Sungai Lembing may not be a touristy destination like Penang or Ipoh. But it should be on any traveler’s radar!
This sleepy village with a town comprising a single street has rustic charms and breathtaking natural attractions that are enough to keep you enchanted for days!
Be it a day trip to Sungai Lembing or a few nights’ stay, this mining town will sweep your breath away with top-notch attractions city life pales in comparison!
Read on and discover 14 best things to do in Sungai Lembing and nearby attractions in Kuantan.
1. Sivan Temple - Gua Charas
Sivan Temple is a 400 million-year-old limestone and granite Indian temple set within the majestic Gua Charas cave. Unlike Gua Tempurung in Gopeng, the interior of this cave is wide and open, with its maximum height reaching a whopping 355 meters.
Dotted with Indian and Buddhist deities and many areas for worshiping, Gua Charas evokes a calm atmosphere that is surprisingly cool at 25’C at the time of visit.
You’ll find a huge statue of the Sleeping Buddha and Jala Lingam who represents the Hindu deity, Lord Shiva.
To get to the temple, get ready to ascend multiple flights of steps that may look precarious and old, yet sturdy enough to hold human weight.
With young kids in tow, the hike takes about 20 minutes at a slow pace. Witnessing the gigantic formations of stalactites within the cave is a rewarding experience. You’ll see bats hanging from the roof of the cave too.
If you’re adventurous, extend your hike and explore the upper side of Gua Charas that’s off-trail and without a clear path. This route will lead you to another open air, a shaded cavern that promises a spectacular view and Instagram-worthy backdrops.
The entrance fee costs a mere RM2 for adults and RM1 for children. While we think this does not do justice for its upkeep, do not hesitate to donate to the temple. The donation box is located at the deepest end of Gua Charas and at the entrance.
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Address: Jalan Gua Charas, 26090 Kuantan, Pahang
Operating Hours: 9.30am – 5pm daily
Contact: 013-938 7541
2. Rainbow Waterfalls
As Sungai Lembing’s iconic landmark and main attraction, the Rainbow Waterfalls boasts a spectacular view between 9-10 am every morning. During this time, a rainbow can be seen on the base of the falls when the sun shines on the cascading water. The best month to see this kaleidoscope of lights is October.
To witness nature’s spectacle, you must book a 4WD that will take you through a one-hour off-road ride from Lubuk Beruk.
It costs RM60 per person, including a pick-up from your hotel (around 5.30 am) or the food court in Sungai Lembing town.
Upon reaching Lubuk Beruk, your hike starts with a one-kilometer track through the jungle. There’s a short river crossing. So come prepared to wear a swimming suit under your normal garments. Don't forget to pack a spare change of clothes, a cap, and sunblock too.
The cascading Rainbow Waterfall breaks into a serene pool of crystal clear water, with pummeling water breaking into a thin spray as it reaches the pool.
After a long hike, its icy cold water makes a perfect dip for weary legs and frolicking. By 10 am, the sun is up and the rainbow is no longer visible. This is your cue to make your way back.
Due to bad weather and poor road maintenance, contact your hotel in advance to check if the path to the Rainbow Waterfall at Sungai Lembing has re-opened.
We were told it was closed since Feb 2024 as the roads were not safe.
3. Sungai Lembing Tin Mines
Once residing in a thriving tin mine, Sungai Lembing was founded in the late 1880s as a settlement for tin miners.
The mining industry in Sungai Lembing was established in 1886 by Mr. William Frazer, representing the Pahang Mining Company Limited based in London.
When financial issues arose in 1888, the company was bought over by The Pahang Corporation Limited (PCL).
Not long after Malaysia obtained independence, tin prices plummeted causing the industry to collapse. Hence resulted in the end of the tin mining era and the Sungai Lembing mines were shuttered in 1987. As a result, many residents moved out, transforming the place into a ghost town.
Sungai Lembing was revived in 2001 through heritage tourism which witnessed the opening of the Sungai Lembing Museum. Perched on a hillock just outside the town center, there are 2 tin mine entrances visible from the outside.
The tin mines tunnel down to a depth of 610 to 700 meters with its height ranging between 12 feet to 200 feet. Stretching up to 322 kilometers in length, the Sungai Lembing Tin Mines are known to be the deepest in the world!
In addition, the heritage miners manually mined for tin using handheld tools and explosives.
However, our local guide cautioned that it has not been ventured by anyone for a long time. And what was inside or how safe it was, is truly unknown.
The entrance to the tin mine is not barricaded and is still accessible to the public.
We erred with caution and did not proceed, but took many photos surrounding the area.
According to the explanation given by the museum staff, the underground tunnels are not safe to visit as it has been long abandoned and threatened by flood waters.
4. Cherating Turtle Sanctuary at Kuantan
The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary is a government-funded haven opened to the public in 1998. This sanctuary serves to observe turtle’s egg-laying habit, collect the eggs and nurture them away from prying poachers until they are safe for release.
