Pahang State

History

Though Pahang’s history goes back a long way, her past is very much overshadowned by her neighbouring west coast neighbours. A relatively unknown territory, Pahang become a part of the Malakan Sultanate in the sixteenth century. The coming of the Portuguese saw her administrative centre shifted from Melaka (Malacca) to Johor eventhough Pahang was largely autonomous. She eventually broke free from the clutches of the descendants of the Melakan Sultanate due to external and internal conflicts at the hand of her master in Johor. But, Pahang independence was short-lived as Pahang soon fell prey to a British Resident. Archaeological finds showed that the first human settlement in Pahang was probably at the Tembeling River. Ancient Chinese records referred to Pahang as a vassal of the Buddhist Sumatra-based Sri Vijaya Empire from the seventh to 13th centuries. During the 15th to the 19th century, it was a vassal state of the Melaka Empire and later of the Johor-Riau Empire. When the latter collapsed, Bendahara Wan Ahmad of Pahang proclaimed himself Sultan in 1882. In 1888, however, British imperialism manifested itself in Pahang with the appointment of a British Resident. In 1896, it became part of the Federated Malay States until Japanese invasion. After the war, it joined the Malayan Union and later the Federation of Malaya.

Physical Geography

Pahang is the largest state in Peninsula Malaysia and covers an area of 35,960 square kilometres. It lies on the east coast and has a population of about 1.5 milion people. It is bounded on the north by Terengganu and Kelantan, by Perak to the west and by Selangor and Negeri Sembilan to the south west with Johor forming its southern boundry. It has a coastline of 208 km on the South China Sea. Pahang divided into 11 district iaitu Bentong, Cameron Highlands, Jerantut, Kuantan, Lipis, Pekan, Raub, Temerloh, Rompin, Maran and Bera. Vast stretches of primeval rainforests dominate the state and form part of Taman Negara of the National Park. All the main hill resorts are found here as is Peninsula Malaysia’s highest peak, Gunung Tahan, which poses a challenge to avid mountaineers. A myriad of exotic flora and fauna are an intrinsic part of the wild life and unspolilt beauty throughout the state. Rich varied scenery and landscape leave visitors thoroughly entranced with the magnificent gifts nature has bestowed on this tropical paradise. From pristine waterfalls to tranquil, invigorating mountains and palam-fringed beaches fronting serene seas to refreshing jungles, it is a rendezvous with diversity and contrast designed to leave you spellbound and delighted.

Introduction

Closely aligned with Mother Nature, Pahang the largest state on the Malaysian Peninsular, is indeed a multi-faceted “Nature’s Paradise.” Largely dressed in her 130 million years old tropical forest accompanied by cool refreshing, mountain air and gigantic rivers, Pahang holds the key to the secretive forests of the Malaysian jungles. In addition, calm bluish-green water coupled with miles and miles of warm shimmering sand is very much a part of her diverse natural scenes. Here, the beauties of nature are highlighted in the dazzling displays of the multi-coloured underwater world, the superb collections of native flora and fauna in all their “extremities”, not forgetting the “warm caresses” of Mother Nature herself. Pahang is largely a state made up of “native” Malay though a smaller proportion of Chinese, Indians and a host of foreign workers are also to be found here. Like the other states in Malaysia, the Chinese and the Indians found their way there in the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries while the foreign workers (mainly indonesians) are a thing of the twentieth century. These once migratory races came to seek their lot and have since remained, alongside their distinctive cultures. Though the newcomers (the Indonesians) are mostly found in the numerous plantations and estates, the Chinese and Indians prefer to reside in town centres throughout the state. The Malays loyally keep to their traditional kampungs while the aborigines hold on to their jungle dwellings eventhough the government strongly encourages them to adapt to the new environment of today.

Economy

Agriculture is the main employer of manpower in the state, with the main crops being oil palm, rubber, cocoa, and tropical fruits. Forestry is its main economic activity, as more than 65% of its land is covered with thick, dense tropical rain forest. Timber and timber products, including rattan and bamboo, account for a major portion of Pahang’s revenue. The mining of tin, iron, manganese and bauxite clay are still flourishing activities. Manufacturing and tourism are increasing in importance and are expected to contribute to 24% and 10% respectively of the state’s GDP by the year 2000. Kuantan port is fast growing. Currently, special industrial zones and investment incentives have been drawn up by the state government to encourage foreign participation in the state economy.

