Kedah Mainland Sightseeing Spots
Alor Setar Tower
(Menara Alor Setar)
Standing at 165.5 meters, this telecommunications tower is Malaysia’s second tallest tower and an important symbol of Kedah State. From its observation deck at 88 meters high, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Alor Setar and the surrounding rural scenery.
Zahir Mosque
(Masjid Zahir)
Built in 1912, Zahir Mosque is the state mosque of Kedah and one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia. It is regularly voted as one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. The view of the mosque lit up in colorful lights at night is also popular with visitors.
Mahathir Mohamad’s Birthplace
(Rumah Kelahiran Mahathir Mohamad)
This traditional wooden house was the birthplace and early home of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia’s fourth and longest-serving Prime Minister. It provides insight into his formative years, from his school days to his work as a doctor and as a politician.
Nobat Hall
(Balai Nobat)
A three-tiered tower with an onion-shaped dome, Balai Nobat is a repository for the musical instruments of the Royal Orchestra. It is octagonal in shape and features prominent white and yellow pillars that symbolize the royal sovereignty of Malaysia.
Kedah State Museum
(Muzium Negeri Kedah)
Built in 1936, this museum showcases the rich cultural and royal heritage of Kedah. Its three floors feature exhibits of antique weaponry, jewellery, clothing, furniture, and other items that offer a glimpse of life in Kedah in olden times.
Kedah State Art Gallery
(Balai Seni Negeri Kedah)
This art gallery houses antiques, relics, and art pieces by renowned Malaysian artists. Built in 1912, the building served as the High Court before becoming the head office of several government departments. It was made into the State Art Gallery in 1983.
National Science Centre Northern Region
(Pusat Sains Negara Cawangan Wilayah Utara)
The first science centre in the northern region of Malaysia, this place features a range of interactive displays and activity corners that encourage visitors to explore the world of science and technology. It is a fun and educational place for both children and adults.
Pekan Rabu
Pekan Rabu literally means “Wednesday Market” in Malay. This shopping bazaar in Alor Setar features around 350 stalls that sell a wide range of products, from agricultural produce to local delicacies, textiles, clothing, and traditional handicrafts.
Ulu Legong Hot Springs
(Pusat Rekreasi Air Panas Ulu Legong)
A vast hot spring resort and recreational centre in Baling. It features eight pools with temperatures ranging from 30℃ to 60℃. It also has rental chalets and dormitories where you can stay overnight.
Sungai Sedim Recreational Park
(Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim)
A recreational park situated in a forest covering an area of around 37,000 hectares. Here you can enjoy a 925-meter-long Tree Top Walk along a rainforest canopy. At the Sedim River, you can also try water activities such as kayaking or whitewater rafting.
Keriang Hill
(Gunung Keriang)
A 250 million-year-old elephant-shaped formation composed mainly of limestone. It is a popular spot for cave exploring, hiking, and jungle trekking. From the top, you can enjoy a view of the rustic countryside and sprawling paddy fields.
Merdeka Beach
(Pantai Merdeka)
This beach in the Kuala Muda district is the only sandy beach in mainland Kedah. It stretches for around 1 kilometer and is shaded by palm trees, inviting you to enjoy sunbathing or a beach picnic. You can also try various water sports such as jet skiing.
Mount Jerai
(Gunung Jerai)
A 1,217 meter-high mountain in the border of Kuala Muda and Yan. It was formerly known as Kedah Peak, and is the second tallest mountain in Kedah. You can go mountain trekking and paragliding, and enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding paddy field scenery from the peak.
Sungai Merbok Mangrove Forest
A 4,000 hectare mangrove forest spreading around the Merbok River. It supports a diverse ecosystem that includes egrets and other wild birds. You can learn about the mangrove in the information center, or experience it directly through kayaking, a river cruise, or a stroll on the boardwalk.
Seri Mahawangsa Boat House
A houseboat and sightseeing facility in Pedu Lake in northeastern Kedah. They offer various activities like boat rides, kayaking, fishing, and lake swimming. The houseboat also has a guesthouse where visitors can stay overnight.
