Lumut was formerly a small fishing town situated about 84km south of Ipoh and is well known for its beautiful shell collections and coral handicrafts. It is the departure point from the mainland for those wanting to visit Pulau Pangkor (Pangkor Island).

The annual Pesta Laut or Sea Festival is held at Teluk Batik, Lumut in August and attract thousands of visitors each year. There are sea-sport competitions, culture shows and fun-and-food fairs for young and old to enjoy. Apparently, owing to its sheltered location along the Straits of Melaka, the country's naval base and shipping repairs are centred in Lumut.