Cultural Heritage

In Pahang, you will find vivid evidence of fascinating cultures that make Malaysia a rich source of colour, pomp and pageantry. The Malays, Chinese and Indians, each with their own distinct identity, coexist most harmoiously. This is the nurturing result of mutual respect and understanding, a rare and special feature which continues to bewitch and astound visitors. The many cultures of Pahang are manifested in the clothes, customs, food, games, art forms and festivals of the various races. It would be hard indeed to fully describe the many face of Malaysian culture. But even a brief encounter is enough to reveal the scintilling vibrancy of Malaysia’s rich heritage

Transportation

By road, Kuantan is only 260 km from Kuala Lumpur, and 325 km from Johor Bahru. Malaysian Airlines has daily flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kuantan at Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport, and also between Tioman Island and Kuantan. By train, Pahang is accessible through Mentakab and Kaula Lipis from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Bharu. Busus and outstation taxis have regular services between Kuantan and major towns in neighbouring states.

Places to Eat/ Special Foods

Foods and gourmands will relish the delectable and astonishing unending variety of delicacies found in the vast cuisines typical to Pahang. Malay, Chinese (particularly Cantonese, Hokkien, Szechuan) and both North and South Indian food stimulate the taste buds and arouse the adventurer in each of us. A must for the uninitiated is ‘satay’-succulent morsels of meat skewered on palm-leaf sticks and barbecued on open flame and eaten with piquant, spicy peanut-based gravy. Accompanying dishes are cucumber, onion slices and ‘ketupat’ (rice boiled in woven palm cases). Generally, Malayi cuisine is spicy and punget in nature but once you have developed a taste for such tantalising flavours, it is hard to disassociate yourself from them. Rice is the staple food of Malaysians and is cooked in a variety of ways-one of which is ‘nasi lemak’, which is rice cooked with coconut milk and eaten with a spicy anchovy sauce, hard-boiled egg, peanuts and cucumber slices. Dim sum and its 30 over delicacies are among the many items on the Chinese menu. The incredible number of ways they cook rice and noodles prove that innovation and creativity know no bounds. If you visit Pahang and do not feast on the ample sea-food available, you would be missing some of the best dishes the state has to offer. ‘Ikan bakar’ or grilled fish, is a hot favourite. The star attraction of Indian cuisine is ‘nasi briyani’, a rich moghul dish. With such a wide variety ofdishes, it is hard to decide which to choose as each has established its own popularity.

Tropical fruits are abundant during their seasons.’Durian’, which holds indisputable appeal for those who love it, often leaves the novice perplexed and intimidated as its overly pungent odour takes some getting used to. And it has culled lifelong fans even among westerners-those who have stayed here long enough to cultivate a taste for this exotic fruit. ‘Rambutan’, ciku, mango, watermelon, guava, mangosteen, papaya, pineapple and starfruit are some of the succulent fruits that offer delights to all.

Shopping

In Kuantan, the Teruntum Complex, the Kuantan Parade, the Berjaya Megamall and the Kuantan Plaza offer the best shopping pleasures. Complete with cineplexes, food courts and a diverse selection of trendy shops, these complexes offer a wide scope for entertainment and shopping. To visitors looking for something different, there are the night markets within the various localities in Kuantan. Craft shops can be found at Medan Pelancong (Jalan Besar), Sunga Karang and Cherating. Pandanus household articles, wood carvings, shellcrafts and batik are sold at reasonable prices here. Pahang silk from the Pahang Silk Weaving Centre in Pulau Keladi, Pekan, is an intricately woven material and visitors to the center will get opportunity to see how the material is made. At Tanah Putih where the batik is located, the visitor can view how batik, the unique wax-printed fabric is made.

Places of Interest

State Museum

At Pekan. A tour of the town will not be complete without a visit to the State Museum which houses a rich collection of historical items. The museum, located at sultan Ahmad Street, Pekan has valuable antique pieces such as a large quantity og glass ware and ceramics from ancient China. The old history of Pahang, especially that of its ancient kings is well-documented in this museum.

