Bentong is a small town in Pahang that many people from Kuala Lumpur escape to for a quick weekend trip. It’s less than an hour away by car, but once you arrive, the pace feels slower, more relaxed, and a lot more local. The town itself is known for its food (especially wantan mee, tau fu pok, and ginger), fruit farms, as well as its nearby hot springs and waterfalls.
I combined the trip with a visit to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, which is just a short drive away. Spending the morning learning about rescued elephants and then heading into town for lunch and an overnight stay made the whole outing feel more worthwhile.
That’s the nice thing about Bentong — it’s not just about the town itself, but also the surrounding countryside, farms, and nature spots that make for an easy and enjoyable weekend escape.
Bentong at a glance
Geography
Bentong sits on the western side of Pahang, close to the border with Selangor, and is surrounded by rolling hills and forest reserves. The town lies along the old trading route connecting the west coast with the highlands, which explains why it has long been a rest stop for travelers and traders.
The nearby Titiwangsa mountain range gives the area slightly cooler mornings and evenings compared to Kuala Lumpur, and rivers like Sungai Perting and Sungai Bentong cut through the landscape, providing fertile soil for agriculture.
History
Historically, Bentong developed in the late 19th century during the tin mining boom.
It attracted Chinese settlers who worked the mines and later established shophouses, markets, and temples that still stand today.
Malay villagers in the surrounding kampungs were mainly farmers and traders, contributing to the town’s mixed economy.
Over time, Bentong became known not only for mining but also for its agricultural products — especially ginger, which remains one of the town’s trademarks.
Today, the town has grown into a mix of old and new, balancing heritage shophouses with modern shops and small industries.
Population
Today, its population of around 118,000 is made up of mainly Malays and Chinese, with smaller Indian and indigenous communities. Malay and Mandarin are widely spoken, along with Cantonese and Hokkien dialects.
English is understood by some, especially younger people. Islam is the majority religion, but just like in most other places in Malaysia, you’ll also find Buddhist and Taoist temples, Hindu shrines, and churches scattered around town.
Best time to go to Bentong
Bentong is hot and humid year-round, but the mornings and evenings are cooler because of the surrounding hills. The rainy season is usually from October to January, so if you’re planning outdoor activities like waterfalls or hot springs, it’s better to visit from February to September.
Weekends are busier with city folks coming for short breaks, so if you want a quieter experience, try weekdays.
How to get to Bentong
The easiest way to reach Bentong is by car from Kuala Lumpur. It’s about 60–70 km away via the Karak Highway and usually takes about an hour if traffic is light.
Public transport options are limited; there are few direct buses from KL to Bentong. Alternatively, you can take a bus heading to Temerloh and ask to be dropped off near Bentong. Then, take a Grab or local taxis once you’re there.
How to get around in Bentong
Bentong is small enough to explore on foot if you’re staying in town, especially around the old market and food streets.
For places outside the center, like the hot springs, durian farms, or Chamang Waterfall, you’ll need a car or motorbike. Grab is available but not always consistent, so it’s better to arrange transport in advance. Talk to a taxi driver and ask if you can hire them for a day. Or check if your hotel can arrange one for you.
Things to do in Bentong
1. Discover street art
Just like in many other Malaysian towns, wandering the quirky street art murals in Bentong is one of the fun ways to enjoy the city. These interactive murals showcase slices of Bentong’s heritage, like durian selling scenes and a cart full of giant gingers. They are perfect for imaginative photos, where you’re invited to become part of the art.
Look for murals along side-streets like Jalan Chui Yin, Jalan Loke Yew, and Jalan Ah Peng. Try to avoid peak times when cars might block your shots.
2. Explore the morning market
Start your day early and dive into Bentong’s Pasar Pagi (morning market), a lively stretch of stalls running along the main street. You’ll find everything from fresh fish, meats, and vegetables to soy sauce, tofu puffs, and local snacks. Roti canai here is a popular must-try.
The atmosphere is buzzing with vendors calling greetings and buyers comparing prices. Come between 5am and 10am on Sundays for peak energy, but don’t wait too long, as some produce and food items wind down by late morning.
3. Splash at Chamang Waterfall
Just a short drive from town, Chamang Waterfall is a 24-meter cascade tucked in the rainforest. You can cool off in its wading pools, cross the suspension bridge for a bit of fun, or simply relax with a picnic by the river.
While the falls are generally family-friendly, the flowing water can be strong, and deeper areas may be risky, especially after rain. Stick to the wading pools if you’re with kids, and always watch for slippery rocks or whirlpools.
4. Unwind at the hot springs
Bentong and its surrounding areas are home to natural hot springs, where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters after a day of exploring. It’s a relaxing way to slow down, and the calm pools make a nice contrast to the more active things to do around town.
Head to Kolam Air Panas Bentong to soak like a local, chat with them, and do a bit of people-watching. But if you prefer something more private and comfortable, some local accommodations like ēRYA by Suria integrate hot spring access.
5. Engage with nature at the Bentong Farm
The Bentong Farm is a family-friendly eco-tourism spot just 10 minutes from town center, offering hands-on fun with over 100 species of animals, from goats and rabbits to giant tortoises and koi, plus feeding and petting opportunities.
Of all the petting zoos and recreational farms I’ve been to in Malaysia, I think this one is the biggest, most organized, and most complete.
6. Stroll through the night market
By evening, Bentong Walk turns into a Saturday night market alive with street food, handmade crafts, and local performances. It’s a mixed hub of shopping and entertainment. Great for casually browsing souvenirs or grabbing some local snacks.
