Sultan Azlan Shah Airport serves Ipoh, Malaysia’s third-largest city in the state of Perak. Opened in 1998, it handles domestic and limited international flights, connecting travelers to major hubs like Kuala Lumpur. The airport features a compact terminal with clear signage for easy navigation. Nearby attractions include the Royal Perak Museum and historic tin-mining sites. Its efficient layout reduces wait times compared to busier airports. Local cuisine options provide quick meals before or after flights, making it practical for short stays or transit.
| Power Grid: |
240 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type G
Type G:
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| Currency: |
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) £1 ≈ MYR 5.44 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Malaysia, especially in urban areas. Major credit cards are used in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. Mobile payment services like GrabPay and Touch 'n Go are also widely used.
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| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not compulsory in Malaysia, but it is appreciated in restaurants, with a 5-10% tip recommended if no service charge is included. Taxi drivers and hotel staff may also expect small tips. |
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| Public drinking: | Drinking in public is generally acceptable in Malaysia, though alcohol is restricted in some regions, particularly in the east coast states of Kelantan and Terengganu and other Muslim-majority areas. Drinking is common in cities like Kuala Lumpur. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in restaurants and cafés (including open-air eateries), shopping centres, government buildings and many other public places. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas. |
| Hari Merdeka (31 August) |
National day with celebrations and parades |
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| Chinese New Year (variable) |
Celebrated with family gatherings, festivals, and fireworks |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance), 112 (from mobile phones) |
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| Taxi apps: | Grab, MyCar |
| Other: | Malaysia is known for its diverse culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. It's a popular tourist destination, offering a range of experiences from city exploration to beach holidays. |
Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH) is a small regional airport located about 8 kilometers southwest of Ipoh city center. It caters mainly to domestic flights with a focus on budget airlines. The terminal is straightforward with basic amenities including check-in counters, small retail outlets and a few eateries.
Despite its size, the airport has seen upgrades in recent years, improving passenger experience and efficiency. However, travelers should be aware that dining and shopping options are limited and there is no dedicated lounge area. The facilities focus on essential services rather than luxury.
Access to and from the airport is easy, with taxis and ride-hailing services commonly used. Public transport options exist but are less frequent and may pose challenges for first-time visitors unfamiliar with local routes. The airport's manageable size means less walking and faster transitions than larger airports.
Visitors will find the airport a practical entry point for immersing themselves in Perak’s cultural heritage, natural caves and famed culinary delights.
Ipoh offers a wide range of accommodations from budget guesthouses and hostels to upscale hotels and boutique properties. Most visitors prefer staying in or near the city center, which provides easy access to tourist attractions and airport transfers.
To Ipoh city:
Ipoh city centre is about an 8 km journey from the airport. Taxis and ride-hailing services are the fastest option, typically taking 15-20 minutes and costing around MYR 15 – 25 (£2.75 – 4.58). Public buses operate on limited schedules and routes, so newcomers may find taxis more convenient.
To Kuala Lumpur:
Kuala Lumpur is approximately 200 km from Ipoh and can be reached by train or car from the city centre. Train journeys take around 2 to 2.5 hours, while buses and cars take about 3 hours. Travellers typically connect to KL from Ipoh rather than directly from the airport.
To Penang:
Penang is around 160 km northwest and accessible by car or bus from Ipoh city. Travel time is roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a popular next-stop destination.
