Hotels in Sungai Lembing

Sungai Lembing is known as a tin mining town in Kuantan District, Pahang. In Malay, ‘lembing’ is defined as a spear and ‘sungai’ means river. According to the folklore, the then local ruler saw a vision of a spear in the nearby river and thus named his town after this vision. The town was a major producer of underground tin until the 1860s. It was started to be developed during the 1880s when the British set up the tin mining industry. The Pahang Consolidated Company Limited, (PCCL), which was under British control, had a 120 -year lease to mine the area from 1891. Until the world tin prices collapsed, PCCL managed the mine from 1906 until its liquidation in 1986. However, in 1986, the pit mines were closed due to high operational costs and low yields.

Although Sungai Lembing was once the richest town in Pahang, today the town is not like what it used to be. much of the rainforest surrounding the area has been cleared to make way for a palm oil plantation since 2014.

How to Get There

If you opt for a bus ride, Etika Express operates a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Sungai Lembing 4 times a day. Tickets cost RM 25 and the journey takes 3 h 5 min. Plusliner also services this route 4 times a day. Taking a taxi would cost around RM 400 to RM 500 one way. The journey would take around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Driving would be the most convenient way to reach Sungai Lembing. From Kuala Lumpur, drive through Karak Highway to Kuantan. Take exit at Kuantan interchange and follow the Jalan Sungai Lembing to your destination.

Tourist Attractions

Sungai Lembing Museum

In line with its one-time status as the world’s largest subterranean mine, Sungai Lembing Museum serves to disseminate information as well as display evidence of the celebrated history of tin mining. The museum building was formerly the residence of managers of tin mining companies in Sungai Lembing, from the Pahang Corporation Limited (1887-1906) through to the glorious heyday of the Pahang Consolidated Company Limited (PCCL), from the years 1906-1986. Visitors will be able to buy souvenirs at the D’Mine Shoppe handled by the museum staff. This store offers all sorts of souvenirs such as mugs, watches, caps, t-shirts, tin products and historical books relating to Sungai Lembing.

Charas Cave

Located about 25km north-west of Kuantan, Charas Cave is a temple cave found in a limestone hill. Charas Cave lies at the foot of the imposing 1000 m high Panching Hill and is clearly visible from the road leading towards Sungei Lembing town. It is a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Their symbols and statues are dotted around the interior of this vast cavern. A visitor needs to climb about 100 cemented steps to reach the lower cave. It is lighted up and houses a statue of sleeping Buddha. The temple is open to visitors from 8.30 am to 6 pm daily.

Berkelah Falls

The waterfalls are located about 31 to 35 km away from Kuantan City in the direction of Maran. According to official data from the Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia, it consists of seven tiers. The waterfalls were named after ‘ikan kelah’ a species of fish that was once thought to be in abundance in the river, but the population has recently declined due to loss of habitat. There are campsites at the first tier where many tourists camp overnight. An increase of people visiting the area is due to the upgraded roads leading to the falls. Nevertheless, the general cleanliness of the area and quality of the pools is perfect for swimming and having fun.

Hotels

Casa Hill Resort

The resort is very easy to find since it is strategically positioned close to public facilities. Providing a wide range of facilities and great service quality, this accommodation certainly makes you feel at home. Wi-Fi is available within public areas of the property to help you to stay connected with family and friends. Have fun with various entertaining facilities for you and the whole family at Casa Hill Resort.

Yee Tai Café & Inn

With its great hospitality and affordable price, staying at Yee Tai Cafe & Inn is a good choice when you are visiting Sungai Lembing. This inn is within a 15-minute walk of Sungai Lembing Museum and Sungai Lembing Mines. It features a snack bar and rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi access. Free public parking spaces are available at a nearby location. You may hire a bicycle to explore the surrounding area or rent barbecue facilities to enjoy their own grilled delights.