Most visitors start their explorations of Pahang state in the capital Kuantan, and the easiest way to get to this remote city is by air. Daily flights arrive and depart each day from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan’s small Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport, situated outside of Kuantan. Malaysia Airlines is the main carrier into Kuantan, but weekly flights are also provided by local carriers Firefly, Air Pelangi and Berjaya Air from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Brunei.

Kuantan’s airport is basic, but visitors will still find all the essential amenities they need to get started. Currency exchange offices, shops, and restaurants are ready to serve passengers. Outside the Baggage Claim area, visitors can hire a reasonably-priced taxi to take them to Kuantan or Cherating. Keep in mind that all passengers must pay a departure tax at the airport before flying.

If you are already in Kuala Lumpur or a neighbouring state of Malaysia, there is excellent bus service linking Kuantan and other main towns in Pahang with the rest of the country. With a new highway linking Kuantan and Kuala Lumpur, the bus ride takes just 3 hours, 30 minutes. Kuantan’s bus terminal is at Kompleks Makmur, and from here it’s easy to catch a taxi to your destination.

The new Karak Highway and East Coast Expressway make driving around Pahang a pleasure if you choose to rent a car and go at it alone. Motorbike rentals are another fun way to travel around Pahang if you prefer two wheels and fresh air.

There is limited boat service to this part of peninsular Malaysia. The main ferry port is in Mersing, which is just south of Pahang state in Johor state. Taxis are the best way to get around individual towns and can be hired for the day to do some sightseeing. Taxis are not metered however so be sure and agree on a rate before starting off. Kuantan’s downtown centre is best seen on foot.