2025 Recommended Comprehensive guides in Alor Setar (Updated October)

Take the morning train and return in the evening. The plan focuses on eating, cafes, and chilling. • Start at Bakul Cheh Cha, a local favorite for halal dim sum. • Continue to Overn Café, a famous cafe with affordable homemade desserts and strong coffee. (I highly recommend this shop. All the desserts are delicious and freshly baked, all priced under 100 baht.) • Stop by Masjid Zahir, an ancient mosque, the symbol of the city, beautifully magnificent in the middle of the city. • For lunch, I recommend a local restaurant near the mosque with a truly local atmosphere. (But on the day we went, the shop opened at 16:30, so we didn't stop by.) • In the afternoon, stroll around Aman Central Mall, shop, and relax in the mall before going back. **Yao and this tea, I buy every time I go. 📌 Convenient transportation, take Grab into the city for 10-15 minutes to each point. 📌 Return to Thailand in time for the evening train. This plan includes eating, cafes, and city symbols. And shopping***Take the 8:55 AM train from Hat Yai, arriving at Padang border at 9:51 AM. The Malaysian train was delayed until 11:35 AM, arriving in Alor Setar at 12:50 PM. The return train departs Alor Setar at 4:40 PM (Malaysian time), just in time for the last train back to Hat Yai at 5:00 PM.**** Malaysian time is 1 hour ahead of Thailand. **** Shopping fees not included. Shopaholics will be thrilled because the prices are much cheaper than in Thailand. #TravelTalk

#summervacay Far from the city crowds and tourist traps, Alor Setar offers something different: A slow walk through heritage streets, open skies, and the quiet rhythm of paddy life. Here’s how I spent one meaningful day in northern Malaysia’s rice capital. 📍Paddy Museum (Muzium Padi) Located at the foot of Gunung Keriang, this place is more than a museum — it’s an immersive journey into Malaysia’s rice soul. 360° panoramic mural of endless green paddies Traditional rice-farming tools & stories from generations past The smell of husks, the sound of harvest, the heart of Kedah 🌾 💡 Tip: Climb to the viewing deck for the best view of real rice fields + mountain backdrop 🏛️ Then, back to town... Wandered through Zahir Mosque, one of Malaysia’s oldest & most beautiful mosques Passed colonial shophouses, quiet rivers, and locals sipping kopi under tree shade Bought kuih from a street auntie for RM1. Nothing fancy, just real and warm 🍬 🎧 Vibe of the day? Birds, breeze, prayer calls. A place where nothing rushes, and that’s exactly the point. If you ever feel tired of “big city energy” — come here. Walk slow. Look long. Let the fields do the talking. #AlorSetarWalk #PaddyMuseumKedah #SlowTravelMalaysia #UnderratedDestinations #NorthernMalaysiaVibes #CulturalJourney #MalaysiaHiddenGems #KedahDiHatiku #RiceFieldViews #CityWalkAsia

📅 Itinerary: Day 1: Visit Kedah State Library (Perbadanan Perpustakaan Awam Kedah) – explore local history and enjoy the peaceful reading environment. Day 2: Food hunting day – try Donna Ice Cream Yogurt (famous for unique toppings and creamy texture). Explore street food at Pekan Rabu. Day 3: Shopping and dining at Aman Central – have a Korean meal at Oiso Korean Traditional Cuisine & Café. 🏨 Accommodation: The Leverage Business Hotel – affordable and centrally located. 📌 Tips: -Most places open late morning; plan your day accordingly. -Carry cash – not all local eateries accept cards. #springitinerary

Review of a one-day trip to Malaysia 🚝 One-day trip, morning-evening, return Very easy to go, fun too #Malaysia #onedaytrip #review #alorsetar #malaysia #travelabroad #travelbyyourself #travelabroadbyyourself #xinjeni #trip

#travelhacks Alor Setar, the capital of Kedah, often gets overshadowed by its more popular neighbor, Penang. However, this charming city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and delicious food. Here are the top 10 things to do in Alor Setar: * Visit Balai Nobat: This iconic landmark, with its distinctive leaning tower, is a must-see for any visitor to Alor Setar. * Explore Zahir Mosque: Admire the stunning architecture of this magnificent mosque, one of the largest in Southeast Asia. * Immerse Yourself in History at the Kedah State Museum: Learn about the rich history of Kedah and its royal heritage. * Indulge in Local Delicacies: Savor the flavors of Kedah, from the spicy laksa to the fragrant nasi kerabu. * Relax at Taman Rekreasi Sungai Petani: Enjoy a picnic, go fishing, or simply unwind by the river. * Shop Till You Drop at Central Plaza Alor Setar: This modern shopping mall offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. * Visit the Kampung Kuala Kedah: Experience traditional Malay village life and learn about local crafts. * Explore the Art Scene at Galeri Seni Negeri Kedah: Discover the works of talented local artists. * Take a Day Trip to Langkawi: Island hop, go snorkeling, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. * Cycle Around the City: Explore Alor Setar at your own pace and discover hidden gems. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Alor Setar is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this charming city. #AlorSetar #Kedah #Malaysia #Travel #Tourism #Culture #History #Food #Shopping #Nature

