Things To Do
in Kangar
Kangar is the capital of the Malaysian state of Perlis, nestled near the Thai border in the north. The town serves as a quiet gateway to Perlis' river scenery, paddy fields, and limestone caves. It blends a relaxed town atmosphere with cultural sites such as Kota Kayang Museum and traditional markets.
Visitors will find a compact, walkable center with friendly locals and easy access to nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a visit to the unique Perlis State Museum, where you can discover the rich history and culture of the Perlis region. After an informative tour, enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring delicious traditional dishes like roti canai and nasi lemak. The morning sun shines down, creating the perfect backdrop for your first taste of Kangar’s vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Bukit Kecil Recreational Park, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. Capture picturesque moments at the park's scenic spots and perhaps enjoy a refreshing coconut drink from a street vendor. This is the perfect time to unwind and experience the calmer side of Kangar.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling night market at Padang Besar. Sample street food delights and shop for local handicrafts or fresh produce as you mingle with friendly locals. The evening culminates with the warm glow of lanterns illuminating the streets, setting a charming atmosphere for your first night in Kangar.
Kick off your day with a visit to the iconic Alwi Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. After exploring the mosque, treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at a popular local eatery, where you can try special dishes like laksa Perlis. The morning air is filled with delicious aromas, inviting you to indulge in the flavors of the region.
Spend your afternoon at the Wang Kelian State Park, where you can embark on a nature hike, enjoying captivating views and spotting local wildlife along the way. Picnic lunch amidst the serene hills, surrounded by the sounds of nature, is a great way to recharge for the adventure ahead. This natural retreat promises a refreshing escape from the bustling city life.
As evening falls, head to the nearby town of Kuala Perlis for a delightful seafood dinner by the waterfront. Experience a feast of fresh catches while enjoying breathtaking views of the sunset over the sea. The charming atmosphere combined with the taste of authentic Malay seafood creates a memorable conclusion to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $0.80-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Street food snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable town with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and rich market culture
- Affordable food and lodging with good value
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Public transit is limited outside the town center
- Weather can be hot and humid year-round
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does this cost?
- "Tandas di mana?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Boleh tolong saya?" - Could you please help me?
Places to Visit in Kangar
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats and sunrise silhouettes along the river, perfect for early morning photography.
Historic building and town architecture with statues and signage.
Entrance to the famous cave walk and canopy bridge, dramatic stalactites.
Bustling market scenes with vibrant produce and daily life.
Food in Kangar
Kangar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes; a staple across northern Malaysia.
Must-Try!
A tangy, fish-based laksa with tamarind and herbs, popular in Kedah-Perlis region.
Fresh fish grilled with spicy sambal and lime; commonly enjoyed along the coast.
Assorted local snacks and desserts such as ondeh-ondeh and kuih lapis.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls selling fresh produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat foods.
Seasonal street food stalls offering local dishes and desserts.
Fresh seafood market by the harbor with live fish and shrimp.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove hats when entering places of worship.
A handshake is common; use Malay phrases and show respect to elders.
Bargaining is common in markets; be polite and patient.
Safety
Tipping in Kangar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 5-10% in nicer restaurants is common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets; cards and e-wallets (Boost, GrabPay) are increasingly common in towns and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny days with brief afternoon showers; good for outdoor activities and beach trips on the coast; stay hydrated.
Heavier rainfall and humidity; occasional flooding in low-lying areas; plan indoor activities or early morning outdoor visits.
Kangar at Night
Hiking in Kangar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular cave hike with a boardwalk and shaded forest route.
Forest trails around the state park with varying difficulty and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Kangar by plane.
Alor Setar, Kedah — the nearest major airport with domestic flights; about 60-90 minutes by road from Kangar.
Penang, about 2-3 hours by road; good for international and domestic flights.
Langkawi island — accessible by domestic flights; longer transfer if combining with Langkawi trip.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group in Perlis; culturally diverse and hospitable.
Smaller minority with presence in markets and eateries.
Small community contributing to local businesses and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and clubs; easy to join as a casual player.
Common in local grounds and sports complexes.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport played in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kangar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Best options include vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and vegetarian nasi kandar; ask for no shrimp paste.