"CAPITAL CITY OF KEDAH (RICE BOWL OF MALAYSIA)" Top 5 Page for this destination Alor Setar by markbank

Alor Setar Travel Guide: 79 reviews and 128 photos

THE BRIEF HISTORY

Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah and provides easy access to the Thai border and the rest of Kedah. Like all towns in Kedah, Alor Setar still retains its old world charms and is the place to visit if you want to be 'Far from the Madding Crowd'. The town has developed along Jalan Pekan Melayu and most of the places of interest are within walking distance. The most notable is the Balai Nobat, a three-tiered octagonal tower housing the instruments of the royal orchestra.However, the tower is closed to public. Nearby is the original palace of the Sultan, an early 18th century building which has been converted into a museum called the Muzium Di-Raja. A variety of exhibits, including the bridal chamber and the royal thrones are displayed. Next door is the Balai Besar or great hall where the Sultan gave audience to his subjects and administered justice. This intricately carved building dates back from the 19th century and displays strong Thai architectural influences. The first building was destroyed by the Bugis of Selangor in 1770. Across the road stands an impressive domed Moorish building housing the state mosque, Masjid Zahir. Facing it is a modern concrete fountain which has become a favourite haunt of the locals. . On the outskirts of the town is the State Museum and the atap-roofed house where Malaysia's ex Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahatir Mohamed spent his growing days.

Alor star is located in northern part of kedah, about 60KM from sungai petani, 90KM from Butterworth, 300KM from Kuala Lumpur. A short drive from alor star takes you to kuala kedah, where you can take a ferry to Langkawi Island. There is Domestic airport nearby.

Pros and Cons

In a nutshell:THE CITY IN THE PADDY FIELD

Intro Updated Feb 17, 2008
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Reviews (19)

Archaeology Museum of Bujang Valley Things to Do (11)

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BATU HAMPAR WATERFALL Things to Do (11)

There are several places around Gunung Jerai with the name Batu Hampar. This Recreation Park can be reached easily from... more travel advice

nice food and view Restaurants (1)

Situated on the tip of Menara Alor Star, a prominent and modern landmark, the proud symbol of Kedah's rapid progress... more travel advice

RAILTRIP BY TRAIN Transportation (3)

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) provides regular trips from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar town in Kedah.. For further... more travel advice

Hotels (4)
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Comments (7)

kyoub Mar 21, 2009 at 8:30 AM Report Abuse

Very interesting and helpful tips on where you live. I have much more to see and do in Malaysia.
Faiza-Ifrah Dec 7, 2008 at 8:10 PM Report Abuse

very nice page on alor setar. you have very nice museums here. i liked the tip on that rock. but no shopping tips?
moonlighting Aug 7, 2008 at 6:07 AM Report Abuse

Great read about a beautiful place, Alor Setar.
Ewingjr98 Jun 20, 2008 at 8:06 PM Report Abuse

You have a beautiful hometown! Thanks for stopping by my Monterey page and wishing me congrats! ~Joe
SLLiew May 21, 2008 at 3:25 AM Report Abuse

Excellent tips of ALor Setar. Any recommnndation where to get the best Kedah laksa. Cheers from Penang, SL :)
kenari May 8, 2008 at 8:37 AM Report Abuse

hang mai alor setaq,kepala hang aku putaQ~~~~masam masam manis
cachaseiro Feb 24, 2008 at 2:18 AM Report Abuse

excellent tips and photos on your page. welcome to vt and greetings from denmark.