#weekendgetaways Who says you need to travel far for a unique weekend escape? Alor Setar, the charming capital of Kedah, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and quirky attractions. And at the heart of it all lies Balai Nobat, a historical landmark that’s sure to pique your curiosity. Balai Nobat: A Leaning Wonder This iconic building, with its distinctive tilt, is a sight to behold. It’s like a mini Leaning Tower of Pisa right here in Malaysia! Once a royal hall for traditional Malay orchestra performances, it’s now a fascinating historical site. Beyond the Leaning Tower Alor Setar has more to offer than just its leaning tower. Here are some other must-see spots: * Zahir Mosque: This majestic mosque is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning white marble dome and intricate Islamic architecture. * Kedah Royal Museum: Delve into the rich history of Kedah at this fascinating museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the past. * Menara Alor Star: Ascend the tallest telecommunication tower in Southeast Asia for panoramic views of the city.

1. **Geography and Population**: - Alor Setar is located in the northern part of the Kedah Plain, at the confluence of the Kedah River and its tributary, the Pantai River. It is 13 km from the sea, with low terrain and frequent flooding. - The population was 72,000 in 1980, but now it has reached 400,000. 2. **Economy and Industry**: - Alor Setar is the agricultural product distribution center of the Kedah Plain, with a relatively developed industry. It was originally dominated by agricultural product processing, but the printing, textile, and chemical industries are now developing. 3. **Transportation**: - Alor Setar is connected to various parts of Peninsular Malaysia and Thailand by rail, road, and air. 4. **Landmarks and Attractions**: - **Alor Setar Tower**: At 165.5 meters high, it is the 19th tallest communication tower in the world and one of the city's landmarks. Visitors can climb to the observation deck at the top of the tower to enjoy the city view. - **Zahir Mosque**: Built in 1912, it is the official mosque of Kedah and one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia. It is rated as one of the top ten most beautiful mosques in the world. - **Paddy Museum**: It displays the rice planting process in Malaysia, as well as various tools and utensils that people have used. - **Gunung Keriang**: The caves of Gunung Keriang in the northwest suburb stretch for 1.6 km, offering a distant view of the Strait of Malacca. 5. **Historical Figures**: - Alor Setar is the birthplace of Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, and Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the fourth Prime Minister. 6. **Education**: - The school days in Alor Setar are from Sunday to Thursday, which is different from other cities such as Penang and Kuala Lumpur. This is to facilitate the prayer day for the largest Malay population in Malaysia on Friday. 7. **Cuisine**: - Alor Setar is famous for its rich rice production, so rice-related delicacies are not to be missed. In addition, there are many other food options, such as Nasi Lemak Ong, Lai Fatt Curry Mee, and Zhi Wei Bak Kut Teh. 🌳Alor Setar is a city with a long history, rich cultural heritage, and natural scenery, making it a destination worth visiting.🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

