Things To Do
in Alor Setar
Alor Setar, the capital of Kedah, Malaysia, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to numerous historical sites, including the iconic Zahir Mosque and the stunning Alor Setar Tower. The city offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional Malaysian charm, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and exploration.
Visitors can enjoy local delicacies, immerse themselves in the local culture, and experience the warm hospitality of its residents.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Zahir Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia, followed by a stroll through the nearby Alor Setar Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Head to the Kedah State Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, then take a leisurely walk around the historic streets of Alor Setar to admire its colonial architecture.
Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and then unwind at a nearby café, where you can savor traditional desserts like cendol while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the Paddy Museum to gain insight into the importance of rice cultivation in the area, followed by a walk through the lush paddy fields.
Experience local flavors at the Alor Setar Night Market, where you can sample a variety of street food options, from satay to roti canai.
Visit a local restaurant for an authentic Malaysian dinner, then explore the vibrant night market for shopping and entertainment.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | $3-$6 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-$2 |
| 🚕Taxi Fare (within city) | $1-$3 |
| 🛒Bottle of Water | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $15-$30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
- Delicious local cuisine and street food.
- Friendly and hospitable locals.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier for non-Malay speakers.
- Public transportation can be less frequent.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya suka makanan ini" - I like this food
- "Selamat tinggal" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Alor Setar
Visit one of these nice places.
An architectural masterpiece, the mosque features stunning domes and intricate designs, making it a perfect backdrop for photography.
Capture panoramic views of the city from the tower, especially during sunset for breathtaking photographs.
The lush green paddy fields surrounding Alor Setar offer picturesque landscapes, especially during planting and harvesting seasons.
Food in Alor Setar
Alor Setar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with spicy sambal, fried crispy anchovies, boiled egg, and peanuts.
Must-Try!
A flaky flatbread served with a variety of curries, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
A local variation of laksa featuring a spicy and tangy fish broth with rice noodles and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of street food, snacks, and local delicacies, perfect for evening exploration.
A popular spot where locals gather to enjoy a variety of dishes from different stalls, showcasing the best of Kedah's cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet and show respect to elders; this is an important cultural norm in Malaysian society.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; it is a sign of respect in the local culture.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes or certain places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Alor Setar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Malaysia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.
Cash is widely used, but credit and debit cards are accepted in most establishments; ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Alor Setar, with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities.
Expect frequent rain, particularly in September and October; plan indoor activities and carry an umbrella.
Experience vibrant celebrations with parades and festivities that showcase the local Chinese culture.
A significant festival for Muslims, expect festive markets and local dishes that are prominently featured during this time.
Alor Setar at Night
Hiking in Alor Setar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offering various trails, Gunung Jerai is a popular hiking destination with scenic views and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
A less challenging hike, Bukit Bintang provides an enjoyable trek with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Alor Setar by plane.
Located about 10 km from Alor Setar, this airport serves domestic flights and some international routes, making it the main gateway for travelers visiting the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Alor Setar, Malays are predominantly Muslim and play a significant role in the region's culture and traditions.
The Chinese community contributes to the local economy and culture, with various festivals and businesses that reflect their heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Alor Setar, with local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball, sepak takraw is played widely in the region, showcasing agility and skill.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alor Setar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local restaurants and eateries serve halal food, making it easy for Muslim travelers.
While vegetarian options are available, vegan choices may be limited; it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.