120 – Malaysia Travel Guide – Pahang

Pahang

A Gift of Nature

Pahang is the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia. Nearly two-thirds of the state is enveloped in verdant rainforest, making it a refreshing enclave of lush greenery, exotic wildlife and natural treasures. Its natural attractions include Taman Negara, a 130-million-year-old rainforest as well as animal sanctuaries, parks, lakes and waterfalls. Other natural gems include Endau-Rompin State Park and Tioman, an idyllic island. Pahang’s capital city is Kuantan, a bustling township with interesting sights. Come, enjoy this Gift of Nature today!

MAP OF PAHANG

PLACES OF INTEREST

CAMERON HIGHLANDS

Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s largest hill resort. It consists of three main townships, Ringlet, Tanah Rata and Brinchang, which are characterised by a refreshing temperate climate and beautiful highland panorama. Cameron Highlands has undulating valleys, sprawling tea plantations, terraced flower gardens, vegetable farms and strawberry parks.

TAMAN NEGARA (NATIONAL PARK)

Sprawling over three states, Taman Negara is Pahang’s premier national park. It is over 130 million years old and home to a vast diversity of flora and fauna as well as amazing natural landscapes. Gunung Tahan, the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia, as well as the world’s longest canopy walkway, are situated in Taman Negara.

RESORTS WORLD GENTING

Gear up for round-the-clock entertainment and excitement at Genting Highlands. Perched some 1,800m above sea level, Genting Highlands is tremendously popular for its outdoor and indoor theme parks. Other not-to-be-missed attractions include the SkyCab cable car ride, live performances, casino, shopping at Genting Highlands Premier Outlet and lots more. Genting Highlands is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur via the Karak Highway. The journey takes about one hour. Daily bus services to Genting are also available from the KL Sentral Station in Kuala Lumpur.

FRASER’S HILL

Nestled prettily amidst the Pahang rainforest is the little hamlet of Fraser’s Hill. Akin to a little Scottish village, Fraser’s Hill is characterised by granite coloured mock-Tudor houses and colonial-style buildings. The hill resort exudes a nostalgic charm, almost as if visitors have been taken back in time to a bygone era. At 1,524m above sea level, the highland resort is a naturalists’ paradise boasting a wide range of plants, birds and animals. Fraser’s Hill is ideal for visitors who are interested in a relaxing, quiet holiday.

NATIONAL ELEPHANT CONSERVATION CENTRE

Kuala Gandah

Hailed as one of the world’s best beach destinations, Tioman Island is steeped in legend and natural beauty. The island is a paradise for divers with its multi-hued corals and amazing aquatic life. Accommodation ranges from unassuming village chalets to boutique resorts and star-rated hotels.

PULAU TIOMAN (TIOMAN ISLAND)

Hailed as one of the world’s best beach destinations, Tioman Island is steeped in legend and natural beauty. The island is a paradise for divers with its multi-hued corals and amazing aquatic life. Accommodation ranges from unassuming village chalets to boutique resorts and star-rated hotels.

TELUK CHEMPEDAK

Located approximately 5km from Kuantan, Teluk Chempedak is a popular beach retreat with calm waters and beautiful casuarina-lined coastline. The beach is popular for windsurfing and sailing activities.

CHERATING BEACH

Fringed by the waters of the South China Sea, Cherating Beach offers a quiet holiday amidst a rustic setting. The shore is lined by hotels and resorts catering to all budgets, from backpacker’s inns to luxury beach resorts. Attractions include catamaran sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, river cruise, a quaint village and a turtle sanctuary. Cherating Beach is about 47km north of Kuantan. Other popular beaches in the vicinity are Chendor, Teluk Chempedak and Balok.

SUNGAI LEMBING MUSEUM

Sungai Lembing

Dubbed as the ‘El Dorado’ of the Malay States, this serene township was the site of the largest subterranean tin mine in Southeast Asia. In its heyday, Sungai Lembing used to be the largest producer of tin-ore in Pahang. The Sungai Lembing Museum takes visitors back to this glorious era, with exhibits such as mining equipment and workers’ attire. The collection of furniture and household items give a glimpse into the lifestyle of the English community that once lived here. Don’t miss the diorama, reputed to be among the best in the country.

THE ROYAL TOWN OF PEKAN

Pekan, Pahang’s Royal Town, has a number of distinguished attractions that reflect the state’s glorious past. The Sultan Abu Bakar Palace or Royal Palace is an impressive sight even from afar. At the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum, visitors can view a collection of exhibits on the state and its esteemed royal family. Other treasured exhibits include antiques, ceramics and glassware. Pekan is situated on the banks of the Pahang River, about 50km south of Kuantan.