⛱️Attraction Recommendations Sungai Petani Night Market: Experience the bustling nightlife and try a variety of local delicacies. Kedah State Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Kedah. Kek Lok Tong Forest Park: Enjoy nature and engage in activities like hiking and picnicking. Alor Setar Tower: A great place to overlook the city and take photos. 📱Itinerary Planning Day 1: Arrive in Alor Setar, check in to your hotel, and rest for a while. Then, head to Sungai Petani Night Market to experience the local atmosphere. Day 2: Visit Kedah State Museum in the morning to learn about local history and culture. In the afternoon, head to Kek Lok Tong Forest Park to enjoy the natural scenery and outdoor activities. Day 3: Climb Alor Setar Tower to enjoy the city view. Afterward, you can stroll around the city and buy some unique souvenirs. 🚘Transportation Plane: You can fly to major cities like Kuala Lumpur first, then transfer or take other transportation to Alor Setar. Train: Malaysia has a well-developed railway network, so you can choose a suitable train route to reach your destination. 🍝Food Recommendations Caffè Diem: An Asian cuisine restaurant mainly offering Malaysian dishes. The menu is diverse, and the flavors are authentic, making it a great place to try local food. Nasi Lemak Ong: Another Asian cuisine restaurant specializing in Malaysian dishes. Their nasi lemak is famous, with rice paired with various side dishes, offering a rich taste. It's one of the local specialties. Terrace Forty Eight: A bar and restaurant offering European cuisine, Western dishes, and various drinks. The elegant environment is perfect for gatherings with friends or romantic dinners. Medina Thai Palace: If you want to try Thai cuisine, this restaurant is a good choice. The Thai dishes are authentic and reasonably priced, allowing you to enjoy genuine Thai food abroad. Alor Setar Breakfast Station: A highly-rated breakfast restaurant offering a variety of bread, pastries, coffee, etc. It's a great choice to start your day. 🏨Accommodation Recommendations Millennium Tower House Hotel: D House Alor Setar Resort: A four-star high-end resort with a beautiful environment and luxurious decor. It offers various comfortable facilities and services, making you feel at home during your trip. Balaka Homestay: A five-star luxury homestay with unique design and exquisite decor. It offers personalized services and facilities, complete hotel amenities, attentive service, and relatively low prices, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. D House Alor Setar Resort: A four-star high-end resort with a beautiful environment and luxurious decor. It offers various comfortable facilities and services, making you feel at home during your trip. Balaka Homestay: A five-star luxury homestay with unique design and exquisite decor. It offers personalized services and facilities, making you feel at home in Alor

Getting There - KTMB Attractions - Maszid Zahir Hotels - Royale Signature Hotel Food & Restaurants - Nasi lemak Ong Shopping - Aman central

❤️ Getting There - We went there by Car. It took about 2 hours from Penang to Alor Setar. Journey there was smooth and you may enjoy the beautiful scenery of paddy field along the way. ❤️ Attractions - Alor Setar Tower, Pekan Rabu, Muzium Padi. Hotels - Stayed for 3days 2 night at small homestay Bungalow Mat Haji Limah. It come with free breakfast. My daughter able to experienced villagers life. Food & Restaurants - We have a dinner at Steak House Alor Setar. We ordered wagyu steak which cost MYR300 and chicken chop. All food we ordered are delicious!! Definitely will come here again. Shopping - We enjoyed shopping at Pekan Rabu. #awesomepic #deliciousfood

The capital city of Kedah, Malaysia, is a historic city rich in cultural and historical attractions. It is also conveniently accessible from Thailand, making it a great destination for a one-day trip from Hat Yai district. Must-visit attractions include: - Alor Star Tower - Al-Bukhary Mosque (a black mosque) - Aman Mall, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Traveling is super easy, and I even got a great promotion on flights within Malaysia through Trip.com. The ticket price from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar is incredibly affordable at just 400 baht. This small town is the closest to the border crossing to Thailand, with a direct train from here back to Padang Besar. There's also Aman Central, a shopping mall where you can shop and find delicious food. Don't miss out on Krispy Kreme to take back to Thailand. Beryl's, a famous Malaysian chocolate shop, is also available, with prices similar to those in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. If you're visiting this mall, I highly recommend getting some Taiwanese fried chicken. It tastes 100% like Taiwanese fried chicken. It's incredibly delicious, crispy, and incredibly delicious. The black and white mosque is stunningly beautiful. #TravelMalaysiaOnYourOwn #alorsetar #malaysia

🚗 One day trip to Alor Setar, Malaysia 🇲🇾 ขับรถข้ามแดนไปชิลล์ เที่ยวเมืองสงบๆ ชมมัสยิด Zahir Mosque 🕌 แวะช้อปปิ้ง กินอาหารมาเลย์แท้ๆ บรรยากาศอบอุ่นแบบ slow life เดินเล่นถ่ายรูปสวยๆ 📸 เติมพลังใจในวันสั้นๆ ที่แสนคุ้มค่า ที่สำคัญแวะกินไอศกรีมร้านดัง llaollao.🍦 อร่อยมาก✨ และแวะนั่งคาเฟ่ บรรยากาศดี ชื่อร้านว่า overn ใครอยู่ใกล้ประเทศมาเลเซีย อยากไป alor setar แนะนำตามนี้เลยค่า #AlorSetar #1DayTrip #malaysia

