Alor Setar | Malaysia

Here’s a detailed guide to Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah, Malaysia:

1. General Overview

Alor Setar is the administrative and royal capital of Kedah, known for its historical significance, Malay culture, and agricultural heritage. Often overshadowed by larger cities, Alor Setar is a hidden gem that offers a blend of historical landmarks, scenic rice fields, and vibrant local markets.

• State: Kedah
• Population: Approximately 400,000
• Nickname: The "Rice Bowl of Malaysia" (due to the vast paddy fields surrounding the city)
• Languages: Malay (official), English, Chinese, Tamil
• Economy: Predominantly agriculture (especially rice cultivation), tourism, and trade.

2. Historical Background

Alor Setar was established in 1735 by Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Abidin II. It served as the royal capital of Kedah and a center of administration. Over the years, it has played a significant role in Malaysia's history, particularly during the Japanese occupation in World War II. The city is also notable as the birthplace of Malaysia’s fourth and seventh Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

3. Major Destinations and Attractions

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Zahir Mosque (Masjid Zahir)

• Built in 1912, this iconic mosque is one of the most beautiful in Malaysia. Its Moorish-style architecture features five domes representing the five pillars of Islam.

Balai Besar (Grand Audience Hall)

• A wooden palace built in 1735, it was historically used for royal ceremonies and is now a historical monument.

Balai Nobat

• A tower housing the royal musical instruments (nobat), used during Kedah's royal ceremonies.

Pekan Rabu Complex

• A bustling market showcasing traditional Malay crafts, snacks, and textiles. It is a great spot to experience local culture.

Kedah Royal Museum (Muzium Diraja Kedah)

• Formerly a royal residence, this museum provides insight into the royal family of Kedah and the state’s history.

Rumah Kelahiran Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad

• The childhood home of Malaysia’s former Prime Minister, now preserved as a museum showcasing his early life.

Nature and Scenic Spots

Paddy Museum (Muzium Padi)

• A unique museum dedicated to rice cultivation and its importance to Kedah. The panoramic murals depicting paddy fields are a highlight.

Gunung Keriang (Mount Keriang)

• A limestone hill located about 10 km from Alor Setar, ideal for hiking and exploring caves.

Taman Jubli Perak Sultan Abdul Halim

• A peaceful park featuring jogging tracks, cycling paths, and scenic spots for relaxation.

Alor Setar Tower (Menara Alor Setar)

• Standing at 165.5 meters, this telecommunications tower offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding paddy fields.

Religious Sites

1. Wat Nikrodharam

• A Thai-Buddhist temple in the heart of the city, showcasing intricate Thai architecture and serene surroundings.

1. Masjid Albukhary

• Part of the Albukhary Complex, this mosque is renowned for its elegant white architecture and tranquil ambiance.

Modern Attractions

1. Aman Central Mall

• The largest shopping mall in Kedah, offering retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

1. Darul Aman Stadium

• A multipurpose stadium that hosts football matches and other events.

4. Activities

Cultural Experiences

• Visit the Pekan Rabu Complex to shop for traditional crafts and Kedah specialties like kuih karas and dodoi (Malay sweets).
• Explore the Royal Museum to understand the history of Kedah’s monarchy.
• Watch traditional cultural performances during festivals and events in Alor Setar.

Outdoor Adventures

• Hike Gunung Keriang, where you can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding paddy fields.
• Cycle or take photos at the Paddy Fields, especially during the planting or harvesting seasons for breathtaking landscapes.

5. Food and Cuisine

Alor Setar offers a range of traditional Kedah dishes, heavily influenced by Malay, Thai, and Chinese cuisines.

Must-Try Dishes

Nasi Ulam

• Rice mixed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices.

Laksa Kedah

• A tangy and spicy rice noodle soup made with fish-based gravy, often topped with herbs and cucumbers.

Gulai Daging Batang Pisang

• A rich beef curry cooked with banana stems, a traditional Kedah specialty.

Pek Nga

• A Kedah-style pancake made with grated coconut and served with curry or sambal.

Pulut Sambal

• Glutinous rice served with spicy sambal topping.

Kuih Karas

• A crispy traditional snack made from rice flour and sugar.

6. Festivals and Events

Pesta Kedah

• A cultural festival showcasing traditional dances, music, and crafts.

Kedah Paddy Festival

• A celebration of the rice harvest, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions, and paddy-related activities.

Alor Setar Food Festival

• An annual event highlighting local cuisine and delicacies.

7. Transportation

By Air

• Sultan Abdul Halim Airport serves as the main airport for Alor Setar, offering flights to Kuala Lumpur and other cities.

By Train

• Alor Setar Railway Station is part of Malaysia’s KTM network, connecting the city to major towns via the ETS (Electric Train Service).

By Road

• The North-South Expressway (E1) makes Alor Setar easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur (approx. 5 hours by car) or Penang (approx. 1.5 hours).

By Ferry

• Ferries from Kuala Kedah provide access to Langkawi Island, a popular destination close to Alor Setar.

8. Accommodation

Luxury Hotels

• Royale Signature Hotel
• Grand Alora Hotel

Mid-Range Options

• Hotel Seri Malaysia Alor Setar
• StarCity Hotel Alor Setar

Budget-Friendly Stays

• Fuller Hotel Alor Setar
• Rainbow Hotel

9. Fun Facts

• Rice Bowl of Malaysia: Alor Setar is surrounded by sprawling paddy fields, making it a crucial area for Malaysia’s rice production.
• Royal Heritage: Kedah is one of the oldest sultanates in Malaysia, with a monarchy dating back over 1,000 years.
• Birthplace of Leaders: Alor Setar is the birthplace of two Malaysian Prime Ministers: Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Tunku Abdul Rahman, the nation’s first Prime Minister.