Welcome to Kedah, Malaysia’s historic heartland, where you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. As you explore this fascinating region, you’ll uncover a diverse range of experiences tailored to your interests.
This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the things to do in Kedah, from the cultural capital of Alor Setar to the stunning island paradise of Langkawi. As a city break or an extended vacation, Kedah has something for all types of visitors. You’ll explore ancient temples, historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and natural wonders that make this Malaysian state a must-visit destination.
Discovering Kedah: Malaysia’s Historic Heartland
As you step into Kedah, you’re walking into a region steeped in history, located in the northwestern corner of Peninsular Malaysia. This state is a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance, waiting to be explored.
Where is Kedah Located?
Kedah is situated in Peninsular Malaysia‘s northwestern part, making it a crucial historical and cultural hub. The city of Alor Setar, the capital, is approximately 48 kilometers from the Malaysia-Thailand border. It’s also about 12 kilometers from Kuala Kedah, where the Kedah River meets the Straits of Melaka. This strategic location has made Kedah an important crossroads for various cultures over the centuries.
The Rich History of Kedah
Kedah’s history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological findings in the Bujang Valley revealing that a Hindu-Buddhist kingdom ruled the area as early as 110 A.D. This makes Kedah one of the oldest civilizations in Southeast Asia. Over time, Kedah has been influenced by various powers, including the Siamese, British, and Japanese, creating a rich historical tapestry. Today, Alor Setar, the capital city, preserves this heritage while embracing modern development, offering visitors a unique blend of the past and present.
Alor Setar: The Cultural Capital
As the cultural capital of Kedah, Alor Setar offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. You can explore the city’s rich history, cultural landmarks, and experience the local way of life.
Getting to Know Alor Setar
Alor Setar was founded in 1735 by Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin II as the state’s eighth administrative center. The city’s name is derived from ‘Alor,’ meaning small stream or river, and ‘Setar,’ referring to the Plum Mango tree. This reflects the natural features of the area and highlights the city’s historical significance.
Best Time to Visit
The time to visit Alor Setar is during the dry season, from December to April. You can fully explore the city’s outdoor attractions and experience the local culture without the hindrance of rain. As the capital city, Alor Setar is easily accessible, and visitors can enjoy the city’s many landmarks on foot.
Alor Setar is a city that offers a more authentic Malaysian experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. With its rich royal history and significant landmarks concentrated in the central area, you can easily explore the city’s cultural heritage.
Zahir Mosque: Kedah’s Architectural Gem
You’ll be captivated by the beauty of Zahir Mosque, one of Malaysia’s oldest and most revered mosques. Built in 1912 and officially opened in 1915 by Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, this historic mosque honors the Kedah warriors who lost their lives fighting the Siamese army in 1821.
History and Architecture
The mosque’s design was inspired by the Azizi Mosque in Northern Sumatra, featuring distinctive black domes and intricate architectural details. As you visit, you’ll appreciate the blend of cultural influences that make Zahir Mosque a unique experience in the heart of the city.
Visitor Information
Visitors of all faiths are welcome to visit Zahir Mosque, provided they are properly attired. The mosque is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entrance is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors to Alor Setar at any time.
Kedah Royal Museum and Heritage Sites
Discover the rich royal heritage of Kedah by visiting the Kedah Royal Museum and its surrounding heritage sites in the capital city. The museum complex is home to several significant historical buildings that offer visitors a glimpse into the state’s royal past.
Royal Hall (Balai Besar)
The Royal Hall, also known as Balai Besar, is a historic building that once served as the ‘Grand Audience Hall’ for Kedah’s most important events, including royal weddings and coronations. Originally built in 1735 by Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin Muazzam Shah, the 19th Sultan of Kedah, the hall was reconstructed in the late 1890s by Sultan Abdul Halim Hamid Shah, the 26th Sultan of Kedah, after facing destructive attacks. Notably, the building retains its 42 original hardwood pillars, a testament to its enduring legacy.
Sultan Abdul Halim Gallery
The Sultan Abdul Halim Gallery, housed in a building that was once a High Court until 2005, was repurposed as an art gallery in 2007. This gallery is dedicated to the life and legacy of Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, the 28th Sultan of Kedah, who ruled from 1958 to 2017. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of memorabilia that highlights the sultan’s contributions to the state.
