Top Things to See
The state of Kedah covers a large area and incorporates several large cities and small towns offering endless sightseeing possibilities. The capital city of Alor Star has numerous places of historic and cultural interest, while the island of Langkawi is a tourist haven and a must-see for visitors to Kedah.
Alor Star
Alor Star is Kedah’s capital city. A destination with an abundance of sightseeing opportunities, highlights of the city include the Grand Audience Hall (Balai Besar); Kedah State Art Gallery (Balai Seni Negeri); Zahir State Mosque (Masjid Zahir) and the Kedah Royal Museum (Muzium Diraja Kedah). The city, having been founded in 1735, is one of Malaysia’s oldest administrative centres.
Bujang Valley
The Bujang Valley is of great historical importance and widely considered to be the most archaeologically significant site in the country. The remains of around 50 ancient tomb temples are scattered around the valley and makes for some interesting sightseeing opportunities. The Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum, located in the valley, is home to a collection of historic artefacts including ceramics, ornaments and old metal tools.
Kota Kuala Kedah
The remains of this ancient fort are located on the bank of the Kedah River. Centuries ago the structure successfully protected the Kuala Kedah Kingdom against sea-based offensives. Though protection against the Portuguese was the original intention of the fort, it withstood attacks from both the Achenese and the Bugis during its usage as a defence post. Sheikh Abd Jalil Mufti was responsible for the design of the fort, which includes a moat and a double perimeter wall.
Langkawi
Langkawi is an archipelago consisting of 99 islands, of which Pulau Langkawi is the most significant. The island is well-geared towards tourists, being especially popular for its tax-free shopping. A wealth of natural attractions and outdoor activities are available on the island, as well as good opportunities for dining and relaxation. Just off the coast from Payar beach is a beautiful coral garden, popularly considered one of the most interesting on the planet. The stunning vibrantly coloured reef can be appreciated by taking a scuba diving excursion or a glass-bottomed boat trip. Snorkelling is also hugely popular at this site.
Mount Raya
Mount Raya, or Gunung Raya, is the highest point on the island of Langkawi, with its peak reaching a lofty 881 metres above sea level. It’s possible to ascend to the top of the mountain from where some stunning views across the island and of southern Thailand (on clear days) can be enjoyed. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy a cup of tea at the teahouse and a browse around the art gallery and museum.
Singa Besar
Also known as Big Lion Island, Singa Besar is a protected location with a bird and animal sanctuary as well as a forest reserve. The island is home to some fascinating species of flora and fauna. Visitors can take advantage of some key observation points from which good views are available. Overnight camping is permitted and jungle trekking tours can be organised with the island’s rangers.
Sungai Petani
The second largest town in Kedah offers a good selection of sightseeing opportunities including interesting landmarks, historic buildings, parks and markets. Highlights include the Sungai Petani Clock Tower, Silver Jubilee Park, Farmers’ Market and the Bujang Valley.
Telaga Tujuh
Also known as the Seven Wells Waterfall, this is one of the most stunning natural phenomena in the state of Kedah. The Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls see freshwater cascade down a 90-metre high rock face and gathering in a series of seven natural pools on its way down. A route is available by which visitors can climb to the top of the waterfall, stopping to swim in the pools or appreciate the scenery along the way. Popular myth holds that the pools have healing powers on account of fairies having once used them for bathing.
Top Things to Do
Go island hopping from Langkawi. Local tour operators offer the chance to visit several of the islands in the Langkawi archipelago. Tours commence at Cenang beach and take in Singa Besar Island, Beras Basah Island and the Island of Pregnant Maiden Lake, which allegedly has magical waters.
Go scuba diving or snorkelling in Pulau Payar Marine Park
Diving and snorkelling trips in the beautifully clear waters of the Pulau Payar Marine Park are offered by a variety of local tour operators. The waters are home to some stunning flora and fauna including beautiful coral reefs and fascinating indigenous fish species.
Go shopping on Langkawi
With its duty-free status, Pulau Langkawi is the ideal place for shopaholics to lighten their wallets or do some damage to their credit cards. The island has a mixed selection of both traditional markets and glitzy shopping malls, offering chances to buy everything from inexpensive locally-made handicrafts to imported designer goods.
Take a cable car ride in Langkawi. Pulau Langkawi’s cable car is one of the island’s greatest attractions. Cable cars make their journey in two legs, stopping at a middle station at which passengers can disembark to enjoy the stunning views. The top station offers even more awesome views.
Visit the Summer Palace at Pulau Langkawi. Built as a film set for the film Anna and the King which starred Chow Yun Fat and Jodie Foster, the Summer Palace is an imitation of a traditional old Thai palace. The building houses some of the original props which were used by 20th Century Fox in the making of the film. Visitors are permitted to try on the costumes and have their photo taken.
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