Best Places to Visit in Kelantan | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Kelantan Travel Guide
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Welcome to Kelantan, Malaysia! Located on the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Kelantan is a state known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. This enchanting destination offers a unique blend of traditional Malay customs, vibrant arts and crafts, and breathtaking landscapes. From exploring the historic city of Kota Bharu to immersing yourself in the local way of life at the bustling night markets, Kelantan promises an unforgettable travel experience. Don't miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing traditional performances such as the Wayang Kulit shadow puppetry and the captivating Mak Yong dance. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the opportunity to visit the famous Taman Negara National Park. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey filled with cultural discoveries and natural wonders in Kelantan, Malaysia.
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Best Places To Visit in Kelantan
1. Kota Bharu : Kota Bharu is the capital city of Kelantan and is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Islamic Museum and the Royal Museum. Visitors can also explore the bustling night markets and sample local delicacies such as nasi kerabu and ayam percik.
2. Tumpat : Tumpat is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful beaches and traditional fishing villages. Visitors can take a boat ride along the Kelantan River and explore the local mangrove forests. The town is also home to several Buddhist temples, including the Wat Photivihan and the Wat Machimmaram.
3. Bachok : Bachok is a coastal town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful beaches and traditional fishing villages. Visitors can explore the local fishing markets and sample fresh seafood. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Kota Lama Dinding and the Bachok Old Mosque.
4. Pasir Mas : Pasir Mas is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its traditional handicrafts, including batik and songket weaving. Visitors can explore the local markets and purchase handmade souvenirs. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Pasir Mas Museum and the Pasir Mas Old Mosque.
5. Kuala Krai : Kuala Krai is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the local markets and sample traditional Malay cuisine. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Kuala Krai Museum and the Kuala Krai Old Mosque.
6. Gua Musang : Gua Musang is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful caves and limestone formations. Visitors can explore the local caves and go on guided tours. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Gua Musang Museum and the Gua Musang Old Mosque.
7. Jeli : Jeli is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful rice fields and traditional Malay villages. Visitors can explore the local markets and sample traditional Malay cuisine. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Jeli Museum and the Jeli Old Mosque.
8. Machang : Machang is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful rice fields and traditional Malay villages. Visitors can explore the local markets and sample traditional Malay cuisine. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Machang Museum and the Machang Old Mosque.
9. Tanah Merah : Tanah Merah is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful rice fields and traditional Malay villages. Visitors can explore the local markets and sample traditional Malay cuisine. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Tanah Merah Museum and the Tanah Merah Old Mosque.
10. Kuala Krai : Kuala Krai is a small town located on the east coast of Kelantan. It is known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the local markets and sample traditional Malay cuisine. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the Kuala Krai Museum and the Kuala Krai Old Mosque.
Hotels Map Of Kelantan
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Tours And Activities In Kelantan
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Food & Drinks To Try In Kelantan
1. Nasi Kerabu: This is a popular dish in Kelantan that consists of blue-colored rice served with various side dishes such as fried chicken, fish crackers, pickles, and herbs. The blue color is derived from the petals of the butterfly pea flower, giving the dish a unique and vibrant appearance.
2. Ayam Percik: Another must-try dish in Kelantan is Ayam Percik, which is grilled or roasted chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and coconut milk. The chicken is then basted with a rich and aromatic sauce made from coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, and other spices. It is usually served with steamed rice or as a filling in traditional Malay wraps called ketupat.
3. Nasi Dagang: Nasi Dagang is a popular breakfast dish in Kelantan, consisting of steamed glutinous rice cooked with coconut milk and served with a side of fish curry. The rice has a slightly sticky texture and is often flavored with fenugreek seeds, giving it a unique taste. The fish curry is made from fresh fish, spices, and coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
4. Kuih Cek Mek Molek: This traditional Kelantanese dessert is a sweet and sticky steamed cake made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar. It is usually wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until it becomes soft and gooey. The combination of the fragrant coconut milk and caramel-like palm sugar creates a delightful and indulgent treat.
5. Teh Tarik: Teh Tarik, which translates to "pulled tea," is a popular Malaysian beverage that originated in Kelantan. It is made by pouring hot tea back and forth between two containers to create a frothy and creamy texture. The tea is sweetened with condensed milk, giving it a rich and smooth flavor. Teh Tarik is often enjoyed with local snacks or as a refreshing drink on its own.
6. Air Kelapa: Kelantan is known for its abundance of coconut trees, making fresh coconut water a popular and refreshing drink in the region. The water is extracted from young coconuts and is naturally sweet and hydrating. It is often served chilled and can be enjoyed as a thirst-quencher on a hot day.
7. Keropok Lekor: Keropok Lekor is a traditional Kelantanese snack made from fish paste, sago flour, and spices. The mixture is shaped into long sausages and then deep-fried until crispy. It is commonly served with a spicy chili sauce and is a popular street food in Kelantan.
8. Nasi Tumpang: Nasi Tumpang is a unique Kelantanese dish that consists of layers of rice, meat, and condiments wrapped in a banana leaf cone. The rice is usually mixed with shredded chicken or beef, and topped with grated coconut, fried anchovies, and a spicy sauce. It is a portable and convenient meal that is often enjoyed during picnics or as a quick snack.
9. Ketupat Sotong: Ketupat Sotong is a specialty dish in Kelantan that features stuffed squid cooked in a flavorful coconut milk gravy. The squid is filled with a mixture of glutinous rice, spices, and minced meat before being simmered in the gravy until tender. The dish is rich in flavors and textures, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
10. Cendol: Cendol is a popular dessert in Malaysia, and Kelantan is no exception. It is made from shaved ice topped with green jelly noodles made from rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. Other toppings such as red beans and sweet corn are often added for extra flavor and texture. Cendol is a refreshing and sweet treat that is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
Best Time To Visit Kelantan
The best time to visit Kelantan, Malaysia is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region's attractions. The wet season, which occurs from October to February, brings heavy rainfall and occasional flooding, which can disrupt travel plans and limit outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in experiencing Kelantan's unique cultural festivals, such as the Kelantan Traditional Arts Festival or the Kelantan International Kite Festival, it is recommended to visit during the wet season as these events often take place during this time.
Flight Calendar For Kelantan
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Transportation To Kelantan
There are several transportation options to get to Kelantan, Malaysia:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kelantan is Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR), located in Kota Bharu. There are domestic flights available from major cities in Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang. International flights are limited, but there are some direct flights from Singapore.
2. By Train: The nearest train station to Kelantan is Wakaf Bharu Railway Station, which is connected to the national railway network. You can take a train from Kuala Lumpur or other major cities in Malaysia to Wakaf Bharu, and then take a taxi or bus to Kelantan.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities in Malaysia to Kelantan. The journey duration depends on the starting point, but it usually takes around 6-8 hours from Kuala Lumpur. The main bus terminal in Kelantan is Kota Bharu Bus Terminal.
4. By Car: You can also drive to Kelantan by car. The North-South Expressway connects Kelantan to other parts of Malaysia. The journey duration depends on the starting point, but it usually takes around 6-8 hours from Kuala Lumpur.
5. By Ferry: If you are coming from nearby islands or countries, you can take a ferry to Kelantan. There are ferry services available from the Perhentian Islands and the Thai border town of Tumpat.
Once you arrive in Kelantan, you can use local taxis, buses, or rental cars to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.