Well you’ve probably heard of this Malaysian town in Pahang’s western region if you are a food lover. The Municipal Council of Government of Bentong was established with the authority granted by the constitution. By road, it serves as a gateway to the East Coast States and borders Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. Bentong City has been designated as the country’s first “Fresh Air Lung Washing” destination, thanks to the construction of a dual highway on the city’s original main street.
Bentong, a tranquil village in Pahang’s western coast, is a welcome respite for city dwellers in the Klang Valley. Bentong, located on the Titiwangsa Range, which forms the backbone of the Malay Peninsula, has been dubbed the “Fresh Air Lung Washing” destination because of its proximity to the mountain range. Bentong can be visited in a single day or a two-day, one-night tour. It has become one of the popular places to visit in Pahang.
History of Bentong, Pahang
Built around the convergence of the Repas and Perting rivers, Bentong was home to a busy market that served as the town’s focal point, also a Pahang attraction. In the early 1900s, tin was found in both rivers, prompting the construction of a ridge by tin miners, which was named Ban Untung, which translates as ‘Profitable Ridge.’
Despite the fact that the town was originally known as Kapong, the phrase Ban Untung came to be used as more and more people associated the place with the ridge as time progressed. Ban Untung was eventually abbreviated to Bentong, as was the case with many other terms at the time.
In fact, before the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak destroyed all of Malaysia’s vacation and holiday plans, Bentong used to be a popular destination for riders from all over the country to gather and participate in a ride/convoy due to its geographical location, which is approximately 80 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur and sprawls for about 1,831 kilometers. Furthermore, the notorious Genting Highlands are located inside this region. It was doubted as the best weekend ride spot from the majority of riders around the country.
5 Top Attractions Places in Bentong, Pahang
1. Bentong Market, Famously Known As Pasar Besar Bentong
The wet market on Sunday mornings, which is located between Jalan Ah Peng and Jalan Chui Yin, has become fairly popular among the residents of the area. Pasar Besar Bentong is a pleasant area to take in the bustling morning atmosphere of Bentong while fitting in with the people’ daily routine.
There are not many stalls and they are all stretched out like there is no tomorrow for you to shop, but it has everything a morning market should have, like meat, fish, vegetables, fruits and dried goods, foods, and even clothes. Here you may purchase the world-famous Bentong ginger, Bentong Soy Sauce, as well as several other local products. Many people go from different states to Bukit Tinggi in order to obtain authentic Bentong ginger, which is farmed on farms in the area. Some people even pay a bit more for Bentong ginger powder than they would otherwise pay the normal ones.
Address: Jalan Chui Yin, 28700 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 5AM – 10AM
2. Colmar Tropicale, The French Theme Resort
This resort in Bukit Tinggi, which is around a 40-minute drive from the market, was inspired by the 16th-century Colmar Town in the south of France, and incorporates design and architectural aspects from Colmar and the nearby towns. Bukit Tinggi is a high-altitude resort where you may experience French cuisine, French architecture, and the refreshing breeze.
Additionally, the resort offers a variety of activities that do not necessitate staring at French-style architecture or indulging in French cuisine. There is a golf course, a botanical garden, and an equestrian center on the resort. There are even Starbucks up there where you can enjoy it at the right moment and perfect weather for a cup of coffee. Surely, these Bukit Tinggi attractions attract a lot of local people around Malaysia to put this on their list of “things to do in Pahang”.
Websites: colmartropicale.com.my
Address: KM 48 Persimpangan Bertingkat, Lebuhraya Karak, Bukit Tinggi, Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: 09-221 3666
3. Enjoy the Calmness of Flora & Fauna at Chamang Waterfalls
Chamang Waterfall, also known as Lover’s Waterfall, is without a doubt, People’s favorite attraction here in Bentong. Natural beauty and lush greenery surround this scenic view. It is also one of the reasons why you should go bentong, because of these wonderful waterfalls.
The Chamang Forest is located within the Bukit Tinggi Forest Reserve, which features the Chamang waterfall. People often have picnics on the flat ground and at the nearby wading pool. Make sure to be careful and keep an eye on kids, if any, as the waterfall itself is very powerful and the currents are furious.
Address: Search on Google for “Chamang Waterfalls” 28700 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia
Admission: FREE
4. Thong Kee Coffee Shop, Bentong Tourist Attraction
1-plus-one, Geng Chau Ping, and Kiam Si. It’s time to give Thong Kee Coffee Shop’s ridiculous combo a try if you haven’t already. A few years ago, Thong Kee established a branch in Pandan Indah KL and subsequently in Seapark PJ. The crowds are enormous, and it’s great to finally be available in the Bentong area! A good cup of coffee, as well as the aforementioned fancy combo, is necessary. The Hainanese butter kaya toast and the croissant butter kaya toast are also fa-must-try!
Just 5 minutes walk from the market. Straight ahead on the Bentong Walk road. Keep an eye out for a blue-and-white shop sign.
Websites: thongkee.com.my
Address: 4, Jalan Chui Yin, 28700 Bentong Town, Pahang
Opening Hours: 6AM – 5PM
5. Kicap Bentong Sdn Bhd, Soy Sauce Factory: Pahang Famous Place
One of the Pahang attractions, The Kicap Bentong Sdn Bhd facility is located in the Kawasan Perindustrian Bentong (Bentong Industrial Area). If you’re interested in learning more about the process of making soy sauce and other bean pastes and condiments, you can take a tour of the facility. By word of mouth, this exquisite soy sauce has gained a cult following beyond the locals. Bentong Market, roadside booths, and grocery stores all carry it.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kicapbentong
Address: Lot 27, Kawasan Industri Bentong, 28700 Bentong, Pahang
Opening Hours: 9AM – 6PM (closed on Sunday)
Contact: 012-606 2269
