A modestly-sized island, Pulau Tioman, as it's called by the locals, is a mere 135 square kilometers in surface area. At its core you'll find Gunung Kajang, Tioman's highest peak, at just over 1000m altitude. Gunung Kajang is actually an ancient dormant volcano. Currently completely enveloped in thick lush jungle, Kajang's slopes are a great hike.
Tioman's familiar silhouette, courtesy of Gunung Kajang
The backbone of Tioman comprises a mountain ridge that separates the east of the island, which contains the village of Juara, from the western half of the island, containing five other villages, Salang, Ayer Batang, Tekek, Paya and Genting. Other villages in the south are Mukut and Nipah, albeit quite limited in population.
Given Tioman's proximity to the equator, it's no surprise to learn that the island enjoys mostly tropical weather year-round. The best months to visit Tioman are March to August. Both these months are transition months, as December to February are monsoon season; typically, a wet and blustery time, although the rainy spells are usually interspersed with clear and cool days that can be very sunny and thoroughly enjoyable for their fresh breezes.
Ferry
Be aware that is super-peak season, due to the summer holidays in Europe. If you're planning on visiting Tioman during these months, it makes sense to book your accommodation and your ferry tickets, as well as your bus tickets in advance. (See below for bus ticket bookings).
Ferry to Tioman Island
One more thing to take note of is the fact that the ferry to Tioman is limited in its crossing frequency by the shallow river mouth. In fact, the vessel can only sail during high tide. This is why booking your ferry seats in advance is recommended, particularly since there is no standing-room, only seats.
Bus to Mersing
Bus transport in Malaysia comes in 2 flavours, vanilla and coach. Coaches tend to be a more comfortable ride, as well as a shorter ride, given their usually more direct route. Ticket price for coach travel, by the same token, is a little higher than tickets for the regular bus. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during the peak August to September season.
Bus and coach can be booked online
To book you can use below booking form.
NOTE: The peak season is June - September. December to February are the wet and blustery monsoon months, not the best time to visit Tioman.
Taxi to Mersing
Incidentally, if you prefer your mode of transport faster and more private, then it's good to know that you can book a taxi, as these are relatively cheap in Malaysia, even when travelling cross country. To book your taxi, click here.