An alternative route into Taman Negara is through Sungai Relau, which is about 7km from the town of Merapoh, near Kuala Lipis. Before venturing into the heart of Taman Negara from Sungai Relau visitors can go on a familiarisation tour along  the interpretive trail, which runs along the banks of the river. This can provide a preview of what to expect when venturing further afield.

The rough 13km route (about 45 minutes drive by 4x4)  from Sungai Relau takes you to Kuala Juram. Along the way you can take-in the great views of the mountains in the distance. Gawk at the vastness of the area, as that is just the terrain you will take should you wish to conquer the heights of Gunung Tahan (2,187 metres).

Mind you, it takes about seven days trekking through the wilderness and traversing the valleys to reach the foot of the the highest mountain in peninsula Malaysia. Your climb will start at Kor Camp (elevation 750 metres), which is about 4 to 5 hours trek from Kuala Juram. Proceeding further for another 4 to 5 hours you will reach Belumut (elevation 1,493 metres). Belumut is the final jump-off point for the ascent that takes anything between 6 to 7 hours before you make the peak.

If you are not game for the days of trekking to the roof of the peninsula, you can explore the vicinity of Sungai Relau itself. Visit the Kuala Juram Kelah Fish Sanctuary, where the elusive Malaysian Mahseer is preserved in its natural habitat in the crystal clear water. Strictly no fishing here although the comely sizes of the fish, which can be as big as twice the palm of an adult makes the urge quite irresistible. The Kelah Sanctuary is, but one facet of this part of Taman Negara.
 

LOCATION
Coordinates: 4°40'46"N 102°3'25"E
GETTING THERE :
Travelling from KL through the Karak highway, exit at Bentong and take the road to Raub and Kuala Lipis, then head towards Kota Bahru / Kuala Krai. Merapoh is about 100km from Kuala Lipis (about 2 hours drive). At Merapoh, a signboard will point to a right-turn into Sungai Relau, which is a further 7km drive on a paved narrow road. Sungai Relau is the alternative entrance to Taman Negara Pahang. It is on the western side of the park, halfway along the road from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Baru. The nearest town is Gua Musang (30km) in Kelantan. The best way to get there is to drive.
ACCOMMODATION:
The Department of Wildlife (PERHILITAN) manages the accommodation and facilities in the Park. Chalets, hostels and campgrounds are available for those who wish to stay at Sungai Relau. There are no restaurants nearby, so visitors have to cook their own meals or cater food. Please contact the department's office in Merapoh for more information and bookings.
ACTIVITIES :
Nocturnal Safari	Take the night safari ride on the Park's 4x4 and to observe the nocturnal habits of wildlife in the area.
Kelah (Malaysian Mahseer) Sanctuary	Where the elusive fish, the kelah, is nurtured within its natural habitat.
Mountain Climbing	Taman Negara Pahang, Sungai Relau is the alternative route to Gunung Tahan. It takes between 3 to 7 days to get to the peak from here. Guide fees are RM500 for 7 days (Merapoh-Kuala Tahan). One guide can take a maximum of ten climbers. Certificates will be issued to successful climbers at the exit point. Climbers have to bring all the necessary supplies and equipment for the climb. Do remember that each climber has to declare all the things they bring before and after the climb.
Jungle Trekking	Explore the wilds and discover for yourself the ecology of the area.
PERMITS & LICENCE :
Visitors to Taman Negara must obtain an entrance permit at RM1.00 per person (check current rates). Fishing licence costs RM10.00 (but not at the Kuala Juram Kelah Sanctuary) each while camera licence is RM5.00 per camera. Do ask about the deal with camera phones!)
Department of Wildlife & National Parks (PERHILITAN)
Deputy Superintendent, Taman Negara (Pahang) Sungai Relau, Merapoh, Lipis, Pahang Phone / Fax: +609 - 912 4894