Bentong, a small town in Pahang, Malaysia, is a hidden gem that offers a variety of activities for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or adventurous getaway, Bentong has something for everyone. With its lush greenery, scenic waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage, Bentong is a must-visit destination for travelers in Malaysia.
One of the top attractions in Bentong is the Chamang Waterfall. This picturesque waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can picnic by the waterfall or dip in the cool waters. Another popular activity in Bentong is exploring its rich cultural heritage. The Bentong Gallery is a great place to learn about the town’s history and culture. At the same time, the Tibetan Buddhist Temple offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to meditate and reflect.
For those seeking adventure, Bentong also offers a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can go on a jungle trek, explore the Bentong Hot Springs, or take a scenic bike ride through the town’s winding roads. With its proximity to Kuala Lumpur, Bentong is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip. Bentong has something for everyone whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or seek adventure.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Bentong is a beautiful destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in the great outdoors. Here are some of the top nature and outdoor activities to try in Bentong.
Waterfalls
Bentong is home to several breathtaking waterfalls that are worth visiting. Among the most popular are Chamang Waterfall, Lentang Waterfall, and Chiling Waterfall. Chamang Waterfall is particularly impressive, with its cascading waters and beautiful surroundings. Visitors can swim in the cool waters or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Chamang Hot Springs
The Chamang Hot Springs is a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and relax. The natural hot springs have healing properties, and visitors can soak in the warm waters while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
ATV Rides
For those seeking a bit of adventure, ATV rides are a great option. FJ ATV Park in Janda Baik offers a range of ATV tours, with different routes and terrains to suit all experience levels. Visitors can explore the rugged terrain and enjoy the fresh air while having fun on the ATVs.
Overall, Bentong offers a wealth of nature and outdoor activities for visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing soak in the hot springs or an adrenaline-fueled ATV ride, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful destination.
Food and Dining
Durian Feasts
Bentong is famous for its durian, and visitors can indulge in durian feasts at various stalls and restaurants throughout the town. Durian is a unique fruit with a strong odor and taste, often described as an acquired taste. Some popular places to try durian in Bentong include:
- Jimmy’s Durian Orchard
- Bentong Walk Durian Stall
Bentong Morning Market
The Bentong Morning Market is a bustling market that opens early in the morning and sells fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. The market is a great place to sample local delicacies and street food, such as:
- Curry noodles
- Popiah (spring rolls)
- Apam balik (pancake with peanut filling)
- Kuih (traditional Malay cakes)
Bentong Soy Sauce
Bentong Soy Sauce is a local specialty that is made using traditional methods and natural ingredients. The soy sauce is aged in large earthenware jars for several months, giving it a rich, complex flavor. Visitors can learn about the soy sauce-making process at the Bentong Soy Sauce Factory, and purchase bottles of soy sauce to take home as a souvenir.
In addition to these local specialties, Bentong has various restaurants and cafes serving international cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Western. Visitors can also find vegetarian and halal options at many local eateries.
Art and Culture
Bentong Gallery
Bentong Gallery is a must-visit location for art lovers in Bentong. The gallery showcases the works of local artists and artists from other parts of the country. Visitors can browse various art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media art. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions and workshops, allowing visitors to engage with the local art scene.
Bentong Street Art Murals
Bentong is home to several street art murals that are worth checking out. These murals are located throughout the town and are a great way to explore the area. Visitors can take a walking tour of the murals and learn about the stories behind each piece. The murals feature a range of styles, from traditional to modern, and cover a variety of themes, including nature, culture, and history.
Colmar Tropicale Japanese Village
Colmar Tropicale is a unique attraction in Bentong that offers visitors a glimpse into Japanese culture. The village is set in a lush tropical rainforest with several classic Japanese attractions, including a teahouse and tatami suite. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the landscaping, and learn about the art of Zen. In addition, the village hosts regular cultural events like tea ceremonies and flower arrangement workshops.
Bentong is a town that values art and culture; visitors can see this reflected in the range of attractions available. From the Bentong Gallery to the Japanese Village, there is something for everyone who appreciates art and culture. Whether interested in industrial design, wall art, or kimono, you will surely find something that catches your eye in Bentong.
Entertainment and Leisure
Bilut Extreme Park
For those seeking adventure, Bilut Extreme Park is a great option. It offers various activities such as ATV rides, paintball, and archery. Visitors can also go on jungle treks and river tubing.
There are several ways to book these activities and attractions. Visitors can book through Viator or directly with the attraction. Shuttle bus services are also available to transport visitors to and from the attractions. Prices vary depending on the activity and attraction. Visitors are advised to check the booking data and prices before making reservations.
Visitors should also be aware of the monkeys in some of the attractions. While they can be entertaining to watch, visitors are advised not to feed them or get too close as they can be aggressive.
Transportation and Logistics
Getting around Bentong is relatively easy thanks to the various transportation options available. Here are some of the most popular ways to get around in Bentong:
Shuttle Bus
Shuttle buses are a popular mode of transportation in Bentong. These buses operate on set routes and schedules, making it easy for visitors to get around the city. The local government runs the shuttle bus service, and the buses are clean, comfortable, and affordable. Visitors can purchase tickets at the bus station or on board the bus.
The shuttle bus service is an excellent option for tourists who want to explore the city’s main attractions. The buses stop at popular tourist spots like the Japanese Village, Bentong Walk, and the Chamang Waterfall. Visitors can also take the shuttle bus to the Bentong Bus Terminal to catch a bus to other destinations in Malaysia.
The shuttle bus service is a convenient and affordable way to get around Bentong. Visitors can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride while enjoying the city’s sights and sounds.
Private Car
For visitors who prefer more flexibility and privacy, renting a car is a great option. Bentong has several car rental companies, and visitors can choose from a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Renting a car allows visitors to explore Bentong at their own pace. They can visit off-the-beaten-path attractions and take scenic drives through the city’s countryside. Visitors should note that driving in Bentong can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with Malaysian roads. Therefore, having a valid driver’s license and following traffic rules and regulations is essential.
Taxi
Taxis are another popular mode of transportation in Bentong. Visitors can hail a taxi on the street or book one through a ride-hailing app like Grab. Taxis are convenient and can take visitors to their destinations quickly.
However, visitors should note that taxi fares in Bentong can be expensive, especially for longer journeys. Therefore, it’s essential to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi to avoid any misunderstandings.
Conclusion
Overall, Bentong has various transportation options to suit every visitor’s needs. For example, visitors can easily explore the city’s attractions from shuttle buses to private cars and taxis. In addition, visitors should choose the mode of transportation that best suits their needs and budget, and always be mindful of traffic rules and regulations.