The vibe is laid-back but buzzing at the same time, with locals and visitors mingling along the street. It’s only open on Saturday nights, so if you want the full Bentong experience, that’s the night to go.
7. Savor local food
Some of the local must-tries in Bentong are wantan mee (springy noodles with handmade dumplings), tau fu pok (stuffed tofu), and yong tau foo (tofu or vegetables stuffed with fish paste, served with broth or thick sauce).
The morning market is a good place to start. You’ll find plenty of fresh, local flavors being served up early in the day.
Outside the market, the town has a good mix of options. You can grab yong tau foo or a plate of wantan mee at an old-school coffee shop, or sit down to a simple meal at a family-run restaurant by the river.
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without tasting the local ice cream made with fresh ingredients, or take home some tau fu fah (soybean pudding) for the road. Eating your way through Bentong (and the whole of Malaysia) is as much a part of the experience as seeing the sights.
8. Tour a soy sauce factory
Check out Kicap Bentong, a family-run soy sauce brand that’s been around since 1980. Their factory on Jalan Utama in the Bentong industrial area is where the magic happens. They use non-GMO soybeans, mineral salt, and certified water to create a soy sauce that’s rich and full of flavor, using traditional fermentation methods but meeting modern standards.
A visit here gives you a peek behind the scenes of how soy sauce is made, from choosing the ingredients to the long fermentation process. You’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the condiment that’s a staple in any Malaysian family home.
9. Roam a durian orchard & sample Malaysians' favorite fruit
If you visit around June to August, Bentong’s durian orchards are well worth a visit. Some farms around Bentong, like Bloopy Bentong Durians and LKE Green Tech Farm allow you to taste the fruits straight from the tree.
This is durian at its freshest. Creamy, rich, and aromatic. Even if you’re not a fan of the smell, watching how locals enjoy durian rituals can be a cultural highlight.
10. Buy Bentong ginger and ginger-based products
Bentong is particularly famous for its ginger — pungent, rich-tasting produce grown in its highland soils. Many local stores and stalls, like at the morning market, offer a wide range of ginger goods, from fresh ginger roots to ginger powder.
Don’t miss specialty items like old ginger tea and ginger concentrates, many crafted for health and flavor. These make great souvenirs or kitchen staples, especially if you value the warming, wellness qualities ginger is known for.
Where to stay in Bentong
You can base yourself right in Bentong town if you want easy access to the morning market, street food, and local attractions. This is the most convenient option if you don’t have your own car, since you’ll be within walking distance of shops and eateries.
We stayed at Hotel Kristal, a budget hotel that offers decent rooms for its price.
Other top-rated budget hotels within 3 km of Bentong Town:
- One World Lodging
- Tras Mutiara Hotel Bentong
- Winn’s Hotel Bentong
- GPI Hotel Bentong
- Yes Luxury Hotel
- Tumike Hotel Bentong
There are also plenty of homestays if you travel with family or in larger groups. If you don’t mind staying a little further out, there are options in the surrounding hills like Berjaya Hills, Janda Baik, or the forest resorts along the Karak Highway.
These places give you cooler air, a more nature-focused environment, and often bigger resorts or villas with facilities like hot springs and pools. They’re mostly only about 30 minutes’ drive from Bentong town, so with just a little extra time and effort, you can still enjoy the best of both worlds.
How long to stay in Bentong
A weekend (2 days, 1 night) or even a day trip can be enough to see the main highlights, eat your way through the markets, and visit a waterfall or orchard. If you’re planning a slower trip with more nature or hot spring visits, 2 nights would be more relaxed.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1
Morning
- Drive from KL to Bentong (around 1 hour via Karak Highway).
- Stop at Bentong Morning Market – explore stalls, buy Bentong ginger products, try local breakfast like wantan mee or curry noodles.
- Take a short stroll to check out Bentong Street Art around Jalan Chui Yin.
Afternoon
- Visit the Soy Sauce Factory to learn about traditional soy sauce making.
- Lunch in town – try famous Bentong dishes such as yong tau foo or wantan mee.
- Head to The Bentong Farm for animal feeding and eco-tourism fun (great if you’re traveling with kids or want something relaxing).
Evening
- Dinner at a local restaurant.
- If it’s a Saturday, go to Bentong Walk Night Market for food, souvenirs, and street performances.
Day 2
Morning
- Early breakfast, then drive to Chamang Waterfall for a refreshing dip or picnic.
Afternoon
- Have lunch in town.
- Spend a couple of hours at the hot springs. Perfect way to wind down.
Evening
Head back to Kuala Lumpur. You’ll reach before dinner.
Day 3 (optional)
If you stay an extra night, you can:
- Visit a durian orchard during season (June–August) for Musang King tasting.
- Do a relaxed day trip to Bukit Tinggi (30 minutes from Bentong) for Japanese Village, Botanical Garden, and Colmar Tropicale.
Additional tips for visiting
- If you’re visiting for food, start your day early. The morning market and some local coffee shops wind down by late morning.
- Durian season is peak time, so book accommodation in advance.
- Some attractions, like Chamang Waterfall, may close during or after heavy rain for safety reasons.
- Cash is still needed at the market and small eateries, though larger shops accept e-wallets.
Final thoughts
Bentong doesn’t have the flashy attractions of bigger towns. Instead, it’s a place to slow down, eat well, and enjoy a mix of nature and small-town culture just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur. If you’re looking for an easy weekend getaway that offers good food, relaxation, and a bit of outdoor adventure, Bentong is a solid choice.
Enjoyed this guide to Bentong and want more ideas for your next trip? Check out the rest of the blog for destination guides, travel tips, and personal stories from the road.
