Malaysia: Top Things to Do and See in Kuantan

Kuantan, the capital city of Pahang, lies just some 240 km northeast of Kuala Lumpur. Its location, together with easy access via highway (just a 2.5-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur), makes it an easy trip from the capital of Malaysia. Boasting beaches like Teluk Chempedak (which is located in the city itself) & having Cherating on its doorstep, Kuantan is a popular weekend destination, especially among those from Kuala Lumpur who crave for some east coast beach holiday. What else is there in Kuantan, however? For this instalment of “Top Things to Do and See in…” with a local perspective, Ramble and Wander has invited Danial Ariff of Dan on the Road, a Malaysian travel blogger who grew up in Kuantan, to share his list of things to do and see when visiting his hometown.

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Kuantan is one of those places quite often overlooked by travellers because it lies in the middle of the spectrum – not as vibrant as bustling Penang yet not too tranquil like Kuala Terengganu. As it goes through a development boom, the people still hold on to the city’s warm and easy-going East Coast vibe. Kuantan, to its inhabitants, is like Goldilocks’ preference to baby bear’s warm bowl of porridge – just nice.

And the following are some of the places & things that I believe make the city nice:

Teluk Chempedak

Photo © dansontheroad

Affectionately known as “TC,” this action-packed beach is great for people-watching and a quick dip in the South China Sea. There’s also a boardwalk with scenic views connecting TC to Teluk Tongkang, a cove more suitable for campers. Here’s a secret: behind the public toilet at Teluk Tongkang is a 10-minute trail across the jungle that will lead you to another secluded beach, complete with an abandoned World War II pillbox left by the British.

Address: Teluk Chempedak, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

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Restoran Hoi Yin’s Curry Mee

Photo © dansontheroad

Skip the McDonalds and Starbucks in Teluk Chempedak and make your way to Restoran Hoi Yin by the hillside to sample one of the best curry mee in town. The aromatic curry is packed with all the goodness a bowl of noodles has to offer, from fresh cockles to generous amounts of tofu. This mom-and-pop shop has been a mainstay for decades so expect a heavy crowd on weekends.

Address: Restoran Hoi Yin, No 31 Jalan Teluk Chempedak, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

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Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque

Photo © dansontheroad

Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque is rightfully located in the heart of the city. Overlooking a vast field, this landmark is inspired by Ottoman-era mosques with its geometrical patterns and predominantly blue and white colours. The best time to enjoy the beauty of this mosque is during the month of Ramadan when you can buy delicious meals at the nearby bazaar and join thousands of locals breaking fast on the field.

Address: Masjid Sultan Ahmad Shah, Jalan Mahkota, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

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Ikan Patin Gulai Tempoyak

Photo © dansontheroad

Nothing is more endearing to Pahangese than Ikan Patin Gulai Tempoyak, the state’s unofficial cuisine. Silver catfish caught from the Pahang River is cooked in a fermented durian stew, where the fatty flesh of the fish pairs up perfectly with the distinct flavour of the durian. There are a number of ikan patin joints in Kuantan but Akob Patin House trumps them all. Do come early to get the best pieces before the rest of the lunch crowd does!

Address: Akob Patin House, Lorong Haji Abdul Rahman 1, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

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Cherating

Photo © dansontheroad

A former off-the-beaten-path backpacker haven, Cherating is slowly reinventing itself to be a surfer’s paradise. About 45 minutes of Kuantan, Cherating still has that laid-back charm of a seaside village devoid of any massive developments. The beach’s lagoon is conducive for surfing during the monsoon season, attested by Cherating hosting an annual international surfing competition since 2011.

Address: Cherating, 26080 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

Read also: Itinerary for Cherating | Turtle Sanctuary in Cherating

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Kula Cakes’ Mango Cheesecake

Photo © dansontheroad

You wouldn’t expect to find a lot of cake shops in Kuantan but Kula Cakes stands up well to its Klang Valley counterparts. Their mango cheesecake hits all the right notes: the firm yet creamy cheese is topped with a sweet and slightly zesty mango slice dipped in mango puree. Do make a note to eat at the nifty courtyard beside the store and admire their funny painting of the “Cookie Monster meets The Great Wave of Kanagawa”.

Address: Kula Cakes, A96, Jalan Besar, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

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Sungai Lembing

Photo © dansontheroad

A former tin mining town 40 km northwest of Kuantan, Sungai Lembing is an idyllic town that has seen better days. Now, there’s a cute row of shophouses lining the main street and a single gas pump acting as the only petrol station. Visit the nearby tin mining museum and if you’re adventurous, make your way into the recently re-opened mine shafts. Nature lovers could also hike nearby Panorama Hill for a gorgeous view of the town.

Address: Jalan Sungai Lembing, 26200 Sungai Lembing, Pahang

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Ana Ikan Bakar Petai

Photo © dansontheroad

A trip to the east coast wouldn’t be complete without a seafood dinner. Ana Ikan Bakar Petai specializes in fish char-grilled with sambal petai (chilli paste with stink beans) wrapped in banana leaves. The result: a beautiful, beautiful mess. Ana Ikan Bakar Petai has two restaurants in the area and I’d recommend the one by the main road for its­­­ lesser crowd and faster service.

Address: Ana Ikan Bakar Petai, Jalan Tanjung Lumpur, 26060 Kuantan, Pahang | Map

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Have you been to Kuantan? What do you like most about the city? What are your top things to do and see there?

If you are going there, do check out these hotels in Kuantan.

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Dan is a Kuala Lumpur born Malaysian travel blogger who grew up in Kuantan, Pahang. A never-ending traveller, Dan claims that he "will travel far for food and food will make him travel far". You can follow his travels & food adventures at Dan on the Road. Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Ramble and Wander has been inviting fellow Malaysian travel blogger friends to share their knowledge and insider info, through a guest post, about places and things they would personally bring their guests to see, do and try in their local area. This is the sixth of such guest posts. For other travel blog series on "Top Things to Do and See in...", click here. For other blog entries on Malaysia, click here.