Kuantan Landmarks and Monuments

(Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia)

Kuantan city's landmarks are mainly of the natural variety, headed up by the slow-moving Kuantan River, which gently meanders its way towards its mouth just downstream.

A sheltered seaside park, the Buddhist Temple set on a hill, the spectacular tower of the Hindu Kuil Sri Mariamman and the cityscape seen at night from across the river are all landmarks for this quaint and interesting Malaysian seaside city.

Sultan Ahmed Shah State Mosque (Masjid Negeri)

Address: Jalan Mahkota, Kuantan, Malaysia, MY
The glorious State Mosque is known locally as the Masjid Negeri and is without question the number one landmark in Kuantan, with its minarets and grand dome glittering white, sky blue and pastel green in the sun. When visitors step inside they will discover that the interior is as lovely as the exterior, with stained-glass windows changing the sun's rays to a rainbow of colours. The Sultan Ahmed Shah State Mosque is easily the most stunning mosque on Malaysia's eastern coastline and stands on the Jalan Mahkota, between both the Jalan Masjid and the Jalan Mahkota, where it dominates the Padang plaza. At night, the mosque is floodlit in a dramatic fashion, with its turrets and spires being illuminated for all to see.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Kuil Sri Mariamman Kuantan

Address: Jalan Semi Kamunting, Kuantan, Malaysia, MY
This lovely Hindu temple may not be huge, but its colourful and intricately decorated tower and rain gutters with their heads representing elephants and tigers are well worth seeing. The interior of the Kuil Sri Mariamman holds many delicately carved and painted statues of Hindu gods.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Kuantan River

Address: Kuantan, Malaysia, MY
The Kuantan River and its estuary on the South China Sea are a safe harbour for all kinds of local boats, due to a rocky peninsula which juts out and provides protection from the worst of the storms. Around the harbour is a walkway, perfect for an evening stroll. River cruises come highly recommended and are an easy way to sightsee in comfort, being particularly appealing on the sunniest of days.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Buddhist Temple

Address: Kuantan, Malaysia, MY
Set on a hill with a fine view over the cityscape, this Buddhist temple is a big draw for visitors. Whilst the temple has interesting and eye-catching architecture, it is perhaps best known for its large lake, which is home to all sizes and ages of turtles and fish. All of these creatures love being fed by the many visitors, so be sure to bring plenty of bread - it won't last long!
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Lao Tzi Taoist Temple

Address: Jalan Sungei Lembing, Kuantan, Malaysia, MY
A short distance down the Sungei Lembing Road is the famed Lao Tzi Taoist Temple, home to an extremely lengthy 823-metre / 2,700-foot Golden Dragon sculpture, the world's longest. Pilgrims and visitors are allowed to walk the full distance inside the dragon, admiring the 5,000-word Book of Tao inscribed on its interior walls. Those who complete the walk are assured of good fortune. Also on site is a small museum displaying Chinese antiques including porcelain, bronzes, stone carvings and jades.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Wat Fo Tien Temple

Address: Jalan Buki Ubi, Kuantan, Malaysia, MY
Tel: +60 09 573 0644
Although not an old building, Wat Fo Tien Temple's main attraction is its 6-metre / 20-foot tall image of the Buddha, carved in Beijing from a huge rock of white Han jade. The interior walls are covered with almost 16,000 individual tiny tiles, each bearing a Buddha image, while the turtle pond is another focus for visitors. Located on the outskirts of the city, on the road leading to Sungai Lembing, the Wat Fo Tien Temple is also known as the Ten Thousand Buddhas' Hall and stages various religious events each year. As you explore, look out for the statues of monks, which are displayed in strategic places.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free