Some key highlights of visiting the Kedah Royal Museum and Heritage Sites include:
- Immersing yourself in Kedah’s royal heritage by visiting the impressive Royal Museum and surrounding heritage sites in the capital city.
- Exploring the Royal Hall (Balai Besar), which hosted Kedah’s most important royal events, including weddings and coronations.
- Discovering the Sultan Abdul Halim Gallery, which showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia from the life of Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah.
These heritage sites offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the royal history and cultural significance of Kedah, with exhibits that highlight the sultanate’s enduring legacy.
Kuala Kedah Fort: A Historical Landmark
The Kuala Kedah Fort, also known as Fort Kuala Bahang, stands as a testament to the region’s turbulent history. This ancient fort has witnessed centuries of conflict and change since its construction in the 1600s.
The Fort’s Storied Past
Originally built by Sultan Sulaiman Shah and Portuguese allies using clay, bakau timber, and bamboo, the fort was designed to defend against the Ache Sultanate, who sought to monopolize the region’s pepper industry. The fort’s strategic importance is highlighted by the dramatic events it has witnessed, including the 1619 attack by the Ache Armada, which resulted in the capture of Sultan Sulaiman Shah.
Exploring the Museum
Today, the Kuala Kedah Fort houses a museum within its grounds, featuring over 60 artifacts, including archaeological findings, ceramics, and historic cannons. As you explore the museum, you’ll gain insight into the fort’s history and the region’s cultural heritage. The display information is provided in both English and Bahasa, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. You can spend your time exploring the fort and its museum, having a unique experience in the city of Kuala Kedah.
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free entry, Kuala Kedah Fort is a must-visit historical site for anyone interested in Malaysian history.
Kedah Paddy Museum: Celebrating Rice Heritage
As you step into the Kedah Paddy Museum, you’ll be immersed in the world of rice, exploring its cultural and economic importance in Malaysia. The museum is located near Gunung Keriang, about 10 kilometers from Alor Setar city center, and is surrounded by lush paddy fields.
The museum’s design is inspired by ‘gemai padi,’ or bundles of paddy stalks, and consists of one main building and six smaller surrounding buildings, totaling about 2,000 square meters. This unique architecture is not just visually striking but also reflects the museum’s focus on rice cultivation.
The Impressive 360° Mural
The third level of the museum is home to a breathtaking 360-degree mural, created by 60 North Korean artists who spent two years researching local culture. The mural depicts panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and community life, offering a captivating visual experience.
The rotating viewing platform on the third level allows you to fully appreciate the mural while taking in the real landscape it depicts, creating a seamless blend of art and reality.
Learning About Rice Cultivation
The museum’s galleries on the second level showcase the rice industry through paintings, illustrations, and dioramas, both locally and internationally. You can learn about various rice cultivation techniques and the cultural significance of rice in Malaysian society.
On the first level, you’ll find displays of rice products, traditional rice baskets, tools, and various by-products, completing your education about this essential crop.
Mount Keriang Recreational Park: Natural Wonder
Located just 8 kilometers from Alor Setar city, Mount Keriang Recreational Park is a natural haven waiting to be explored. This park is centered around a limestone mountain estimated to be an astonishing 250 million years old.
Hiking and Cave Exploration
For adventure seekers, the park offers a 40-minute hike to Gua Terus, a significant cave known for its crystal formations. The mountain’s exterior is dotted with numerous mini caves, providing a habitat for Edible Nest Swiftlets.
Wildlife Encounters
As you explore the park, be aware of the many monkeys that inhabit the area. They are known to approach visitors, so it’s essential to keep your belongings secure. The park also features a small river running through it, with bridges crossing into nearby kampung areas, offering picturesque water views.
The park road skirts the mountain, providing easy access to different areas while offering scenic views of this natural wonder. Visitors can enjoy walking trails with railings, a children’s playground, gazebos, benches, and a peaceful duck pond.
Shopping in Kedah, Malaysia: Best Things to Do for Retail Therapy
Shopping in Kedah is a treat, with its historic markets and contemporary shopping centers offering something for everyone. You can experience the best of Malaysian retail therapy in this culturally rich state.
