Malaysia Destinations | Places of Interest in Malaysia

Destinations > Malaysia States > Kedah

Nature and Adventure

One of Kedah Darul Aman greatest lure is perhaps its rustic charm and the many exotic natural attractions. Visitors will be taken in by the lush green of tropical rainforests, the misty mountains, the serenity of the rural villages and the endless spread of the padi fields.

Kedah is one of the best destination for those seeking retreat from urban living as its pristine environment is still intact despite the development taking place in the state.

The Pedu Golf & Lake Resort and Desa Utara Pedu Lake Resort

The resorts which are located about 90km from Alor Setar, are examples of the peaceful and quiet holiday in store for visitors. Nestled admist lush tropical greens, the resorts offer tourists "a get back to nature" vacation. A series of activities are there for the taking including jungle walk (day and night), mountain hiking, fishing and a new found nature sport - lake swimming.

Take a boat ride and explore the vast lake or just enjoy the sun. Play golf at one of the best designed golf course around.

Also witness the honey gathering process conducted by local bee handlers. Watch how the experts retrieve honey from the 30 metres high Tulang tree in the wilderness of Pedu jungle. This activity is being held once a year in the month of February. Look out for the flora and fauna.

Gunung Jerai Resort

Gunung Jerai Resort, a hill getaway near Gurun, is tucked admist a green tropical rainforest spread. The crisp clear mountain air is aided by a peaceful tranquility which will easily appeal to any visitor. See the flower garden or explore the nearby location for a picnic as one make a date with nature.

Other idyllic spots are Bukit Hijau (Baling), Bukit Wang (Jitra), Peranginan Sik (Sik), Puncak Janing (near Kuala Nerang), Batu Hampar (Yan) and Gunung Keriang Recreational Park. Each of tehm has its own unique attraction which beckon visitors.

Beaches and Islands

The charm of Kedah also lies in the blissfully golden beaches and paradise islands. The very mention of beaches and islands one's mind would naturally linger to the legendary isle of Langkawi.

The beaches of mainland Kedah are equally spellbinding. Most popular is Pantai Merdeka which has been an ideal tourist venue even long before Langkawi's fame. Located about 26km from the town of Sungai Petani, there are adequate facilities for watersport activities. The beach is also excellent for swimming at high tide.

Culture and Heritage

The best starting point to explore the cultural heritage of Kedah is Alor Setar itself, the state's capital. The numerous, fine, old buildings such as Balai Besar, Balai Seni Negeri, Masjid Zahir, Courthouse, General Post Office defined the atmosphere of colonial rule and representing one of the oldest landmarks of Alor Setar.

Balai Besar

Bujung Valley

Kota Kuala Kedah

Mahathir's Birth Place

Padi Museum

Pekan Rabu

State Museum

Zahir Mosque

Alor Star Tower

An insight into Kedah's rich cultural heritage can be sampled by visiting the State's Museum. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, fine paintings and a wide range of historical relics. Being the oldest state, Kedah has plenty of these memorable, precious antiques on display.

Food

Rice is the staple food of Kedahans. Traditional local dishes which are also favourites among visitors are "gulai nangka" ( a jack fruit curry), "sayur keladi" and "pekasam". "Nasi ulam" is another local food which is equally tantalising. This authentic dish is prepared by blending rice with varied fresh veges and spices. Among the locals, nasi ulam is a must on the menu particularly during the fasting month of Ramadhan.

Pulut or glutinous rice is an all tme favourite of the northerners. It is taken with fruits such as mango, durian and even banana. They also make fine desert after hefty dinner or lunch. Other pulut delicacies are "pulut sambal", "pulut inti" and "tapai pulut". However, it is not complete if visitors fail to try the famous "Laksa" - rice noodles taken with a preparation of thick fish gravy and cucumber, onion and shoots.

Accommodation

HOTEL NICE Melati Tanjung Motel Langgura Baron Resort

Getting There

Kedah can be reached by road, rail and sea. The North-South Expressway transverse the State of Kedah, thus enabling just a 5 hour ride from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar. Similarly the national railroad track also passes through the state with various stops along the way.

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier fly several times a day from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar and Langkawi. There's also weekly direct flight from Osaka, Japan to Langkawi.

High speed ferries operate from Kuala Kedah to Langkawi throughout the day. There are also regular ferry services from Penang as well as Satun, Southern Thailand.

Travellers have a wide range of transportation to choose from. Comfortable air-conditioned express coaches and long distance taxis are readily available thus providing easy connection throughout the countries. Getting around the state too is no hassle. Taxis and hire car are easily available at reasonable fares.

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