KELANTAN

The east coast state of Kelantan is a charming destination with colorful  traditions, interesting pastimes and superb handicrafts. Watch captivating activities such as  top-spinning, giant kite-flying or woodcarving. The batik and songket fabrics produced by cottage industries here are among the best in the country. Its laid-back atmosphere, rustic charms and friendly locals ad to Kelantan’s appeal.

Accommodation in the capital city, Kota Bharu, ranges from star-rated hotels to  affordable rooms. In other main towns, visitors can find comfortable inns, rest houses and modest hotels. The state has tempting variety of local delicacies. Continental food is available at major hotels while fast food can be found at main towns.

Daily fights are available from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Pengkalan Chepa, about 20 minutes outside the city. By road, the state is accessible via the East Coast Expressway. There are air-conditioned buses and trains to Kelantan from Kuala Lumpur and other parts of the country.

 Gelanggang Seni (Cultural Centre)

Locally know as Gelanggang Seni, the Cultural Centre is a veritable showcase of the state’s rich cultural heritage. Watch an enthralling range of traditional performances such as shadow puppetry, Malay martial arts, top-spinning, giant kite flying and musical performances.

 Handicraft Village and Craft Museum

Set within a beautiful village setting, the complex houses a craft museum, craft shops tourism offices and a restaurant. Browse through various traditional tools and handicrafts in its museum. Cultural shows and craft demonstrations are held from time to time.

 Siti Khadijah Market

This bustling market is one of Kelantan’s landmark attractions. Visitors can find everything from vegetables, local snacks to fresh tropical fruits. The colorful assemblage of goods and lively atmosphere makes it irresistible to shutterbugs. A unique feature here is that the majority of traders are women.

 Chaya BPantai ulan / Beach of Moonlight

This quiet seaside town is famed for its swaying casuarinas and rustic villages. The route to the beach is dotted with vibrant and colorful cottage industries that produce batik, songket and giant kites. Other beaches that overlook the South China Sea include Pantai Irama, Pantai Melawi, Pantai Seri Tujuh, Pantai Tok Bali and Pantai Bisikan Bayu.

 Gunung Stong

          This is one of the most popular eco-adventure destinations in Kelanthan. Situated within the Stong State Park, Gunung Stong rises majestically at a height of 1,433m. Trek to view a diversity of flora and fauna., including Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. A highlight is the spectacular Jelawang Waterfalls, acclaimed to be the highest in Southeast Asia.

 Kuala Koh National Park (Gateway to Taman Negara)

This dense jungle is a paradise of natural attractions. Delight in observing an  assortment of birds, plants and animals or visit the aboriginal settlement. Kuala Koh is the northern entrance to Taman Negara, Malaysia’s premier national park which straddles across  Kelantan and  two  other neighboring states.

 State Museum

This museum showcase the arts, crafts and musical traditions of Kelantan. Other  interesting exhibits include ceramic displays that testify to the early trade with China artifacts from local archaeological sites.

 Islamic Museum

Trace the history of Islam in the state. Highlights include Islamic arts and crafts from various parts of the world and a photographic collection of Prophet Muhammad’s personal belongings. This building was originally the state’s first school for Islamic studies.

 Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs - Istan Jahar 

Gain an insight into the state’s rich cultural heritage. The galleries showcase the fascinating rites and ceremonies for royal engagements, weddings and other occasions. The building is a fine example of Kelantan’s supreme  craftsmanship.

 War Museum -Bank Kerapu

View a fascinating collection of documents, pictures and military paraphernalia of the Japanese Occupation in the country. Constructed  in 1912, this building was originally the state’s first bank. During the war, it served as the headquarters of the Japanese Kempetai, he feared secret police.

 Royal Museum / Istana Batu

Originally a palace and venue for royal weddings, the building is now a repository for the history of the Kelantan royal family. View an impressive collection or royal regalia, photographs, furniture as well as beautiful crystals, silverware and palace items of former Sultans. Other interesting sites in Kota Bharu include the State Mosque, Istana Balai Besar and Merdeka Square.

 Wat Photivihan Buddhist Temple

This temple houses a 40m long statue of reclining Buddha. It is believed to be the second longest in the world and the longest in Southeast Asia. Other ornate Buddhist temples are Wat Machimmaram, boasting one of Southeast Asia’s largest statue of Sitting Buddha and Wat Mai Suvankhiri, featuring a huge dragon boat.

 River Rafting at Nenggiri

Enjoy the sheer exhilaration of rafting in frothy waters. Tours can be custom-made to suit visitor’s preferences. The Nenggiri Challenge is an annual rafting completion here.

 Caving

There are many caves in the state, offering a thrilling time for adventure seekers. Popular caves are Gua Ikan, Keris, Batu Susun, Pagar, Sidang and Cha. Many caves are shrouded in legends mysteries.

 Local Train Ride

Traverse scenic villages, quaint towns and pristine countrysides. The service is used by students and locals to access various smaller towns in the interiors. It is a common sight to see commuters carrying vegetables, provisions and forest produce.

 

 Fishing Village in Sabak

A unique feature of the state is its gaily decorated fishing boats. Visit this village to take in the sight of locals mending their nets and preparing their boats. Its jetty is at its liveliest when fisherfolk return with their day’s catch.

 Bazar Buluh Kubu (Bamboo Fort Bazaar)

This is a not-to-be–missed spot for avid shoppers  and collectors. Find everything imaginable from beautifully handmade shoes, miniature musical instruments, kites, bags, silverware to accessories.

 Duty-Free Shopping

The  towns of Rantau Panjang and Pengkalan Kubor are duty-free shopping zones offering a bewildering array of items. Browse through the rows of stalls well-stocked with clothes, decorative items, handicrafts and souvenirs.

 Wakaf Che Yeh

This bustling open-air night market is the place for a profusion of local snacks, fresh fruits, vegetables and clothes.