Raub (Tras), Pahang – Discovering Durian

Raub is a town located in western Pahang, Malaysia, situated about 110 kilometers northeast of Kuala Lumpur. Established in the late 19th century, Raub grew as a significant gold mining town during the British colonial period. The town’s history is closely tied to the discovery of gold in the area, which led to the development of mining operations that played a key role in its growth. Today, Raub is known for its agricultural activities, particularly in the cultivation of palm oil and other crops.

We, on the other hand, stumbled upon Raub as we were heading to Fraser’s Hill from Bentong (WHAT TO DO IN BENTONG, PAHANG). The drive to Fraser’s Hill was scenic and winding, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. It so happened, specifically in Tras, a small town located in the Raub district of Pahang, situated roughly 15 kilometers southeast of Raub town. Known for its quiet, rural atmosphere, Tras is primarily surrounded by agricultural lands.

A truly quiet town, especially since it was a weekday, Tras offered the perfect backdrop of green fields and fresh air. As we sat and had a drink at a roadside coffee shop, we walked around and discovered a small cottage industry centered around durians. It turns out Raub and Tras are not only known for their palm oil plantations but also for their durian farms.

 

Crossing over to the other side of the road, we couldn’t resist the temptation of ordering a Musang King durian. We didn’t inquire about the details of the cottage industry, but we did notice the ladies peeling the durians fresh, right there on the spot.

After enjoying the durian, we refreshed ourselves with some water from the durian shell. It’s a local tradition believed to help cleanse the palate and aid digestion after indulging in the rich, creamy fruit. A simple but refreshing way to wrap up the experience before continuing our journey toward Fraser’s Hill.

 

Durian is a significant part of the local culture, with Raub and Tras being famous for producing high-quality durians. The Musang King durian, in particular, has become a prized commodity, and it’s not only a popular fruit but also a point of pride for the locals. The practice of selling durians at roadside stalls and enjoying them fresh is a common experience (DURIAN DESSERT RECIPE: DURIAN PORRIDGE).

If your route happens to pass through Raub or Tras, take the chance to stop by and try the famous durians. It’s also a place where people lead simple lives, bringing back the laid-back culture of not rushing, unlike the bustling pace of city life. 

(Ms. Nava, a spirited Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the vibrant age of 58. With over 22 years as a lecturer, including at Curtin University’s Degree Twinning Program, she dreams of traveling 365 days a year. However, she embarks on her enchanting 'Zen Journeys' whenever her yoga instruction, coaching, and counseling profits allow her to).