Things To Do
in Alor Setar
Alor Setar is the capital city of the state of Kedah in northern Malaysia. It is known for its cultural heritage, with historical landmarks such as the Alor Setar Tower and Zahir Mosque. The city is surrounded by lush paddy fields, giving it a serene and picturesque rural charm.
Alor Setar is also a hub for traditional Malay cuisine, offering a variety of delicious dishes to savor.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Zahir Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia. Enjoy a peaceful morning by exploring the surrounding gardens.
Head to the Kedah State Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Don't forget to check out the interesting exhibits and artifacts.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing walk along the waterfront at Alor Setar Tower. Consider dining at a local restaurant to taste authentic Kedah cuisine.
Visit Mount Jerai for some outdoor adventure, where you can hike and enjoy breathtaking views. The morning mist adds a serene touch to your journey.
Explore the local flora and fauna at the nearby forest reserves. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife.
Return to the city and unwind at a nearby café. Reflect on the day’s adventure over a cup of Kopi Kedah, a local coffee.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history with numerous historical sites and attractions.
- Lush green surroundings and beautiful natural landscapes, including paddy fields and hills.
- Friendly and welcoming locals, making it easy to connect with the community.
- Affordable cost of living in comparison to bigger cities in Malaysia.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially Nasi Kandar and various traditional Malaysian dishes.
- Less urbanized with limited entertainment and shopping options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport options may be limited, making it necessary to have a personal vehicle for convenience.
- Hot and humid climate, which might be uncomfortable for some people.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields compared to metropolitan areas.
- Occasional traffic congestion during peak hours, despite being a smaller city.
Best Activities in Alor Setar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the iconic Alor Setar Tower, the tallest telecommunications tower in Malaysia, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
Take a leisurely walk around the stunning Zahir Mosque, an architectural marvel and one of the grandest mosques in Malaysia.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic at the lush and well-maintained Menara Alor Setar Park, offering a tranquil escape within the city.
Explore the fascinating Paddy Museum, which showcases the history and significance of rice cultivation in Malaysia and offers scenic views of the surrounding paddy fields.
Tours
Uncover the best of Alor Setar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Alor Setar
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas, including the paddy fields and Gunung Keriang in the distance.
A historical building with a scenic view of the surrounding city.
A traditional market with a great view of the vibrant local culture and activities.
Food in Alor Setar
Alor Setar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, typically served with sambal (spicy chili paste), fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and hard-boiled or fried egg. Best found at street food stalls or local eateries like Nasi Lemak Royale.
Must-Try!
A popular noodle dish in a thick, spicy, and slightly sweet gravy, often garnished with a hard-boiled egg, calamansi lime, green chili, fried firm tofu, and fried shallots. Recommended venues include Mee Rebus Haji Wahid and Mee Rebus Tok Din.
A meal of steamed rice with a variety of curries and side dishes, often a choice of meat, fish, or vegetables. Try the renowned Nasi Kandar Zainul at Pekan Cina for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Alor Setar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market known for a wide range of local food, fresh produce, and handicrafts. Try local snacks like kuih (Malay bite-sized snacks) and explore the diverse street food stalls offering delicacies like satay and roti canai.
A vibrant street lined with food vendors known for its variety of street food such as grilled seafood, nasi lemak, and roasted meats. The atmosphere comes alive in the evenings, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Alor Setar, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and language, and by offering assistance whenever needed.
When visiting mosques, it is important to dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and show reverence for the religious space.
Greetings are an important part of Malaysian culture. It is customary to greet others with a warm smile, and to use titles and polite language in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Alor Setar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Alor Setar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Alor Setar, Malaysia. In most places, including restaurants, cafes, and taxis, a service charge is usually already included in the bill.
In Alor Setar, Malaysia, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Alor Setar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Alor Setar is during the dry season when the weather is pleasantly warm and there is minimal rainfall. It is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
During the monsoon season, expect heavy rainfall and humid conditions. Outdoor activities may be limited, but it's a good time to experience the lush green landscapes and witness the local life during the rainy season.
The inter-monsoon season brings sporadic rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. It's a transitional period, and visitors can still enjoy some outdoor activities while experiencing the changing weather patterns.
Alor Setar at Night
Hiking in Alor Setar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination located just outside Alor Setar, Gunung Keriang offers scenic trails and beautiful views from the summit. The mountain is known for its limestone cliffs and diverse flora and fauna.
This recreational park features well-maintained trails suitable for hiking and jogging. It provides a great opportunity for outdoor activities and enjoying nature within the city.
Located in Mulu National Park, it is slightly further away but worth the visit for those seeking adventure. The park offers various hiking trails through lush forests and stunning cave systems.
A beautiful natural area that offers a peaceful hiking experience with trails leading to picturesque views and a serene environment. Perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Alor Setar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Alor Setar by plane.
Located approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Alor Setar, Penang International Airport serves as a major gateway to the northern region of Malaysia.
About 75 kilometers west of Alor Setar, Langkawi International Airport caters to both domestic and international flights, serving the tourist island of Langkawi.
Approximately 90 kilometers southeast of Alor Setar, this airport serves Koh Samui, Thailand, and offers flights to various destinations.
Located in Alor Setar itself, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport supports domestic flights and international destinations, primarily within the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Alor Setar, comprising the majority of the population, known for their cultural heritage and influence in Malaysian society.
The second largest ethnic group, contributing significantly to the economy and culture, with a rich history of trade and commerce.
A significant minority in Alor Setar, involved primarily in various economic sectors, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
Includes indigenous groups and expatriates, representing a diverse mix of cultures and backgrounds.
The Soul of Alor Setar
Discover the essence of Alor Setar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Alor Setar, with many local teams and a strong following among fans. The state often produces talented players who compete at national levels.
Badminton enjoys widespread popularity in Alor Setar. Many local schools and clubs participate in this sport, and it has produced several notable athletes who have competed nationally.
This traditional Southeast Asian sport is quite popular in Alor Setar, especially among the younger generation. It involves acrobatic skills and is played in both informal and competitive settings.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among youth in Alor Setar. There are numerous local courts, and various competitions are held to promote the sport.
Athletics, including running and field events, is a popular sporting activity in Alor Setar, supported by schools and local athletics clubs, often leading to participation in state and national competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alor Setar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan variations of traditional dishes, especially those based on tofu, tempeh, and an assortment of vegetables. Look for phrases like 'sayur-sayuran' (vegetables) or 'tanpa daging' (without meat) on menus.
While traditionally Malaysian cuisine is rice-based, some dishes may contain soy sauce or other gluten-containing ingredients. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the server, and many places can accommodate by customizing dishes or recommending suitable alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Alor Setar with these cultural adventures.