24 Hours in Kuantan, Malaysia

If you’re an early riser, a morning hike up Bukit Panorama in Sungai Lembing (a 90 minute drive from Kuantan city in Pahang) could be an ideal start for a fantastic day in Kuantan. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the peak of Bukit Panorama – but you can rest assured that it’s called that for a reason. At 1,200 metres above sea level, the sunrise is a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

10AM
If you fancy a bit of history, you can make your way to the Sungai Lembing Museum. Sungai Lembing is a tin mining town 42 km northwest of Kuantan. Lembing is Malay for spear, and "sungai" means river. According to the local legend, the ruler saw a vision of a spear in the nearby river and thus named his town after this vision. The museum, highlighting the tin mining industry, was opened in 2003. Housed in an old colonial bungalow once used by the mine manager, you can an interesting collection of mining artefacts here.

11AM
On the way to Sg. Lembing in the small town of Pancing is Gua Charas, a temple cave that is a popular tourist destination. The limestone cave was formed millions of years ago and carved out by the forces of nature, offering an interesting sojourn for everyone.

The Sungai Pandan Waterfalls, located 25 kilometres from the city, are also nearby. Consisting of cascading falls making a large cooling pool underneath and an ideal place for swimmers, it is well maintained and a clean area with recreation facilities, shelters, food stalls, which is good because you might be feeling peckish by now. A suspension bridge spans the river offering a clear view of the entire waterfall from its centre.

2PM
Time to hit the beach! The famous Teluk Chempedak beach is only five kilometres from Kuantan and is an excellent venue for sailing, surfing, jet-skiing and sunbathing. Beyond the main beach, there are excluded bathing spots and ardent sun-lovers can jungle-trek through the TC Forest Reserve into the idyllic Pelindung beach. An alternative route will lead you to the Teruntum Park which has a mini zoo where children and adults alike can have fun. For golf enthusiasts, an afternoon on the greens is possible at the Royal Golf Club.

7PM
Kuantan is undoubtedly famous for its seafood. One place where you can find some good grub is at Pak Su Seafood Restaurant. Located at Beserah beach (near the Swiss Garden Resort) this restaurant is open from lunch till late in the evening for dinner. The stuffed crab and black pepper venison are quite the big hits among locals. Oysters and lobsters are also available. Another option is to have grilled fish in Tanjung Lumpur, located about five kilometres from the city, near the Kuantan River.

NIGHTLIFE
The city’s famous Swing Club and Lounge is a favourite among the locals and tourists for a night of karaoke and just hanging out. Nearby are also mamak stalls and ‘Kopitiam’ cafes for a bite after partying.