Langkawi Sightseeing Spots
Eagle Square
(Dataran Lang)
Located next to the Kuah jetty, this plaza features a 12-meter tall statue of an eagle spreading its wings which serves as a symbol of the island. The name Langkawi was derived from two Malay words: helang (eagle) and kawi (reddish-brown).
Cenang Beach
(Pantai Cenang)
Located in the southwestern shore of the main island, Cenang Beach is the most popular beach in Langkawi. The white sand beach stretches for around 2 kilometers, and features many resorts, restaurants, and hotels. You can also enjoy various water sports such as parasailing.
Tanjung Rhu Beach
(Pantai Tanjung Rhu)
Located in the northern part of the main island, Tanjung Rhu Beach is a quiet and secluded beach with white sand and clear waters. It also features several islets just offshore. During the low tide, a sandbar appears that allows you to walk to one of the islets.
Pulau Payar Marine Park
(Taman Laut Pulau Payar)
Located around 30 kilometers southeast of main island, Pulau Payar Marine Park is the only place off the western coast of peninsular Malaysia that has exotic coral reefs and marine life. This protected area is a popular place for diving and snorkeling.
Langkawi Sky Cab
A cable car that goes to the peak of Mt. Machinchang in the western part of Langkawi island. Along the 15-minute ride from the base to the summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the main island and its surrounding islets.
Langkawi Sky Bridge
A 125-meter-long curved pedestrian cable-stayed bridge that swings out from Mt. Machinchang, located near the Langkawi Sky Bridge top station. Set at 660 meters above sea level, it offers an adrenaline rush along with magnificent views of the island below.
Oriental Village
A theme park and shopping complex located at the the base of Mt. Machinchang, Oriental Village features various activities such as elephant rides and Segway tours. There are also many restaurants, souvenir shops, and retail stores.
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park
Stretching across the eastern part of the main island, this place features a sprawling mangrove forest and gigantic limestone rock formations that formed some 500 million years ago. It is also home to a rich ecosystem of diverse flora and fauna.
Dayang Bunting Island
(Pulau Dayang Bunting)
The second largest island in the Langkawi archipelago. Its name means “Pregnant Maiden Island” and its hills are said to resemble a pregnant woman lying down. According to legend, barren women who swim in the island’s lake will be blessed with a child.
Temurun Waterfall
(Air Terjun Temurun)
Located in the northwestern part of the main island, Temurun Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Langkawi. It is a three-tiered waterfall with a cumulative drop of around 200 meters. In the surrounding area, you can find macaque monkeys and other small animals.
Crocodile Adventure Land
Crocodile Adventure Land is the largest crocodile farm in Malaysia, with over 1,000 crocodilians both big and small. Visitors can try feeding juvenile crocodiles and watch exciting shows that feature trainers conducting various stunts with the crocodiles.
Ayer Hangat Village
This place is the only saltwater hot spring in Malaysia. You can dip your feet in a communal hot spring pool that is believed to help with joint pain and skin conditions. You can also enjoy a traditional Malay massage or watch various cultural shows.
Langkawi Craft Complex
(Kompleks Kraf Langkawi)
A tourist complex that showcases a wide variety of art and handicrafts made by local artisans. You can admire the crafts in the museum or buy different handcrafted products such as apparel, furnishings, and souvenirs at the shop. You can also try your hand at batik painting and other craft-making activities.
Agrotourism
Agrotourism or agritourism is a growing form of tourism in which activities are focused on agriculture. It mainly involves attracting visitors to farms, ranches, or other agricultural businesses for the purpose of education, entertainment, or community exchange. Examples of agrotourism include staying in farms and rural guesthouses, planting or harvesting experiences, fruit-picking, or purchasing fresh produce directly from farms.
Agrotourism Spots in Kedah
Paddy Museum
(Muzium Padi)
Located at the foot of Keriang Hill, the Paddy Museum is Malaysia’s first museum that focuses on rice. It features various exhibits that give an insight into rice production, the various types of rice around the world, and the history of rice cultivation in Kedah. The museum’s exterior design resembles cylindrical bales of rice.
MARDI Langkawi Agro Technology Park
(Taman Agro Teknologi MARDI Langkawi)
This 35-hectare complex operated by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) is a research center and recreational park. You can go on guided tours riding on specialized trucks to see the fruit orchards and taste the various fruits being cultivated, such as mangoes, pineapples, jackfruits, durian, and more.
