Surrounded by rolling hills stretching out far into the distance, Kuala Pilah is a lush valley town along tree-lined Highway 9 in the south of Peninsular Malaysia. Located between the Gunung Datuk and the Hutan Lipur Jeram Toi tropical forests, Kuala Pilah offers an enviable choice of hiking trails, all within a convenient distance. The village is nestled in the heart of the Minangkabau territory, known for its traditional homes with curved, spired roofs. Kuala Pilah is an agricultural region, and you’ll pass alongside paddy fields as you approach, with the River Muar flowing north of the city and Sungai Pilah snaking through the village.

The ornate three-arched Lister memorial sits at the entrance to the main shopping area, with 1930s buildings lining the streets. Unique souvenirs and art await you behind the colorful facades of the shops at the center of Kuala Pilah. The rest of the town radiates outwards, featuring a rich variety of religious buildings to explore, from the intricately decorated Sri Kandaswamy Temple filled with statues of Hindu deities to the striking dome of the town’s main mosque, Masjid Jamek Yam Tuan Raden.

Kuala Pilah enjoys a tropical climate, with hot weather throughout the year. There is little variation in temperature, although January and February tend to be slightly cooler. Rainfall is possible at any time, but particularly during the northeast monsoon season from around November to March.

The big events here tend to center on the local markets. Night markets offer a selection of local foods and wares during the week. On Saturdays, a farmers’ market is populated with stalls featuring a mouth-watering selection of fresh foodstuffs to tempt you against a sea of bright colors and intoxicating aromas.

Senaling Hill

A 10-minute drive south of Kuala Pilah, you’ll find the starting point of the Senaling Hill hiking trail. It takes around 1.5 hours to walk through the rubber trees and palm oil plantations to arrive at the summit, 1,300 feet above sea level. If you arrive before sunrise, you may experience the “awan karpet” — a mesmerizing blanket of clouds hanging low over the hills.

Ulu Bendul Recreational Park

Part of the Angsi Forest Reserve around 20 minutes west of Kuala Pilah, Ulu Bendul Recreational Park provides a natural setting for relaxation. A cooling stream cascades through the rocks to a stunning waterfall, with shade provided by tall trees. You can paddle in the stream or swim in the pool before taking time for a picnic on one of the benches.

Tokong Si Thian Kong

Tokong Si Thian Kong, one of the largest Buddhist temples in the region, is around 10 minutes south of Kuala Pilah. Its impressive, colorful gate is illuminated at night, and many stone carvings and statues are dotted throughout the complex. Dazzling lanterns and lights decorate the temple during special times of the year, including Chinese New Year and the Spring Festival.