Kota Bharu, the capital of Kelantan, is a city steeped in Malay tradition, rich heritage, and vibrant local culture. From bustling markets and royal palaces to serene beaches and iconic religious sites, Kota Bharu offers a unique travel experience unlike anywhere else in Malaysia.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a week, here are the top 10 attractions in Kota Bharu you shouldn’t miss.
Istana Jahar
Location: Jalan Sultan, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Highlights: Built in 1855, Istana Jahar served as a royal residence and showcases intricate wooden carvings, royal regalia, and exhibits on traditional Malay customs.
Facilities: Parking, guided tours, restrooms
Nearby Food Spot: Restoran Capital – famous for nasi kerabu and nasi dagang
Why Visit: Perfect for history lovers and anyone curious about Kelantan’s royal heritage.Siti Khadijah Market (Pasar Siti Khadijah)
Location: Jalan Buluh Kubu, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM
Highlights: One of Malaysia’s most iconic markets, run mostly by women, offering fresh produce, local snacks, batik, and handicrafts.
Facilities: Public parking, restrooms
Nearby Food Spot: Kedai Kopi White House – try their kaya toast and local coffee
Why Visit: A vibrant cultural hub that captures the heart of daily life in Kelantan.Masjid Muhammadi (State Mosque)
Location: Jalan Sultanah Zainab, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 5 AM – 10 PM
Highlights: A historic mosque built in 1867 with distinctive Islamic architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Facilities: Prayer halls, parking, ablution areas
Nearby Food Spot: Restoran Hover – famous for nasi campur (mixed rice)
Why Visit: A spiritual and architectural landmark in Kota Bharu.Handicraft Village & Craft Museum (Balai Getam Guri)
Location: Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Highlights: Home to batik, songket weaving, silverwork, and woodcarving exhibitions, with live craft demonstrations.
Facilities: Souvenir shop, workshops, parking
Nearby Food Spot: Kopitiam Kita – famous for “roti titab” (toast with kaya and half-boiled egg)
Why Visit: Experience Kelantan’s rich arts and crafts heritage.War Museum (Bank Kerapu)
Location: Jalan Sultan, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Highlights: Malaysia’s first war museum, featuring WWII history and the Japanese occupation of Kelantan.
Facilities: Parking, guided tours
Nearby Food Spot: Nasi Ulam Cikgu – for authentic Kelantanese herbs and rice dishes
Why Visit: Gain historical insight into Kelantan’s role during World War II.Kampung Kraftangan (Craft Village)
Location: Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Highlights: Traditional Malay architecture, hands-on craft workshops, and cultural performances.
Facilities: Craft shops, parking, restrooms
Nearby Food Spot: Warung Pak Mat Pulau Pisang – famous for iced tea and fish head soup
Why Visit: A great place to learn traditional skills and buy authentic souvenirs.Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Moonlight Beach)
Location: 10 km from Kota Bharu city, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Highlights: Scenic beach ideal for picnics, kite flying, and sunset views.
Facilities: Food stalls, toilets, parking
Nearby Food Spot: Local stalls selling keropok lekor (fried fish crackers)
Why Visit: Relax by the sea and enjoy Kelantan’s coastal charm.Kelantan State Museum (Muzium Negeri Kelantan)
Location: Jalan Hospital, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Highlights: Displays on archaeology, history, Islamic culture, and traditional arts.
Facilities: Parking, guided tours, restrooms
Nearby Food Spot: Sun Two Restaurant – serving Chinese-Malay fusion dishes
Why Visit: A must-visit for anyone interested in Kelantan’s cultural roots.Wat Photivihan (Sleeping Buddha)
Location: Kampung Jambu, Tumpat (about 20 minutes from Kota Bharu)
Opening Hours: 6 AM – 5 PM
Highlights: One of Southeast Asia’s largest reclining Buddha statues, stretching 40 meters long.
Facilities: Parking, small stalls selling drinks and snacks
Nearby Food Spot: Tumpat’s local stalls for Thai-influenced Kelantanese food
Why Visit: A stunning symbol of religious diversity and heritage in the region.Istana Batu Royal Museum
Location: Jalan Hilir Kota, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Highlights: Former royal residence with personal items of Kelantanese sultans.
Facilities: Parking, guided tours
Nearby Food Spot: Ayang Cafe – serving Western and local fusion dishes
Why Visit: Offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Kelantan’s royalty.
Kota Bharu is more than just a gateway to Thailand or the Perhentian Islands — it’s a living museum of Malay heritage, Islamic tradition, and artisanal mastery. From the historic Istana Jahar to the lively Siti Khadijah Market and the peaceful Pantai Cahaya Bulan, these top attractions promise a journey full of culture, history, and local flavors.
