2025 Kota Bharu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Guys, Kota Bharu in Malaysia is super charming, and here is a babysitter-level guide for you. 🌅In terms of attractions, you must go to Kuala Besut Beach. In the evening, the sunset shines on the beach, and the coconut trees sway, making it as beautiful as wallpaper. It is perfect for couples to take a walk. There is also the Central Market, which is full of fireworks, where you can buy all kinds of special handicrafts and spices, and instantly experience the authentic local life. 🍱Don't miss the satay, the sizzling grilled meat skewers, dipped in rich peanut sauce, you can't stop eating. There is also nasi lemak, rice soaked in coconut fragrance, served with fragrant fried chicken and fried fish, with rich layers. 🚗Transportation is very convenient, Grab taxi software is available at any time, and buses can also take you around the city. It is recommended to stay in the city center, which is close to everywhere. The consumption here is not high, and you can easily enjoy the freedom of food. Come to Kota Bharu and experience a different kind of Malaysian charm, just go for it!

Hey guys, here's a 6-day Malaysia tour to experience the tropical vibes! Here's a super practical guide to help you explore Malaysia with ease. Save it now! -------- 🛫 Route Suggestions: 6-Day Malaysia Tour🌴 Day 1: Chengdu - Kuala Lumpur Fly to Kuala Lumpur and start a new chapter of your Malaysia tour. Day 2: Petronas Twin Towers Visit the landmark of Kuala Lumpur and experience the charm of the modern city and the Twin Towers. Day 3: Kuala Lumpur - Kota Kinabalu Head to Kota Kinabalu and get ready to experience the tropical vibes and natural wonders of Sabah. Day 4: Kawa Mangrove Forest Explore the mysterious tropical rainforest in Kawa Mangrove Forest and dance in harmony with nature. Day 5: Mantanani Island Enjoy a day tour of Mantanani Island, with its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, and experience the comfort of island life. Day 6: Kota Kinabalu - Kuala Lumpur - Chengdu End your wonderful Malaysia tour with memories and return to Kuala Lumpur from Kota Kinabalu, then transfer back to Chengdu. -------- 🧳 Travel Checklist: Must-Have Items for Your Malaysia Tour! 📞 A SIM card is a must. Choose a stable carrier for a smooth network. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter. A UK plug adapter is a must for worry-free charging. 💳 Prepare multiple payment methods. Bring both cash and credit cards for a smooth shopping experience. 👕 Wear light and breathable clothes. Don't forget sun and rain protection. The weather in Malaysia is pleasant in November. 📸 Bring a charger and power bank to keep your devices charged and capture beautiful memories. -------- That's all for my Malaysia tour. Don't forget to follow me for more travel tips for Malaysia!✨

Exploring Kota Bharu feels like stepping into a time capsule. This vibrant town is a living, breathing tribute to the traditions and culture of Malaysia. From the bustling local markets to the intricate craftsmanship on display, every corner tells a story of heritage and resilience. 🕌✨ Kota Bharu offers a nostalgic journey back to the roots of Malaysian culture. If you're looking to travel through time, this town is a hidden gem you won't want to miss! 🌿🇲🇾 #KotaBharu #CulturalHeritage #TravelBackInTime #MalaysiaHiddenGem #TimelessJourney #TraditionalCrafts #100waysoftravel

#traveldiaries Troika Homestay in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, offers modern, fully furnished accommodations within the Troika Residence, a high-rise building. Guests enjoy amenities such as air-conditioning, a kitchen, living area, and some units with balconies offering city views. The homestay provides access to facilities like a swimming pool, gym, and parking. Located centrally, it’s convenient for exploring Kota Bharu’s attractions, making it ideal for families, couples, and travelers seeking comfort and style in the city. 📍Address: 18-2, RESIDENSI TROIKA Jalan Mahmood, 15200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Kota Bharu, 15200, Malaysia

#traveldiaries Street Art Kota Bharu, in Kelantan, features vibrant murals and graffiti that reflect the city’s cultural identity and traditions. Concentrated around Jalan Dato Pati, these artworks showcase local folklore and everyday life, serving as both visual beauty and social commentary. This growing art scene attracts tourists and enhances Kota Bharu’s appeal as a destination for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Le French Bistro is renowned for its delightful fluffy pancakes, a standout item on the menu. Feedbacks: Guests often praise the pancakes for their light and airy texture, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or brunch Ambiance 🌠: The cozy ambiance of the bistro enhances the dining experience, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal. #traveldiaries

#traveldiaries #malaysia Senok Beach, located in Bachok, Kelantan, is a tranquil beach known for its serene ambiance and picturesque rows of casuarina trees, earning it the nickname “Nami Island of Kelantan.” The beach’s calm waters, soft sands, and natural beauty make it a popular spot for relaxing, photography, and picnics. Though it lacks tourist facilities, its peaceful environment attracts visitors looking for a scenic and quiet retreat, often used as a backdrop for wedding photography.

