Chini Lake — Attraction in Pahang

Visit to Tasik Chini Resort – A Once-Thriving Retreat Now in Decay

During my road trip back from Pekan to Kuala Lumpur, I made a stop at Tasik Chini, hoping to explore its once-popular resort. However, upon arrival, I found the facility abandoned. According to the security guard, it has been closed since the pandemic and is no longer open to the public.

Fortunately, after explaining that we had traveled all the way from KL, the guard allowed us to enter. What I saw was a resort in a dire state of neglect. It was easy to imagine its former glory, but now, the place has clearly fallen into disrepair.

The site includes a jetty with floating pontoons, offering access to the lake. Despite the resort’s condition, Tasik Chini itself remains breathtaking. The lake’s vast expanse and natural beauty are still mesmerizing.

However, redeveloping the area would require significant investment, given its current state.

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Tasik Chini – Malaysia’s Second Largest Freshwater Lake

Spanning 12,565 acres (5,026 hectares), Tasik Chini is the second-largest freshwater lake in Malaysia. It comprises 12 interconnected lakes, known locally as “Laut” by the indigenous Orang Asli.

The lake is steeped in mystery and legend. Folklore speaks of a mythical creature that is said to dwell in its depths, guarding the ruins of an ancient Khmer city believed to have existed here. Some locals claim to have seen this mysterious being, often likened to Scotland’s Loch Ness Monster.

Tasik Chini is also a rich ecological site, home to 138 species of flora, 300 species of non-aquatic wildlife, and 144 species of freshwater fish.

Between August and September, the lake transforms into a floating garden, with thousands of white and pink lotus flowers carpeting its surface, creating a stunning natural spectacle.

Fishing is a popular activity here, with the best season being November to January, when the monsoon rains expand the lake’s size and attract more fish.

Despite its natural beauty, the area is in desperate need of restoration to reclaim its status as a prime eco-tourism...

The place may seem deserted, but don't go by its depressing look. Try the engine boat ride and explore the Orang Asli village. No doubts the lake is mystical and it turns more with dusk. Food is average but do have it since you won't any restaurants nearby. ALSO HAVE AMPLE FUEL IN YOUR CARS TANK. The nearby petrol pump is only the Smart one. Don't come without the boat ride. The nature of people and staffs are...

Visited this place Dec 2022, Drive about 90Km From Chenor exit and 60Km back to Kuantan, it is a very tired country road drive, Everything for tourist is close since pandemic but the research center still in operation with security guards. Sad to see human activities destroying the surrounding forest. Hopefully government will...