Domestic
Alor Setar
Alor Setar in northwestern Malaysia is the capital of the state of Kedah. Compared to other destinations in Malaysia, Alor Setar has fewer visitors. However, the diversity and significance of this area's history, culture, and cuisine is impressive. A pleasant surprise for anyone exploring northern Malaysia because there's so much to do in Alor Setar, you'll need several days just to fully explore this fascinating destination.
Visit Zahir Mosque: The Most Beautiful Mosque in Malaysia
This is the most beautiful mosque in Alor Setar. It is located in the heart of Alor Setar. The design is unique. There is a huge space in front of this mosque. During Ramadhan, a lot of people will bring their food and break the fast at the open space in front of this mosque. The Masjid Zahir is the state mosque of Kedah with a striking mix of Mudejar and Indo-Islamic architectural style. The colour scheme of two tone black and white really makes the building stand out. The five black painted domes, a large one surrounded by four smaller domes represent the five pillars of Islam are especially striking for the way it contrasts against the white of the rest of the building.
Admire Alor Setar stately clock tower
This Clock Tower isn't very big, stands alone on a large square and is well maintained. The tower brings us back in the colonial periods such as also other buildings that surrounds the square. The Big Clock Tower is an old clock tower located near the Zahir Mosque in the city of Alor Setar. In the past, the clock would ring when it is almost the time of prayer for the Muslims. It is 1 of the oldest structures in Alor Setar. If you are a culture and architecture enthusiast, this is a destination that you must visit as it gives you an insight into the nostalgia of this city and the amazing architecture you can see.
Discover Menara Alor Setar
An absolutely not-to-be-missed-in Alor Setar, is a visit to the top of Menara Alor Setar. Not only is this tower your best visual landmark, for ground-level navigation, but it also offers a bird’s eye view of Alor Setar and beyond. You can even see Langkawi and Pulau Payar Island from the top!
Visit Nobat Tower
Nobat Tower is another historical landmark inside Dataran Alor Setar. The three-tiered circular structure rises 18 metres (59 feet) and is crowned by a yellow dome. Dating back to 1906, the yellow and white building once stored instruments used during royal visits. This ranks as one of our must-visit attractions in Alor Setar for its majestic appearance and photogenic nature. Pro tip: combine Nobat Tower with photographing the Big Clock Tower, Zahir Mosque and the Royal Hall.
For first-time visitors, focus on accommodation options in the area of Aman Central Mall; referred to as Kampung Lubok Peringgi if you want to be specific. Otherwise, it’s just ‘Alor Setar’.
Taste Kedah street food at Chinatown Food Court
Mention food in Malaysia and most think of Penang, Kuala Lumpur or Malacca. Few mention Alor Setar, which has its fair share of mouthwatering dishes.
Chinatown Food Court, a five-minute walk from Dataran Alor Setar, serves Kedah-style street food. Hawker stalls surround the central seating area.
Follow your nose to the countless stalls serving nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (Malaysian kebabs) and yong tau foo (a selection of tofu and fish balls).