An Underrated Malaysian Destination | Kota Bharu Guide
| Kota Bharu Guide.
Hey everyone, stop focusing only on the popular attractions! Today, I'm sharing a hidden gem—Kota Bharu, Malaysia. It offers incredible value, fun, and delicious food. Without further ado, here's the guide👇
📍Preparation
- Visa: Apply for a Malaysian e-visa in advance online for a quick and easy process.
- Flights: Check various airline websites and travel platforms for deals. Booking in advance often gets you better prices.
- Currency: The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Exchange services are available at the airport and in the city. You can also withdraw cash using a UnionPay card.
- Language: While Malay is the main language, English is also widely spoken, so basic communication shouldn't be a problem.
📍Must-See Attractions
Merdeka Square: Witness Malaysian independence at this historic square. The monument is solemn and impressive, perfect for photos. You can also feel the rich historical atmosphere.
Istana Balai Besar: Built in 1884, this palace boasts unique architecture and is where the Sultan of Kelantan holds important ceremonies. The exterior is magnificent, and the interior is exquisitely decorated. If you're lucky, you might even catch a traditional ceremony.
Cultural Center: Experience local traditions with performances like shadow puppet shows, Malay martial arts, top-spinning, giant drum playing, and kite flying. Enjoy cultural performances on the central stage in the evening and feel like you've traveled through time.
Kelantan State Museum: Formerly a colonial administrative office, this building was renovated in 1990 and became a museum. It exhibits many items related to Kelantan's traditional arts and is a great place to learn about local history and culture.
Royal Museum: Built by Sultan Ismail, this museum was once a place for royal weddings and receptions. Now, it houses items used by former sultans and the royal family, including silverware and furniture. Each piece is exquisite, telling stories of past glory.
Kuala Beach: Located 11 km outside the city, this beach offers fine sand and clear water, perfect for enjoying the sun and sand. Swim, sunbathe, and relax.
📍Food Recommendations
- Satay: Marinated meat skewers grilled over charcoal and served with a special satay sauce. Sweet, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying.
- Nasi Lemak: Malaysia's national dish. Rice steamed in coconut milk, served with fried chicken, peanuts, cucumber, and a special sauce. Rich in flavor and aroma.
- Malay Pastries: A wide variety of colorful, soft, and chewy pastries, both sweet and savory. Each one is worth trying. For example, onde-onde, made with glutinous rice flour, filled with sweet red bean paste, and coated in coconut flakes.
- Seafood Feast: As a coastal city, Kota Bharu offers a must-try seafood experience! Fresh fish, prawns, and crabs, steamed, stir-fried, or cooked in curry. Every dish is a delight.
📍Transportation
- External Transportation: Fly to Kuala Lumpur and then take a connecting flight to Kota Bharu. Some international flights also fly directly to Sultan Ismail Petra Airport.
- Internal Transportation:
- Bus: Public buses are available and cover a wide area at affordable prices. However, they might not be frequent, so check the schedule.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at stations and busy areas. Negotiate the fare before getting in to avoid being overcharged.
- Car Rental: If you're traveling with a group and have a driver's license, renting a car is a convenient option, offering flexibility and the freedom to stop wherever you like.
📍Accommodation
- Budget-friendly: Choose budget hotels or hostels in the city center for affordable prices and convenient access to dining and shopping.
- Comfort: Consider beachfront resorts for beautiful surroundings, comprehensive amenities, and relaxation after a day of exploring. Enjoy stunning sea views.
📍Things to Note
Kota Bharu is a city with a strong religious atmosphere. Respect local religious beliefs and customs. Dress modestly when entering mosques and remove your shoes.
Take sun protection and mosquito repellent, as the sun is strong and mosquitoes are common.
Bargaining is acceptable when buying souvenirs and snacks, but be polite.
So, are you intrigued by this hidden gem, Kota Bharu? Start planning your unique Malaysian adventure now!💖