Perlis is Malaysia’s smallest state, known for its tranquil rural landscapes, paddy fields, and traditional culture. A 3-day trip is a good amount of time to explore the major attractions and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
Day 1 – West Perlis: Nature, Culture & Sunset
Morning
- Gua Kelam Recreational Park
- Explore the 370m cave walk, waterfall, and suspension bridge.
- Opens 9:00am. Spend ~1.5–2 hours.
- Tea break at Warung Cek Mek Molek in Kaki Bukit (local kuih & coffee).
Lunch
- Kedai Kopi Hai Lam, Kangar – Old-school Malaysian kopitiam with roti bakar and kopi O.
Afternoon
- Perlis State Park (entrance)
- Optional short hike or nature appreciation (skip full jungle trek unless you want adventure).
- Visit interpretive center & enjoy the calm rainforest.
Evening
- Masjid Al Hussain (Floating Mosque), Kuala Perlis
- Ideal at sunset for photography.
- Dinner at D’View Seafood Restaurant – Excellent sea breeze & grilled fish.
- Stay: Hotel or chalet in Kangar or Kuala Perlis (e.g. Putra Regency Hotel, Savana Hotel).
Day 2 – Central Perlis & Culture (Arau, Chuping, Melati)
Morning
- Royal Palace of Arau – Quick photo stop (from outside).
- Breakfast at Kopitiam Kita Arau – Known for nasi lemak and toast.
- Ladang Kenaf Chuping (if in season) – Wide kenaf fields; beautiful photos if blooming.
- Timah Tasoh Lake (optional): Serene photo spot; best for early risers.
Lunch
- Bang Don Daging Bakar Abi – Famous local grilled beef.
Afternoon
- Tasik Melati Recreational Park – Easy walk by lotus ponds and floating platforms.
- Kota Kayang Museum (closes ~5pm) – History of Perlis, Neolithic tools, royal artifacts.
Evening
- Restoran Sri Pauh Garden – Beautiful garden ambiance and local cuisine.
- Stay: Remain in Kangar.
Day 3 – North Perlis: Border Market & Wildlife
Morning
- Breakfast at Warung Tepi Sawah – Village setting with paddy field views.
- Padang Besar Market (Morning to Noon)
- Shop local Thai-Malaysian products: clothes, snacks, souvenirs.
- Best on weekends – plan accordingly!
Lunch
- Restoran Thai Chok Dee Tomyam – Authentic Thai tomyam and mango salad.
Afternoon
- Snake and Reptile Park – Kid-friendly stop with educational value.
- Optional: Kampung Wai – Paddle kayak or take photos on the iconic pedestrian bridge.
Evening
- Early dinner at Restoran Nelayan Kuala Perlis – Final seafood feast.
- Return to hotel or begin travel home.
Accommodation Suggestions
- Kangar (central base)
- Kuala Perlis (if focused on seafood/sunset)
- T Hotel Kuala Perlis
- Putra Brasmana Hotel
Transport Tips
- Car rental strongly recommended
- Many attractions are rural with limited Grab/taxi availability.
- Parking is easy and mostly free.
- Fill petrol in Kangar – limited stations in rural areas.
Bonus Tips
- Wear light clothes, bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Harumanis mango season: April–June — try mango sticky rice!
- Weekends are best for Padang Besar and Wang Kelian Sunday Market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need a car to explore Perlis?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to rent a car or motorcycle. Perlis is rural, and public transportation is limited. Attractions like Gua Kelam, Perlis State Park, and Padang Besar are spread out and not served by regular buses or trains.
2. When is the best time to visit Perlis?
The best time is between January and June, especially during the Harumanis mango season (April–June). Avoid September–November if you dislike rain, as this is the monsoon season.
3. Is Padang Besar market open every day?
Yes, the market is open daily, but the busiest and best time to visit is on weekends (Saturday & Sunday) when more stalls are open, and the Thai border vibe is livelier.
4. What kind of food is Perlis famous for?
Perlis is known for:
- Ikan bakar (grilled fish)
- Laksa Perlis
- Harumanis mangoes
- Traditional nasi campur (mixed rice) stalls and Thai-Malay fusion food, especially near the border.
5. Is Perlis suitable for a family trip or kids?
Yes! Many attractions are family-friendly, such as:
- Gua Kelam (safe walkways),
- Snake & Reptile Farm,
- Tasik Melati Park,
- and Padang Besar Market for shopping.