Happy TravellerWelcome to Pekan, a charming town located in Pekan District, Pahang, Malaysia. Known as the royal capital of the state, Pekan is steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage that dates back to the Old Pahang Kingdom. Its name comes from the Bunga Pekan flower, which used to grow wild along the banks of the Pahang River. Today, Pekan is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the past, as well as a taste of modern Malaysia.
One of the main attractions in Pekan is the Masjid Abdullah, a landmark mosque that dates back to the 1920s. Located near the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum, the mosque is a popular spot for visitors to take in the local architecture and culture. Another must-see attraction is the Abu Bakar Royal Mosque, which is also located on the Heritage Route.
Pekan is also home to the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum, which displays many artifacts that are important to the state’s history and local Malay culture. The museum is located in the former residence of the British Resident, which was built in 1929. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which focus on water transportation, personal belongings of the late Sultan Abu Bakar, and the late Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tengku Afzan. The museum is currently undergoing renovations, so visitors are advised to call ahead for more information.
For those interested in history, Pekan offers a wealth of opportunities to explore the town’s past. The Chiefs Rest House, a wooden structure that was completed in 1926, is a must-visit site in Pekan. Originally built by the British as a guest house for the Chieftains in Pahang, the Chiefs Rest House now offers good, clean, and reasonable accommodation to travelers. Visitors can also explore Pekan Lama, the old town of Pekan, which is situated on the banks of Sungai Parit. The original wooden structures of the shops can still be seen today, offering a glimpse into the town’s past.
Pekan is also a great destination for foodies, with a variety of delicious local cuisine on offer. Visitors can enjoy the best kuih-muih (Malay delicacies) prepared by the same people who used to prepare them for the palace. Breakfast menus are aplenty, with one particular novelty being the roti naik, a heavenly treat that can only be found in a few places, Pekan being one of them. Other delicacies include nasi dagang, kuih bakar, ikan bakar (fresh grilled fish), and more. Kampong Mengkasar is also well-known for its Murtabak, a unique variant of the original Indian dish that can only be found in Pekan.
Pekan is easily accessible by car, with three routes from Kuantan, including the Tanjung Lumpur Highway, Jalan Pekan, and the Tun Razak Highway. Visitors can also take the rapidKuantan bus route 400 to reach Pekan. Once in Pekan, visitors can explore the town’s many attractions on foot or by car. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Pekan has something for everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!
