Uncover the cultural heart of Kelantan through local traditions, food, markets, and timeless landmarks.
About Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Kota Bharu, the capital city of Kelantan, is a cultural haven located in northeastern Malaysia near the Thai border. Known as the “Royal City,” it offers a unique blend of Islamic heritage, traditional crafts, bustling markets, and untouched beaches. Established in 1844 by Sultan Muhammad II, the city is home to a thriving arts community and some of the most authentic food and architecture in the country.
Whether you’re wandering through colorful markets, marveling at centuries-old mosques, or relaxing on the beach, Kota Bharu offers a deep dive into the heart of Malaysia’s Malay identity.
Highlights of Kota Bharu
- Ancient traditions and royal history
- Authentic Malay food and wet markets
- Local crafts: batik, songket, silverware
- Historic palaces and mosques
- Serene beaches like Pantai Cahaya Bulan
- Street art and heritage museums
Things To Do in Kota Bharu
1. Discover Kota Bharu Street Art
Wander through vibrant alleyways filled with murals that depict Malaysian culture, lifestyle, and global events. Floor and wall art by local artists offer perfect Instagrammable backdrops.
Location: 3631 Jalan Dato Pati
Getting There: 6 minutes by taxi from Kota Bharu Bus Terminal
2. Visit Pasar Siti Khadijah
Experience the local lifestyle at this iconic wet market, where women vendors dominate the trade. Shop for spices, snacks, batik fabrics, and savour Kelantanese kuih at the food court.
Open: Daily from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Nearby: 4-minute drive from the bus terminal
3. Explore Kampung Kraftangan (Handicraft Village)
Dive into Kelantan’s traditional arts—songket weaving, silverwork, and batik painting. Try your hand at batik art or pick up authentic local souvenirs.
Open: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed Fridays)
Entrance: RM2 (locals), RM4 (foreigners)
4. Tour Istana Jahar (Royal Palace Museum)
This beautifully preserved palace-turned-museum showcases royal customs, textiles, and Kelantanese weapons. A must-visit for history lovers.
Open: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed Fridays)
Walkable: Just 8 minutes from the bus terminal
5. Relax at Pantai Cahaya Bulan (PCB Beach)
Ideal for picnics and family outings, PCB Beach offers golden sand, local kite sellers, food stalls, and watersports with stunning coastal views.
Distance: 10 km from city centre
Bus Option: Mutiara Rentas Desa Bus 10
6. Immerse Yourself at Rumah Tiang 12
A traditional Malay house turned cultural museum, where you can experience batik demos, wear traditional costumes, and taste Kelantanese dishes. Reservation needed 3–7 days ahead.
Getting There: 9-minute drive from Kota Bharu Bus Terminal
7. Learn at Kelantan State Museum
Showcasing traditional dance, games, and the famed Wayang Kulit, this museum offers a look into Kelantan’s past and present.
Open: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed Fridays)
Fee: RM2 (locals), RM4 (foreigners)
Central Location: Easy access from nearby attractions
8. Shop at Wakaf Che’ Yeh Night Market
Open until 2 AM, this sprawling night bazaar features food stalls, cheap clothing, and traditional wares. Great for evening strolls and bargain hunting.
Open: Daily from 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Drive: 7 minutes from the bus terminal
9. Visit Masjid Muhammadi
This historic mosque is a spiritual and architectural landmark with British colonial design influences and large minarets visible across town.
Travel Time: 5 minutes from bus terminal
Parking: Available onsite
10. See Kampung Laut Mosque
Malaysia’s oldest mosque, built without nails in the 17th century. Featuring tiered Meru roofs and dragon ridge caps, this mosque is a masterpiece of Nusantara architecture.
Drive: 20 minutes from Kota Bharu via Route 8
Bus: No. 4 from central station (Bazar Buluh Kubu)
Top Places to Stay in Kota Bharu
The Grand Renai Kota Bharu
5-star hotel in the heart of the city with full amenities and business facilities.
Perdana Kota Bharu
Elegant hotel close to museums and markets, with excellent local hospitality.
Holiday Villa Hotel & Suites
Spacious rooms and family-friendly options with modern facilities.
Crown Garden Hotel
Budget-friendly, centrally located near major attractions.
How to Get to Kota Bharu
By Air
- Fly into Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) from major Malaysian cities.
- ~20-minute drive to the city centre.
By Bus
- Buses from Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, or Penang terminate at Kota Bharu Bus Terminal.
By Car
- Access via East Coast Expressway (ECE) or Route 8 for scenic drives from Gua Musang or Kuala Terengganu.
Top Food Point: Yati Ayam Percik
The legendary Yati Ayam Percik is a must-visit for its signature grilled chicken drenched in rich, coconut-based percik sauce. Pair it with nasi kerabu or nasi putih and savour the true taste of Kelantan.
Location: Jalan Long Yunus, Kota Bharu
Open: Daily
Average Meal: RM8–RM15
Final Thoughts
Kota Bharu is a cultural gem that remains true to its heritage, offering visitors a unique window into Malay traditions, Islamic artistry, and Kelantanese warmth. From batik workshops to ancient mosques and buzzing night markets, it’s a city best explored slowly and locally.
So next time you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, skip the skyscrapers and head to Kelantan’s capital—where stories are stitched into songket, painted on alley walls, and served with sambal.
