Fraser's Hill derives its name from one of the more colorful characters in colonial history, James Louis Fraser, an adventurer and fortune hunter. Stories about his life include rumors of an opium and gambling den managed by him, which was frequented by miners. He vanished later on and his disappearance remains a mystery to this day.

The hill rises at 1,524 meters above sea level. Like the ancient city of Rome, it is built on 7 hills, but unlike the eternal city, it bears no claim to cosmopolitan fame. Instead, it exudes a quiet rustic air, more in keeping with the solitude of an English countryside.

Cool throughout the year at an average of 18 - 20 degree Celsius, the attraction of Fraser's Hill as a tourist resort has not diminished through the years. Today, Fraser's Hill is popular as a site for company retreats and weekends.

The fanatic golfer will find enough here to occupy his days whereas non-golfers can while away their time horseback riding or by simply strolling down the picturesque lanes that weave through the green countryside. The fresh mountain air is cool and invigorating and when dusk falls, the mist that blows in brings back memories of a simple, gentle era.

Situated approximately 104km from Kuala Lumpur, you can take the North-South Highway to reach Fraser's Hill. When you reach Rawang Interchange (about 20-25 min from Kuala Lumpur), exit at the interchange and enter the trunk road towards North. On the way you will pass some of the smaller towns like Serendah, Batang Kali and Rasa. After passing Rasa, look out for signage which says Bukit Fraser (Fraser's Hill) or Kuala Kubu Bahru. Turn right following the signage direction. From Rawang to Kuala Kubu Bahru (foot of Fraser's Hill) will take about 30-35 min.

From Kuala Kubu Bahru, following a winding road up to the Gap. The Gap is a section of the road up the hill that is only accessible in one direction at a time. The passage of the traffic is controlled by gates. As such the road is only open for an hour to traffic heading uphill and vice versa through the day. From the Gap to the hill is about 7km away.

Horseback Riding

The paddock at Fraser's Hill provides ponies for novices who would like to experience the pleasures of riding, and horses are provided for the more proficient riders. This is an ideal way to explore the hill and there are a number of trails that spiral around the hillside. There is nothing like the feeling of the rocking canter of a horse beneath you as the cool mountain air whispers past your face.

Bird Watching

Fast becoming a center for bird watching enthusiasts, this hill station is a bird watcher's haven with over 270 species of local and migratory birds flocking here together. The annual International Bird Race organized by Malaysian Nature Society in conjunction with the Fraser's Hill Development Corporation sees participants from all over the world converging here to determine which team can sight, identify, and record the most number of birds as stated in the official checklist. This world renown event seeks to promote Fraser's Hill as a bird sanctuary and encourages bird watching as a healthy outdoor activity. More on Bird Watching