Sam Poh Tong is a famous cave temple located in Gunung Rapat, about 5km south of Ipoh. It is said to be the biggest cave temple in the country, and is an impressive work of art and faith, with various statues of Buddha interspersed among the stalactites and stalagmites.

According to legend, the cave was discovered in 1890 by a monk from China who was passing through Ipoh; he decided to make it his domicile and a place for meditation. He remained there for 20 years until his death. Till today, nuns and monks who dedicate their lives to Buddha still occupy the Sam Poh Tong.

The present temple facade dates back to the 1950s and a stiff climb of 246 steps will lead you to an open cave with an excellent view of Ipoh and its surroundings. Other attractions at the temple include a beautiful Japanese pond full of Japanese carps and tortoises (symbols of longevity) located outside the cave and a vegetarian restaurant.

Within the temple visitors could discover the artistic works of man and nature - beaytyfully craved statues of buddha in various forms in a backdrop of unusual formations of stalacties and stalagmites.