Located beside the private beach of Club Med Cherating and along Chendor Beach, this turtle sanctuary offers turtle-watching tours. Visitors can observe female turtles come to shore at night, and watch baby turtles releases to the ocean at 6pm during season.
While its intention is noble, the service staff can be more courteous and enthusiastic. On the contrary, guests from Club Med were given a private tour where the guide provides a detail explanation on the eco system, types of turtles, and the journey a turtle embarks throughout its life.
The sanctuary operates at full capacity during the turtle laying season between June to August. Due to climate change, the season changes from time to time. So it’s highly advisable to call the place before heading here.
Address: Cherating Turtle Sanctuary, Bukit Cherating, 26080 Balok, Pahang
Contact: 09-581 9087
5. Watch The Sunrise at Bukit Panorama
A trip to Sungai Lembing is not complete without witnessing the egg-yoked sun ascent from the horizon.
There are two vantage points to catch the sunrise: one via hiking Bukit Panorama and the other via the 4WD package from Sunrise Hill.
If you’re thinking of driving your trusty car up Sunrise Hill, hold back that thought as the roads are too rugged for conventional vehicles.
The ride is bumpy and some of the mud pits are deep. But our old uncle driver steered his jip like he was driving on the highway.
Should you sit at the front row, keep a look out for low-hanging plants and spider webs and remember to duck down to avoid getting scratched in your face.
A half an hour ride through the non-tarmac road will lead you to the peak of Bukit Panorama, and the wait for the sunrise begins. At about 6.45am onwards, you’ll notice the sky turning brighter by the second. By 7am, the sun inches upwards, thus reaching its full view.
By 7.30am, the egg-yoked sun disappears into the thick clouds lurking above, as dawn breaks and breathes live to the lush jungle beneath the peak.
6. Pantai Teluk Cempedak
Also known as Palm Beach, Pantai Teluk Cempedak is a pristine strip of beach boasting superfine white sand and strong waves.
Located 5 kilometres from Kuantan town, this scenic beach at Kuantan is set within an enclave of popular eateries. There is a McDonald's, KFC, Starbucks, 7-11 and even a biscuit shop to appease hungry picnickers with clean toilets within.
here is also a boardwalk guarded by wild monkeys that are thankfully not vicious. Remember to avoid eye contact and walk past them nonchalantly as they mind their own business.
The boardwalk connects to another strip called the Missionary Beach. Unfortunately, it is poorly maintained with sections of the walk cordoned off.
We stopped at mid-point as the walk became more wobbly - a caution to turn back. Nevertheless, the views from the boardwalk are amazing and shaded by looming trees with a lush jungle infringing one side.
Close to the boardwalk, you’ll find a bunker dating back to the Second World War.
There is also a playground at Pantai Teluk Cempedak equipped with decent playing facilities.
Due to the strong wind and waves, there are no jet-skiing, surfing, or water sport operators here. A lifeguard tower stands erect at the main area of Teluk Cempedak with the cost guards keeping a close eye where the crescent waves swell.
The public is forbidden from swimming in the ocean during the monsoon season between November and February.
7. Zoo Hybrid Kuantan or Zoo Teruntum
Zoo Hybrid Kuantan unleashes the inner child in you, and is one of the attractions in Sungai Lembing that kids can rave over.
If you’re acquainted with Mimaland in Selangor (which has been demolished), you’ll resonate with this zoo as a section is devoted to dinosaurs.
You’ll find over 30 exhibits of life-sized dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Encounter with interactive games and dinosaur fossils too.
There’s also a replica of Hobbit Houses, taking a leaf from the movie, The Lord Of The Rings.
Set amidst a picturesque backdrop of smallish hobbit houses and landscaped gardens, this mini zoo in Kuantan will spruce your Instagram feed.
Opened in 2021, Zoo Hybrid Kuantan boasts a small collection of wild animals which includes monkeys, snakes, ostrich paddy horses, and crocodiles.
Address: Jalan Padang Golf 25050 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
Operating Hours: 9am-6pm daily
Ticket Price: RM25 (Adults), RM22 (Children)
8. Shop at The East Coast Mall
If retail therapy is part of your itinerary, then The East Coast Mall is the swankiest kid in Kuantan!
Here, you’ll find popular high-street brands like Uniqlo, Popular Bookstore, Padini, and bazaar stalls selling Malay clothes.
For more options, walk over to Kuantan City Mall which is located opposite of East Coast Mall. The former however is an older mall with fewer popular merchants and more native brands.
Address: Jalan Putra Square 6, Putra Square, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang
Operating Hours: 10am – 10pm daily
9. Go Tubing at Pasir Puteri Sg Lembing
Pasir Puteri Sungai Lembing features a wide, clean river infringed by tall trees that doubles as make-shift swing for visitors to plunge into the water.