Pahang Handicraft Centre

It is a must-visit spot in one’s itinerary. Located at Jalan Pintasan, it has a vast range of wood-crafted products. Some of these products are the result of traditional concepts having been adapted, blended and improved to suit modern needs. For instance, bark has been fashioned into beautiful objects such as bags, wall decorations and dividers. There is also a branch at Temerloh.

Highlands

1. Genting Highlands

At Bentong. Genting Highland, located at an elevation of 1,800 metres above sea level is one of the most developed hill resorts in Malaysia and is popular with many local and foreign visitors. It offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget and taste. The cool mountain air and lush greenery make Genting an ideal escapade away from the heat, hustle and bustle of the city. There are numerous activities that one can indulge in dining at the Genting Theatre Restaurant, featuring shows by ibternational stars, boating and enjoying the many other fun-filled rides at the Genting Theme Park as well as the attraction of ‘Virtual Reality’, an exciting and unique game. Punters can try their luck at the world class Casino De Geating. The Awana Golf & Country Resort, a luxury condotel, provides first class facilities, a breathtaking 18-hole golf course, horse riding at the Awana ranch and jungle trekking. Genting Highlands is accessible by well-maintained road and is only an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur. At the Gentong Jaya township, 950 metres above sea level, visitors can take a thrilling cable car ride above the clouds to the summit. Hotels here are:
Highlands Hotel (Tel: 603-2111118/ Fax: 603-2111888)
Genting Hotel (Tel: 603-2111118/ Fax: 603-2111888)
Awana golf & Country Resort (Tel: 603-2623555/ Fax: 603-2616611
Resort Hotel (Tel: 603-2111118/ Fax: 603-2111888)
Amber Court (Tel: 603-2112988/ Fax: 603-2112933)
Seri Malaysia Hotel (Tel: 603-2102525/ Fax: 603- 2101125)

2. Cameron Highlands

This is Malaysia’s green bowl supplying vegetables to the major cities of the country and to Singapore. The cool climate makes it an excellent tea growing area and indeed the Cameron tea is highly priced in the world market. Places of interes are the Robinson Falls, the Rose Garden nurseries and the vegetable farms. There is also an 18-hole golf course. The small town of Tapah at the foot of

Cameron Highlands is the gateway to the resort and can be reached by bus, taxi or train from Kuala Lumpur. From Tapah, regular bus and taxi services are available to the highlands. Accommodation facilities include old English country inn-styled hotels, chalets and Government resthouses. Special mention must be made of the Ye Olde Smokehouse which has been preserved in the same state as it used to be during the colonial period, except for the addition of some modern coveniences. Hotels here are:

Strawberry Park Hotel (Tel: 605-4911166/174, Fax: 605-4911949)
Rosa Passadena Hotel (Tel: 609-4912288/ Fax: 609-4912688)
Equatorial Hill Resort Cameron Highlands (Tel: 605-4961777/ Fax: 605-4961333) Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands (Tel: 605-4913888/ Fax: 605-4915666)
Cool Point Hotel (Tel: 605-4919914/ Fax: 605-4919070)

3. Fraser’s Hill 

At Raub. Fraser’s Hill 104 km from Kuala Lumpur can be reached through the Karak Highway. Turn left at the Bentong junction and proceed to Teranum. At Teranum, take the left turn towards Gap before the short ascent up to Fraser’s Hill. Alternatively, one can also take the old trunk route heading towards Penang and turn off at Kuala Kubu Bharu for the drive to the Gap. The last 8 km from the Gap to the top of Fraser’s hill is along scenic, narrow winding road which carries one-way traffic from 7.00 am to 7.00 pm. At the Gap, there is a gate control system with scheduled times for ascending and descending traffic, at both ends to facilitate the flow of traffic. 