This is a modern, vibrant hotel that is very comfortable to stay in. The room was very clean and cozy, and it also came equipped with nice-to-have USB ports and a wireless charger. The staff were also friendly, and there are vending machines in the lobby if anyone needs a quick snack. Furthermore, while I don't have kids myself, there are kid-friendly facilities such as a play room in the lobby and a swimming pool, so families can enjoy their time here. Overall, I would recommend this hotel to anyone who is looking for a comfortable stay in Kota Bharu while being close to the town center. #malaysia

This popular restaurant serves authentic Hainanese chicken rice. It absolutely bring back the memories of my favourite traditional dishes since childhood. Special dish 🔥: I’ve tried their “Ayam Bakar Ohsem. The taste was so good! Pricing 💰: Paid RM25.90 for Ayam Bakar Ohsem meal. Worth for the value. Rating ⭐️: 4 out 5 Address 📌: You can search for any The Chicken Rice Shop nearby. This photo was taken at Chicken Rice Shop in AEON mall Kota Bharu. #wheretogo

#wheretogo Hotel Perdana is the first premier hotel in Kota Bahru and its situated in central of Kota Bahru. Staying in this hotel due to the event held in Hotel Perdana, it has a big ballroom inside the hotel. the hotel is busy with the business traveler. Although is located in the central of Kota Bahru you still need to have a transport to other place . Grab is easy to get in Kota Bahru. the hotel breakfast is so so with variety of foods including local Kelantan’s food. overall is a good stay for business traveller , for family there is a kid friendly pool . an ideal place for staycation as well. #freehotelstay #kotabahru #hotel #awesomepic

This is a good museum, even if it is slightly slanted to the Japanese. Very informative with some really good exhibits. The exhibits seem to be gathering and there is no attempt to rejuvenate them from time to time. There are a few interesting exhibits though and it's worth a few photos. The first floor is dedicated to the memory of the Second World War since Kelantan is one of the two entry points for the Japanese force and the first to fall. The open courtyard is currently still under maintenance for unknown time. The second floor holds some objects from the Kelantan's past and unfortunately poorly curated unlike the war exhibition. Come and learn about the history of our lcpuntry. It is very interested. ❤️ #hiddengems #ahappytrip #awesomepic #mustcome #besttimeever #best_trip_by_trip #bestdeal #awesometrip #tripcom

The museum in the Handicrafts Village of Kota Bharu is one of the places worth visiting while in Kelantan. It gives a very good overview of Kelantanese Batik, its particularities and different patterns. A very informative and interesting village. You also can learn history of Kelantan Batik handmade. Even, you can get a great experience to learn batik paintings here. There are few shops selling souvenirs with reasonable price. There is also a restaurant selling food which is famous in Kota Bharu, Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu. You should come here if you are visiting Kota Bharu. We spent about an hour in the museum and the adjacent buildings and found the place being informative, clean and well maintained. Recommended. ❤️ #hiddengems #ahappytrip #awesomepic #mustcome #besttimeever #best_trip_by_trip #bestdeal #awesometrip #tripcom

Initially arts painted at wall along Jalan Dato Pati, Kota Bharu seem very beautiful and nice. But, due to time and weather the painting starting shabby and decay as the attraction haven't treat well and maintained. Too bad some of the paintings also totally shabby while some still in good condition. However Street Arts of Kota Bharu still become one of tourist attraction spot in Kota Bharu City. #asiantrip #couplestrip #malaysiatravel

Kota Bharu, a capital city of Kelantan. Full of seaview and great scenery during sunset. Location is quite strategic as nearby with a lot of activities and local foodie. Best if backpacker and looking for place for meditate as the sound of sea wave is so calm and relax. Best time is during sunset where around Kelantan river view near Tambatan DiRaja where the view as per attached.

