A wonderful place to stop over en route between Thailand and the Perhentian Islands, Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan and the perfect base for exploring the sights the state has to offer. But more than that, with its combination of welcoming small town vibe and buzzing mid-sized city energy, Kota Bharu offers travellers the opportunity to experience first-hand much of the craft, cuisine and culture the state has to offer without having to leave town. And with museums and traditional architecture as well, there’s more to Kota Bharu than immediately meets the eye.
Areas & Neighborhoods in Kota Bharu
Kelantan — Kelantan state is a real melting pot of Chinese, Indian, Thai and Malay cultures, and Kota Bharu provides the perfect place to set up camp if you want to explore some of this unique cultural landscape. There are a number of renowned temples nearby, including the huge reclining Buddha of Wat Pothivihan, the dragon boat and standing Buddha of Wat Mai Suwan Khiri, and the Wat Serova Buddhist Temples.
Kota Bharu Trade Centre (KBTC) — if you’re looking to sample some of the traditional crafts such as hand-printed batik, then the KBTC is the place to go. Here you’ll find a wide selection of goods to browse.
Museum Precinct — Here, in a cluster around the Padang Merdeka district, you’ll discover a number of fascinating museums, where you can immerse yourself in the richness of Malay customs, history and culture. What’s more, with a wide range of nearby restaurants and shopping destinations, you can really make a day of it.
Central Market — You’ll need to be up bright and early if you want to make the most of this lively market. Known as one of the busiest and most colourful markets in Malaysia, you’ll find fresh daily produce being haggled over downstairs, whilst upstairs there’s an endless array of stalls offering spices, brassware, and batik amongst other exotic wares. And, with a decent selection of food stalls as well, it makes the perfect venue for a spot of breakfast or lunch.
Things to See in Kota Bharu
As well as the museums and temples in Kota Bharu itself, venturing slightly further afield you’ll discover the caves at Gua Ikan, Dabong, or even what’s reputed to be the highest waterfall in Southeast Asia, the Stong Waterfall, which cascades from a staggering 990 metres. And in the Mount Stong State Park you’ll find the curiously dome-shaped Mount Stong, a granite monolith that has been standing for 500 million years.
Things to Do in Kota Bharu
Kota Bharu is a small city with a big personality. So a simple stroll around the downtown area will in itself while away an hour or two. Or you could get on your bike and go for a ride around the Pengkalan Chepa area, or check out the British World War II battlements near Pantai Sabak. There are also delightful beaches to enjoy at Bachok, and river rafting at Kuala Betis.
