Located miles away, but still within the northern state of Kedah, Malaysia, is Alor Setar; a vibrant city brimming with centuries of history and culture. Renowned for its majestic mosques, historical forts and lively marketplaces, Alor Setar invites travelers to unravel layers of cultural heritage and take a trip down memory lane to discover Malaysia's historical legacies.
Alor Setar and its historical landmarks are easily accessible, be it via train or bus, or a picturesque drive along the North-South Expressway as well as through e-hailing services; all is within a moment's reach upon safe landing at the Sultan Abdul Halim Airport.
The Zahir Mosque is an architectural marvel and a spiritual cornerstone in Kedah, Malaysia. Constructed in 1912, this mosque continues to be amongst the most illustrious and ancient in the nation. The five lesser domes that flank the main dome represent the five pillars of Islam.
Its significance stems from the fact that the mosque was built on the grave of a fallen warrior in Kedah, who was killed in the 1821 Siamese invasion. Inspired by the Azizi Mosque in North Sumatra, Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Abidin II's vision is reflected in its opulent Moghul and Moorish designs.
The interior is elaborately decorated with carvings of Quranic verses that accentuate the walls, whilst still allowing for ample natural ventilation through their expansive verandahs.
All visitors entering the mosque must be modestly dressed. Regardless of gender, one’s shoulders and knees should be covered, and women are advised to bring along a headscarf to cover their hair when entering the mosque.
All in all, Masjid Zahir is a must-visit especially if you are interested in soaking up Malaysia's rich Islamic history and cultural legacy.
From Alor Setar's bustling city center, visitors can easily reach Masjid Zahir by car or taxi, following the signs along Jalan Stadium. For those arriving by train, a short ride from the Alor Setar Railway Station will lead you to this architectural marvel.
Located about a half-hour’s drive from Alor Setar is Muzium Padi; a tribute to Kedah's identity as ‘Malaysia's rice bowl’. Shaped like ‘Gemai Padi’, resembling a bundle of paddy stalks, this museum spans 12,000 square meters across a three-storey building. Here, visitors can delve into the evolution of rice cultivation in Kedah, and gain valuable insights into its historical and cultural significance.
The museum is set against a backdrop of Gunung Keriang and lush paddy fields, which is particularly stunning from July to September, adding to the allure of this educational experience. Entry to the museum costs RM5 for adults and RM2 for children.
Muzium Padi is located at Lot 798 Jalan Gunung Keriang, Mukim Gunung Keriang, which is a 17-minute drive from Alor Setar city center. Travelers can also easily access the museum by renting a car or taking a Grab ride.
Just a short distance from popular landmarks such as Aman Central and Zahir Mosque, Rumah Merdeka offers a glimpse into the life of Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaya's first Prime Minister. This historical mansion not only showcases elegant architecture typical of Malaya's colonial period but also serves as a repository of Tunku's personal history. Visitors can explore the rooms where significant decisions were made, view exhibits of memorabilia, and gain insights into the events leading up to Malaysia's independence in 1957. Rumah Merdeka stands as a symbol of national pride and a testament to the courage and vision of its leaders during a transformative period in Malaysian history.
Admission is free, making it accessible to all who wish to appreciate this pivotal figure's contributions to Malaysia's independence.
Easily accessible by car, taxi or Grab from the city center. For those arriving by train, a short five-kilometer ride from the Alor Setar Railway Station will bring you to its doorstep. Alternatively, local buses to the Alor Setar Bus Terminal offer a convenient route, followed by a brief taxi ride.
Tucked away in Kota Kuala Kedah's historical quarter is this museum that chronicles the area's strategic significance both under the Kedah Sultanate and in later colonial eras. Since its opening on June 6, 1999, this museum houses more than 58 archaeological objects, including original fort bricks and old ceramics, in addition to six British cannons and thirteen cannon balls that date back to over a century.
Relics from Kota Kuala Kedah's enduring cultural and historical significance include the old lighthouse, remnants of British influence, the historic fort, the Kacapuri Archway from Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin Muazzam Shah II's reign, and the Magistrate House; from its beginnings as a thriving commercial hub to its use as a military bastion.
History buffs should not miss the neighboring fort, arches, and lighthouse, which together conjure a rich memory of the past. And the best part of it is that admission is also free for all.
Visitors can drive from Alor Setar north on Route 1, following local signs to Muzium Kota Kuala Kedah, located in Kuala Kedah, Kedah. As an alternative, they can travel to Kuala Kedah by bus or taxi from Alor Setar, then stroll or take a cab to the museum.
Those eager to dive deeper into Kedah's rich history should not miss a trip to Muzium Negeri Kedah, which offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts and exhibits for viewing with free admission. This cultural haven beckons with its expansive 12,000 square meters of space across a three-storey architectural marvel.
Here, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Kedah's history, tracing its evolution from ancient rice plantations to a vibrant cultural epicenter. Muzium Negeri Kedah stands as a testament to the region's enduring heritage, offering a profound exploration of Malaysia's cultural mosaic and historical legacy.
This museum showcases everything from early Chinese porcelain to insights into Lembah Bujang, a former Hindu-Buddhist trading hub. Visitors can explore dioramas depicting royal life and rural traditions, providing a holistic view of Kedah's cultural evolution.
Visitors can enjoy a direct journey from Alor Setar city by car or taxi. The museum is located near famous landmarks such as Rumah Merdeka and Aman Sentral Shopping Mall.
No visit to Alor Setar is complete without a stroll through Pekan Rabu, a bustling marketplace renowned for its local handicrafts and traditional goods. Established on a foundation of local entrepreneurship, this market hosts over 350 businesses offering everything from handcrafted attires to authentic local delicacies.
You can easily find some of the best traditional Malay dishes here such as garam belacan, kuah rojak, dodol durian, and serunding. Pekan Rabu or ‘Wednesday Market’ not only supports local artisans but also serves as a cultural hub where visitors can immerse in Kedah's vibrant traditions. The Malay community in Kedah is proud of the commercial complex's accomplishments in motivating Malays to participate actively in trade.
Pekan Rabu is easily accessible by car, taxi, or Grab from the city center. Visitors can navigate directly to Pekan Rabu by driving along the main road or using convenient taxi and Grab services. Pekan Rabu is also situated near numerous local attractions in Alor Setar. For those opting for public transport, local buses provide accessible routes to this iconic hub of commerce and heritage in Alor Setar.
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