Religion, Places of Worship
Abu Bakar Mosque
Cameron Highlands' spiritual haven, Abu Bakar Mosque, welcomes visitors seeking peace and cultural immersion. This elegant mosque, nestled amidst verdant hills, features stunning minarets and intricate Islamic designs. Witness daily prayers or simply admire the serene atmosphere. Learn about Islamic customs and architecture with the mosque's friendly staff. Abu Bakar Mosque offers a unique opportunity to connect with your inner self and appreciate Islamic heritage in the cool Cameron Highlands.
The Abu Bakar Mosque is situated in Tanah Rata, the administrative centre of Cameron Highlands, Pahang. Its precise address is Jalan Lembah, Tanah Rata, 39000 Cameron Highlands. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, the mosque offers a tranquil retreat within the highlands’ cool climate.
From Century Pines Resort on Jalan Perdah, Tanah Rata, the mosque is approximately 1.5 km away. By foot: Walk southeast along Jalan Perdah towards Jalan Besar (main road). Turn left onto Jalan Besar, then right onto Jalan Lembah; the journey takes 10–15 minutes. By car: Follow Jalan Besar northwards for 1 km, turn right onto Jalan Lembah, and the mosque will be on your left within 5 minutes. Limited parking is available onsite.
This striking mosque harmoniously blends traditional Islamic design with British colonial architecture. Its white façade, crowned with green domes and a slender minaret, stands out against the backdrop of tea plantations and misty hills. The prayer hall features arched windows, intricate woodwork, and stained-glass details, accommodating up to 500 worshippers. The surrounding gardens, dotted with vibrant blooms, enhance its serene ambiance.
Entry to Abu Bakar Mosque is free for all visitors. Donations for maintenance are welcome but not compulsory.
The mosque is open daily to visitors outside prayer times. General visiting hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, though access may be restricted during Friday prayers (12:00 PM to 3:00 PM). Non-Muslims are advised to avoid prayer times (especially midday on Fridays) and dress modestly.
Built in the 1960s, the mosque is named after Sultan Abu Bakar of Pahang, reflecting the Malay-Muslim community’s growth during Cameron Highlands’ colonial-era development. Its architecture symbolises the fusion of Islamic traditions and British colonial aesthetics, mirroring the region’s multicultural heritage.
Architectural Fusion: A unique blend of Moorish arches, Islamic geometric patterns, and colonial-era symmetry.
Panoramic Views: The elevated location offers vistas of Tanah Rata’s valleys and tea estates.
Cultural Insight: Visitors gain an understanding of local Islamic practices and community history.
Peaceful Gardens: Landscaped grounds provide a quiet space for reflection.
Abu Bakar Mosque is a cultural gem offering respite from Cameron Highlands’ bustling tourist spots. Its architectural beauty and serene environment appeal to photographers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking spiritual calm. The mosque’s proximity to Tanah Rata’s eateries and attractions, such as the Boh Tea Plantation, makes it a convenient stop. By visiting, travellers support interfaith appreciation and witness the harmonious coexistence of tradition and colonial legacy in Malaysia’s highlands.