Detour That Smells Like Tea: Our Family Trip to Hoga Tea Valley, Gopeng — A Scenic Organic Tea Farm Near Ipoh

Have you ever made a spontaneous detour that turned into the highlight of your trip?

After a warm family gathering in Ipoh, we decided to take a slight detour on our way back to Bangi — and stumbled upon one of the most peaceful places we’ve ever visited: Hoga Tea Valley in Gopeng, Perak.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem near Ipoh, or a family-friendly tea plantation in Malaysia, this blog’s for you.

How to Get to Hoga Tea Valley, Gopeng

Location: Jalan Sungai Itek, Gopeng, Perak

Travel time: ~30 minutes drive from Ipoh (exit at Gopeng)

I simply typed “Hoga Tea Valley” on Waze (since my husband was driving), and the drive led us through charming kampung roads, limestone hills, and riverside views. By the time we reached the entrance, we already felt like we'd escaped the city rush. Mind you, the entrance is like reaching Great Wall of China (but mini-version ahaks )

Hoga Tea Valley Ticket Price & Shuttle Info

At the entrance, we paid for the entry tickets:

Adults: RM20

Children: RM10

Shuttle Ride: Included

The shuttle van is a must! It brings you uphill, through a lush herbal forest — what they call the “HOGA Mini Forest” — and saves your legs for the real walking and tea-sipping adventures.

For those who love hiking and would like to explore in more "natural" ways, no problem... get your shoes on and start the exploring the trees. If you feel tired, you can just hop on the shuttle at the nearest station and the shuttle will take you to your next station.

Viewing Stage: Instagrammable Tea Valley Views

Our first stop was the Viewing Stage, where the wide valley opened up like a green wave of tea bushes, herbs, and nature.

Photo tip: Morning light makes everything glow. Bring your phone or DSLR, and don’t forget to breathe in the fresh air. This is what travel therapy feels like.

Hilltop Cafe: Best Spot for Tea Lovers

The cafe opens only on weekend. Since we came on weekday, nahh..we skipped this cafe. Will checkout their cafe near the ticket-counter. No problem.

Calm Moments by the Fish Ponds

Not far from the cafe, the fish ponds created a lovely, Zen-like escape.

We already bought the fish food sold at RM2 per packet at the ticket-counter.

Our kids fed the koi and squealed at the bubbles, while I took a moment just watching the reflections on the water. A little quiet before the highway drive back to Bangi.

There were several fish weerreeee hugggeee. Bear in mind, no fishing here yeaa

Meet the Hoga Tree: Root of the Plantation

Before leaving, don’t miss the original Hoga Tree, said to be the very inspiration behind the entire tea valley.

It stands tall with a shaded seating area nearby — perfect for reflection or a final selfie. We sat there for a while, talking softly, just letting the moment sink in.

Before we hopped into our car, the kids tried Hoga Tea Ice cream. Price at RM3 per cone. yummy..

Besides that there are also menu like toast bread, beverages suitable to sooth your throat after trolling at the "jungle".

Dont forget to buy Hoga Tea which comes in nice packages. There are also Hoga-branded organic products like facial cleansers, soaps, and gift packs — perfect for souvenirs.

Why You Should Visit Hoga Tea Valley Gopeng

Whether you're a local family like us or a tourist exploring eco-friendly travel in Malaysia, Hoga Tea Valley is:

• Sustainable

• Scenic

• Soothing

And most of all, underrated.

If you're planning a trip around Ipoh, Gopeng, or Perak, add this to your Malaysia road trip itinerary.

Quick Travel Tips for Hoga Tea Valley

🕒 Best time to visit: Morning (before 11AM)

📷 Bring: Camera, sunblock, water bottle, and comfy shoes

🌿Don’t miss: Tea tasting, Hilltop views, and the Hoga Tree

🛍️Buy: Herbal tea packs, tea soaps, and local snacks from the gift shop

Ready to Travel Far & Feel Local?

This unplanned stop became one of our most meaningful travel stories.

And that’s the beauty of Malaysia — sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you don’t plan for.

Until the next tea-scented escape....