Nestled in the heart of Kota Bharu, the captivating Wat Machimmaram awaits to enchant your senses and nourish your soul. This mesmerizing Thai Buddhist temple stands as a beacon of serenity and cultural richness, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Stepping into Wat Machimmaram is akin to stepping into a realm of wonder and tranquility. The intricate architecture, adorned with vibrant colors and ornate details, will transport you to a realm of artistic brilliance. As you explore the temple grounds, the scent of incense and the harmonious chants of monks create an ambiance of spirituality, offering a respite from the bustle of everyday life. The temple's pièce de résistance is the awe-inspiring 108-feet tall statue of the Reclining Buddha. This majestic marvel is not only a symbol of devotion but also a testament to the dedication of the community in creating a spiritual haven. The sheer size and intricate craftsmanship of the statue will leave you in awe, reminding you of the beauty that arises from faith. Beyond the visual marvels, Wat Machimmaram offers a chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Thai culture. Engage with friendly monks who are more than willing to share insights into their way of life and Buddhist teachings. Indulge in authentic Thai vegetarian cuisine at the temple's food stalls, a culinary experience that tantalizes your taste buds and nourishes your body. Visiting Wat Machimmaram is not merely a trip; it's a transformative experience. It's a journey that opens your heart to new perspectives, revitalizes your spirit, and leaves you with cherished memories. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, architectural grandeur, or a serene escape, this temple promises to deliver all that and more. So, venture forth and allow Wat Machimmaram to weave its enchanting charm around you, leaving you forever touched by its magic. #mymymemories

Been seeing how viral this place was on social medias. People queued up like there’s no tomorrow. My mom had been eyeing this place for quite sometime but my father couldn’t stand the crowd so we decided to go on weekdays. Oh my the crowd was crazy on weekdays too! We ordered the set for 8 people, the food was massive and delicious! Worth the money so much! The cons might be the atmosphere was a bit hot on day time but you can pay extra rm10 to dine inside VIP room which has aircond.

Kota Bharu is a state capital of Kelantan. Also know as KB. Located near airport Pengkalan Chepa, KB has many building, museum and royal building. Besides airplane KB can be reach by train, also known Keretapi Tanah Melayu located wakaf bharu and by bus. Only kelantan state all shop must have sign in Jawi language on their signage Kelantan food also famous in Malaysia especially Nasi kerabu, nasi berlauk, etok, ikan celup tepung and many more for dessert. Wau also famous in Kelantan. Laman Warisan Kampung Laut is a best place to go have many activities you can do like painting batik, old mosque in kelantan and also you can get local food for ole- ole ( gift) to friend and family. #backpacker #cuti²malaysia #kelantan

Crazy about sweet things? Love desserts so much you could die? Head up to The Layers at Kota Bharu city centre where you’ll find ranges of cakes, croissants, strudels, desserts and many more! The cafe is so nice for families to get together after a long while and perfect for friends who want to catch up with one another. Please see the photos of what I ordered. Honestly all was delicious yummy 🤤

If you're coming to Kota Bharu, you really need to make the effort to visit the street art where the entire street features art. Kota Bharu (Kelantanese: Koto Baru; Jawi: كوت بهارو) colloquially referred to as KB, is a town in Malaysia that serves as the state capital and royal seat of Kelantan. It is situated in the northeastern part of Peninsular Malaysia and lies near the mouth of the Kelantan River. The art streets are located at nearby Jalan Hulu Pasar in downtown KB.#awesomepic #malaysia #kelantan #kotabahru #mural #painting #artstreet

Superdough b, kelantan Ambiance/Facilities - Quite hidden, located in a narrow alley. Highlights - Their pastries are soooooo goodddd especially everything related to egg yolk and croissant! I can say this cafe may match the level of those kl-pj-damansara based cafes :P Avg. Price per Person - RM10-30 Rating - 4/5 #foodhunting #foodiemy #wecreate #awesomepic #mytripvlog #foodie #deliciousfood

CALLING ALL JAPANESE FOOD LOVERS This cafe is located in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Yes you heard it right, Kelantan peeps we all are not too outdated lol 😛 The name is BrewbyAtas. I am sure some of you have heard of Atas Cafe in Kota Bharu and Tanah Merah, this one is one of them, but they’re more into Japanese cuisine. All other franchises have different kinds of foods that they serve. So it’s good if you make some research on the foods first before going there. For me, this cafe has good foods, environment, and pretty cheap (as it should since it’s in kelantan). #awesomepic #deliciousfood #foodie #kotabharu

