The Mystery of a Majestic Palace

On top of a hill in Batu Gajah, Perak sits a castle that was constructed back in the year 1915 and belonged to a Scottish rubber plantation owner, William Kellie Smith.

Initially, the castle was supposed to consist of a 6-storey tower, a tennis court, an entertainment area on the rooftop, a wine cellar, and secret tunnels. It was also supposed to feature what would have been Malaya’s (present-day; Malaysia) first elevator. Unfortunately, Smith’s dreams did not come true.

The Castle’s History

The story began when Smith moved to Malaya, venturing into rubber plantation business which spiked him to the peak of his wealth. However, things began to take a tragic turn in 1926, when Smith passed away in Lisbon. Following his sudden death, the construction of the castle was suspended. Smith’s wife, Agnes eventually sold the castle to Harrisons and Crosfield. It was then abandoned and became a historical site years later.

What makes this castle famous today? Kellie’s Castle offers a great experience of wandering in architectural beauty, while also deemed as a place with supernatural hearsays. Despite ongoing rumours about ghost sightings around the castle, one cannot deny the impressive structural wonders adorned in every corner of the castle.

"The rooftop is also open to visitors where they can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area."

The Castle’s Architecture

Kellie’s Castle is an extraordinary melange of Roman, Moorish, and Indo-Saracenic architecture, with some of its features, could also be seen at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Kuala Lumpur. The castle boasts impressive arches shaped like a horseshoe, charming imported tiles, bricks, as well as alluring ceilings adorned with intricate plaster cornice designs. The rooftop is also open to visitors where they can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area.

"One of the spots in the building was labelled ‘Ghostly Cloister Balcony’, described as the corridor whereby Smith’s spirit roams at night."

The Castle’s Atmosphere

Perched on the castle grounds are the sculptures of Smith and his two children, welcoming all visitors upon arrival. Until today, locals believe the place is haunted by ghosts of the Smith family and the construction workers of the castle. One of the spots in the building was labelled ‘Ghostly Cloister Balcony’, described as the corridor whereby Smith’s spirit roams at night. Whether or not the reports of spiritual encounters are true, visitors will surely be awed by the grandiosity of the castle and the eerie atmosphere surrounding it, filled by the emptiness of decrepit rooms in every corner of the palace. Overall, Kellie’s Castle guarantees you a unique and unforgettable experience when you are in Perak.

A Segment of History

The vision of creating a glass temple originated from the experience of one of the chief priests, where he stumbled across a brilliant blaze of light, portraying a diamond-like illustration. He was then informed that the light was actually a mixture of light and the glass artwork of a temple entrance.

Entrance Fee and Charges

All visitors will be charged an entrance fee, with optional guided tours available upon request. Some of the tours also include visiting a nearby tin dredge, as Perak was previously known for its tin mining industry. For visitors who are seeking a more thrilling experience, A Paranormal Night Tour is also offered - so brace yourselves to be enveloped in pitch-black darkness and complete silence.

Opening Hours : 9.00am – 6.00pm

Admission Fee :
RM 5 (foreigner)
RM 4 (adult)
RM 3 (secondary school students)
RM 2 (primary school students)
FREE (child aged six and below)

Tel : 05-365 1336