Dotted by various rocks in different sizes, this river side is accessible by 4WD, while cars will have to park further away from the stony river.
You can rent large tubes or floats to tube along the river.
10. Sg Pandan or Panching Waterfall
Located 25km from Kuantan, Sungai Pandan Waterfall is one of Malaysia’s most elegant waterfalls. This 100m high plunging waterfall is nestled within a Forest Reservation Area.
Also referred to as Panching Waterfall, you can dip your feet in a fish spa or submerge your body for a rejuvenating awakening. The spectacular views surrounding the waterfall make it a great picnic spot for families and friends.
There are designated barbeque pits to appease growling tummies. Alternatively, you can buy souvenirs from the nearby stalls closer to the entrance.
Address: Air Terjun Sungai Pandan, 26250 Kuantan, Pahang
Operating Hours: 9am – 5pm
Contact: 016-922 4777
11. Muzium Sungai Lembing
Museum Sungai Lembing pays tribute to its rich time mining history with a vast display of lamps, lights, and hand tools used by the miners back then.
This double-story old wooden bungalow converted into a museum perches up a slight slope, located a few meters past Sg Lembing town.
You’ll also find a display of the 4th Sultan of Pahang’s bedroom, bathroom and an underground mine model.
Outside of the Sungai Lembing museum, you’ll find 2 entrances to the underground tin mine, in which both are interconnected. While its entrance is not blocked off, locals are adamant that visitors to not enter as it has not been explored for a very long time.
Address: Jalan Muzium, Sungai Lembing, 26200 Sungai Lembing, Pahang
Operating Hours: 9am – 5pm
Contact: 09-541 2378
12. Lao Zi Temple
Lao Zi Temple is a Taoist temple located 12 km from Kuantan that pays homage to the founder of Taoism, Lao Zi.
Within the temple grounds is an 823-meters long dragon said to be the longest dragon in Malaysia, and one of the longest dragons in the world.
There are 3 ways to enter the temple. You can climb a flight of steps not far from the dragon’s mouth, enter from the dragon’s mouth. Or seek permission to drive into the temple perched on a hill.
Since it was a week day, the temple priest allowed us to drive in. For the adventurous, you can enter from the dragons mouth with a fee of RM5 and exit from its tail at the top of the hill.
The belly of the dragon is transcript with philosophies from the book Tao Te Ching which highlights the teachings of Taoism.
The temple receives direct sunlight at all angles, causing the inside of the dragon to feel like a furnace on a hot day. Be sure to have a bottle of water with you and a hand fan to stay cool.
Its premise comprise of a place of worship, the Jurassic park that pays homage to large dinosaurs, deities, statues and the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac.
13. Have Faith in the Century Old Jambatan Gantung Kolong Pahat
7 hanging bridges connect the rural (or kampung) area of Sungai Lembing to the opposite side of the town area.
These bridges are said to be more than 100 years old and are still actively used by the community today.
Measuring 50 meters in length each, we crossed-over the suspension bridge outside the underground tunnel which led us to a sumptuous meal of dry noodles and smooth egg custard dessert (tau fu fah).
14. Eat Blue Pea Tau Fu Fah and Home Made Dry Noodles
Unlike the conventional white and can sugar (gula Melaka) tau fu fah synonymous to KL and PJ, Sungai Lembing’s blue pea tau fu fah is not just a pretty sight. But delightfully refreshing too!
The blue pea flower lends an aromatic floral hint complemented by its super silky texture that’s hard to rival.
Doubling as a noodle factory, the workers at Mee Sungai Lembing can be seen kneading and putting the dough into a molding machine to make homemade yellow noodles.
The noodles are then cooked and served with a savory sweet sauce and pork balls.
This is a great place to pick up biscuits, confectionary or even buy their noodles as culinary souvenirs for your loved ones back home.
Address: C4, Jalan Kuantan, Sungai Lembing, 26200 Sungai Lembing, Pahang
Operating Hours: 8.30am – 3pm
Contact: 019-917 1688
Verdict
Sungai Lembing is a laid-back town with so much tourism potential yet to be optimized. Its rustic charm, slow-paced life, scenic geological landscapes, and friendly locals are endearing to tourists.
Urbanisation is at least half an hour’s drive away in Kuantan town, whereby the local folk rise early and gather at the only hawker store to chat and idle their day away.
There isn’t a clinic, veterinary, pharmacy, or established convenience store within its single street.
It’s a testament that the simple life embraced by the community is a healthy practice. Furthermore, detoxing digitally is therapeutic and natural here with no man-made entertainment.
If only the government could invest in maintaining the infrastructure and making their attractions available at all times, despite seasonal challenges and weather.
However, if you’re looking for a getaway to embrace simplicity and marvel at mother nature’s wonder, Sungai Lembing offers a slice of much-needed rejuvenation.
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