Fans of pastries, you’ll definitely dont want to miss out the marvellous cafe for the perfect beat! With a minimalist interior designs, this place is famous for their freshly baked pastries, bread and cakes. Besides the delicious pastries, you also can give a shot for their refreshing drinks and coffee. Address 📌: Daughter Bakes locates at Kota Bharu, Kelantan. #deliciousfood #Kotabharucafe

With the unique charm of kampung vibes, this gonna be perfect for resting legs after all the buzz! I’ve pop by to enjoy some meals. Most important, this cafe have a pretty extensive menus for their customers. You can always try something new every time you come over! Speciality 🔥: Nasi Goreng Kimchi, Nasi Spicy Butter Chicken and Croffle Address📍: Cherita Kita Cafe located at Kota Bharu, Kelantan

My friend and i were pleasantly surprised by the choices available as we found this place in search of a dessert place. We ordered the best sellers strawberry kakikori and banana and berries waffle. Both tasted delicious, not to mention the environment was very relaxing. Nice place in KB for coffee and deserts. Friendly and professional. Would come back again to try out the rest of the menu👍👍#cafe #foodie #deliciousfood #awesomepic #2023travelwish

With the glance this cafe is already attracted us with a wide variety of relics being put on display to feast the eyes of eager visitors. Coming to this place it does remind us of the good old times we went through. The food and cofee were just average taste and can be improved. The chicken chop we ordered was just moderate taste and it served with the peppered sauce,fries and mayonies without the salad. The main attraction is the instagrammable environment. It is good to have a shoot for your memory and collection. #foodie #awesomepic

During my recent stay at the Grand Renai Hotel in Kota Bharu, I had a truly enjoyable experience. From the moment I entered the hotel, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere. The lobby of the hotel exuded elegance and sophistication, creating a sense of luxury. The staff members were attentive and friendly, making me feel valued as a guest. Check-in was smooth and efficient, and any requests or inquiries I had during my stay were promptly addressed. Upon entering my room, I was pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness and the tasteful decor. The bed was comfortable, providing a restful night's sleep. The room was meticulously clean, and the housekeeping staff did an excellent job of maintaining cleanliness throughout my stay. The hotel amenities were top-notch. The outdoor swimming pool area was beautifully designed, with ample lounging space and a tranquil ambiance. I enjoyed relaxing by the pool, soaking up the sun, and taking in the serene surroundings. The fitness center was well-equipped, allowing me to continue my workout routine while away from home. Overall, the Grand Renai Hotel exceeded my expectations in terms of service, comfort, and amenities. The attention to detail, cleanliness, and the friendly demeanor of the staff made my stay truly memorable. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Kota Bharu, as it offers a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and a relaxing ambiance

#wecreate memories at Ibis Styles Kota Bahru! Standing tall along Jalan Sultanah Zainab, this hotel was a wonderful surprise! From the moment you walk into the lobby, you will feel transported to a chic environment where you come first! Although a 3⭐️ hotel, you really do feel like you are in a higher rated place! You can get everything in your room! Fridge, iron + ironing board, kettle, coffeemaker, great sized mugs, toothbrush, hairdryer, room slippers…everything! The tv channel and movie selections are up to date and there’s something for everyone! There is even a gadget sanitizer available! sTREATs Cafe offers breakfast at RM28/pax (but with the Accor Plus membership, you get a 50% discount). The food selection is GREAT! And it is a wonderful place for non-Asian tourists to get a foretaste of Kelantanese food 👍 There is a gym, a swimming pool, and a foosball table too! We were delighted by the presence of two gigantic vending machines that even had popcorn! Total cost was RM272 for 2 nights. The location was strategic and we would definitely stay again!

This new cafe got a really nice ambience. The primaries menu are homemade ramen, pastries and coffee drinks. Good experience, we taste delicious drinks and meal here. Recommended menu🔥: Shoyu Ramen, Matcha drink, Blueberry Croissant 🥐 Address📍: Brew by Atas located at Kota Bharu, Kelantan Price 💰: A bit pricey. But can try for once. Rating ⭐️ : 4 out of 5 #wecreate #deliciousfood