Did you know that archaeological evidence has revealed the existence of human habitation in Pahang from as early as the palaeolithic age? Pahang is a popular holiday destination thanks to its natural rainforests, beautiful historic architecture, and developments such as the Resorts World Genting.
If you are planning a weekend getaway or are taking some time off for a fun vacation with family and friends, check out our 10 best things to do in Pahang. Start planning your trip early to take advantage of early bird discounts and promotions for flight tickets, local transportation, accommodation, and tickets for local activities.
Why is Pahang a must visit holiday destination?
Pahang is the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia. It has beautiful and untouched rainforests, flora and fauna. With rainforest occupying two-thirds of the state, there is much to discover in Pahang. That’s not all. There are also white sandy beaches, serene lakes, and majestic mountains to explore.
What food is Pahang famous for?
Pahang cuisine is famed for its distinctive traditional flavours. You can find fresh seafood at Pahang, especially ikan patin and fabulous sweet desserts. While there, you must take advantage of the famous gulai patin tempoyak at the Jaman Tory Resepi restaurant, which is a crowd favourite.
Is Pahang a family-friendly holiday destination?
Yes, it is. Pahang has many family-friendly activities, such as the Skytropolis theme park at Genting Highlands, where children can have carefree fun rides and watch entertaining performances. There is also Colmar Tropicale, where you and your family can experience a French Themed village. Let’s not forget the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, where your children can interact with elephants.
10 Best Things To Do in Pahang 2023
1. Go on A Staycation At Genting Highlands


Genting Highlands is a hill station located on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali. The primary tourist attraction in Genting Highlands is Resorts World Genting, a hill resort where casinos and theme parks such as the Skytropolis indoor and outdoor theme parks are located. Here, you can stay in luxurious 5-star hotels and be pampered at their spa facilities. Check out these 8 best staycations in Genting Highlands. While at Genting Highlands, remember to try these 9 best things to do in Genting Highlands.
Address: Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ResortsWorldGenting
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resortsworldgenting
Check Info On Website2. Experience A French-Themed Village At Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills


Colmar Tropicale is modelled after the 16th-century Colmar town, northeast of Alsace, France. This magical mini-French village incorporates architectural designs and elements from the ancient surrounding villages of Riquewihr, Turckheim and Kaysersberg. In addition, the resort comprises 235 rooms and suites with five food and beverage outlets offering a wide selection of local and international cuisine. In addition, meeting rooms and banqueting facilities are also available in the resort.
Operating Hours: All-day
Address: Colmar Tropicale, Berjaya Hills, KM 48 Persimpangan Bertingkat, Karak Expy, Bukit Tinggi, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Phone No: 09-221 3666
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colmartropicaleberjayahills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colmartropicale
Refer Info On Website3. Indulge in Authentic Local Cuisine At Jaman Tory Resepi


Suppose you want to taste the famous Pahang Gulai Tempoyak Ikan Patin and Paes Ikan Patin and enjoy a relaxing old-school-themed environment. In that case, Jaman Tory Resepi is the place for you. Here, you can dine on delicious local cuisine serenaded by traditional Malay tunes. While you are here, try their delicious daging salai and ayam goreng kampung.
Operating Hours:
12pm to 11.30pm (Monday, Wednesday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday)
11am to 1pm, 2pm to 11.30pm (Friday)
Closed on Tuesday
Address: Jaman Tory Resepi, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang
Phone No: 019-998 8212
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamantoryresepi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaman_tory_resepi/?hl=en
4. Discover Nature At Taman Negara


Taman Negara is the world’s oldest rainforest. This 130 million-year-old jungle is the best place to explore nature’s beauty. Taman Negara can be reached either by bus or shuttle service or your own transportation. The popular activities in Taman Negara include jungle trekking, canopy walking, and visiting the aborigine settlement. You can also go hiking up Gunung Tahan.
Operating Hours:
9am to 5.30pm (Monday – Saturday)
9.30am to 5.30pm (Sunday)
Address: Taman Negara, 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
View website5. Observe Elephants in Their Natural Environment at Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary


Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is an elephant sanctuary located in Temerloh in the state of Pahang within the Krau Wildlife Reserve. Visitors are usually shown an educational and awareness video when they arrive, followed by watching the elephants being washed and fed. Daily visitor admissions are subject to strict quotas, and booking is strongly recommended.
Operating Hours: 10.30am to 3.30pm daily
Address: Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre, 28500 Lanchang, Pahang
Phone No: 013-908 8207
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elephantcentreMalaysia/
View website6. Enjoy The Beauty Of Pantai Teluk Cempedak


Pantai Teluk Cempedak is a beach in Pahang popular with locals and tourists. Its white sandy beach, casuarinas, and pine trees line the coast, with some rocky promontories facing the South China Sea. This beach is the perfect weekend destination for a picnic with family, beach activities and games, or a relaxing stroll while enjoying the cool sea breeze.
Operating Hours: All-day
Address: Pantai Teluk Cempedak, 25050, Pahang
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pantaitelukcempedak/
7. Explore Gua Charas


Gua Charas is a limestone cave that was formed millions and millions of years ago. This temple cave is located inside a limestone hill known as Bukit Charas. The 400 million-year-old granite and limestone massif is 355 meters in height and houses several statues. Inside the temple cave, you will come across a statue of the Sleeping Buddha and the Jala Lingam, which represents the Hindu deity, Lord Shiva.
Operating Hours: 9.30am to 5pm daily
Address: Gua Charas Panching Kuantan, Jln Gua Charas, 26090 Kuantan, Pahang
Phone No: 013-938 7541
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
View website8. Be Amazed By The Architecture At The Abu Bakar Palace


The Abu Bakar Palace is the official residence of the present sultan. It is named after the late Sultan Abu Bakar Riayatuddin Al-Muadzam Shah. This palace is a fine example of authentic but modern Malay architecture. It is a beautiful building, but visitors cannot enter the palace compound. However, you can still take memorable instagrammable pictures with this iconic monument in the background.
Address: Abu Bakar Palace, Pekan, Kampung Padang Manggis, 26600 Pekan, Pahang
Phone No: 09-422 1371
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
View website9. Try Batik Painting At Natural Batik Village


The Natural Batik Village sells various batik souvenirs such as clothes, bags, notebooks, and fans. They also have batik-making classes where anyone can try making their own batik. You will have a variety of patterns to choose from, and the fees start from RM 10 per piece, the price includes the batik paint. Spending the day at the Natural Batik Village is a memorable experience for visitors and a great way to increase awareness of this traditional craft.
Operating Hours: 10am to 7pm daily
Address: Natural Batik Village, Kampung Cengal Lempung, 26100 Balok, Pahang
Phone No: 09-544 7335
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naturalbatikvillage/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturalbatikvillage/?hl=en
10. Go On A Boat Ride At Chini Lake


According to an Orang Asli legend, the Chini Lake is inhabited by a dragon called the Naga Seri Gumum. Chini Lake is the second-largest freshwater lake in Peninsular Malaysia and comprises a series of 12 lakes. The Jakun branch of the Orang Asli inhabits the lake shores. In addition, visitors can take boat trips to various parts of Chini Lake and the Orang Asli settlement.
Operating Hours: All-day
Address: Chini Lake, 26650 Chini, Pahang
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
View websiteGrab Your Complimentary Lazada Voucher 【Here】
Tons of Shopee Cashback Deals 【Here】
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us [email protected] For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.