One cannot claim to have visited Taiping without taking some time off to soak in the natural beauty of the Taiping Lake Gardens. A former abandoned tin mine, the gardens was opened in 1880, earning them a place in the history books as the first public garden in then Malaya.

Large frangipani trees ("angsana") line the lake; their branches stretching from one end of the road and across the water, making the perfect backdrop for wedding photos. 

Spread over 64 hectares, the lake has 10 scenic lakes and ponds, a lotus pool, charming bridges, tracks for jogging and reflexology, all enveloped  by tropical plants, flowers, trees and wildlife. For children, a roller-skating rink, paddleboat rides and a playground help ensure that the outdoors appeal more than the latest video game.

Heritage structures here, include the Old Residency, formerly the home of the Secretary to the Resident, the Raja's House and several army officers’ residences. The nearby Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut) also makes an ideal place for jungle-trekking and camping.