Pekan Rabu (Wednesday Market)
Pekan Rabu, or the Wednesday Market, is a historic shopping institution in Alor Setar, dating back to 1920. It was established by Tunku Yaacob to encourage Malays to venture into business beyond agriculture. Today, it’s a multi-story shopping complex with numerous shops selling traditional handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
Night Markets and Local Souvenirs
For an authentic local shopping experience, visit the night markets or Pasar Malam, held at different locations throughout the week. You can practice your haggling skills and enjoy street food in a lively atmosphere. The markets offer a variety of goods, from local handicrafts to souvenirs.
| Day | Night Market |
|---|---|
| Monday | Ulu Melaka Night Market |
| Tuesday | Kedawang Night Market |
| Wednesday & Saturday | Pekan Kuah Night Market |
Langkawi: The Jewel of Kedah
The island of Langkawi, or the Jewel of Kedah, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and mystique. This enchanting island is steeped in mystical folklore, from healing waterfalls to a legendary lake said to help infertile women conceive.
Getting to Langkawi from Mainland Kedah
Getting to Langkawi from the mainland city of Kedah is straightforward, with regular ferry services departing from Kuala Kedah. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the island.
The ferry option is typically the most economical way to reach Langkawi, with services also available from Kuala Perlis and Penang for those coming from different directions.
Must-Visit Attractions
Langkawi boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for beach lovers looking to relax or enjoy water sports. As a UNESCO World Geopark, the island features remarkable geological formations alongside rich biodiversity.
Must-visit attractions include the Langkawi Cable Car, Sky Bridge, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, and the beautiful beaches of Tanjung Rhu and Pantai Cenang.
Langkawi Sky Bridge and Cable Car
The Langkawi Cable Car and Sky Bridge offer an unforgettable adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes. As you leave the hustle of city life behind, you’ll be taken on a thrilling ride to the top of Mat Cincang Mountain.
The Thrilling Cable Car Ride
Your adventure begins with a 15-minute gondola ride that ascends to the top of Mat Cincang Mountain, offering panoramic views of lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls below. The ride can get quite warm, so it’s advisable to bring water and take advantage of the windows that can be opened for fresh air. For an extra special experience, consider upgrading to the glass-bottom gondola that provides heart-stopping views directly beneath your feet.
Walking on the Sky Bridge
Upon reaching the top, you’ll have access to the observation deck where you can pause to take in the spectacular views before continuing to the Sky Bridge. The Sky Bridge itself is a 125-meter curved pedestrian bridge suspended at a dizzying height, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Walking on this engineering marvel provides a unique perspective of Langkawi’s natural beauty, and on clear days, you might even glimpse neighboring Thailand.
Be mindful of the wild monkeys that frequent the area – they’re known to be opportunistic and may mistake phones and cameras for food, so keep your belongings secure. As you enjoy the ride and the views, you’re having an experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of excitement.
Beautiful Beaches of Kedah
As you explore Kedah, Malaysia, you’ll discover a coastline adorned with some of the most stunning beaches in the country. The state’s beaches offer a serene escape, with white sandy shores and crystal-clear water that invite you to relax and unwind.
Tanjung Rhu Beach
Tanjung Rhu Beach stands out as one of Langkawi’s finest beaches, boasting exceptionally clean water and soft white sandy shores. This family-friendly beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, complete with amenities like a mini beach bar where you can enjoy drinks while lounging on comfortable bean bags.
Pantai Cenang and Black Sand Beach
Pantai Cenang is a big beach that offers excellent water sports opportunities, including hang gliding and water skiing for adventure seekers. However, the area is quite touristy, with numerous restaurants and shopping options at prices that reflect its popularity. In contrast, the Black Sand Beach, with its unique mix of white and black sand, creates a striking visual contrast against the blue water.
Kedah’s coastline is indeed blessed with some of Malaysia’s most beautiful beaches, offering everything from pristine shores to unique black sand beaches. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Kedah’s beaches have something for everyone.
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park: UNESCO Heritage
The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a treasure trove of geological and ecological wonders, waiting to be discovered. As a UNESCO Heritage site, this park is one of Malaysia’s most significant natural treasures, boasting a complex ecosystem that has evolved over millions of years.
Mangrove Tours and Wildlife
A tour of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is an unforgettable experience. You’ll navigate through winding waterways surrounded by towering karst formations, exploring fascinating mangrove ecosystems that are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including monkeys and monitor lizards.
Geological Wonders
The park is renowned for its unique geological features, including ancient limestone formations and hidden lagoons. As you explore this world-class destination, you’ll be struck by the natural beauty that surrounds you.
