Mount Tahan

Mount Tahan is the highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia, rising prominently within the Tahan Range of the Tenasserim Hills. Situated on the border between Pahang and Kelantan, with its summit located on the Pahang side, it reaches above 2,100 metres above sea level. The mountain forms part of Taman Negara, Malaysia’s oldest national park, encompassing territories within Jerantut District in Pahang, Gua Musang District in Kelantan and Hulu Terengganu District in Terengganu. Owing to its rugged terrain, lengthy routes and steep ascents, Mount Tahan is widely regarded as one of the most challenging trekking destinations in the region.

Names

The Malay word tahan is commonly interpreted as meaning “forbidden” or “resistant”, a term embedded in local folklore. One tale recounts that the mountain was once guarded by two gigantic apes who protected the area’s two magical wells—said to possess the ability to turn objects into gold or silver. The mountain is also known by various other names, including Gunung Rotan (“Rattan Mountain”) and Gunung Ulu Tanum (“Source of the Tanum River”). In Kelantanese tradition it is sometimes referred to as Gunung Siam.

Trails

Three principal routes lead to the summit:

• Kuala Tahan–Kuala Tahan (Classic Route):The oldest and most scenic path, typically requiring around seven days for a return journey. Trekkers must navigate undulating ridges, river crossings and diverse forest environments before making the final ascent. Owing to its length and difficulty, it is recommended only for those with strong physical conditioning.
• Merapoh–Merapoh Route (Sungai Relau):A significantly shorter trail, often completed within three to four days. It begins from Merapoh, offering a more direct ascent without the extended ridge traverses characteristic of the Kuala Tahan route.
• Kuala Tahan–Merapoh Traverse:A through-hike combining both entry points, usually accomplished in about five days. This route allows trekkers to experience the contrasting landscapes of both the eastern and western approaches.

Mount Tahan’s terrain is renowned for its difficulty. Steep gradients, dense rainforest, and unpredictable weather contribute to the challenge, making it a major test for Malaysian mountaineers.

Temperature

Night-time conditions on Mount Tahan can be very cold. From December to January, temperatures may drop to between 4°C and 18°C, with frost occasionally forming at the summit. Between June and September, temperatures generally range from 7°C to 27°C. Sudden weather changes are common owing to the mountain’s height and forested environment.

1905 Expedition by the Federated Malay States Museums

In 1905, a major scientific expedition was organised by the Federated Malay States Museums under director Leonard Wray and Herbert C. Robinson, curator of the National Museum of Malaysia. The undertaking involved sixty-five men and lasted five months. Preparatory work was carried out by Dato’ To Muntri Idin and Penghulu Panglima Kakap Husin, who assisted in establishing routes and logistics prior to the arrival of the main party. On 15 July 1905, Bulang Che Nik, Mat Aris, Mumin and Robinson became the first recorded individuals to reach the summit during this formal expedition.
The 1905 journey was notable for the collection of zoological, botanical and ethnographic specimens, contributing to early scientific understanding of the biodiversity of Taman Negara.