In 1885, William Cameron, a government Surveyor, discovered a plateau at an alevation of 4500 - 5600 feet above sea level. He then brought this part of Pahang into history, thus, naming it the Cameron Highlands.

From 1896-1902, the narrow path to the highlands was widened and improved. Meanwhile surveys were carried out to identify the actual plateau in this area. In 1925, Sir George Maxwell paid a visit and it was then decided that the Cameron Highlands, which is situated in the present Tanah Rata and Brinchang areas, be developed into a Hill Station.

Between 1926-1931 this area was zoned into areas reserved for the Department of Agriculture, Township and Residential Sites, Aras of Services, National Park, General Administration and Recreational Areas. After the Japanese occupation, interest to develop further was revived but progress until the 1960s was hindered due to Emergency. After the termination of the Emergency, the Hill Station was carefully developed into a popular resort which not only attacted local tourists but overseas tourists as well.