With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Culinary Delights of Kedah
Embark on a gastronomic adventure in Kedah, where food plays a significant role in the state’s culture. The state’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and cultural diversity.
Traditional Kedah Cuisine
Traditional Kedah cuisine features a variety of rice-based dishes, fresh food from the sea, and unique local specialties. You should try laksa kedah, a spicy noodle soup with a fish-based broth, gulai nangka (jackfruit curry), and karas (a sweet dessert made from glutinous rice flour).
Top Restaurants to Try
For an authentic dining experience, visit restaurants recommended by locals. Wonderland Restaurant is a must-visit for its fresh seafood, although it’s only open in the evening. At night, the street food at night markets (pasar malam) offers a variety of local snacks and dishes at affordable prices.
Other top recommendations include Restoran Seri Tanjung near Zahir Mosque for traditional Malay food, and beachfront restaurants at Tanjung Rhu in Langkawi for fresh seafood with a sunset view.
Where to Stay in Kedah
With its rich history and natural beauty, Kedah is a destination that caters to all kinds of travelers, and its accommodations reflect this diversity. Whether you’re looking to relax in a luxury resort or stay within budget in a city hotel, Kedah has a wide range of options.
Luxury Resorts in Langkawi
Langkawi is renowned for its stunning luxury resorts, many of which are nestled in pristine natural settings. Resorts like The Datai, named one of the best places to stay by Time Magazine, offer private beaches, multiple swimming pools, spa facilities, and exceptional dining options. Prices for these high-end properties can range from $200 to over $600 per night.
The Andaman Resort is another excellent choice, situated at the edge of an ancient rainforest. It provides a unique experience, allowing guests to enjoy luxury amenities and close encounters with wildlife within the resort’s compound.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Alor Setar
In contrast, Alor Setar offers more budget-friendly accommodations, with several comfortable 3-star hotels in the central area of the city. These hotels are convenient for exploring the main attractions and tend to be more affordable, with prices starting from $25-30 per night. Budget travelers can find clean, basic accommodations with amenities like free WiFi and air conditioning.
For a more local experience, consider Airbnb rentals, which can be found for around $60-70 per night in Langkawi, often including traditional breakfast. Remember, all accommodations in Malaysia charge a tourism tax of 5 Ringgit per night.
Getting Around Kedah
Understanding the transportation options in Kedah will help you make the most of your trip. Kedah, known for its historic sites and beautiful landscapes, requires some planning to navigate due to limited public transportation, especially in areas like Langkawi.
Transportation Options
In Kedah, you have several options to get around. In Alor Setar, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. For a more economical and convenient option, consider using the Grab car app, which is Malaysia’s equivalent to Uber. You can download Grab before your trip to easily request rides with transparent pricing.
- Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, with rental agencies available at airports and major towns.
- When arriving at Langkawi airport, use the designated airport taxi counter for a fixed rate, which is typically cheaper than negotiating directly with drivers.
- For longer stays, consider negotiating a daily rate with a private taxi driver.
Practical Travel Tips
To make your journey smoother, here are some practical tips. When using Grab, you can pay by cash at the end of your journey. New users can often find promotional codes for discounts on their first rides. In Alor Setar, many main attractions are within walking distance, saving you transportation costs for part of your visit.
Using a car or hiring a taxi for the day can be a way to explore more of what Kedah has to offer. Planning your transportation in advance will ensure a hassle-free trip.
Planning Your Perfect Kedah Itinerary
To make the most of your trip to Kedah, it’s essential to plan your itinerary carefully, considering the city‘s attractions and natural wonders.
For a comprehensive experience, allocate at least 5-7 days to explore the region. Spend 2-3 days in Alor Setar, exploring the city center’s cultural attractions, such as Zahir Mosque and the Royal Hall.
Begin your journey in Alor Setar, where you can spend your first day exploring the cultural attractions. On your second day, visit the Kedah Paddy Museum and Mount Keriang Recreational Park.
Consider a day trip to Kuala Kedah Fort before heading to Langkawi. In Langkawi, dedicate one day to the Cable Car and Sky Bridge experience, followed by relaxation at one of the island’s beautiful beaches.
Reserve another time for a boat tour of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park to appreciate the UNESCO-recognized natural wonders. This guide will help you create a balanced itinerary, giving you a comprehensive taste of Kedah’s diverse attractions.
By planning your trip according to this guide, you can experience the best of Kedah in one memorable journey.
