Meet Pahang, Malaysia’s third-largest state. Known for its stunning landscapes and impeccable charm, Pahang is one place in Malaysia no tourist should miss. Where you’ll find illustrious destinations worthy of being painted in every picture book, you’ll also be surprised to see a rich culture and lovely locals. But let’s talk about the one thing that excites every thrill seeker: hiking. Here’s everything you need to know about hiking in Pahang.

Why Pahang?

There’s no doubt that Malaysia is home to several stunning destinations, each more attractive than the last. But if there’s one place that’s simply built for hiking, it’s Pahang. Pahang is rich in natural wonders, like pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, dramatic scenery, and mighty, luscious cliffs. It’s also filled to the brim with adventure, making it the best spot for any thrill seeker. Oh, but if you’re worried about traversing its trails for the first time, don’t worry; there are plenty of beginner-friendly hiking trails in Pahang.

If you’re inexperienced, you can consult local tour companies and they’ll guide you. Most hiking trails in Pahang are easy enough to follow if you’ve got a detailed map. However, we recommend following local guidelines and equipping yourself with the best recommended gear to hike safely.

Best  Hiking Trails for Beginners in Pahang

You’ll find plenty of hiking trails in Pahang, but only some are beginner-friendly. Most of these hikes are easy and relatively simple, so you can start the trails with minimal effort. Of course, it’s still important to ensure you follow all safety guidelines, but the best thing about hiking in Pahang is that you’re safe. Here are some of the best hiking trails for beginners in Pahang:

Mossy Forest at Cameron Highlands

A luscious thicket of dense, green forestry, Cameron Highlands in Pahang, has several exciting hiking opportunities for beginners. But Mossy Forest truly beats the rest. Mossy Forest has one of the most unique hiking trails because of its diverse natural landscape; the area is a nature preserve where thick, green moss blankets the ground, creating a soft area. The trail itself is easy, compared to the muddy drive up, but the boardwalk has been designed to facilitate beginner hikers and is relatively easy and fun to explore. It takes roughly an hour and goes up to 2000m above sea level to traverse Mossy Forest, but it’s well worth the trip.

Gunung Brinchang at Cameron Highlands

While Mossy Forest takes you to the relatively simpler part of the Cameron Highlands, this one takes it up a notch by welcoming you to Gunung Brinchang, the second-highest peak in Cameron Highlands. Naturally, Gunung Brinchang is comparatively challenging because of the ascent, but it’s still a fun and beginner-friendly hike. In fact, the hike is so easy that most hikers can easily make it by using maps. The new trail begins at the entrance of the town of Brinchang, where you’ll even find a board marking the entrance. Here, it’s a steep and muddy, although marked, hike that takes you over 400 meters of elevation. The hike totals an hour and thirty minutes before you reach the top and find yourself staring at the stunning views ahead.

Bukit Raka at Bentong

This is one of the more challenging hikes, mainly due to the peak, but it’s one you’ll love. Bukit Raka has two trails, namely A and B. A is a steep, rocky outcrop, so it’s not one we’d recommend to beginners, but B is rock-less and perfect for anyone new to hiking. If you’re heading to Bukit Raka Trail B, you’ll experience an elevation gain of over 400 meters. It’ll also take you roughly 4 hours to complete the hike. Travellers who are experienced hikers usually go up the Trail A and come back by Trail B, but we advise not taking the risk without a tour guide. It’s also inadvisable to do it the other way around because only experienced climbers can go down the steep rocks of Trail A.

Tasik Hijau at Bukit Ibam

A short hike from Tasik Biru (the Blue Lake), Tasik Hijau (The Green Lake) is made for naturalists. While traversing the fairly easy hike, you’re also getting a glimpse into Malaysian natural gems, so it’s definitely worth the effort. The best part is swimming; the lake gets its bright green colour from a mix of minerals, so you can soak and bask in their glow. There are also fishing spots nearby. The hike takes less than an hour, is easy, and is open 24 hours. If you’d like, you can make your way to Tasik Biru as well; since it practically offers the same benefits, is equally mesmerising, and worth the hike back. Most tourists like to make a whole trip out of the two, which usually takes them a couple of hours, but it becomes a fun place to picnic and watch the sunset.

Pine Tree Trail at Bukit Fraser

Lastly, we’ve got the Pine Tree Trail, one of the most popular ones in Pahang. In fact, if you ask locals, they’re most likely to recommend this one to you, because while it is certainly a bit challenging, it’s also one of the few thrilling spots even beginners can take. Pine Tree Trail lies in Bukit Fraser, so you’re going to feast on thick bushes and immerse yourself in greenery like never before. Hikers who have tread the Pine Tree Trail compare it to a roller coaster; some parts are easy, while others require more caution, but you’re safe as long as you’re following the recommended guidelines and have anti-slip soles on. We recommend getting a pair of thick gloves because, although easy, the rocks can be slippery, and you might slip or cut yourself. But once you’ve crossed that part, you’re safe to tread. It’s one of the longest hikes we’ve got on the list, and can easily take up to 4-7 hours to complete, so ensure you’re stocked up on food and water.

If you’re new to hiking, Pahang is a great place to start. The trails here aren’t too hard, and you still get to see some amazing views and nature. Whether it’s catching the sunrise or walking through the cool air of Mossy Forest, there’s something for everyone. Just pick a trail that suits your pace, wear comfy shoes, and bring enough water. Most of all, enjoy the walk and take your time.

For more information about the attractions and activities, you can visit Tourism Pahang Malaysia.