Fraser’s Hill offers visitors cool mountain air, an abundance of luxuriant vegetation, peace and tranquility as well as other attractions such as pony rides, a nursery containing many exotic flowers, the Jeriau waterfalls and a pleasant 9-hole golf course. Other facilities include a children’s playground and a roller skating rink. For accommodation, Fraser’s Hill has a range of hotels, chalets and colonial-bungalows to suit ones’s preferences and budget. Hotels here are:
Fraser’s Pine Resort (Tel: 609-3622122/ Fax: 603-7836108)
Quest Resort (Tel: 609-3622300/ Fax: 609-3622284)
Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation (Tel: 609-3622044/ Fax: 609-3622273)
Ye Olde Smokehouse (Tel: 609-382035)
Silver Park Holiday Resort (Tel: 609-3622164/ Fax: 609-3622887)

4. Bukit tinggi

At Bentong. Bukit Tinggi is a hill retreat area with several resorts taking advantage of the cool, fresh country air that pervades the area. Among the resorts here are Selesa Hillhomes and Bukit Tinggi Resort. Visitors can jungle trek, take long invigorating walks or head for nearby Genting Highlands. Also in this area is Janda Baik, a resort-cum-residential vicinity that is popular with urban dwellers seeking to escape the bustle of the city for a brief respite. Hotels here are:
Bukit Tinggi Resort Berhad (Tel: 603-2486088, 2422622/ Fax: 603-2481853)
Selesa Hillhomes, Health Farm & Golf Resort(Tel:609-2330039/ Fax: 609-2330066)


Natural Attractions

1. Taman Negara (National Park)

At Kuala Tahan. Taman Negara, or the National Park, boasts of jungles that date back millions of year, making them older than those of the Congo or Amazon. With 4,343 sq km of luxuriant tropical rain forest, the park is a heaven for adventurers. Picturesque trails, giant trees, limestone caves, excellent fishing spots, exciting river trips and ample jungle trekking trails offer a multitude of such adventure opportunities. The park’s canopy walk which is 25 metres high and over 400 metres long is the world’s longest. As it lies on the top layer of vegetation in a forest, you will have an extraordinary view of the plant and animal species found there. Wildlife observation can be done from observation hides built around the many salt-licks. Mountain climbing buffs would enjoy scalling Gunung Tahan, which at 2,187 metres is the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia. River trips are an enjoyable activity within the park, especially those involving shooting the rapids. For the less stalwart, there are meandering cruises that let you enjoy the surrounding scenery at a leisurely pace. Fishing is best done in February, march, July and August, and it takes two days to reach the best fishing areas located along Sungai Tahan near Lata Berkoh and Sungai Kenyam. Camping grounds in verdant surroundings are to be found in the park. Accommodation at the park is available in the Rest House, chalets and a hostel, all fitted with basic utilities. Hotels here are:
Taman Negara Resort (Tel: 609-2663500/ Fax: 609-2661500)
Nusa Camp Holiday Village Sdn. Bhd. (Tel: 609-2662369/ Fax: 609-2664369)
Teresek View Village (Tel: 609-2663065)
Ekoton Chalet (Tel: 609-2669897)

2. Kenong Rimba Park

At Lipis. Kenong Rimba Park is situated in natural surroundings with cascading waterfalls, clear mountain stream and a variety of flora and fauna. The merry chirping of birds will create an atnosphere which is really difficult to express in words. It offers great adventure, such as exploring limestone caves, swimming in the river and camping. Challenging hiking trails interspersed with protruding rocks and untouched natural surroundings is a haven for adventure lovers. Within the Kenong Rimba Park, these are several caves (gua) to explore. These are Gua Batu Telungkup, Gua Hijau and Gua Harimau. The caves, situated approximately 122-152 metres above sea level, are a natural habitat for a range of flora and nature’s other marvels. For nature lovers, a stop at Kenong Rimba Park is a must. It is a perfect hideout for bird watchers, campers, anglers, trekkers and swimmers. Hotels here are:
Persona Rimba Resort (Tel: 609-3125032/ Fax: 609-3121421)
Lipis Centre Point Hotel (Tel: 609-3122688/ Fax: 609-3122689)
Lipis Inn Hotel (Tel: 609-3125588/ Fax: 609-3125588)

3. Tasik Bera (Bera Lake)

At Bera. Tasik Bera, covering an area of 24,000 hectares is one of two major natural bodies of freshwater in Malaysia. The Semelai aborigines inhabit the area surrounding Tasik Bera and a number of them continue to live and procure their food in traditional ways. Others have modified their way of life and have become permanent residents in Post Iskandar. The Tasik Bera watershed includes a wide variety of flora ranging from primitive algae species to higher plants and tress. It was recorded that 328 species of flora, 200 species of birds and more than 95 species of fishes are found in Tasik Bera. Tasik Bera is ideal for many recreational and adventure activities. Trekking through the jungle is both exciting and educational. River safaris can be exhilarating, or simply paddle around the lake and take in the tranquil surroundings. Hotels here are:
Persona Lake Resort (Tel/ Fax: 609-2762505)

4. Lake Chini

At Kuantan. Located in the wilds, Lake Chini is approximately 100 km from Kuantan, consists of a string of more than 12 connected lakes. Here, you can enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, jungle trekking, speed-boating, and visiting Kamoung Gumum, an Orang Asli village. The lake, with its fascinating myths, has attracted tourists from far and near. Legend has it that an ancient Khmer city once existed there and this has since resulted in several scientific expeditions being mounted by both local and foreign archaeologists. It is also popularly believed that a mythical monster lurks in its depths and guards the lake. Lake Chini has a number of wooden chalets and restaurants to cater for overnight visitors. There are also a number of camping spots if you plan to rough it out. Jungle gear and camping equipment are recommended. Acces to the lake is by road to Kampung Belimbing, about 100 km south west of Kuantan and then on by boat through the winding Chini river. Alternatively, one can go by road via Segamat Highway through the new town of Chini, and then continue travelling for 15 minutes through palm oil estates roads to the lake. Hotels here are Lake Chini Resort.

5. Empang Jaleh

In Kuala Lipis, there is a recreational lake called Empang Jaleh where visitors can relax. Here too, one can trek along a mountainous jungle trail to Gunung Tahan, the highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia. It takes about two nights to reach the summit. For birdwatchers, Bukit Taching is an ideal bird sanctuary to while away the hours. And the Terenggun Forest Park is anothernature spot perfect for a leisurely holiday. Perhaps its most endearing feature is its profusion of fabulous nature scenes.

6. Gunung Tapis Park

At Kuantan. About 16 km away from Sungai Lembing is Gunung Tapis (Tapis Mountain), a beautiful nature park. Excellent camping spots can be found in a number of areas. Although still in the early stages of development, Gunung Tapis offers a number of activities. You can shoot rapids on one of the several rivers, or fish for the delectable ‘Ikan Kelah’ (tortambroides duronesis). The park also abounds with hot springs and wildlife. If you plan to stay overnight, camping and survival equipment are recommended. Prior arrangements for a visit to the park can be made with the Persona Adventure Camp. Hotels here are:
Persona Adventure Camp (Tel: 609-5135566/ Fax: 609-5130510)

7. Endau-Rompin State Park

At Rompin. Some of the most famous and visually spectacular tourist attractions are found in Pahang. Among them is the Endau-Rompin State Park, one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests. This ancient tropical rainforest has remained undisturbed in its original state through the years. Endau-Rompin boasts of some of the most exotic species of tropical plant and animal life. 

The Park is one of the last remaining lowland forests in Malaysia and it is spread over a generous 80,000 hectares of virgin jungle straddling the state of Pahang and Johor. Endau-Rompin derives its name from the Rompin and Endau Rivers, forming a watershed on which the park lies. This nature reserve offers a wide spectrum of activities for the adventurous visitors providing the opportunity to get back to nature and experience the hidden and mysterious secrets of its wilderness. Hotels here are:
Lanjut Golden Beach Resort (Tel: 609-4145113/ Fax: 609-4145112)
Seri Malaysia Hotel Rompin (Tel/ Fax: 609-4132723

8. Kota Gelanggi

Located in Jerantut. One of the highlights for visitors to this area is exploring the Kota Gelanggi Cave. Explore the 150 milion year old historical and mythical cave complex and its unique fauna, flora and rock formations. The magnificent cave chambers are among the best in this region. Visitors will be able to experience what tropical limestone caverns are all about, with their myriads stalagmites and stalactites and strangely shaped formations. Hotel here are:
Tekam Plantation Resort (Tel: 609-4718300/ Fax: 609-4718253)

9. Gunung Senyum Caves (Senyum Mountain Cave)

Located in Temerloh. The Gunung Senyum Caves consists of at least 20 caves, which are fascinating to explore. While cave exploration and camping in the shade of tropical foliage are common activities, scientific research is also gaining in popularity among students and scientists. Cave explorers must be prepared for the smell of bats, limestone rocks and the sighting of strange creatures and insects. Hotels here are:
Tekam Plantation Resort (Tel: 609-4718300/ Fax: 609-4718253)
Seri Malaysia Hotel Temerloh (Tel: 609-2965776,5779,5787/ Fax: 609-2965711)

10. Tekam Plantation Resort

Located in Jerantut. Nestled in tranquility in the green forests near Jerantut is the Tekam Plantation Resort, comprising chalets, dining facilities for travellers as well as conventions. Visitors can also arrange for special trips and adventure tours to various places of interest. One of the highlights of the stay at the Resort is the Plantation Tour, which take visitors on an educational visit to places such as the Kota Gelanggi Caves, Gunung Senyum Caves as well as surrounding rubber and oil palm plantations. The best time to visit the area is during the fruit season from July to September, when local fruits such as ‘durians’ and ‘rambutans’ are plentiful. The Resort provides facilities such as tennis and takraw, mini market, water sports and cafeteria. Hotels here are:
Tekam Plantation Resort (Tel: 609-4718300/ Fax: 609-4718253)

11. Jeram Besut

Located in Raub. Apart from Fraser’s Hill, other recreational areas in Pahang include the Lata Jarum Waterfalls and the Jeram Besu Rapid. The former is just 30 km from Raub while the latter is only about 3 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur. Jeram Besu is fast gaining popularity as one of the most challenging white water-rafting areas in the country. Raub is one of the oldest towns in the State of Pahang. It began as a gold mining town in the early 19th century. Remains scattered around the town. Hotels here:
Countryview Recreation Park (Tel: 609-3230230/ Fax: 609-3230200)


Islands

1. Tioman Island

 

 

Tioman is the largest of a group of 64 volcanic islands, the smallest of which is a mere rock jutting up from the sea. Measuring 38 km long and 19 km wide, Tioman Island is a magnificent island in the sun, with good reefs for scuba diving and crystal-clear waters for swimming. Legend has it that Tioman Island is the resting ground of a beautiful dragon princess who, while flying from China to her beloved in Singapore, sought solace in the crystal-clear waters of the South China Sea. Pleased with the island’s charms, she discontinued her journey, forsaking her happines to give pleasure and comfort to passing travellers by turning herself into an island. Tioman Island is accessible by boat from Mersing town or Tanjung Gemok, Rompin, a journey which takes about 1 to 2 hours. Or one can also take a plane from either Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Kuantan. Accommodation comes in the form of delighful wooden chalets on the beach or in luxurious hotel rooms. Whichever is the choice, comfort and hospitality is assured. Hotels here are:
Persona Island Resort (Tel: 609-4191213/ Fax: 609-4191213)
Berjaya Tioman Beach Resort (Tel: 609-4191000/ Fax: 609-4191718)
Nazri Place (Tel: 609-4191329)
Salang Indah (Tel: 609-4195015/ Fax: 609-4195024)

Beaches

1. Cherating Beach

Located in Kuantan. To many, this name is synonymous with Club Med. This is natural because Aisa’s first Club Med is located here. Actually, only a small part of the beach is administered by this world famous club, the rest is a populated area offering excellent beaches. Situated only 47 km from Kuantan, its unique features are the rustic atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the village folk. Cherating also offers you the chance to shop for handicraft and see cultural performances. Village maidens nimbly weave the pandanus leaves into mats, hats, bags and other inexpensive lightweight souvenirs. Cultural shows include ‘wayang kulit’ (shadow play) and silat (the Malay art of self-defence).

2. Balok Beach

Located in Kuantan. Balok Beach is about 15 km north of Kuantan and is a paradise for avid wind-surfers. Most of the activities revolve around the many international class resorts and hotels located at the beach, forming the perfect getaway for visitors to the East Coast of the Peninsular. Truly perfect and serene with soothing tropical breezes, swaying casuarinas, unending white sand in harmony with the azure blue sea, indeed, relaxation is never easier. Hotels here are:
Le Village Beach Resort (Tel: 609-5447900/ Fax: 609-5447800)
De’ Rhu Beach Resort (Tel: 609-5579000/ Fax: 609-5579002)
Peranginan Tamu Kami (Tel: 609-5839090/ Fax: 5837061)
Muara Beach Resort (Tel: 609-5834544/ Fax: 609-5834144)
Swiss Garden Resort (Tel: 609-5447333/ Fax: 609-5449555)

3. Teluk Chempedak Beach

Located in Kuantan. This delightful beach, only 5 km from the town of Kuantan, is the site of several world class hotels. At Teluk Chempedak Beach, the scene is alive with hawker stalls, resort hotels, trinket stalls, restaurants, and snack bars. It is an excellent beach for water sports activities like sailing, surfing, skiing and sunbathing. A short trek through the Teluk Cempedak Forest Reserve is idyllic Pelindung Beach. If you are game to more jungle trekking, there’s an alternative route leading to the mini-zoo. Hotel here are:
Hyatt Hotel Kuantan (Tel: 609-5661234/ Fax: 609-5677577)

4. Beserah Beach

Located in Kuantan. Beserah is a fishing village and is well-known for salted fish. But what many people do not know is a very unique practice of the Beserah fisherman: they employ water buffaloes (which are not normally seen on the beach for they are always used to plough padi fields or to pull heavy carts), to transport fish from the boats to the processing area. Beserah is situated 10 km from Kuantan. A batik factory and many cottage handicraft workshops producing items made mostly of sea shells and local plant materials (dried nuts, leaves) can be found in Beserah. Hotels here are:
Duta Sands Resort (Tel: 609-5448101/ Fax: 609-5448291)
Gloria Maris Resort (Tel: 609-5447788/ Fax: 609-5447619)


5. Chendor Beach 

Located in Kuantan. About 10 km from cherating is the famous Chendor Beach. Here, from early July to September, you can watch green turtles or occasionally giant leatherback turtles toil ashore to lay eggs. It’s a ritual worth experiencing. Besides the turtles, Chendor Beach offers some fine bathing spots. Its irresistible appeal also lies in the peace and seclusion you will enjoy at this resort.

6. Rompin/ Lanjut Beach

Located in Rompin. Lanjut Beach, meanwhile, is one of the most beautiful unspoilt beaches on the southern coast of Pahang. The new Lanjut golden Beach Resort is ideally located where hotels and chalets are easily avaulable, in fast-developing Rompin district. Fishing for freshwater prawns is a popular outdoor activity in the many rivers found in the district. Kuala Rompin is also a gateway to Tioman Island, as well to the newly opened Endau-Rompin State Park. Hotels here are:
Lanjut Golden Beach Resort (Tel: 609-4145113/ Fax: 609-4145112)
Seri Malaysia Hotel Rompin (Tel/ Fax: 609-4132732)
Rompin Beach Resort (Tel: 609-4141367/ Fax: 609-4141366)
Summerset Resort (Tel: 609-4141888/ Fax: 609-4140888)

Hotels (Divided by Stars)

5 Star Hotels

Genting hotel
Tel: 03-211 1118

Holiday Villages Of Malaysia sdn.Bhd.
Tel: 09- 581 9131

Resort hotel
Tel: 03- 211 1118

4 Star Hotels

Equatorial Hill Resort Cameron Highlands
Tel: 05- 496 1777

Hotel Grand Continental
Tel: 09- 515 8888

MS Garden Hotel-Kuantan
Tel; 09- 555 5899

Mariana Beach Resort
Tel: 09- 582 1300

The Legend Resort
Tel: 09- 581 9439

The Smokehouse Hotel Cameron Highlands
Tel: 05- 491 1215

The Smokehouse Hotel Fraser’s hill
Tel: 09- 362 2226

3 Star hotels
Hotel Rainbow
Tel: 05- 491 4628

Hotel Rosa Passadena
Tel: 05- 491 2288

The Lake House
Tel: 05- 495 6152

Merlin Inn Resort Kuantan
Tel: 09- 513 1388

Quest Resort
Tel: 09- 362 2300

Residence Inn Cherating
Tel: 09- 581 9333

Theme Park Hotel
Tel: 03- 211 1118

2 Star Hotels

Brinchang Hotel
Tel: 05- 491 1755

Cameron Highland Country Lodge
Tel: 05- 491 1811

Cameron Hill Garden Lodge
Tel: 05- 491 2808

Citiview Hotel
Tel: 09- 555 3888

Classic Hotel
Tel: 09- 555 4599

Down town House
Tel: 05- 491 2868

East Garden Restoran & Hotel
Tel: 05- 491 5824

Fraser’s Pine Resort
Tel: 09- 362 2099

Hotel Pacific Kuantan
Tel: 09- 514 1980

Kuantan Hotel
Tel: 09- 567 4980

The Cool Point hotel
Tel: 05- 491 4914

1 Star Hotels

Bala’s The holiday Chalets
Tel: 05- 491 1660

Brinchang hotel & Restaurant
Tel: 05- 491 2122

Centre Point Hotel Temerloh
Tel: 09- 296 5588

Country Inn Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 05- 491 1215

Grand Champagne Hotel
Tel: 09- 513 8822

Hollywood Hotel
Tel: 05- 491 1633

Hotel Chusan
Tel: 09-513 4422

Hotel embassy
Tel: 09- 52 4406

Hotel Hoover
Tel: 09- 277 1622

Hotel Makmur
Tel: 09- 514 1363

Hotel Meian
Tel: 09- 52 0949

Hotel Raya
Tel: 09- 514 0786

Hotel Silverstar
Tel: 05- 491 1387

Hotel Sri Emas
Tel: 09- 26 4499

Hotel Sri Pahang
Tel: 09- 312 2445

Hotel Suraya Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 09- 555 4266

Hotel T wang
Tel; 09- 355 2102

New Embassy Hotel
Tel: 09 52 4277

Kuai Pan Hotel
Tel: 09 286 1431

New Evergreen hotel
Tel: 09- 513 1548

Orchid Inn
Tell; 05- 491 2102

Orient Hotel
Tel: 05- 491 1633

Seah Meng Hotel
Tel; 05-491 1618

Shanghai Hotel
Tel: 09- 277 2533

The Center Point Hotel
Tel: 09- 296 2288

Tiara Hotel
Tel: 09- 859 1802

Triang Grand Hotel
Tel: 09- 255 5450

Union Hotel Ltd
Tel: 09- 222 1088


Golf Club, Courses & Associations

Astana Golf & Country Club
Tel: 09- 573 5135

Astana Golf Resort
Tel: 09- 573 5312

Awana Golf & Country Resort
Tel: 03- 211 3015

Bentong Golf Club
Tel: 09- 222 2585

Cameron Highlands Golf Club
Tel: 05- 491 2868

De Golf Club Frasers
Tel: 09- 362 2777

Kelab Desa Rantau Petronas
Tel: 09- 864 0259

Kelab Fraser’s hill
Tel: 09- 362 2044

Kelab Golf Darul Makmur Diraja
Tel: 09- 422 3592

Kelab Golf Indera Kuantan
Tel: 09- 538 5588

Kelab Rekreasi Sri Mahkota
Tel: 09- 277 7831

Kelab Rekreasi TUDM Kuantan
Tel: 09- 538 4282

Lipis Valley Golf Club
Tel: 09- 312 1011

Raub Golf Club
Tel: 09- 355 4066


Pahang State Tourism Department
Pahang Industrial & Tourism Division
Tel: 609-52 2346

Perbanan Kemajuan Bukit Fraser
Tel: 609-517 1623

Lembaga Kemajuan Wilayah Jemgka
Tel: 609-466 2205

Badgerlines Information Centre
Tel: 609-581 9466


Travel Bureaus

East Coast Holidays Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 609-567 6839
Fax: 609-567 5223

Firstar Travel & Tours (KTN) Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 609-515 6882

Kuantan Holidays Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 609-513 1313
Mayflower Acme Tours Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 609-513 1866

Southwest Vacation sdn. BHd.
Tel: 09-515 6861

Tahan Outdoor Holidays Centre Sdn. Bhd.
Tel: 609-266 6797