Things to do in Kuantan

More about Kuantan

Kuantan is a city and the capital state of Pahang, Malaysia. Located near the mouth of the Kuantan River, Kuantan is an administrative center of Pahang state that is a home for diverse ethnic races: Malay, Chinese, Indian, and others. Kuantan’s major economic activity is tourism, proven by the fact that many tourists from around the world come to have excursions in this city. It’s also famous for the production of handicrafts, batik, keropok, and salted fish. Trade and commerce are significant to the city’s economy. 

On top of that, this 18th largest city in Malaysia is known for its appealing natural landmarks, like beaches, waterfalls, and parks. Sungai Lembing is also a popular attraction in Kuantan, since it used to contain the world’s deepest underground tin mines, with an interesting Tin Museum. There’s also one of the tallest structures in the city: Kuantan 188 Tower that’s attracted many tourists. In terms of culture, Kuantan is a home to diverse culinary scenes; laksa, fish crackers, and grilled fish are only several parts of Kuantan. If you crave for more things to do in Kuantan, let’s check out some information below.

Best Things to Do in Kuantan

Arriving in Kuantan? Take a look at several lists below for best things to do around the city!

1. Time Capsule Retreat Stay at Sungai Lembing in Pahang

For those seeking a relaxing stay-in with a nature connection, Time Capsule Retreat at Sungai Lembing in Pahang is the answer. Tailored for families and couples, the rooms with garden or jungle views would welcome you with their sufficient facilities: kitchens, minibars, and jacuzzis. This is not only a place to stay, but also an immersive natural experience.

2. Kuantan 188 Tower

Kuantan 188 Tower is the tallest iconic tower in the city and the second tallest in Malaysia. Located in the Laman Teruntum, it allows the visitors to enjoy the far-reaching views of the city and the Kuantan River. Besides the observation deck, you can find other interesting spots around the attraction, such as Kuantan Art Street, Taman Kerang, and souvenir shops.

3. Zoo Teruntum

Taking your kids with you on Kuantan's trips? Don’t worry–Zoo Teruntum would greet you with open arms. You can find over 25 types of animals here, even dinosaurs! Utilizing animatronic animals and other technologies, you would have interactive experiences, games, and thrilling VR rides throughout the park.

Kuantan Transportations

Getting around Kuantan would never feel so easy without the availability of some public transports below. Take advantage of them to help you explore the whole city!

1. Buses

RapidKuantan is the main bus service in Kuantan. With air-conditioned buses and reliable services, the buses connect residential areas to key locations, like shopping centers, schools, and government offices. The average fares for a trip with RapidKuantan vary from RM 0.50 to RM 5, depending on the passenger’s ages and routes.

2. Taxis

There are 2 kinds of taxis in Kuantan: metered taxis and e-hailing services. You can hail the metered taxis on the street or book via phone. Short rides within the city by a taxi in Kuantan may cost around RM 10 to RM 20, while longer journeys would cost around RM 20 to RM 30. However, make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey. If you want a more practical method, consider e-hailing services, where you can book via mobile apps. It’s often preferred for its reliability and ease of payment.

3. Trishaws

Also known as becak, a traditional three-wheeled pedal-powered vehicle, trishaws are available in some parts of Kuantan for short trips or tourist rides around the city center with the cost around RM 20 to RM 40 per ride or RM 40 to RM 60 for trishaw drivers offering an hourly rate. Try to negotiate the price with the driver before a trip.

4. Rental Services

If you prefer more flexibility in your holidays, opt for car or motorbike rentals in Kuantan. Several rental agencies are available in the city, offering daily and long-term rentals with various prices, ranging from around RM 120 to RM 500, depending on the car types. However, for hassle-free car renting, Traveloka provides you car rental with or without a driver.

5. Ferries

Nearby islands and coastal areas, you would need ferries to travel to and from islands. You can prepare a budget from around RM 30 to RM 100, depending on the distance between the islands. There are also other carriages by sea for unique experiences of getting around Kuantan, like one of the most popular is Kuantan River Cruise.

Recommended Kuantan Food

If you want to create more memorable vacations in Kuantan, don’t leave the city without stopping by some restaurants for delicious local delicacies. Those are:

1. Hoi Yin Curry Laksa

Address: No. 31, Teluk Cempedak Street, Kuantan

Operational hours: 7 am to 2.30 pm everyday, except Mondays

Visiting Malaysia isn’t complete yet without savoring the most famous local dish, laksa. In Kuantan, Hoi Yin Curry Laksa is one of the most renowned eatery serving halal curry laksa. It’d be better for you to go early before you run out of the spicy, creamy, and sweet laksa with steamed chickens, cockles, bean sprouts, and tofu sprouts. 

2. Alor Akar Restaurant

Address: Lot 7695 and 7696 Kubang Buaya Street, off Berserah Street, Kuantan

Operational hours: open for dinner only

Alor Akar Restaurant is a non-halal seafood eatery getting used to being very crowded during weekends and public holidays. Its herbal chicken, butter-fried mantis prawns, salted egg yolk squid, and homemade tofu with minced pork and salted fish are several signatures the restaurant gets. It offers food at reasonable prices, especially when you dine in a large group.

3. Cendol Air Putih

Address: Air Putih Street 25300, Kuantan, Pahang

Operational hours: 12 to 5.30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday

Thinking about a popular local beverage? Head to Cendol Air Putih. According to locals, it’s a small shop you can’t miss. Their cendol campur pulut, karipap, temosa, and pulut ikan are still some favorable menus in town.

Shopping in Kuantan

A shopper’s paradise awaits! Kuantan also has numerous shopping centers all over the town, such as:

1. East Coast Mall

Address: Jalan Putra Square 6, Putra Square, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia

East Coast Mall is the most happening shopping center in Kuantan. With over 400,000 retails on over 4 floors, the mall offers an abundance of shopping, fashion, entertainment, art and culture, local delicacies, and international gourmet food. By catching up with updated information, you would also visit various events held in the mall.

2. Kuantan Night Market at Taman Gelora

Address: Jalan Dato Abdullah, Kampung Tanjung Api, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia

If you’re quite bored with shopping malls, consider checking out a night market at Taman Gelora. Many local street foods, like satay, nasi lemak, and roti canai are offered here, surrounded by festive and welcoming atmospheres. You can also take your kids to some carnival-like attractions, rides, games, and live entertainments.

Best Time to Visit Kuantan

The best time to visit Kuantan would be in April to September, when the dry weather conditions are ideal for a visit. You can take advantage of various activities, like water sports and sightseeing. Additionally, The Moon Cake Festival taking place in September would bid you welcome with the vibrant moon cakes, lantern parades, and performances.