Things To Do
in Kota Bharu
Kota Bharu is the capital of Kelantan, on Malaysia’s northeast coast, known for its strong Malay-Islamic heritage and riverfront charm. The city is a compact hub of markets, mosques, crafts, and traditional eateries that invite slow, immersive exploration. Traditional wooden houses, colorful markets, and a laid-back vibe define its street life.
In Kota Bharu, you’ll experience Kelantanese culture up close—from nasi kerabu stalls to ornate mosques and riverbank views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kota Bharu and check into your hotel near the city center. Start your morning with a traditional Kelantanese breakfast of nasi kerabu and teh tarik at a nearby coffee shop. Visit the Islamic Heritage Museum inside Istana Batu to admire intricate wood carvings and learn about the region’s history.
Head to Pasar Siti Khadijah, the vibrant women-run market, to sample local fruits and kuih while mingling with friendly vendors. Explore the Kelantan Craft Complex nearby to witness artisans crafting silverware, songket textiles, and bamboo handicrafts. Participate in a short workshop to create your own simple souvenir.
Dine at an open-air eatery to savor signature dishes like nasi berlauk and ayam percik under twinkling lanterns. Stroll along the lively Jalan Sultanah Street Putri, sampling street food snacks and soaking in the bustling atmosphere. End your day with a refreshing cendol dessert by the riverbank as the city lights reflect on the water.
Wake up early and wander through Pasar Siti Khadijah to taste sweet kuih, freshly baked buns, and strong local coffee. Observe the hustle of daily traders selling fresh fish, vegetables, and handmade crafts. Chat with vendors to learn about traditional produce and cooking ingredients unique to Kelantan.
Join a batik painting workshop at the Kelantan Craft Centre to learn wax-resist techniques from skilled artisans. Design your own motif on fabric, choosing vibrant colors inspired by local flora. Enjoy tea and snacks as you immerse yourself in this slow, creative process.
Visit the nearby Kota Bharu Night Market for a taste of grilled satay and popiah telur under colorful tarps. Browse stalls selling leather goods, silverware, and handwoven baskets illuminated by string lights. Wrap up the evening with a refreshing cup of ais kacang at a popular roadside stall.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚶Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi start/short ride | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
- Affordable food and accommodation
- Excellent markets for authentic Kelantanese cuisine
- Compact city, easy to explore on foot
- Nightlife is low-key and conservative
- Public transport outside the city is limited
- Humidity can be high year-round
- Some dishes rely on fish sauce or shrimp paste for flavor
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Boleh saya dapatkan menu?" - Could I have the menu?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Tolong saya" - Please help me
- "Saya tidak makan makanan pedas" - I don’t eat spicy food
- "Selamat tinggal" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Kota Bharu
Visit one of these nice places.
A lakeside neoclassical palace by the river; rich architectural details and reflective water make for dramatic photos at dawn or dusk.
Colorful traditional houses and craft studios set up for visitors; great for candid portraits of artisans and vibrant textures.
Home to a towering reclining Buddha and nearby temples; a unique contrast to Kota Bharu’s mosques and a striking photo opportunity.
Long coastal roads and open horizons provide excellent sunset photography and serene seascapes.
Food in Kota Bharu
Kota Bharu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant blue-hued rice dish served with herbs, shredded fish or fried fish, salted egg, crackers, and a tangy asymmetrical blend of flavours.
Must-Try!
Grilled chicken brushed with a coconut-chilli sauce, smoky and spicy, often paired with rice and ulam (raw herbs).
Steamed flat rice noodles rolled with a rich coconut fish gravy, typically eaten with ikan (fish) and herbs.
Fish crackers fried or fried-to-crisp; a popular street snack with a chili dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large central market where you can try nasi kerabu, grilled fish, and fresh market snacks, with vibrant daytime energy.
A lively night market known for textiles, street eats, and affordable souvenirs—great for sampling snacks after sundown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs by dressing modestly in public and especially when visiting mosques and religious sites.
Remove shoes when required, speak softly, and avoid loud behavior in sacred places.
Use the right hand for giving/receiving; a nod or gentle smile is common when greeting locals.
Safety
Tipping in Kota Bharu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Malaysia; a small tip for excellent service (about 5–10%) is appreciated but not expected in most eateries.
Cash (Malaysian Ringgit) is widely accepted; major hotels and larger shops accept credit/debit cards; contactless payments and digital wallets (e.g., Touch 'n Go eWallet) are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with abundant sunshine; wear light clothing, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak afternoon heat.
Expect heavy rainstorms and higher humidity; plan indoor cultural visits or riverfront strolls during showers; some outdoor plans may be shortened.
Kota Bharu at Night
Hiking in Kota Bharu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned hiking area with lush forests and one of Southeast Asia’s tallest waterfalls; reachable via a day trip from Kota Bharu for a rewarding trek.
Airports
How to reach Kota Bharu by plane.
The Kota Bharu airport offering domestic flights; convenient for flights to Kuala Lumpur and Penang, about a 15–25 minute drive from central Kota Bharu.
Major international hub with connections to many global destinations; typically used for long-haul travel after arriving in Malaysia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group; Malay culture and language heavily influence local customs and cuisine.
Smaller but active in markets, shops, and eateries; contributes to local trades and cultural diversity.
Border proximity brings Thai cultural influences in some areas, especially near the northern outskirts.
Minor but present, contributing to the multicultural tapestry of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in local clubs and streets along with school teams.
A popular recreational sport in parks, community centers, and homes.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport enjoyed in schools and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kota Bharu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kelantanese cooking often uses fish sauce and shrimp paste; look for tofu, vegetable curries, and coconut-based dishes. Request 'tanpa ikan bilis' (no anchovies) and 'tanpa santan' (no coconut milk) when needed.