Kuala Tahan is the small settlement on the banks of the Tembeling River that serves as the gateway to Taman Negara. Most of the accommodation, restaurants, and tour operators are based here, just across the river from the park headquarters. The crossing is made by a small ferry that runs continuously.
The village itself is worth a stroll in the evening: floating restaurants on the river serve grilled fish and jungle dishes, and the riverbank is a pleasant place to sit and watch for kingfishers and monitor lizards. It is also the place to arrange guides, book hides, rent equipment, and pick up the basic supplies you need for longer treks.