Farmstay Relau
An accommodation facility and fruit orchard surrounded by nature in the Bandar Bahru district. It features beautiful chalets modelled on traditional Malay houses. You can take a tour of the fruit orchard and buy fresh fruits such as durian. There is also an enclosure where you can try petting and feeding deer.
Muda Resort
(Pusat Peranginan Muda)
A resort property operated by the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA). The 32-hectare ground is surrounded by lush forests, and features various facilities including rental cottages, a swimming pool, a playground, a fruit orchard, and several meeting rooms. It is popular with families as well as school and company trips.
Tobiar Mango Farm
(Ladang Mangga Tobiar)
A mango farm in the Pendang district operated by the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA), it is home to over 18,000 mango trees of the Chok Anan variety. During the fruiting season, you can explore the farm, experience picking the fresh mangoes, and buy various products like mango juice and mango sweets.
Batas Ubi Deer Farm
A deer farm and restaurant located in the Yan district. The farm is surrounded by great nature and is home to over 60 deer. You can pet the gentle deer and try feeding them. ATV rides around the park are also available. At the restaurant, you can enjoy a barbecue of venison and other meats.
Semeliang Agro Farm
A vacation resort and deer farm located in Kuala Nerang, Padang Terap district. Besides swimming in the pool, you can try activities such as deer feeding and pony riding. There is also a mini-zoo where you can see peacocks and other exotic animals. It’s a great getaway spot for families and large groups.
Ladang Nipah Ismail Che Kaq
A popular cafe and rest stop in the Yan district, situated in a forest of Nipah palm trees. You can relax under the trees while refreshing yourself with a palm nectar drink collected from the forest. The cafe also serves dishes such as Kedah Laksa and Bihun Goreng (fried noodles).
Lang Agro Park
A 2.4 hectare fruit and vegetable garden in central Langkawi island. Depending on the season, you can try picking over 50 different kinds of fruits and vegetables, such as melons, figs, eggplants, and water spinach. There are also fishing ponds where you can try fishing for tilapia.
Rice Garden Museum
(Laman Padi Langkawi)
A museum complex situated among paddy fields near Cenang Beach in Langkawi. You can go on a guided tour of the paddy fields covering the vast grounds. At the museum, you can learn about the history of rice cultivation in Malaysia. There is also a rooftop garden that offers spectacular views of the paddy fields.
Sri Lovely Organic Farm
The first certified organic rice farm in Malaysia, this 10-hectare farm cultivates various rice varieties without the use of agrochemicals. You can learn about rice farming or try your hand at rice planting or harvesting. You can also stay in the thatched huts built right next to the paddy fields.
LoQSakri Agro Farm
A farm restaurant in the Pendang district. You can savor a barbecue and other local dishes in a bamboo hut while admiring the views of paddy fields spreading right before your eyes. You can also try catching freshwater fish from the canals and have it cooked as a dish.
Tasik Beris Grape Farm
(Ladang Anggur Tasik Beris)
A vineyard built in the shore of Beris Lake, they grow several varieties of grape inside greenhouses. You can go on a tour of the vineyard and try picking the grapes yourself. There is also a shop that sells fresh grapes, grape juice, and other souvenirs.
Jerai Hill Strawberry Farm
Opened in 2019, this strawberry farm in Mount Jerai cultivates various kinds of strawberries inside a large greenhouse. Besides strawberry-picking, you can also enjoy snacks like strawberry smoothies, strawberry ice cream, and strawberry scones.
