Buddhist cave temple, the temple's compound includes a crematorium and a columbarium where ashes of the deceased are kept safe. The comlumbarium in Sam Poh Tong is like a four-storey blue colored building block. The cave temple is especially packed during the Ching Ming when the relatives of the deceased come to pay respect to their ancestors. They leave behind food and offerings to them.
Also, in front of the temple is a very beautiful garden with a large fish pond. Decorations in the garden include the Japanese stone lantern and pagodas that add a touch of beauty to the garden. It was said that in 1993, the garden won the award of the best landscaped garden in Malaysia.
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