🥟 Start with Bakul Cheh Cha, a delicious halal dim sum restaurant that lives up to its name. Then, head to Overn Café for fresh pastries and strong coffee. Then, admire the beauty of Masjid Zahir, a famous mosque in the heart of the city. Finally, enjoy some shopping at Aman Central Mall. This city is easy to navigate, with delicious food, fun shopping, and a truly memorable experience. 💙 If you're looking for somewhere to go on a boring holiday, we recommend this place: Alor Setar. 🇲🇾 #TravelTalk

Jitra connects directly to Kepala Batas Sultan Abdul Halim Airport and Alor Setar. Although small, it's quite convenient for first-time visitors. Simple English, Cantonese, and a little Mandarin are spoken, allowing for easy communication. Breakfast: Follow the locals. They often order a half-wheat flour, half-noodle kueh chee (a soup similar to medicinal herbs), stir-fried rat noodles (similar to silver needle noodles), and rice noodles (with options of kuey teow, hor fun, rice vermicelli, etc.). Another option is a half-and-half teh ping, half-kopi, or yuan yang (a type of rice noodle dish). Most people order the kopi. After a satisfying meal, our first stop is the Rice Museum to learn about the rice-growing process. A giant painting on the rooftop features a 360-degree rotating stage, explaining the history of agriculture and the evolution of rice cultivation today. Photos taken upstairs can be printed on-site. Inside, the museum showcases rice-based products (rice noodles, hor fun, cakes, etc.) and a selection of farming tools. Cherishing food is paramount. I met a man who grows black rice tea himself. He introduced himself in Cantonese, which made us feel closer. The basement floor has various exhibition areas where you can check out and try them out. Suggested stay: 1 hour. Then we went to Aman Central, a large shopping mall in Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia. It offers retail, dining, and a cinema. It's the largest shopping mall in Kedah, adjacent to the Alor Setar Telecom Tower and has parking. Being close to Thailand, I indulged in Thai food. The steamed thick toast with kaya sauce was delicious. The boat noodles are MYR0.6 each, and they're bite-sized, perfect for those with smaller stomachs. You can try a few and stack them like conveyor belt sushi. The wait for our food was quite long. I asked a friend and they told me that this is because they don't have pre-prepared dishes and are made to order, which takes time. Estimated time: 1.5 hours. It was too hot outside, so I stopped by for lunch and some shopping. Retail outlets include Parkson, Lotus, and Beryl's Chocolate, and you can also enjoy Thai milk. If you want to exchange local currency, there's an exchange shop on the G floor of the plaza. Enjoy plenty of shopping and a wide variety of food—two things you can satisfy at once. Our last stop in Alor Setar today: Across from Chinatown is Shanghai Street, a night market-like street. I tried the local bak kut teh and the delicious Indian atom dish, which is filled with coconut milk. A must-try: stingray. There's also a selection of Thai hot and sour salads, colorful red bean ice cream, grilled chicken wings, Taiwanese and Thai cuisine, and more. The menu offers a variety of dishes, and the flavors vary, so find your favorite. Tip: If arriving by domestic flight, we recommend staying in Alor Setar, where there's a wider selection of newer hotels. It's about a 30-minute drive from Alor Setar to Jitra. 📍RESTORAN SERI JITRA 888 Thai village Unnamed Road, Jitra, Kedah, Malaysia 📍 Muzium Padi Rice Museum Jalan Gunung Keriang, Alor Setar, Kedah 📍Aman central, Alor setar, Malaysia Aman Central, 1, Darul Aman Hwy, Kampung Lubok Peringgi, 05100 Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia 📍Boat Noodes, Aman central, Alor setar, Malaysia 📍 China Town Food Court Chinatown Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Alor Setar, Malaysia #jutra #MuziumPadi #ricemuseum #alorsetar

