As the state capital and royal seat of Kelantan, Kota Bharu is well-known as the cradle of Malay culture in beautiful Malaysia.
With its scenic natural landmarks, ancient buildings and traditional handicrafts, Kota Bharu is a great destination to learn more about Malaysia’s rich history and heritage.
Don’t fret as Kota Bharu is also the gateway to pristine beaches, breathtaking islands and delectable food!
Pantai Cahaya Bulan
Pantai Cahaya Bulan – A popular beach among locals to have a family picnic, enjoy beach activities or simply soak in the calm ocean breeze while enjoying a refreshing sip of cold coconut drink.
There is also a vibrant handicraft area en route to the beach that produces authentic Kelantanese cloths like batik and songket, as well as wau (traditional kites). A great place to be on the weekends.
Bank Kerapu (War Museum)
Bank Kerapu – A fascinating exhibit of photographs, documents and military paraphernalia from the Japanese occupation, housed in a colonial-era building.
Gelanggang Seni
Gelanggang Seni – Experience the true Malay heritage at this cultural centre with Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry), Silat (art of self-defense), Gasing (top spinning), Wau (traditional kite) and Rebana (big drum) performances.
Here at the ‘Arena’ (translation for Gelanggang) is where you’ll get the best of Kota Bahru’s cultural experiences.
Muzium Jahar
Muzium Jahar – Gain more insight into Kelantan’s fascinating monarchy at this gallery which showcases relics, equipment and outfits for royal rites and ceremonies.
Built in 1855 by Sultan Muhammad II of Kelantan for his grandson Long Kundur, this old castle is a fine example of Kelantan’s great craftsmanship.
Padang Merdeka
Padang Merdeka – A bittersweet monumental place for the locals as it is here where the British exhibited the dead body of Tok Janggut, a Malay warrior who was killed in 1915 for rebelling against the occupation.
This historical landmark was established as a memorial for World War I.
Pasar Siti Khadijah
Pasar Siti Khadijah – One of Kelantan’s landmark attractions, this bustling market offers fresh goods such as vegetables, local snacks, and various tropical fruits.
The lively atmosphere of chitter-chatter between the mostly women traders and visitors here is truly a sight to behold.
Wakaf Che Yeh
Wakaf Che Yeh – Just outside of the city, this bustling open-air night market is where locals hunt for bargain clothing, knick-knacks and street food.
Come for the buzz, stay for the fun!
Wat Prothivihan
Wat Prothivihan – This exquisite Buddhist temple is home to a 40-metre reclining Buddha, one of the longest in Southeast Asia and a symbol of Kelantan’s historical ties with neighbouring Thailand.
Sabak Besar Fishing Village
Sabak Besar Fishing Village – Take it slow and immerse yourself in the traditional Malay lifestyle at this picturesque fishing pier, where hundreds of colourful boats line up on the shore.
Nasi Kerabu
Nasi Kerabu – Kelantan holds the secret to the country’s most amazing Nasi Kerabu dish, a truly appetizing dish of blue rice mixed with herbs and veggies.
Best eaten with grilled beef, keropok (fish crackers) and solok lada (stuffed chillies).
Transportation to and from Sultan Ismail Petra Airport| Transportation |
|---|
| By Car, to Kota Bharu city centre, 20 mins |
| By Taxi, to Kuala Besut (jetty to Perhentian Islands), 1 hour |
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