Padang Besar

ByHethaya
Padang Besar
4.8/5 (5 Votes)

Introduction

Looking for a unique border town experience in Malaysia? Padang Besar in Perlis is more than just a checkpoint between Malaysia and Thailand—it’s a cultural melting pot, shopping paradise, and food haven. Famous for its bustling bazaar, cross-border trade, and fusion of Malay and Thai culture, Padang Besar offers travelers an exciting blend of heritage, adventure, and bargain shopping.

Whether you’re traveling from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Thailand, this lively town is a must-visit destination in northern Malaysia.

Location & Accessibility

Padang Besar is located in northern Perlis, Malaysia’s smallest state, directly bordering Songkhla Province in Thailand.

  • By Train: The KTM ETS and Komuter services connect Padang Besar with Kuala Lumpur, Penang (Butterworth), and Ipoh. The station also links directly to Hat Yai, Thailand.
  • By Bus/Car: From Kuala Lumpur, the journey takes about 7 hours (480 km) via the North–South Expressway. From Alor Setar, it’s just 1.5 hours (70 km) by road.
  • By Flight: The nearest airport is Sultan Abdul Halim Airport in Alor Setar (1.5 hours away). Travelers from Thailand can also fly into Hat Yai International Airport and cross the border easily.

History & Background

The name Padang Besar, meaning “Big Field” in Malay, reflects the town’s fertile farmlands and historic role as a trade hub. For centuries, it has been a key crossing point between Malaysia and Thailand, shaping its identity as a cross-cultural town. Today, Padang Besar thrives as a duty-free shopping destination and a place where Malays, Chinese, Indians, and Thais coexist in harmony.

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Local Lifestyle & Culture

Padang Besar’s charm lies in its blended lifestyle.

  • Languages spoken: Malay, Thai, Hokkien, Mandarin, and English.
  • Festivals celebrated: Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Songkran (Thai New Year), and Chinese New Year.
  • Community vibe: Friendly, welcoming, and enriched with border trade energy.

Attractions & Things to Do in Padang Besar

Here are the top attractions in Padang Besar:

  1. Padang Besar Bazaar – The town’s highlight, offering clothes, shoes, bags, fabrics, and Thai snacks at unbeatable prices.
  2. Duty-Free Shopping Complex – Popular for chocolates, perfumes, and imported household goods.
  3. Gua Kelam (Dark Cave) – A 370m limestone cave in Kaki Bukit, ideal for nature lovers.
  4. Tasik Melati Recreational Park – A lotus-filled lake surrounded by pavilions, perfect for picnics.
  5. Chuping Valley – A scenic area of limestone hills, sugarcane fields, and cycling trails.

Hidden Gems & Activities:

  • Cross the border to Danok or Hat Yai in Thailand.
  • Enjoy countryside drives through paddy fields.
  • Explore local handicrafts at small roadside stalls.

Food & Local Cuisine

Food in Padang Besar is a delicious mix of Malaysian and Thai influences.

Must-try dishes in Padang Besar:

  • Tom Yam Soup – Spicy Thai-style broth.
  • Pulut Mangga (Mango Sticky Rice) – A Thai dessert favorite.
  • Nasi Kerabu – A herbal rice dish from northern Malaysia.
  • Grilled seafood & satay – Street food staples.
  • Roti Canai with Teh Tarik – A local breakfast must.

Best places to eat:

  • Pasar Padang Besar Food Stalls – For local snacks and Thai specialties.
  • Thai-Malay restaurants – Authentic tom yam and seafood.
  • Coffee shops – Try local iced coffee and kuih (desserts).
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Accommodation Options in Padang Besar

Though small, Padang Besar has comfortable stays:

  • Budget: Guesthouses & homestays near the train station.
  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels like Padang Besar Hotel.
  • Luxury: Upscale hotels available in Kangar (35 minutes away) or Hat Yai (1 hour away).
  • Unique stays: Traditional homestays in surrounding villages.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Padang Besar is known as a shopping paradise in Perlis.

  • What to buy: Clothing, fabrics, handicrafts, perfumes, snacks, Thai kitchenware, and chocolates.
  • Where to shop: Padang Besar Bazaar, Duty-Free Complex, and roadside markets.

Nearby Places to Visit

Padang Besar makes a great base for exploring nearby destinations:

  • Kangar – The charming capital of Perlis (35 minutes away).
  • Perlis State Park – Ideal for jungle trekking and nature walks.
  • Hat Yai, Thailand – A vibrant city just 1 hour across the border.
  • Kuala Perlis – A coastal town famous for seafood and ferry rides to Langkawi.

Travel Tips

  • Best time to visit: November to March for cooler weather.
  • Currency: Both Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) and Thai Baht (THB) are accepted in some shops.
  • Transport: Walking and tuk-tuks are common, but renting a car gives more freedom.
  • Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly, respect local customs, and be polite at markets.
  • Border crossing: Carry your passport if planning a trip to Thailand.

Summary / Why Visit Padang Besar

If you’re looking for shopping, food, and culture in Perlis, Padang Besar is a destination worth adding to your itinerary. It’s not only a border town but also a cultural hub where travelers can shop, eat, and explore both Malaysia and Thailand with ease.

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