Review of solo trip to Alor Setar – Kuala Lumpur for 3 days 2 nights Day 1: Travel by train • Start the day with the 07:20 train from Hat Yai to Padang Besar. Ticket price 50 THB. The train departed on time. • Passed immigration checkpoint and got the stamp. • Bought ticket from Padang Besar to Alor Setar for 5.70 MYR, paid with YouTrip card (no cash accepted). • Arrived at Alor Setar and called Grab to continue the journey. • Two plans: • Plan A: Go straight to the airport. • Plan B: Stop by Aman Mall and chill at Sulb Café. • Chose Plan B because coincidentally met a Thai travel companion and shared Grab fare, costing 1.5 MYR each. • Food cost this meal about 27.40 MYR. • Called Grab from the café to the airport at 1:30 PM. Accommodation in KL • Stayed at Kingston Hotel 12 @ Jalan Raja Laut, KL • (Paid a 100 MYR deposit) • Room as advertised, with a view of the KLCC Twin Towers ⸻ Day 2: Visit 6 must-see spots in KL • Started touring from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM • Suitable for solo female travelers, safe travel, focusing on relaxed photo-taking • Petronas Twin Towers (viewed from afar, didn’t go inside due to hot weather) • River of Life • Pavilion Bukit Bintang (had a meal and strolled around) • Masjid Putra Jaya (beautiful pink mosque but too far, so didn’t go) • Sultan Abdul Samad (building under renovation) • Dataran Merdeka (great photo spot, crowded) • Saloma Link (cool photo bridge) ⸻ Last day: Return trip • Called Grab from accommodation to KL Terminal 2 airport, fare 82 MYR including toll fees • Stopped by Aman Mall at Sultan Abdul Halim Airport to get something to eat, fare 8.24 MYR • Called Grab to KTM Anak Bukit to go to Padang Besar checkpoint, fare 9.27 MYR (had some internet issues, so finding a car was a bit difficult) • Bought return train ticket from Padang Besar to Hat Yai for 5.20 MYR (a kind person helped buy at the machine) • Arrived at Padang Besar checkpoint around 4:00 PM, passed immigration quickly • Train departed at 5:00 PM, arrived Hat Yai at 5:45 PM, exactly on time ⸻ Summary • Travel was very convenient and punctual • Using YouTrip card made paying for travel easy • Solo female travel is safe • Recommend allowing extra time when calling Grab in case of internet issues • This trip focused on photography and relaxed walking, no rush

Alor Setar – Kuala Lumpur 3 days 2 nights solo trip This trip was solo, no tour booked, no friends, but with Google Maps and a heart ready to travel 🧳🌤️ 🛤️ Starting from Thailand → Alor Setar Took the train from the Thai side crossing the border to Alor Setar, a peaceful, simple city with kind people. Went for a walk at Aman Central mall, easy to find food, everything is complete. Shoppers don’t need to worry. Tips: No Malaysian internet, don’t forget to find Free WiFi at the mall, restaurants, coffee shops, or buy it from the Thai side for convenience. ✈️ Flight from Alor Setar → KL Small airport but easy to manage, direct flight to KL takes a short time. Arrived at KL airport, many types of transport to the city, very convenient. 🏙️ 2 nights in Kuala Lumpur Stayed at Kingston Hotel 12@Jalan Raja Laut (safe, clean, suitable for solo female travelers) Focused on main landmarks 📍 Petronas Twin Towers, walked around KLCC Park, very romantic at night even when solo 📍 Saloma Link Bridge, great for photos, the night lights are amazing 📍 Visited several cafes, KL people are very friendly, clean shops, easy to order 🍽️ Food Tried Nasi Lemak, Roti + Teh Tarik, cold fruit juices, felt like authentic Malaysia. Some night markets were crowded, but if you choose late morning it’s more comfortable. ⸻ 📌 Summary • Solo travel in Malaysia is safer than expected • Convenient transportation system, can use Grab or walk • Malaysians speak good English, communication is easy • Budget won’t explode if planned well Give it a 9/10, will definitely go again 💙

#summervacay If you're ever in northern Malaysia, don't skip Alor Setar Square, where history, architecture, and culture collide. Just steps away, the iconic Zahir Mosque (Masjid Zahir) stands as one of the most beautiful and oldest mosques in the country — and it's absolutely picture-perfect 📸🌤️ 🏛️ Alor Setar Square (Dataran Alor Setar) Framed by colonial-era buildings, modern towers, and Kedah’s own spirit of pride, the square is perfect for a casual stroll or to snap shots of local life. Don’t miss the grand archway and the famous clock tower 🕰️ 🕌 Zahir Mosque Just next door, this stunning black-domed mosque is a national icon. Built in 1912, it’s not only an architectural gem — it's a spiritual centerpiece for locals. The symmetry, the details, the serenity... you’ll feel it all ✨ 🛍️ Grab a kopi from a nearby café and enjoy the vibe — it's peaceful, slow, and so Malaysia. #AlorSetar #ZahirMosque #MasjidZahir #MalaysiaHiddenGems #KedahTravel #HistoricMosques #TravelMalaysia #IslamicArchitecture #AlorSetarSquare

