KELLIES CASTLE

Kellie’s Castle in Malaysia is a fascinating historical attraction known for its unique architecture and interesting backstory. The castle was built by a Scottish Planter, William Kellie Smith, in 1890 who wanted to present this castle to his family. The castle showcases a unique blend of Moorish, Indo-Saracenic, and Roman styles, featuring horseshoe-shaped arches, intricate plaster designs, and elegant tiles.

Unfortunately, construction halted after Smith's untimely death in 1926, leaving the castle unfinished. One of the most fascinating aspects of the castle is the hidden tunnel, rumoured to be an escape route, adding to the site's charm.

Although never completed, the original plans of the castle had an inclusion of Malaysia's first elevator highlighting Smith's visionary approach. Today, Kellie's Castle is a popular tourist destination, where visitors can explore its enchanting rooms and gardens, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and photographers.

Highlights

• Admire the unique blend of Scottish, Moorish, and Indian architectural styles at Kellie’s Castle in Malaysia.
• Take a guided tour to learn the rich history and mysteries of the castle.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the surrounding lush greenery and scenic beauty of the Kinta Valley.
• Explore the various rooms, corridors, and the enchanting rooftop of this unfinished castle.
• Climb to the rooftop for stunning views of the surrounding area. The rooftop offers a great spot for photography.

How To Reach

• By Car: You can drive to Kellie’s Castle by using GPS to Batu Gajah. It is a 30-minute drive from Ipoh town and parking is available at the site.
• By Bus: You can also take a bus from Ipoh’s Medan Kidd Bus Station to Batu Gajah, and alight at the nearest stop. Then take a short walk to the destination.
• By Train: You can also take a KTM train from Ipoh to Batu Gajah station, and then book a taxi via Grab App to reach the destination. It is 5 km from the station, a 10-minute ride to the castle.

Best Time To Visit

Kellie’s Castle is a popular attraction to visit all year round.

• Best Season: The ideal season to visit Kellie’s Castle is spring and summer from March to September as the weather is pleasant.
• Best Day: Weekdays are usually less crowded and best to visit for a peaceful experience.
• Best Time of the Day: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit Kellie’s Castle, offering softer natural lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.

Other Essential Information

1. A lot of walking and climbing is involved in the tour of Kellie’s Castle, so wear comfortable walking shoes. 

2. Book guided tours in advance for an insightful experience.

3. Kellie’s Castle is a historical site, so be mindful of the surroundings and avoid touching or climbing on fragile areas.

4. Carry water, especially during warmer months, as there are limited places to buy drinks on-site.