Things To Do
in Padang Besar
Padang Besar is a quiet border town in northern Malaysia, situated near the Thai frontier and anchored by its border crossings and railway link. It serves as a practical gateway for travelers crossing between Malaysia and Thailand, with a lively market buzz around the border area. The town blends Malay, Thai and Chinese influences in its street food and shopfronts, reflecting its cross-border character.
Explore the town center on foot, then venture to nearby hills and caves for a balanced short break.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the bustling Padang Besar Market, where you can experience the local culture and sample delicious street food. Stroll through the various stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and traditional handicrafts. Engage with local vendors and learn about their products, making sure to savor some of the unique flavors of the region.
After the market, head to the nearby Thai-Malaysia border and explore the iconic border town. Enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries, where you can taste authentic Thai dishes just a stone's throw from the Malaysian border. Spend some time visiting local shops for unique souvenirs and cultural artifacts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. You can enjoy a leisurely dinner featuring a blend of Malaysian and Thai cuisines. End your evening by taking a scenic walk along the border, enjoying the cool breeze and vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the nearby Museum of South-East Asian Art to appreciate historical artifacts and learn about the diverse cultures of the region. Guided tours provide insights into local traditions, making it an enriching experience. Take some time to explore the beautiful architecture surrounding the museum.
After the museum, head to a local cultural center to participate in a traditional craft workshop. Try your hand at batik painting or pottery, and interact with local artisans who are eager to share their skills. For lunch, indulge in a traditional meal at the center's café, often made with locally sourced ingredients.
Cap off the day with a cultural performance featuring local music and dance, often held at community centers or local venues. Enjoy the vibrant expressions of Malaysian culture while connecting with the locals. After the show, find a nearby night market to enjoy late-night snacks and shop for handcrafted items.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛍Groceries and everyday items | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy border access to Thailand and affordable in-town dining
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end amenities
- Public transport outside town is limited
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya tidak faham" - I do not understand
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Padang Besar
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic colonial-era station with platforms showing cross-border train traffic and daily life.
Vibrant stalls, colorful fabrics and Thai signage provide dynamic foregrounds for street photography.
A peaceful riverside area with palms and river light ideal for portraits and landscape shots.
Food in Padang Besar
Padang Besar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coconut rice served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts and a boiled egg; a staple found at most warungs.
Must-Try!
Rice served with a choice of curries and vegetables; common in northern Malaysian eateries.
Thai-inspired hot and sour soup with prawns or fish; popular at Thai-influenced stalls near the border.
Thick noodles in a flavorful spiced, potato-based gravy topped with egg and herbs.
Grilled chicken with a fragrant coconut-spice sauce, typically served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A cross-border market with Thai stalls offering snacks, textiles, fruits and souvenirs.
Casual roadside stalls serving nasi lemak, curries, soups and grilled fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite Selamat pagi/siang is appreciated; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or certain temples.
Ask for permission in private spaces and with individuals before taking photos.
Safety
Tipping in Padang Besar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount for good service is common in larger restaurants.
Cash (Malaysian Ringgit) is widely accepted; many larger shops take cards; small markets largely operate on cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with clear skies; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and photography in strong light.
High humidity with frequent brief downpours; carry a light rain jacket and plan indoor alternatives during heavier showers.
Padang Besar at Night
Hiking in Padang Besar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hiking path to a historic limestone cave with a lighted passage and boardwalk.
Ridge walks and scenic viewpoints in the Kedah highlands near Alor Setar; suitable for a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Padang Besar by plane.
Major international and domestic airport in Penang; about a 2–3 hour drive from Padang Besar depending on border crossing and traffic.
Airport in Alor Setar, Kedah; provides domestic flights and limited international connections.
Large Thai airport accessible for overland trips from Padang Besar; useful for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority community in Padang Besar, with Malay customs and language predominating.
A smaller community due to proximity to the Thai border; influences local markets and cuisine.
Smaller communities contributing to a diverse cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local parks and schools; casual pickup games occur on weekends.
Common in community centers and recreational facilities.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport enjoyed in parks and local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Padang Besar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can prepare vegetable curries, tofu dishes and nasi lemak without meat; ask for no fish sauce and opt for vegetable-based curries.