Started the day diving into local vibes at Pekan Rabu – where the batik’s bold, the kuih is fresh, and the sambal is dangerously addictive. Wallet cried. No regrets. 😆 Next stop: Aman Central Mall – because after sweating through the market, we deserved aircond, snacks, and maybe just a few new outfits. Lunch? Oh, we went full Kedahan with Nasi Kandar Yasmeen – kuah campur level: tsunami. Ayam goreng, sotong, telur rebus… and still wanted more. 🍛🔥 As the day mellowed, we soaked in the sunset at Taman Jubli Perak. Kids were flying kites, couples were flying feelings, and I was flying into my third kuih lapis. 🌅🪁 And finally… Menara Alor Setar – lit up like a queen in neon. The city view from the top? Jaw. Dropped. 🌌💫 From markets to malls, sambal to sunsets, and stars above the skyline – Alor Setar served it all. #summervacay #alorsetarfood #alorsetarbeautiful #travel #sunset #nasikandar

Went on a one-day trip to Alor Setar with friends and had a great time! First stop was Morning Kedah for dim sum. The food was delicious. It’s clean, air-conditioned, and affordable. After breakfast, we walked around the city to enjoy the calm streets and took some fun photos together. Then we visited Alor Setar Tower for a nice city view from the top – great for pictures! Before heading back, we spent time shopping and relaxing at Aman Central Mall. It was a chill and fun day, with good food and good vibes with friends. Super easy trip from Hat Yai! #alorsetar #alorsetarfood #malaysia

📍Itinerary Overview A spontaneous weekend idea led to discovering Malaysia Airlines' round-trip flights from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar for just RM210! This sparked a three-day, two-night impromptu getaway. Alor Setar's city center is compact, with attractions within walking distance and several museums offering free admission, making it a high-value destination for a relaxed pace. 🚩Travel Route Day 1: Kedah Royal Museum → Kedah Art Gallery → Kedah Tower → Caffe Diem Day 2: Jaha Food Court / Hai Tao Street Food Center → Kedah Museum → Rice Museum → Old Railway Bridge → Mansion 28 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions 🏛️ Kedah Royal Museum: Free admission, offering a close-up look at Kedah's royal culture 🖼️ Kedah Art Gallery: European-style architecture, currently showcasing children's creative eco-friendly artworks 🌇 Kedah Tower: Best visited at sunset for breathtaking views 🌾 Kedah Rice Museum: Don't miss the 360° rotating mural; the souvenir section is incredibly charming 🛤️ Alor Setar Old Railway Bridge: Full of historical vibes, with a lively atmosphere under the bridge 🚇Transportation Fly directly from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar via Malaysia Airlines (round-trip RM210) Within the city, you can walk or use Grab; most attractions are concentrated in the city center 📷Photo Spots The European-style architecture in front of Kedah Art Gallery is highly photogenic The view from Kedah Tower's observation deck looking back at the art gallery is stunning The historical ambiance of the Old Railway Bridge makes for great pictures The rotating mural at the Rice Museum is perfect for photos and Reels 🍜Local Delicacies ☕ Caffe Diem: A popular café in a heritage building, offering delightful desserts and a nostalgic atmosphere 🍧 Jaha Food Court: Must-try refreshing Cendol 🍜 Hai Tao Street Food Center: Unique stir-fried 'Yin Yang' noodles (flat noodles + vermicelli + pork liver) 🍰 Mansion 28: Retro mansion-style café with surprising Onde Onde desserts 🏠Accommodation Recommendation Super 8 Hotel @ Alor Setar Located near Alor Setar Mall in the city center, it offers convenient amenities and budget-friendly rates, making it ideal for exploring the city. 💡Tips Most museums require personal information for entry Bring a hat or rain gear to prepare for unpredictable weather The wind at Kedah Tower can be strong; dress warmly and avoid wearing skirts Weekend traffic in the city can be heavy, so plan to leave early for smoother travel

📅 Itinerary Day1：arrived to Alor Setar airport, take taxi/Grab to city centre. Lunch at Tart Nasi Ayam, local favorite rice chicken restaurant in town. Check-in hotel and rest. Have a night walk tour, free and easy to City Square and enjoy the view of Alor Setar tower, Zahir Mosque(one of the oldest mosque in Malaysia) and the Chinatown. Plenty of local restaurants available to your liking and dinner. Day2: Breakfast at Pekan Rabu food court. Shopping some local goods and souvenir. Took Grab to Paddy Museum and enjoy local style lunch at any restaurant around the road. Or else, go to Kedah State Museum as alternative. Refresh once at Aman Sentral Shopping Mall for some souvenir shopping or enjoying coffee at some of the cafes. Took Grab to airport and return back to KL by flight. 🏨 Accommodation Bee Garden Motel, nice simple budget hotel located behind Aman Sentral Mall and plenty of restaurants around. Or other higher tier hotels like Fuller Hotel etc are available too. 🍴 Food Recommendations Tart Nasi Ayam, Ahmad Duck and Chicken Rice, Pekan Rabu Food Court try Khao Mak Rice/northern Bihun Soup/Kue Tiaw Soup. Or try Laksa Kedah style, Thai Cuisines Restaurants. 📌 Tips stay near the Aman Sentral is the best as it just a stone away from Kedah Square and shopping mall. #travel #Alor setar #kedah #paddymuseum #malaysia #weekendtrip

