Burmese Pool

About the Burmese Pool

Taiping Burmese Pool is a rock formation that forms a series of large pools and is fed by a stream that descends into a waterfall, originating from the Batu Tegoh River. The Burmese Pool, commonly referred to as Batu Hampar by locals, is a popular picnic spot.

The junction to the Burmese Pool is just along the main driveway of the Taiping Lake Gardens, very close to the Taiping Zoo. It is a convenient stop to freshen up and have a picnic after a morning safari trip. There is a small road that leads to the car park and the main entrance of the pool area.

At the car park look for a small shed to the left of a pathway. Follow the pathway and it will take you to a bridge that spans the gap of the river. Across the bridge is a similar shed to the one encountered earlier, but it will be on your right. The footpath near this shed is the easiest way down to the pools.

Two major pools were formed by the rock formation, and some smaller pools if one follows the path of the river downstream. The river itself is fairly navigable on foot. Always stay within sight of others for safety reasons if navigating the river. The rocks are slippery. Children should always be supervised.

Several footpaths lead higher up the hills and deeper into the forest surrounding the river and the Burmese Pool. If hiking up the hill or trekking through the forest, it is advisable to trek these with a partner. It frequently rains in Taiping, and the paths can become very muddy and slippery.

It is inadvisable to swim or even wade in the river and pools on rainy days. Being a watershed in a network of watersheds, the Burmese Pool is susceptible to flash floods.

Facilities

There are public restrooms available at the main car park which is closer to the pool, and there are several other parking bays along the road to the pool. At the entrance to the park are a couple of parking bays for buses.

There is a row of shops that sell refreshments during the earlier hours of the day.

History

After World War I, the Malay States Guides, the standing army of the Federated Malay States was dissolved and one battalion of the Burma Rifle Regiment was deployed to reinforce the garrison in Taiping as replacements for the Malay States Guides. Sometime in the 1920s, the soldiers from the Burma Rifles discovered the watershed area that later came to be known as the Burmese Pool. The pool was used by the soldiers for leisure and recreational activities.

The pool still serves those seeking rest and relaxation to this day. It is one of the most popular recreational spots in Taiping. There are no entry fees or admission charges to access the pool or the surrounding forest area.

The Burmese Pool is stop number 40, and the final location on the Taiping Heritage Trail.

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