What to Do in Raub, Pahang (Malaysia)

Raub is a small town located in western Pahang, Malaysia. Situated about 110 kilometers northeast of Kuala Lumpur, Raub can be regarded as a sleepy town. Established in the late 19th century, and during the British colonial era, Raub became a significant gold mining town. Today, Raub is known for its agricultural activities, particularly in the cultivation of palm oil and other crops.

Travelling from KKB, Fraser’s Hill, Bentong to Raub
There are visitors who may make an overnight stay or a day trip to Raub. But generally, since the number of things to do in Raub is limited, even spending three-quarters of a day there is ample. For those on a road trip in Malaysia, coming from or going to Kuala Kubu Bharu, Fraser’s Hill, or Bentong, Raub can be a stopover (WHAT TO DO IN BENTONG, PAHANG).

Top Things to Do in Raub, Pahang

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Raub offers hiking trails and mountain climbs that build physical strength while rewarding visitors with stunning natural views. For others, including tourists, Raub is a place to slow down and walk at a comfortable pace. Fresh air and sunshine are part of the experience, reaffirming Raub’s status as a nature destination in Malaysia (BEST THINGS TO DO IN PENANG).

 

Gunung Benom

Gunung Benom, one of the highest peaks in Pahang, is a popular destination for hikers and mountain climbers. The hiking trail passes through mostly untouched rainforest and leads to a summit with wide panoramic views of the forest and hills. These views stretch in every direction.

Image credit: wikiloc

Sungai Relau Waterfall
Sungai Relau Waterfall is located a short drive from Raub town and is a nature retreat. It is a serene place suitable for picnics and family outings. Visitors can cool off by swimming in the clear water and relax in the green surroundings. The area offers fresh air and sunlight, making it a spot to rest and connect with nature.

Raub Heritage Walk
A heritage walk in Raub is a quiet stroll through a town where traffic and crowds are minimal. Along the way, visitors pass colonial-era buildings, traditional shops, and local markets. This walk offers a glimpse into the past, showing how many parts of the town have remained much the same as in earlier times.

While not part of the town itself, the nearby village of Tras also reflects the traditional atmosphere of the Raub district. A short stop here offers the quiet local life, where there are  small-scale durian stalls at work (KUALA KUBU BHARU THINGS TO DO).

Street view of Tras village in Raub, Pahang, Malaysia.

What to Eat in Raub, Pahang

Raub Durian

Raub remains one of Malaysia’s top durian-producing areas, famous for high-quality durian varieties, especially the well-known Musang King. The region’s fertile soil and favorable climate have supported durian cultivation for decades. During durian season, Raub attracts durian lovers and buyers who come for a durian feast.

 

While walking around Raub or even Tras village, durians are a common sight at roadside stalls during the fruiting season. Stall owners won’t mind helping with picking the freshest durians, and highly recommended is Musang King. The fruits are cut open for on-the-spot eating. Peeling of the durian flesh from the seeds can also be seen, for packing for buyers.

Musang King durian being cut open at a roadside stall in Raub, Pahang, Malaysia.

Malay Food to Try in Raub

Raub is well known for its authentic Malay food. Thanks to the strong presence of the Malay community, traditional recipes have been preserved and passed down through generations.

 

These dishes are still prepared the old-fashioned way, using fresh, local ingredients and cooked with genuine care. You’ll find them at humble eateries, roadside stalls, and family-run shops. Eat on the spot or pack back home.

 

Some of the popular dishes locals and visitors often go for include:

Kuih Baulu

Handmade, soft and sweet traditional cake.

 

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.

Chinese Food in Raub
Chinese food is also a big deal in Raub. Thanks to the long-standing Chinese community, especially the Cantonese, those old-school tastes are still going strong. You’ll find them in coffee shops that have been around for years.

 

Worth trying are:

Kopi, Kaya Butter Toast & Half-Boiled Eggs
The go-to breakfast combo.

 

Char Siew & Siew Yuk Rice
Roasted pork with that crispy edge.

 

Cantonese Fried Noodles
Wok hei, thick gravy, and plenty of slurp.