#summervacay If you're in George Town, Penang, and have half a day to spare, consider a spontaneous trip to Alor Setar (亚罗士打) — a quiet, charming town in Kedah, often overlooked but full of cultural richness! 🚗 How to Get There: Grab a ride to the ferry terminal (Penang Jetty) 🛳️ Take the ferry across to Butterworth (RM2/person) 🚆 Hop on a train to Alor Setar (~RM7, ~1 hour) It's a relaxed, scenic route and a great way to experience local life. 📍 Must-See Attractions: 🕌 Zahir Mosque (Masjid Zahir) – Famous for its iconic black dome, one of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques. It's peaceful, and staff may kindly welcome you to look inside. 🗼 Alor Setar Tower – Offers panoramic views of the city. 🌃 Twelve Streets Night Market (Jalan 12 Lorong) – A great spot for trying local street food! 💡 Tips: Return trains may be crowded and lack air-conditioning, so be prepared. Most places are walkable, or you can try a short Grab ride. Don’t miss snapping photos at Zahir Mosque – it's incredibly photogenic 📸 🧳 This is a perfect escape from Penang for those craving something more local and off the beaten path. #AlorSetar #KedahTrip #MalaysiaHiddenGems #MasjidZahir #CulturalTravel

Morning: Journey to Kedah The day kicked off early with a road trip up north to Kedah, a state known for its peaceful landscapes and rich local culture. The drive itself set the tone—scenic, calm, and full of promise for a day of exploration and good food. Lunch: Local Flavors at Ahmad Foo By midday, you arrived at Ahmad Foo, a popular eatery in Kedah. The spot is known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes—a local go-to. Lunch was hearty and satisfying, fueling you up perfectly for the afternoon ahead. Evening: A Quiet Moment at Kedah Library In the evening, you made a peaceful stop at the Kedah State Library. Whether it was to explore the architecture, flip through a few pages, or just take a moment to relax in a quiet space, the visit added a thoughtful pause to your day. Tea Time: Donna Yogurt Café Later on, you dropped by Donna Yogurt Café, a charming place known for its fresh yogurt drinks and light bites. It was the perfect sweet, cooling treat after an active day—a moment to unwind before hitting the road again. Dinner: Warung Nifayyi, Ipoh En route back to KL, you made a stop in Ipoh for dinner at Warung Nifayyi. Known for its laid-back setting and authentic local dishes, it was the ideal place to wrap up your food adventure. Comfort food at its best, served with a side of Perak charm. Night: Return to Kuala Lumpur After a day of travel, discovery, and delicious eats, you made your way home to Kuala Lumpur. #springitinerary

📅 Itinerary 15/5 Day1：13.40pm flight To Alor Setar Kedah - go kuala kedah to stay up there - looking sunset at the beach 16/5 Day2: - hiking at telipong hill changlun - go to uum to take lunch - in the night go to wlkstreet at alor setar 🏨 Accommodation - stay at sister’s frienf 🍴 Food Recommendations - nescafe ais is different with other state.. very umphhh - mochi filling at walkstreet.. not sweet and delicious - bihun sup utagha at stadium 📌 Tips

