Go Explore Asia - Alor Setar

Alor Setar

Alor Setar is the state capital of Kedah, on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia. It is the only city in west coast of Peninsular Malaysia which rich in Malay culture. The state is famed for its paddy fields and is known as "The rice bowl" of the country.

Gunung Jerai was formerly known as Kedah peak. Gunung Jerai is a massive limestone outcrop rising 1200m above sea level. The cool fresh mountain air is matched by the quiet serenity of its natural surroundings. On clear days, different vantage points on the mountain offers spectaculars views of the rolling rice field of Kedah stretching up to Perlis in the north; the emerald seas surrounding Penang in the south-west and the legendary islands of Langkawi in the north-west. A forestry museum is also located in the vicinity of this resort, displaying various species of wood available within the Gunung Jerai forest complex. This magnificent mountain has its own share of history and fascinating legends.
Gunung Keriang in the vicinity of Alor Setar is a unique limestone outcrop that will surely appeal to those who are adventurous at heart. the mountainous features surrounded by paddy fields is most suitable for outdoor excursions. Most notable of these is Gunung Keriang which has its own share of tales to tell.
Balai Nobat. This building houses the sacred instruments of the Royal orchestra, played only during royal ceremonies such as inaugurations, weddings and funerals. The instruments consist of three drums, a gong and a flute, peculiar to the haunting sounds of "nobat" music.
Istana Anak Bukit within the spacious grounds of the palace - Istana Anak Bukit - home of the reigning sultan is a mini zoo amidst the colourful flora. visitors are allowed into the royal gardens.
Lembah Bujang, lying between Gunung Jerai in the north and Sungai Muda in the south, is regarded as Malaysia's richest archaeological area. The Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum in Pengkalan Bujang, Merbok houses numerous artificial stone caskets, gem stones, beads, etc. Fifty (50) candis or temples were found along Sungai Bujang and to date eight (8) of them have been restored to their original form using the same original materials, visitors interested in history and archaeology should not miss out on this area in Kedah.
Zahir Mosque. Officially opened in 1912, this state Mosque is an architectural landmark as it is one of the largest and grandest mosques in Malaysia. Built in the tradition of the Moorish architecture, it has numerous arches and columns that are an epitome of grandeur. The state of Kedah's reading competition is held in the premises of the Mosque. The competitors are reading than from the Quran.
Pedu Lake is Kedah's newest tourist attraction. Among the recreational activities available here include fishing, water-skiing, swimming and picnicking.It is a retreat of lush jungle surroundings, home to a wide spectrum of flora and fauna as well as a great place for nature lovers. Here, one will be able to see how wild bees gather honey.Among the facilities provided are parking, restrooms, rest huts, picnic spots and a suspension bridge. Also, there is a jetty for tourists and fishermen who want to go out to the lake.
Kota Kuala Kedah, at the mouth of the Kedah River, is also known as Kota Kuala Bahang. Kota means fort and this was build toward off Kedah's enemies who came from the sea. it was reported to have been built by stone masons especially brought from India. Today it is a fishing village, known for the variety of sea food that is served by the numerous restaurants that have since carved their businesses at the old historic site.
Menara Alor Setar, a prominent and modern landmark in the heart of town signifies the rapid state of development in Kedah. Apart from functioning as a telecommunication tower, it has also become a tourist attraction. From the top of the tower one can enjoy a spectacular view of Alor Setar by day or night.
Muzium Diraja or the state museum is another fine example of local architecture hinting strongly of Thai influence in its majestic design. Built in 1936, it houses a veritable collection of Kedah's royal and cultural heritage.
Pekan Rabu. "Pekan Rabu" which literally means Wednesday Market which is located in the middle of Alor Setar is well known among the local population and tourists from outside Kedah. The business complex is not only the pride of Malay entrepreneurs in Kedah but also the pride of all Malay's in Kedah. Moreover the fourth Malaysian Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir, once was a trader in Pekan Rabu. Most tourists visiting Alor Setar make it a point to shop around at the Pekan Rabu Complex. The complex costing RM 3.2 millions and was built in 1975 and renovated in 1995 with cost RM 6.5 millions. Phase 2 complex was built in 1990 with cost RM 2 millions. Pekan Rabu complex has 347 stalls with a variety of business and it has become one of the important landmarks of Alor Setar.
Rumah Kelahiran Mahathir. The wooden attap house was bought by Mohamad Iskandar when he wanted to marry off his children. It was built in 1900. When he bought the house, the house has only one room with no electricity. It has wooden flooring and the ceiling was made from white cloth. Mahathir was born here on 20th December 1925. He lives there until he was married and moved to his own house in Titi Gajah. Even then Mahathir will always commute to this house to visit his mother. A visit to Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad's birth place will give you a different perspective of the life of this revered leader. He was born in Alor Star on Dec 20, 1925 at No 18 Lorong Kilang Ais, off Jalan Pegawai. His home has seen been designated a historical building and was restored by the National Archives in 1992.