Exploring Malaysia 
Picturesque green and gold paddy fields, traditional Malay village houses, green fields, trees and rolling hills are the endearing sights which greet visitors to this ‘Ricebowl of Malaysia’, the state of Kedah. Huge limestone outcrops loom majestically within the state while offshore beautiful island getaways which include the famed isles of Langkawi shimmer invitingly. Its calm and tranquil beauty soothes jangled nerves and invites you to draw a deep breadth, relax and enjoy the laid back charms of Kedah. In 2008 visitors will be feted with more than the tranquillity of the state as being the ‘Visit Kedah Year’ the focus of celebrations and activities will be on the golden jubilee celebrations of the reign of the Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, which falls this year.It will be a good time to catch a glimpse of other aspects of the state.
The historical past of Kedah and its royalty is gradually being unveiled in the Bujang Valley (Lembah Bujang) where the remains of ancient shrines bear testimony to the importance of Hindu and Buddhist cultures in the past. A popular stop for Chinese and Indian traders in the past, Kedah was a flourishing trading point. Between the 7th and 8th century Kedah was part of the Sumatran Srivijaya Kingd...
Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia offer daily return flights between Kuala Lumpur and the airport at Kepala Batas in Kedah. You can also get to Alor Setar, the capital, by train, bus or taxi from most parts of the country. If you wish to drive to Kedah, the North-South Expressway (NSE) is a safe and convenient route to take. Within Kedah you can move around easily with the ample bu...
State Museum (Muzium Negeri) The majestic State Museum situated at Lebuhraya Darulaman is a fine example of local architecture with strong Thai influence. It has three levels filled with antique weapons, jewellery, costumes and furniture. The Royal Museum is located right opposite Balai Besar. Previously the site for royal wedding ceremonies and to house royal guests, ...
Balai Bobat (Nobat Hall) The sole purpose of this octagonal shaped tower is to house the sacred instruments of the Royal Orchestra known as the Nobat. The instruments used to play the haunting strains of the “nobat” during royal ceremonies comprise three drums, a gong, two flutes, two instruments called the cheng-cheng and a trumpet-like instrument called the Nafiri which carry great historica...
Menara Alor Setar The 19th tallest telecommunications tower in the world, Menara Alor Setar, stands proudly at 165.5 metres. It has a revolving restaurant, an amphitheatre, a conference room, a viewing gallery and a cafeteria (on the ground floor). The viewing gallery affords a grand view of the beautiful surrounding Kedah countryside while dining at the revolving restaurant, 94 meter above sea le...
Patai Merdeka Pantai Merdeka (Merdeka Beach), one of the most popular beaches in Kedah, is located in Kuala Muda. The beautiful white sandy beach fringed with tall palm trees is ideal for picnics and relaxation. Water skiing and sailing are popular sports here. Nearby islands like Pulau Bidan, Pulau Telur and Pulau Song are easily accessible by boat. You can also explore a cave with historical art...
Waterfalls Kedah’s waterfalls make lovely picnic spots amidst greenery and clear, crisp mountain air. Among the well known waterfalls are Puteri Mandi in Yan (32 km south of Alor Setar), Puncak Janing (25 km northeast of Alor Setar in the Padang Terap district), the Junjung Waterfalls in Kulim and Lata Mengkuang (Menkuang Rapids) in Sik, about 72 km north of Alor Setar. Pedu Lake, located ...
