Within Pahang is where you can find a small town and a district called Bentong. This district covers 1831 square kilometres of land. It is situated opposite the Titiwangsa Range and 80 kilometres northeast of Kuala Lumpur. To the west and south of this district are the States of Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, respectively.
Among the most popular tourist attractions are Bukit Tinggi and Genting Highlands. But, did you know that, in addition to its two highland destinations, there is a wide range of Bentong attractions? It is the location to get away from the constant honking of traffic and frantic city life!
History of Bentong
According to legends, Kapong was the previous name for Bentong. At that time, the market area at the meeting of the Repas and Perting Rivers served as the focal point of Bentong. Tin was found in both rivers, and this started becoming the centre of interest.
Tin miners constructed the Ban Ridge to mine ore and provide more profitable outputs. This incident gained notoriety and was referred to as Ban Untung by outsiders (Profitable Ridge).
Compared to Kapong, Ban Untung was supposed to be a more well-known term among the populace. The term Ban Untung later evolved into Bentong through time.
How long does it take to go to Bentong?
Travelling from KL to Bentong is simple! The journey only takes an hour from a busy city to a quiet, calm town with amiable residents. So if you are planning for a Bentong day trip with your friends, it won’t be a long ride!
Make sure you have enough balance in your Touch ‘n Go because the toll will cost you about RM12. The first thing you’ll notice in a typical car nowadays is how tiny the route is because it was designed for vehicles from a different era.
You’ll drive on a very winding path over the Titiwangsa mountain range because there are no tunnels on this route. Just take your own sweet time while cruising in the car to Bentong because you do not want to miss the beauty of nature in Bentong along the road.
Things to do and eat in Bentong
1. Yuen Kee Kopitiam
The first thought that would cross your mind if you start your journey early and arrive in Bentong early in the morning is what to eat in Bentong for breakfast.
We advise you to try Yuen Kee Kopitiam because the Ming Ji Wan Ton Noodle is chef’s kiss. They serve a large bowl of chewy noodles with crunchy wonton, one of Bentong’s most well-known dishes.
This restaurant also offers char siew, or barbecued pork, which is expertly seasoned and has a flavorful taste.
Address: 57, Jalan Chui Yin, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:00am – 9:00pm
Closed: Wednesday
2. Japanese Village
After filling up at Yuen Kee Kopitiam, you can go to one of the popular Bentong attractions — the Japanese Village. This village is a collection of Japan-themed attractions, a must-see for any admirer of Japanese culture.
The Japanese Village is perched atop a hill near Bentong. For those who enjoy good food, this Japanese Restaurant serves delectable authentic Japanese cuisine.
The Japanese Tea House offers traditional Japanese tea ceremonies if you’re searching for a more traditional experience. Try your hand at feeding the koi in the neighbouring stream as well; it’s a very tranquil experience.
Address: KM 48, Persimpangan Bertingkat Lebuhraya Karak, Colmar Tropicale, Bukit Tinggi, 28750 Bentong, Pahang, 28750
Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday, 9:00am – 5:30pm
3. Chamang Waterfall
You have many options when it comes to picnics and leisure pursuits, and one of them is going to the Chamang Waterfall! Avoid going on the weekends because it is very crowded with Malaysians and tourists from other countries.
This waterfall in Bentong town is undoubtedly one of the most well-known. Bring some food with you to indulge in after a swim in the waterfall. Nonetheless, for your safety, stay away from the waterfall’s apex.
Address: 68, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
4. Lemang To’Ki
Trust us — you can’t miss this once you’re in Bentong! You must include Lemang To’ki on your list of “What to eat in Bentong”! After a swim at Chamang Waterfall, indulge your palate with a variety of genuine Malay cuisines at Lemang To’Ki.
As the name suggests, local tourists should definitely taste their lemang and rendang. They also serve ayam bakar, daging salai masak cili api, and patin tempoyak.