TAMAN NEGARA SUNGAI RELAU (SUNGAI RELAU NATIONAL PARK)

This is the second entrance to Pahang’s national park or Taman Negara Pahang. It is located on the western side of the national park. Nature lovers can enjoy wildlife observation, trekking, night jungle walks, birdwatching, night safari, caving, camping and canoeing. Sungai Relau is also known for its two Kelah or Red Mahseer fish sanctuaries. Taman Negara Sungai Relau is well-known among mountain climbers as the gateway to Gunung Tahan, one of the most challenging peaks in the peninsula. The route to Gunung Tahan only takes about two days from Sungai Relau compared to the longer five-day trek from Kuala Tahan. The park is about 7km from the small town of Merapoh and can be accessed by road or train.

KOMPLEKS PENGEMBANGAN TENUN PAHANG DIRAJA SULTAN HAJI AHMAD SHAH (SULTAN HAJI AHMAD SHAH ROYAL PAHANG WEAVING DEVELOPMENT CENTRE)

Kampung Soi

Located 8km from Kuantan city, this centre aims to promote the Tenun Pahang, a woven royal fabric. The fabric was traditionally used in royal ceremonial occasions and is now used to design traditional costumes, scarves and sarong. Visitors can watch how the fabric is made and purchase this unique fabric.

BUKIT GAMBANG RESORT CITY

Bukit Gambang Resort City (BGRC) is an integrated resort city sprawling across 727 acres of secondary jungle. It boasts the largest Safari Park in Malaysia where visitors can marvel at the Malayan tiger, Spotted Hyenas, bears and many more. Cool down the tropical heat at the Water Park where lots of other attractions await – a wave pool with eight different wave modes, an aqua play structure for kids and the longest family raft ride in Malaysia! This resort is 218km from Kuala Lumpur and just 35km from Kuantan.

KENONG ECO RIMBA PARK

Kenong Rimba Park is located about 32 km from Kuala Lipis, at the fringes of Taman Negara. Sprawling over 128 sq km, Kenong Eco Rimba Park
is a favourite among spelunkers for its numerous caves such as Gua Harimau, Gua Hijau, Gua Buta, Gua Batu Tangkup and Gua Batu Tangga. The park is dotted by lofty Tualang trees (kompassia excels), gigantic ficus tree, water lilies, ferns and wild orchids. It is home to elephants, tapirs, leopards, deer and other small mammals. Birdwatching is another popular activities with over 200 species of birds. Visitors to the park must be accompanied by qualified and registered guides.

KOTA GELANGGI CAVES

Situated about 20km from the town of Jerantut, Kota Gelanggi Caves are known for their magnificent natural formations that are reputedly hundreds of million years old. According to legend, the caves are actually the ruins of an ancient city. The caves are also said to have been home to prehistoric humans. There are more than 100 caves in this complex but only 12 can be visited. Unlike a showcave, the caves in Kota Gelanggi are a delight for serious cavers as they are hidden amongst the forest and require trekking. Cavers can enjoy exploring Gua Terang Bulan, which is completely shrouded in darkness and Gua Sanding. Visitors are encouraged to engage the services of guides to explore Kota Gelanggi caves.

THERE’S MUCH MORE IN PAHANG

As the largest state in the peninsular, Pahang is home to numerous other attractions. Take the time to explore Kuantan, the capital city, Kuala Krau, Raub and Temerloh for an unforgettable holiday.

Kuantan

  • Kuantan River Cruise
  • Teluk Chempedak
  • Art Museum
  • Sultan Ahmad 1 Mosque
  • Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah
    Silver Jubilee Agricultural Park
  • Galeri Tenun Bandar Mypride


Balok

  • Balok Recreation Centre
  • Natural Batik Village
  • Beserah Fishing Village
  • Batu Hitam Beach


Cherating

  • Cherating Village
  • Cherating Turtle Sanctuary
  • Chendor Beach
  • MARDI Agrotechnology Park
  • Hafiz’s Cherating Activities

Away from Kuantan

  • Sungai Pandan Waterfalls
  • Pahang Crafts Complex
  • Bukit Tinggi
  • The Great Mines of Sungai Lembing
  • Panorama Hill
  • Pelangi Waterfall
  • 3D Gallery Sungai Lembing


Raub

  • Jeram Besu
  • Lata Berembun Waterfall
  • Lata Jarum Waterfall
  • Lata Lembik
  • Tanah Aina Exclusive Resorts


