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Malaysia's
Top Travel Portal
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There
are many aspects famously connected to Kedah - from
the legendary island of Langkawi to the home state
of Malaysia's two prime ministers. However, one
title synonymous with this northern territory is the
'Rice Bowl of Malaysia'. If you travel around the
state, you'll definitely notice the vast paddy
fields which dominate Kedah's landscape. |
The state capital, Alor Setar, though widely
decorated with modern façade, is still home to many
old buildings which lends the town some nostalgic
historical mood. Of interest is the Balai Besar, a
notable wooden structure built in 1898. It is
frequently used for state and royal functions.
Within walking distance is Zahir Mosque, another
prominent landmark built in 1912. This Muslim place
of worship is said to be one of the most beautiful
mosques in the country. If you are interested in
heritage, visit The Royal Museum which has an
authentic collection of Kedah's royal and cultural
heritage. |
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Other attractions in Alor Setar include the
birthplace of Prime Minister Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir
Mohamad. The traditional wooden house is well
restored and one can get a close look at not only
the prime minister's humble childhood abode, but
also the conventional Malay house architecture of
yesteryear. |
A trip to Alor Setar is incomplete without visiting
Pekan Rabu bazaar. Here, you will be spoilt with a
variety of local wares and handicrafts as well as
traditional fares like dodol (a popular Malay sweet
delicacy), karas (crispy tidbit), and baulu (soft
mini cake) that come in a variety of shapes such as
flower and gold fish. |
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While here, why not get a breathtaking view of the
town and its surroundings from Alor Setar Tower. A
simpler version of the KL Tower, this is nonetheless
a new prominent landmark Alor Setar has to offer. A
short drive from Alor Setar brings you to the border
town of Bukit Kayu Hitam. Besides serving as a
transit point for those going to Thailand, Bukit
Kayu Hitam is also a duty-free shopping zone. |
Kedah is one of the oldest states in the country.
The Bujang Valley, at the foothills of Gunung Jerai,
Kedah's hill resort, point to Hindu-Buddhist
influence dating back to fourth century A.D.
Artefacts found at this historical site are now
displayed at the Archeological Museum. Among other
things, you'll get to see Chinese porcelain and
gemstones from the Middle East. |
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For those in search of solitude and relaxation, the
scenic Pedu Lake provides a worthwhile retreat. It
is recommended that you spend a few days here in
order to enjoy the serenity of the surroundings and
to indulge in activities such as jungle trekking,
cycling and water sports. |
A visit to Kedah is incomplete without exploring the
state's most famous destination - Langkawi. Langkawi
is known not only for its tranquil location but the
legends and myths that usually entice visitors to
this island. Langkawi comprises a group of 99
islands, each with its own specialty. Among the
prominent ones are Pulau Dayang Bunting (Isle of the
Pregnant Maiden), Pulau Singa Besar (a wildlife
sanctuary), Pulau Payar(a marine park ) and Pulau
Beras Basah (Isle of Wet Rice), a popular spot for
swimming. For those "shopaholics", bear in
mind that Langkawi is a free port which offers
plenty of good buys. All you need is enough money to
spend and substantial space in your luggage. |
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Legends and myths aside, Langkawi in the present
reality is fast gaining a reputation as a popular
venue for international exhibitions and conferences.
It is the venue for the exciting Langkawi
International Maritime and Air Show (LIMA), Le Tour
de Langkawi Cycling Race and Langkawi International
Dialogue, to name a few. Other points of interest
are the Mahsuri Mausoleum, Air Hangat hot springs,
Galeria Perdana, Eagle's Square, Seven Wells,
Underwater World, a crocodile farm and the Tanjung
Rhu beach |
Kedah's attractions will certainly create some
distractions from your daily regime. But you'll
definitely need that kind of distractions in order
to fully discover the richness of nature and culture
of Kedah. |
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