Kota Bharu

Overview

Introduction

Several nights could be spent in Kota Bharu, which is 200 mi/320 km north of Kuala Lumpur near Thailand in the northeastern corner of peninsular Malaysia. The city is a good place to learn about traditional Malaysian and Muslim culture—see exhibitions of top spinning, kite making, shadow plays, giant drums and silat (self-defense), a martial art. The activities seem to be everywhere, but visitors often see them at the Kelantan State Cultural Centre, which is open on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday. Songket, a cloth interwoven with gold and silver threads, makes a nice souvenir (prices vary depending on the quality of the cloth and thread). Don't miss Kota Bharu Central Market, especially in the early morning when locals do their shopping under the skylight-dome ceiling (the light is superb for photographs). From the town, you can also head to the Perhentian Islands where you can relax on fabulous beaches or discover underwater life.

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