Kuala Lipis

  • Bandar Lipis (historical buildings)
  • Malaysia’s zero milestone signage
  • Sungai Relau Kelah Sanctuary

Pekan

  • Sultan Abu Bakar Museum
  • Watercraft Gallery
  • Tun Abdul Razak Gallery
  • Royal Mausoleum of Pekan
  • Sultan Abdullah Mosque Museum

Tasik Chini

Tasik Bera

Kuala Rompin

  • Lanjut Beach
  • Hiburan Beach


Temerloh

  • Gunung Senyum Caves

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

SHOPPING

Shopping for souvenirs is an exciting experience in Pahang. There are souvenir stalls in almost every town in the state, especially in areas around Kuantan, Cherating and Pekan. Shopping malls in Kuantan include the East Coast Mall, Kuantan City Mall, Berjaya Megamall, Kuantan Parade and Teruntum Complex. Visitors in search of novelty items and unique buys can visit the pasar malam or night markets. Get a range of souvenirs made of pandanus leaves, woodcarvings and batik. Among the popular shopping spots in Pahang are:

  • Sungai Karang/Beserah
  • Natural Batik Village
  • Cherating Village
  • Serambi Teruntum
  • Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Weaving Development Centre
  • Kuantan MyPride

DINING

A diverse variety of Malay, Chinese and Indian food make up Pahang’s culinary scene. Continental food is available in major hotels and restaurants and fast food is easily found in various parts of the state. Adventurous visitors can enjoy Pahang’s local delights that appeal with a tantalising aroma and taste. A number of dishes are said to have royal origins as they were specially created by the royal chefs of yesteryear.

Destinations such as Jerantut, Lipis, Temerloh and Pekan are regarded as the places to sample authentic Pahang food. Seafood lovers should not miss a visit to Temerloh, famed as Bandar Ikan Patin or ‘the town of silver catfish’.
Some local favourites include:


Lemang Periuk Kera

A rare treat, lemang periuk kera literally means ‘pitcher plant glutinous rice’. This is a recipe from the state’s indigenous communities. A special variety of pitcher plant is sourced from the rainforest, cleaned and used as a mould to cook glutinous rice with coconut milk.


Mi Calong

A noodle dish served with spicy seafood gravy, Mi Calong is a delicious treat at any time of the day.


Laksa Pahang

Noodles and fish fillet are cooked to perfection and served with a spicy gravy. Although laksa is available in other parts of the country, Laksa Pahang gets its unique taste and flavour from its special ingredients and traditional recipe.

Opor Pahang

Made of beef, mutton or lamb, this spicy, dry meat dish is cooked with spices and coconut milk. Opor Pahang is best savoured with white rice or fragrant buttered rice.


Puding Raja

Hailed as a royal favourite, this delectable dessert is made with
a medley of bananas, prunes, dates, cherries and cashew nuts. The ingredients are then served in a thick creamy sauce made of condensed milk, corn flour and eggs. The taste? Utterly delicious!

TRANSPORTATION

Getting There


By Air

Malaysia Airlines operates daily flights from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to the Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport in Kuantan. The journey takes about 40 minutes. In addition, visitors can get to Pahang via Firefly, which operates three times a week from the Penang International Airport.


By Road

Kuantan is situated about 260km from Kuala Lumpur. There is a good network of roads linking the state to Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, as well as the neighbouring states of Kelantan and Terengganu. Visitors can self-drive from Kuala Lumpur and the journey takes approximately 3 1⁄2 hours via the East Coast Highway.


By Bus

Air-conditioned express buses to Pahang can easily be obtained from Kuala Lumpur. Buses depart from the Bandar Tasik Selatan bus terminal. Pahang is also well-connected to the neighbouring states of Kelantan and Terengganu.


By Rail

Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTMB) provides rail services to Mentakab and Kuala Lipis from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Bharu (in Kelantan).

 

Getting Around

Getting around Kuantan is relatively simple with the easy availability of buses and taxis. Taxis are available at main hubs such as Kompleks Teruntum, Berjaya Megamall and Jalan Mahkota.
To visit the outlying places in Pahang, visitors can board the outstation buses from Hentian Bas Bandar Kuantan and Terminal Sentral Kuantan. Alternatively, arrange with a tour operator.


Getting to Tioman Island

Tioman is accessible by boat and ferry from Tanjung Gemok in Pahang and Mersing in Johor. The journey takes about 1 1⁄2 hours.

For more information, contact:
Tourism Malaysia Regional Office East Coast:
  • Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan
+609 567 7112 / 7115 / 7116

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS