The state capital of Pahang is the arrival city for visitors making their way to the endless sands of Malaysia's laid-back east coast, from the popular coastal strip of Telok Chempadek in the south right up to the Redang Archipelago in the north. It's forest and beaches all the way.
Kuantan is great for
- Handicrafts and shopping
- Local Markets
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Birdwatching
- Coral Reefs
- Flora and fauna
- Sailing
- Snorkelling
- Sun and Sea
Kuantan, three hours drive from Kuala Lumpur, is famous for its kerapok (fish crackers), and the downtown street markets and shopping malls are worth a visit before you head off to the South China Sea coast or inland to Taman Negara, Malaysia's oldest and largest national park. Spend a day and a night here and you might be lucky enough to see hornbills, tigers and elephants crossing the vast rainforest. To see another natural wonder head to Cendor beach where leatherback turtles lumber ashore to lay their eggs between May and September.
Recommended highlights
The following experiences are possible from Kuantan. Talk to our expert travel consultants about how to make your holiday extra special:
Explored Historical Capital and Royal Town Relics
A 46km drive south of Kuantan, situated on the banks near the mouth of the Pahang River is the Royal town of Pekan. Catch a glimpse of tradition and culture at the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum - a treasure of historical artefacts, antiques and collection of Malay weapons (Keris). View the Royal stables, the polo grounds and an old steam engine converted into a Grand State Mosque and the Royal Mausoleum. If you have time before heading back to your hotel, we suggest a visit to Keladi Village to see silk weaving created with handlooms.
Experience Village Life and Salt Fish Demonstrations
Beserah, a small fishing village where time-honoured methods of salting fish are still being deployed is a good place to start your rural tour. Located 10 km north of Kuantan, Beserah is also known as a centre for local handicrafts such as batik and woodcarving. If you want to see more dextrous local people at work, we strongly suggest a visit to the Pandanus Weaving Centre where you'll see the village's women weave mats and bags out if straw. Other interests in the village include kite flying, top spinning and watching monkeys gather ripe coconuts.
Lake Chini Nature Extravaganza
Riddled with facts and fiction, Lake Chini remains an attraction for nature lovers with the spirit of adventure. Located 90km Southwest of Kuantan in the wilds and surrounded by mountains, Lake Chini is accessible by a 40 minute boat (sampan) ride under the canopy of tropical trees lining the narrow winding river. A visit to the Orang Asli settlement will enlighten you of their traditional way of hunting with blowpipes.
Kuala Terengganu Village Adventure and Costal Drive
Why not rent a car and drive north, passing through quaint Malay villages, coconut palms, and fishing bays dotted along the coastal road. A visit to the local market at Kuala Terengganu is a must with its colourful atmosphere and typical East Coast life style. A drive further along will bring you past the Palace and several old building steeped in history. Why not stop to see some of the local handcrafts, and silk factory.