Address: Batu 2, Jalan Tras, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Closed: Monday
5. Kechara Forest Retreat
Did you know you can fulfil all your needs while experiencing a complete experience in a natural forest enclave? Kechara Forest Retreat provides the ultimate nature experience you won’t forget!
In the Tibetan tradition, people seeking spiritual enlightenment travel to Kechara Forest Retreat as a destination of pilgrimage.
Through spiritual retreats, education, and mindful living within an environmentally conscious community, it places a strong emphasis on the whole wellness of body, mind, and soul.
If you’re looking for peace of mind after a hectic week in the city, this is the best Bentong attraction you can visit.
Address: Lot 3189, Jalan Chamang, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm
6. Lentang Forest Recreational Park
Another thing to do in Bentong is to visit the Lentang Forest Recreational Park, which is another well-known Bentong attraction that provides stunning views of a river-cut rainforest setting.
If you’re taking a Bentong day trip, this area provides mountainous terrain perfect for jungle trekking and the chance to cool down in the Benus River. The park is traversed by the Benus River, which creates ponds, cascading streams, and even a waterfall off in the distance.
The Lentang Forest Recreational Park in Bentong is an ideal location for a serene setting to unwind or an exciting location to explore.
Address: Karak Expy, Lentang, Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: N/A
7. Gerai Durian Bentong
A visit to a durian stall is a must when you’re on a trip to Bentong! The most affordable tropical fruits from Malaysia are available at Gerai Durian Bentong.
If you are on an errand, you can either eat there or take several different sorts of durians home in a box. They also offer wholesale discounts if you want to buy some for your friends and family to enjoy at home!
Address: Kampung Chamang, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday, 9:00am – 6:00pm
Thursday, 9:00am – 6:30pm
8. Kedai Kopi Kow Po
After a hot day of exploring the outdoors, having some ABC at Kedai Kopi Kow Po is another classic for what to eat in Bentong.
The late Mr. Tan Soon Chuan founded this well-known ABC ice cream shop in Bentong more than 50 years ago, and his son Mr. Tan Kow Po inherited his business before passing it on to his sons.
It serves various flavours of ice-creams too so bring along your loved ones to enjoy some refreshments for the day.
Address: 2, Jalan Utama Bentong Height, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Click here to refer
9. Bentong Walk
Check out Bentong Walk, a night market, on a Saturday if you happen to be in the area during the weekend and are searching for things to do in Bentong.
You may take a stroll around this historic area, shop for unusual products, eat excellent food, experience amazing live performances, and view amazing art.
You can be sure to experience an authentic night market and fully take advantage of Bentong’s booming nightlife because Bentong Walk is only open on Saturday nights. You can also look for some souvenirs to bring home like the famous Bentong gingers and soy sauces!
Address: 92, Jalan Chui Yin, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Saturday, 5:30pm – 11:00pm
10. Satay Warisan Pak Chu
Dine on the greatest satays in town to round off your Bentong trip! Satay Warisan Pak Chu, which has been open for more than 29 years, deserves a visit whenever you’re in Bentong.
They have a variety of meat alternatives, such as chicken, beef, and lamb satay. In addition to the mouthwatering scent, the meat is cooked to perfection!
The meat’s spice is countered by the crunchy, sweet flavour of the peanut sauce. Make sure to eat at this hidden gem if you’re looking for what to eat in Bentong!
Address: Kampung Baru, 210, Jalan Tengku Ampuan Fatimah, Kampung Baru, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 5:30pm – 11:00pm
Drive with SOCAR
Together, let’s enjoy the beauty of Bentong, Pahang with SOCAR! SOCAR has got you covered if you need a vehicle to get you around Bentong attractions. You can commute daily for as little as RM6/per hour anywhere you want!
With the SOCAR car rental app, renting a car hourly, daily, weekly, or even monthly anywhere in Malaysia is a simple way to experience a flexible journey. Rent a car with SOCAR today!