Recommended Routes
3D2N Alor Setar & Agrotourism Tour
Day 1
AM
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport
Alor Setar Tower
Zahir Mosque
Nobat Hall
Zahir Mosque
Nobat Hall
Pekan Rabu lunch and shopping
PM
Paddy Museum
Keriang Hill hiking
Stay in Alor Setar hotel
Day 2
AM
Depart from Alor Setar
Tobiar Mango Farm tour and mango picking
LoQSakri Agro Farm lunch and fishing
PM
Pedu Lake
Seri Mahawangsa Boat House kayaking
Seri Mahawangsa Boat House kayaking
Stay in Muda Resort
Day 3
AM
Depart from Muda Resort
Sri Lovely Organic Farm tour and rice planting
Beris Lake restaurant lunch
PM
Tasik Beris Grape Farm grape picking
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport
3D2N Outdoor and Nature Play Tour
Day 1
AM
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport
Ladang Nipah Ismail Che Kaq refreshment
Batas Ubi Deer Farm ATV ride and lunch
PM
Mount Jerai trekking or paragliding
Stay in Jerai Hill Resort
Day 2
AM
Depart from Jerai Hill Resort
Jerai Hill Strawberry Farm strawberry picking
Sungai Petani restaurant lunch
PM
Sungai Merbok Mangrove Forest river cruise
Stay in Farmstay Relau
Day 3
AM
Depart from Farmstay Relau
Sungai Sedim treetop walk and whitewater rafting
PM
Penang International Airport
or Sultan Abdul Halim Airport
or Sultan Abdul Halim Airport
3D2N Ultimate Langkawi Tour
Day 1
AM
Langkawi International Airport
Cenang Beach swimming or marine sports
Lunch at local restaurant
PM
Dayang Bunting Island etc. island hopping
Stay in Langkawi hotel
Day 2
AM
Depart from hotel
Langkawi Sky Cab
Langkawi Sky Bridge
Oriental Village lunch and shopping
PM
Crocodile Adventure Land
Langkawi Craft Complex shopping
Stay in Langkawi hotel
Day 3
AM
Depart from hotel
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park guided tour
Ayer Hangat Village lunch and bath
PM
MARDI Langkawi Agro Technology Park guided tour
Eagle Square
Ferry ride or Langkawi International Airport
Local Food/Specialty Products
Kedah, the Rice Bowl of Malaysia, is blessed with rich agricultural and marine resources. It also has many unique local food and specialty products.
Laksa Kedah
Laksa is a spicy noodle dish commonly eaten in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. In Kedah, the local variety of laksa is called “Laksa Kedah”, and is made with thick rice noodles in a tangy fish-based soup.
Gulai Nangka
A curry dish that features young jackfruit slices in a creamy yellow sauce made from turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, chilli, and other spices in coconut milk. It is commonly served at roadside food stalls.
Gulai Batang Pisang
A spicy and aromatic curry dish made with the pith of young banana trees. It is often cooked with beef slices. In Kedah, it is considered to be a rare dish served only during wedding ceremony feasts.
Nasi Ulam
A traditional dish made of rice mixed with finely-sliced herbs and vegetables. It uses earthy and aromatic herbs such as wild betel, kaffir lime leaves, mint, and lemongrass, as well as toasted shredded coconut.
Nasi Lemak Royale
A dish that originated in Alor Setar, Nasi Lemak Royale is different from regular nasi lemak in that the rice is yellow. It is said to have been the favorite dish of a Sultan of Kedah, hence its name.
Ikan Pekasam
A traditional dish made with freshwater fish that has been fermented with salt, palm sugar, and roasted rice grains. It is often eaten with steamed rice, and is also available packaged in retort pouches.
Pek Nga
A traditional pancake in Kedah made from flour and grated coconut, it is also called Lempeng Kelapa. It is often served at breakfast, and is eaten with curry or sambal (a spicy chilli paste).
Kuih Karas
A famous traditional snack made with rice flour and coconut milk. It is deep-fried into a net-like shape, and has a crunchy texture with a sweet flavor. It is commonly sold at food stalls and markets.
Kuih Bunga Pudak
A traditional crispy cake made with rice flour and a sweet coconut filling. It is available in different colors, and is named after the colorful flower of the Pudak (Pandanus) plant.
Air Nira Nipah
A refreshing drink made from the sap of nipah palm trees cooled down with ice. It is rich in sugar, and is loved by the locals as a thirst-quencher during a hot day.
Bronok
Bronok is a kind of sea cucumber found in Langkawi. It is often chopped up raw and served with green mango strips as a spicy salad called Kerabu Bronok. It has a chewy quality and a slightly salty flavor.
Sabun Gamat
A soap made with the extract of golden sea cucumbers found in Langkawi. The soap can help moisturize and nourish your skin. It has become one of the most popular souvenirs in Langkawi for foreign tourists.