Lubuk Teja is one of the 3 popular waterfall attractions on Tioman island. Tioman island is located on the east coast of Rompin Dsitrict, Pahang. It is only accessible via ferry from either Mersing or Tanjung Gemok. It has a small airport that operated small planes in the past but is no longer an option. Lubuk Teja itself is NOT an actual waterfall. It is a series of low height cascades that ends with a semi-large and rather deep pool. Submerged under the pool are large boulder rocks that visitors should be aware off and not lightly dive into without precautions. Water volume may also vary depending on the weather seasons. This waterfall is suitable for beginners to attempt in a group following the well established trail.
Visitors can use this recorded trail as a guide. (Disclaimer : Trails may change over time. Recorded on May 2025)
Lubuk Teja
As of 2025, there is only one way to reach Tioman Island which is by ferry. There are no commercial flights to Tioman Island. There are 2 ferry service operators, Cata Ferry and Bluewater Ferry that departs from either Tanjung Gemuk (Pahang side border) or Mersing (Johor side town). Visitors also need to be aware that Tioman Island consist of 7 villages either on the east, west and south of the island which are not completely interconnected by road access. Depending on the ferry operator & seating capacity, the ferry will not be stopping at every village and visitors will have to arrange further transport either by rental motorcycles, island taxis (pickup trucks) or by speedboat. Visitors can familiarize themselves of the island layout by referring to the map below. (Image 1.)
Image 1.
The trail to Lubuk Teja starts from Mentawak bay beach which is south of Juara village on the east side of Tioman island. There are 2 known trails. One on each side of the stream. Visitors can use the easier trail on the left side of the river that starts from the mini hydro power plant; or the rocky technical trail on the right side of the river from Juara Turtle Project.
via hydro power plant
This trail is well signposted with clear walking trails. After passing Little Planet resort, cross a floating bridge to proceed to the hydro power plant. Beside the hydro power plant on the right is a trail going deeper into the jungle. Follow this clear main trail that roughly runs in parallel with a water pipe. This water pipe ends at a water catchment dam upriver of Lubuk Teja. Before reaching the water catchment, visitors will reach a signpost indicating the right junction down to the river.(Image 2.) Lubuk Teja is just less than 5 mins away after taking this junction down.
via Juara Turtle Project
This trail is harder and slower. Beginners should use the other trail. There is a small footpath trail right after Juara Turtle Project that goes into the jungle. Occasionally visitors can spot directional signs indicating the way.(Image 3.) The trail landscape is rocky with boulders visible all along the trail. Visitors will also need to hop across some sections of rock boulders (Image 4.) before finally arriving at a signboard indicating the junction down to the river to Lubuk Teja.
Image 2.
Image 3. (2.77924, 104.20286)
Image 4. (2.77840, 104.19698)
Exploration Notes :
No waterfalls are found despite exploring all 3 tributary stream sources. Tioman island is generally a landscape where most streams are rocky boulders in nature with lower delta lands flooded with gentle streams. This geological feature is prominent on Sg. Mentawak as well where stream sources can disappear under rocks and boulders with only water cascading echoes to be heard. The main tributary stream is visible up to a pool (Image 5.) before disappearing underground below a large area of boulders. Naturally there are NO trails and visitors are NOT advised (and have no reason) to explore upriver of Lubuk Teja.
Image 5.
"Rubbish exist when there is an imbalance of those willing to take action."
If you plan to visit this waterfall, do bring a plastic bag along. In the event there is rubbish left by irresponsible individuals, you can contribute and do our part to keep nature's paradise clean. Thank you~
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Nowadays you need a permit for many waterfalls. General information here Present situation for Lubuk Teja : No permit needed
Waterfalls can be dangerous ! Always take care about your safety