#springitinerary **Why You MUST Visit:** As the royal capital of Kedah, Alor Setar blends **Malay heritage, golden rice fields, and majestic architecture**. From the tallest mosque in Malaysia to nostalgic street food, this underrated gem offers culture without the crowds! --- ## **📅 2-Day Alor Setar Itinerary** ### **Day 1: Iconic Landmarks & Local Flavors** **🌅 Morning: Majestic Architecture** - **Zahir Mosque** (One of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques, with black domes and intricate carvings) - **Alor Setar Tower** (Menara Alor Setar) – Climb for 360° views of rice fields and Mount Keriang - **Balai Nobat** (Royal Drum Tower) – See the sacred *nobat* instruments (outside only) **🍜 Midday: Kedahan Food Adventure** - Lunch at **Nasi Lemak Ong** (Try *nasi lemak kukus* with spicy *sambal*) - Dessert at **Kedai Kopi Sin Heong** (Famous *cendol pulut* and *rojak*) **🏛️ Afternoon: Royal & Cultural Gems** - **Kedah Royal Museum** (Istana Kota Star) – Former palace with royal artifacts - **Pekan Rabu Market** – Buy local snacks like *dodol*, *laksa Kedah*, and *kuih karas* **🌙 Evening: Sunset & Street Eats** - Walk along **Tanjung Chali Waterfront** - Dinner at **Medan Selera Stadium** (*Ikan bakar*, *laksa*, and *murtabak*) --- ### **Day 2: Countryside Escape & Hidden Gems** **🌾 Morning: Rural Kedah Adventure** - **Paddy Museum (Muzium Padi)** – Walk through immersive rice-field dioramas - **Drive through Kubang Pasu** – Stop at scenic *bendang* (paddy fields) for photos **🚲 Midday: Cycling & Local Crafts** - Rent bikes at **Anak Bukit Village** (Cycle past traditional wooden houses) - Visit **Ubudiah Cottage** – Handmade *batik* and pottery workshop **🕌 Afternoon: Offbeat Mosques** - **Masjid Al-Hussain** (Floating mosque on Kuala Kedah’s river) - **Kuala Kedah Fort** – Historic fort with sea views (entrance RM3) **🍢 Evening: Seafood Feast** - Dinner at **Kuala Kedah Seafood** (Butter prawns, grilled fish, and *sotong celup tepung*) --- ## **💡 Insider Tips** ✔ **Best Time to Visit:** Nov-Feb (harvest season = lush green fields) ✔ **Transport:** Grab taxis or rent a car (public buses are limited) ✔ **Must-Try:** *Laksa Kedah* (sour fish broth noodles) and *pulut mangga* ✔ **Hidden Gem:** **Gunung Keriang** – Limestone hill with caves and durian orchards --- ## **🚆 Getting There** - **From KL:** 4h drive or 5h ETS train (RM50-80) to Alor Setar Station - **From Penang:** 1.5h drive or bus (RM15) --- ### **🌴 Why You’ll Love Alor Setar:** This is **old Malaysia at its most authentic**—where royal traditions meet village life, and every meal tells a story. Perfect for culture lovers and foodies seeking the road less traveled!

2D1N in Alor Setar, Kedah 1. Masjid Al Bukhary - beautiful majestic mosque that gives me Taj Mahal vibes. Definitely worth a visit. 2. Masjid Zahir - magnificent architecture, very heritage, no wonder it is a Kedah state mosque. Right in the city centre, you can take beautiful photos outside the gate. 3. Wat Nikhrodaram - Thai Buddhist temple, went during Wesak Day so it's abit crowded. Beautiful building. 4. Rumah kelahiran Tun M - Surprise that this is free admission, the surroundings just recently got renovated. It is like a museum that filled with Tun M's achievements before he became our PM 5. Istana Kuning - Did not manage to enter: a unique yellow building just opposite the Menara Alor Setar 6. Menara Alor Setar - Right in front of Aman Central mall. There is a elevator to get to the top for the city view. RM7-8/adult ticket. 7. Paddy Museum - Entrance only RM3 for adults. It is located near Gunung Keriang, with huge spread of paddy field. Reminds me of Sekinchan. Interesting museum! 8. Gunung Keriang - Raining, so we missed out hiking session & cave exploration. Definitely going back there again. Proper parking place & food stalls. 8. Kilang Tebu Kaya Kok - before heading home, drop by pastry shop for souvenirs. Mouth-watering Kaya kok & Peanut Kok. Crunchy, flaky pastry skin which comes in mini versions too. RM9 for 10 pcs. The shop has only 4-5 parking spots, advise to go once it opens to get the freshest bakes or otherwise it's sold out! Alor Setar is about 2 hours drive from Penang Airport.

8:00 AM – Departed for Kedah Began the journey to Kedah in the morning. Enjoyed a scenic drive heading towards Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah. 9:30 AM – Breakfast at Oiso, Aman Central Mall Stopped at Oiso Korean Traditional Cuisine & Café located inside Aman Central, a popular shopping mall in Alor Setar. Had a traditional Korean breakfast – likely options included dishes like Korean porridge, kimchi sets, or hot soups. 12:00 PM – Hotel Check-in at Royal Signature Hotel Arrived at Royal Signature Hotel, situated in Alor Setar city center. Checked in and settled into the room. This hotel is known for its modern amenities and central location. 6:30 PM – Dinner at Family Mart Walked or drove to a nearby Family Mart convenience store #springitinerary #staycation