Chini Lakes (Tasik Chini), Kuantan, Pahang Malaysia

asik Chini may not be the easiest attraction to reach, but it is certainly more than worth the effort. Located approximately 93 km / 58 miles to the south-west of Kuantan, this series of 12 interconnecting lakes is where the Jakun people live, an Orang Asli tribe. These freshwater lakes are Malaysia's Loch Ness, due to local legends of monster sightings. Locals hold that an ancient Khmer city is submerged under the waters and is protected by a serpent monster named 'Naga Seri Gumum'. Sadly, no proof of either has yet been found. The lakes are best visited anytime between June and September, when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. If you have the time, you may like to take a guided walk along one of the trekking trails, where you may be able to spot some wild elephants and tigers.