Ayer Besar Falls

State Pahang
LocationKg Tekek, Tioman Island
Coordinates and map 2.81811, 104.17223
Water SourceSg. Ayer Besar, Natural Stream
Waterfall ProfileMulti-tier Cascade Falls
AccessibilityTrekking, <1hr

Ayer Besar Falls is waterfall series that is one of the lesser known tourist attraction of Tioman Island. It is located on a stream landscape that is rather rocky with semi-large boulders. This results in multiple mid sized cascade type falls with occasional small pools. An interesting point to note is that this trail is semi-paved that runs parallel with power lines that is either on electric poles or on ground level. Sections of the trail has cemented stairs steps as well that enables visitors to have an easier time scaling slopes.
This waterfall would be suitable for beginners to attempt as a group (not recommended solo).

Visitors can use this recorded trail as a guide.
(Disclaimer : Trails may change over time. Recorded on May 2025)

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Ayer Besar Falls

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.)

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Image 1.

This description covers the trail from the peak of Tioman Island Tekek-Juara access road. Visitors can alternatively start from Kg Tekek village @ 2.82215, 104.16616. The described trail has its trailhead begin from roughly the mid point of the Tekek-Juara hill road. This road is rather steep and cement paved for long term durability. Visitors can either walk, ride a motorcycle or carter local taxi pickup truck to reach the trailhead @ 2.81030, 104.17904. Proceed by foot from this point out.

This trail is quite clear and visitors can easily follow the trail that runs parallel with the electric poles. Visitors will have to climb a series a stair steps (Image 2.) before arriving at the opposite side of the valley. As visitors proceed along the trail, a sign denoting the stream as a water catchment reserve can be spotted. Visitors are not encouraged to bath at this section for this specific reason. The water catchment is a small one. Quite crude looking and weathered as documented below.(Image 3.) Further down the trail there is a fencing with gaps off the main trail. This junction is not often taken by visitors who usually stick to the established trail. It takes a few minutes to scramble down a rocky slope before the waterfall is in sight @ 2.81811, 104.17223.

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Image 2.
(2.81191, 104.17585)

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Image 3.
(2.81715, 104.17221)

Exploration Notes :
There are some cascade levels both upriver and downriver of the main fall which is the only significant one found. Should visitors wish to explore, do so very carefully as the boulder river is not one that is easy to traverse.

"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 Ayer Besar Falls : No information available

Waterfalls can be dangerous ! Always take care about your safety