Why you should visit Pahang, Malaysia next

Malaysia’s largest state, Pahang dominates the country’s centre, with a geography that spans sparkling beaches and tropical coastlines, misty highlands and dense rainforest. Its incredible diversity ensures something rewarding for every type of traveller. Here’s our guide on what to do in Pahang and how to pair this prime road trip destination with a Kuala Lumpur city getaway. 

Spending a few days in KL first? Check out a few of our hotel reviews here and find the perfect place to stay.

Before you go

Best time to visit 

For clear, sunny skies, avoid the Northeast monsoon season from November to March, especially if you’re planning a beach or island holiday.

How to get there  

Cathay Pacific’s Cathay members save on their booking and earn Asia Miles when renting a car with Hertz at Kuala Lumpur International Airport or the city’s downtown core. If you prefer not to drive, you can opt for a guided tour that includes transportation, or hop on the bus or train to selected towns in Pahang for an unhurried journey.

For coastal and island adventures

Cherating 

From Kuala Lumpur: 3-hour drive

This seaside resort town owes its myriad charms to its unique topography. Cherating encompasses long swathes of gorgeous coastline hugged by the South China Sea, making it ideal for beach lovers. It’s also bordered to the west by the Cherating River, giving rise to a magical evening activity: firefly-spotting. Sunbathe, surf and bar-hop along Cherating’s eponymous beach by day, then witness darts of light pierce the sky on a river cruise by night.

Pulau Tioman 

From Kuala Lumpur: 6-hour drive + 2-hour ferry ride

It may be far from the mainland, but it’s close to paradise. Stunning scenery and a leisurely pace of life characterise the island of Pulau Tioman. Clear waters make it an incredible destination for diving and snorkelling and, if you’re a true marine life enthusiast, Juara Turtle Project delights with conservation tours and education-led programmes that include reef monitoring and hatchling releases. More of a land adventurer? Trek through lush forest or challenge yourself to scale the Dragon Horns – twin peaks that tower over the island. 

For rainforests and nature

Taman Negara 

From Kuala Lumpur: 4-hour drive

Its name literally meaning “national park”, Taman Negara is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It harbours an ecosystem densely rich in biodiversity – a dream for any nature-loving traveller. Stay overnight in a hide to observe wildlife from dusk ‘til dawn; take on a canopy walk suspended 45 metres above the forest floor; or embrace adventure with cave tours and river rides that skim over rapids. With so much to experience, you’ll want to set aside a few days for it all – or for maximum convenience, consider booking a guided tour like this Cathay Holidays experience.

Sungai Lembing 

From Kuala Lumpur: 3-hour drive

Known for its sunrise-viewing hotspots, Sungai Lembing possesses a quiet charm. In this former mining town, faded shop signs meld into overgrown foliage and hawker centres fill with steam as vendors begin preparing pots of noodle soup long before dawn. It’s a short walk up to the aptly named Sunrise Hill, while a longer off-road trek leads to the Rainbow Waterfall; pause to fully appreciate the sight of sun rays hitting the cascade at just the right angle. If you’re a confident hiker up for a nighttime excursion, you can walk the 800-metre trail to Panorama Hill for another unforgettable sunrise. 

For a highland escape

Genting Highlands 

From Kuala Lumpur: 1-hour drive

Despite its easy proximity to Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands feels a world away from the city – especially if you pay a visit to Chin Swee Caves Temple, a grand complex of red-roofed buildings and a majestic gold pagoda built into the verdant hillside. A short drive brings you to a different haven: Genting Highlands Premium Outlets offers a deluxe shopping experience amid crisp mountain air. For non-stop entertainment, there’s Resorts World Genting , home to exciting theme park attractions and a cable car, as well as family-friendly accommodation.

Cameron Highlands 

From Kuala Lumpur: 3-hour drive

Tea fields, strawberry-picking farms and high-elevation views are among the highlights of this beautiful region. Check out our Asia road trip story for more on this scenic destination.

For riverside relaxation

Kuantan 

From Kuala Lumpur: 3-hour drive

The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan takes you cross-country from the west to the east coast, and from big-city to small-town vibes. Here, you can stroll along Kuantan River Esplanade or relax on Teluk Cempedak Beach. For prime photo-taking opportunities, explore the murals of Kuantan Art Street, take a turn inside the Kuantan 188 observation tower and visit the giant sea turtle rock mural at Pantai Pelindung. While beachside, be sure to sample ikan bakar: Malay-style grilled fish topped with spices.

Practical essentials

• Pack light clothing for lowland areas and plenty of layers for highland areas
• Bring an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon season
• Keep sunscreen and insect repellent on hand when outdoors
• Though the official language is Malay, English is widely spoken

For more adventures across the country, read our guide on Malaysia’s must-do experiences.