Once a sleepy town, Raub comes alive on weekends and public holidays, attracting urbanites seeking a quiet weekend getaway from the city’s hustle. Even during weekdays, its rural riverside scenery maintains a calm, slow-paced vibe, making it a memorable Raub travel destination (PULAU KETAM SELANGOR TRIP).
Historically, Raub was a gold mining town in the late 19th century, named after a local term meaning “to scoop” or “to pan” for gold. During the British colonial era, it became one of Malaya’s key gold mining centers, bringing workers from various communities. As gold deposits ran out over time, the town shifted to agriculture, with rubber and durian plantations remaining an important part of Raub today.
Things to Do in Raub, Pahang
Raub Durians
Raub is famous for its durians, especially the prized Musang King. While Raub
durians are now found in cities across Malaysia, nothing beats eating them
right by the roadside in Raub—fresh from the farm, opened on the spot, hands
getting messy, and eaten immediately.
Big, creamy,
juicy, with a rich golden-yellow color. Eating durians here is cheaper, and the
taste cannot be beaten. This is the heritage of Raub durians.
It does not have to be in Raub itself. Along the route in Tras, roadside stalls sell durians too. Some are meant for transport to the cities, while small cottage industries remove the flesh and repack it. Still, Raub durians remain the top-selling and most sought-after durians in Malaysia.
In Raub, all attractions are connected to nature, which is the main reason people visit. Walking through the countryside and along trails in the surrounding areas, which can be known as the Raub Heritage Walk, passes hills, rivers, streams, and lakes.
The route can
pass by small villages, where locals greet people with smiles and share stories
about Raub’s simple lifestyle, whether in farming, durian plantations, or
rubber tapping. Much of Raub’s nature is found in its mountains, forests,
rivers, and lakes.
Gunung Benom
Gunung Benom, one of the highest peaks in Pahang, is popular among hikers and
mountain climbers. The hiking trail passes through mostly untouched rainforest
and leads to a summit with panoramic views of the forest and hills. These views
stretch in every direction, showing the vastness of the surrounding wilderness.
Sungai Relau
Waterfall
Sungai Relau Waterfall is a short drive from Raub town and a quiet spot for
picnics and family outings. Can swim in the clear water, and the green
surroundings provide a relaxing environment. Fresh air and sunlight make Sungai
Relau Waterfall suitable for resting and unwinding.
Taman Tasik
Raub (Raub Lake Park)
Taman Tasik Raub is a small park in town, suitable for walking, light exercise,
or a picnic. The calm lake is surrounded by trees and hills, making it a quiet
nature retreat.
Lata Berembun
Waterfall
Lata Berembun Waterfall is a calm spot surrounded by thick greenery. The water
cascades gently into clear pools, offering a cool dip on a hot day. The sound
of flowing water and birds adds to the relaxing ambiance of this nature
attraction in Kuala Kubu.
What to Eat in Raub
The best food
in Raub comes from unassuming street stalls and small family-run eateries. It
may seem simple, yet it represents homestyle cooking. Food can be prepared
fresh at the stalls or cooked at home and sold by local traders. While a few
mid-range eateries cater to tourists, street food remains the main draw, with
traditional recipes handed down through generations.
Must-Try Malay
Food in Raub
Handmade
Traditional Cakes - soft and sweet, made using time-honored recipes.
Nasi Lemak -
fragrant coconut rice served with sambal, anchovies, and egg.
Ikan Patin
Tempoyak - freshwater fish cooked in fermented durian paste.
Local Laksa -
spicy noodle soup with a local twist.
Authentic
Chinese Food in Raub
Kopi, Kaya
Butter Toast & Half-Boiled Eggs - the go-to breakfast combo.
Char Siew &
Siew Yuk Rice - roasted pork with a crispy edge.
Cantonese Fried Noodles - wok hei, thick gravy, and plenty of slurp.
