PAHANG

The east coast state of Pahang is the largest in Peninsula Malaysia and is perhaps nature's gift to the country. It has so much to offer the visitor and is usually the most sought after holiday destination by both locals and foreigners. Exotic flora and fauna are an intrinsic part of the wild life and there is unspoiled beauty throughout the state. Rich varied scenery and landscape leave visitors thoroughly enchanted with the magnificent gifts nature has bestowed on this tropical paradise. From pristine waterfalls to invigorating mountains, palm-fringed beaches to refreshing jungles, Pahang is a rendezvous with diversity and contrast.

Apart from its attractions, Pahang is also rich in natural resources with two-thirds of the state covered by tropical forests. Palm oil, rubber, and cocoa are cultivated extensively in large land development schemes. Manufacturing has also provided additional income to the state.

Tioman Island

Tioman is the largest group among 64 volcanic islands. Visitors can choose between snorkeling and diving in crystal clear waters, lazing around on the white-sand beaches or exploring rugged trails of the interior.

Please visit Tioman Island under Islands.

Endau-Rompin National Park

One of the largest national parks in the Peninsula, Endau-Rompin National Park is an ancient tropical rainforest that has remained undisturbed through the years. It is Malaysia's last refuge for the Sumatran rhinoceros. The park's lowland forest is among the few remaining in Malaysia and has been identified as a haven for unique varieties of plant life.

Please visit Endau-Rompin National Park under National Parks.

Tasik Bera

Located in southwest Pahang, Tasik Bera is the largest natural freshwater lake in Peninsula Malaysia. It is situated in the saddle of the main and eastern mountain ranges of the Peninsula and is approximately 35km long and 20km wide. Tasik Bera has remained a unique and remote wetland wilderness, which is surrounded by a patchwork of dry lowland forests.

Please visit Tasik Bera under Lakes.

Tasik Chini

Chini is Malaysia's second largest natural lake and is made up of a series of 12 lakes. With its well-known myths, the lake has attracted many visitors from various destinations. Legend has it that a mythical dragon lives in the lake and is the guardian of a lost city of gold, which was once situated at the lake.

Please visit Tasik Chini under Lakes.

Pekan

When Mansur Shah, a descendent of the Sultan of Melaka, founded the state of Pahang in 1458, Pekan was chosen as his residence. It has since remained the Royal town of the state. There are numerous well-built white marble mosques, as well as several palaces in the town. The state museum, Museum Sultan Abu Bakar, is housed in a building constructed by the British for the local resident. It has a wide variety of exhibits and much of the museum is dedicated to the Pahang royal family. Sungai Pahang is the longest river in Malaysia and was the last east coast river to be bridged. Pekan is also an ideal place to relax and to be away from the city.

Kuantan

Any visit to the state of Pahang must include the state capital Kuantan. Kuantan is not a big city and you will find it remarkably personable and down-to-earth. It has been the capital of Pahang since 1955. It is a well-organized, bustling city and a major stopover point when traveling north, south, or across the peninsula. The town reveals its charms through its street life and attractions around its town center. Some of the finest beaches in the state are located in Kuantan. It also offers a variety of local food fare and traditional sports. Visitors will be able to see a mix of old and new buildings along with colonial style buildings, which are reminders of colonial administration in the past.

The most prominent sight in the capital is the State Mosque with its distinct dome and minarets. Or take a stroll along the riverbank and watch the various activities on the wide Sungai Kuantan. At the jetty, a ferry can take you across the river to a small village, Kampung Tanjung Lumpur. Placed among the many modern buildings around town, the colonial-style Courthouse & Handicraft Centre definitely adds some charm and difference to the area. Kuantan and its vicinity produces some really good handicrafts; there is even a batik factory on the outskirts of the town, and shops along Jalan Besar do sell local trinkets and handicraft. Do try their keropok (fish crackers), which is the state's famed