The Ultimate 5-Day Road Trip from KL to the East Coast (with Hidden Waterfalls & Food Stops)
Planning a scenic escape from Kuala Lumpur? This 5-day road trip to Malaysia’s East Coast is your perfect itinerary—blending lush jungles, secret waterfalls, charming towns, and unforgettable food. From Bentong to Terengganu, explore the lesser-known gems and authentic local flavors Malaysia has to offer.
Why Take This Road Trip?
Malaysia’s East Coast offers pristine nature, rich culture, and fewer crowds. This route is perfect for:
- Nature lovers seeking hidden waterfalls
- Foodies hunting authentic kampung dishes
- Travelers craving off-the-beaten-path adventures
5-Day East Coast Road Trip Itinerary (KL to Kuala Terengganu)
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur → Bentong & Raub
Distance: 100 km | Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
What to Do:
- Chamang Waterfall (Bentong): A roaring cascade perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Lata Jarum (Raub): A tranquil waterfall in the forest, ideal for picnics and short hikes.
Where to Eat:
- Kow Po Ice Cream: Bentong’s iconic homemade ice cream.
- Raub Durian Stalls (seasonal): Famous for Musang King and D24.
- Thum’s Western Food: A local favorite for affordable Western meals.
Where to Stay:
- Bilut Hills Resort: Mountain views and fresh air.
- Tanah Aina Farrah Soraya: Eco-luxury glamping with riverside charm.
Day 2: Raub → Sungai Lembing
Distance: 160 km | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
What to Do:
- Rainbow Waterfall: Hike at sunrise for a magical rainbow above the mist.
- Sungai Lembing Museum: Discover the town’s tin-mining legacy.
- Hanging Bridge: A photogenic wooden bridge over the river.
Where to Eat:
- Sungai Lembing Noodles: Traditional handmade noodles.
- Local Kopitiams: Great for kaya toast and thick kopi.
Where to Stay:
- Time Capsule Retreat: Sleep in futuristic tubes in the forest.
- T-Box Sungai Lembing: Cozy and quirky container lodges.
Day 3: Sungai Lembing → Cherating
Distance: 120 km | Drive Time: ~2 hours
What to Do:
- Cherating Beach: Surf, swim, or just laze by the peaceful coast.
- Firefly & Mangrove Cruise: Magical evenings on the river.
- Batik Painting at Limbong Art: Create your own batik masterpiece.
Where to Eat:
- Don’t Tell Mama Eco Bar: Sunset cocktails and seafood.
- Ombok Cherating: Fusion food with beach views.
Where to Stay:
- The Kasturi by Hijjas: Luxe beachfront eco-resort.
- Tanjung Inn: Budget-friendly with a tropical garden setting.
Day 4: Cherating → Kuala Terengganu (via Dungun)
Distance: 240 km | Drive Time: ~4 hours
Hidden Detour:
- Air Terjun Chemerong (Dungun): One of Malaysia’s tallest and most stunning waterfalls.
What to Do in KT:
- Terengganu State Museum: Largest museum in Southeast Asia.
- Kampung Cina & Terengganu Drawbridge: Heritage walks and photo ops.
Where to Eat:
- BTB2209: Modern twist on Terengganu classics like keropok lekor.
- Pasar Payang: Shop local crafts and try nasi dagang or laksam.
Where to Stay:
- Paya Bunga Hotel: Stylish and central.
- Duyong Marina Resort: Marina views with resort comfort.
Day 5: Day Trip to Redang or Pulau Bidong (Optional)
Island Excursions:
- Redang Island (via Merang Jetty): Snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
- Pulau Bidong: Visit the former Vietnamese refugee island with coral-filled bays.
Must-Try Food Before You Go:
- Warung Pok Nong ICT: Crispy fish and squid by the beach.
- Nasi Dagang Atas Tol: Local-loved breakfast spot.
Hidden Gems Summary
| Stop | Hidden Gem |
|---|---|
| Bentong | Chamang Waterfall |
| Raub | Lata Jarum |
| Sungai Lembing | Rainbow Waterfall |
| Dungun | Air Terjun Chemerong |
| Terengganu Coast | Pulau Bidong |
Most Instagrammable Moments
- Rainbow Waterfall mist trails
- Time Capsule Retreat’s tube stays
- Sunset at Cherating beach swings
- Terengganu’s futuristic drawbridge
- Jetty views at Redang Island
Road Trip Essentials
- Vehicle: SUV or sedan with good suspension
- Packing List: Swimwear, insect repellent, hiking shoes, reusable containers
- Apps to Download: Waze, Google Maps, Grab, MAQIS (for island info)
Final Thoughts
This 5-day KL to East Coast road trip brings you close to nature, culture, and Malaysia’s untouched beauty. Skip the usual tourist paths and uncover waterfalls, local eats, sleepy villages, and coastal bliss—at your own pace.
This is your sign to start the engine and explore the real Malaysia.
Comments are closed.