Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Fraser's Hill, Pahang - Quiet Getaway

Posing at Fraser's Hill entrance
Our journey took us from Raub (RAUB PAHANG MUSANG KING) to Fraser's Hill, a place I had never visited before. Located in Pahang, this hill station has a rich history. It was named after Louis James Fraser, a Scottish trader who discovered it in the late 1800s. After his mysterious disappearance in the early 1900s, the area remained abandoned until 1917 when British official J. Ferguson-Davie rediscovered it and saw its potential as a peaceful retreat.

In its prime, Fraser's Hill became a popular escape for British colonists looking to escape the heat of the lowlands. They built homes, a golf course, and other leisure spots, transforming the area into a relaxing getaway. I’ve heard stories from friends who stayed in company bungalows left behind by their employer, a foreign-based company with ties to the area. When we visited Fraser's Hill on that weekday, it felt like utter silence - quiet, with only a few Western tourists strolling around.

Fraser's Hill information poster
Accommodation
We hadn’t booked accommodation in advance, but a quick online search led us to Wyndham Garden Shahzan Fraser's Hill. We opted for adjoining rooms with connecting doors. While the furniture and décor felt a bit outdated, the rooms were clean and comfortable. We were content. The best part was the balcony, offering a stunning view of the surrounding nature - perfect for unwinding.
Lobby of Wyndham Garden Shahzan Fraser's Hill

Hotel lobby at Wyndham Garden Shahzan Fraser's Hill
Clock Tower
One of the first sights visitors see upon arriving in Fraser’s Hill is the clock tower. Built in 1989, this Tudor-style clock tower is hard to miss and a must-experience landmark. It’s a small but meaningful reminder of the area’s colonial past. Situated in the town center, it still works and is covered in ivy and flowers. Over the years, it has become a cherished symbol of Fraser’s Hill, welcoming visitors while reflecting its history. Standing there and taking photos, you can almost feel the significance of the clock tower, taking you back to the colonial days.
Fraser's Hill clock tower
Bird Watching
Fraser's Hill is renowned for bird watching, and it’s easy to understand why. Even at the clock tower, signs encourage visitors to enjoy the local birdlife. The area is teeming with birds, and even if you're not actively looking for them, you'll notice them flying around. During our stay, we could hear birds from our room balcony in the early morning and late evening. Their chirping and flight added to the feeling of calmness and serenity, reminding us that nature holds the key to peace.
Fraser's Hill bird poster


Jerian Waterfall
While driving through Fraser’s Hill, we stumbled upon Jerian Waterfall. Tucked away on the winding roads, a short 10-minute walk from the parking area led us to this hidden gem. There were a few people there as part of a team-building activity, but it still felt like a peaceful escape. The clear water, the surrounding trees, and the birds made it an ideal spot to unwind and reconnect with nature. As someone who resonates deeply with water therapy, watching the cascading waterfall was truly refreshing.
A visitor standing near Jerian Waterfall at Fraser's Hill


(A calm and relaxing view of cascading water at Jerian Waterfall)


(Serene surroundings at Jerian Waterfall, nestled in Fraser's Hill)
Tea Break

For a tea break (PENANG FOOD GUIDE: WHERE & WHAT TO EAT), we randomly discovered Aida Daniya Restaurant & English Teahouse, perched high on the hill. The café offered an incredible view, and we enjoyed a meaningful high tea with sandwiches, tea, and a molten lava cake. Although it was a bit pricey, the serene setting and delicious food made the experience worth it. Before leaving, we spent a few minutes taking in the panoramic view of Fraser’s Hill from above.

Cafe ambiance in Fraser's Hill

English tea set at a café in Fraser's Hill

Sandwich set meal served during tea break in Fraser's Hill

Molten lava cake served at the café in Fraser's Hill

Bye-Bye Fraser's Hill

The hotel’s buffet breakfast wasn’t anything extraordinary, but it was satisfying, and the curry mee was surprisingly sensational. By 9:30 am, we packed up, ready to explore other places along the way.

Curry mee dish from the hotel buffet breakfast

Buffet breakfast choices at the hotel
Fraser’s Hill isn’t about big attractions or bustling activities. It’s a retreat - a place to escape city life. Whether you’re walking the narrow trails or simply breathing in the cool, fresh air, Fraser's Hill offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Bishop’s Trail poster at Fraser’s Hill

(Ms. Nava, a spirited Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the vibrant age of 58. With over 22 years as a lecturer, including at Curtin University’s Degree Twinning Program, she dreams of traveling 365 days a year. However, she embarks on her enchanting 'Zen Journeys' whenever her yoga instruction, coaching, and counseling profits allow her to).





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