About the Place
Nestled by the banks of the Perak River, Kuala Kangsar is the official Royal Town of Perak and a cultural jewel of Malaysia. With roots dating back to the 18th century, the town is famed for its regal architecture, traditional Malay crafts, and significant historical landmarks. From stunning golden-domed mosques to ancestral craft techniques like tekat embroidery and labu sayong pottery, Kuala Kangsar is the perfect place for heritage lovers and curious travellers.
Highlights
- Malaysia’s first rubber tree, still standing since 1877
- Home of the majestic Masjid Ubudiah
- Unique wooden palace architecture at Istana Kenangan
- Renowned centre for tekat benang emas (gold thread embroidery)
- Traditional labu sayong clay water pitchers
- Victoria Bridge – the oldest railway bridge in Malaysia
- Authentic laksa telur sarang, a crispy egg nest laksa
Things to Do in Kuala Kangsar
1. Masjid Ubudiah
Perched on Bukit Chandan, this golden-domed mosque is a national heritage treasure. Designed by English architect A.B. Hubback, the mosque’s Moorish and Mughal elements echo regal magnificence.
- Address: Jalan Istana, 33000 Kuala Kangsar, Perak
- Facebook: Masjid Diraja Ubudiah Kuala Kangsar
2. Istana Kenangan (Perak Royal Museum)
This palace of dreams is an architectural marvel built entirely from wood without nails. Once a temporary royal residence, it now houses exhibitions about the Perak royal family.
- Address: Bukit Chandan, 33000 Kuala Kangsar
- Phone: +605-7765500
3. Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah
Experience the life of Sultan Azlan Shah, Malaysia’s only monarch to serve as Chief Justice. The gallery exhibits his regal attire, luxury cars, and personal memorabilia. (Currently closed for maintenance.)
- Address: Jalan Istana, Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar
- Phone: +605-7775362
4. Galeri Tekat Benang Emas Hajjah Azizah
Discover Malaysia’s finest gold-thread embroidery passed down through generations. Hajjah Azizah’s work includes velvet cushion covers, wedding fabrics, and even shoes designed with Jimmy Choo.
- Location: Kampung Padang Changkat, Bukit Chandan
- Phone: +6019-3371866
- Facebook: Galeri Tekat Benang Emas Hajjah Azizah
5. Labu Sayong Pottery Making
Visit the village of Sayong, the birthplace of the iconic gourd-shaped water pitcher. These handmade clay jars naturally cool water and are crafted using ancient firing techniques.
- Workshop: Mehans Enterprise, No. 98, Sayong Lembah
- Phone: +6017-5499942
- Facebook: Labu Sayong Kuala Kangsar Perak
6. Victoria Bridge
Built in 1897, this steel railway bridge in Karai was used to transport tin ore and passengers. Today, it’s a popular photo stop for tourists and a symbol of the town’s colonial past.
- Address: Pekan Karai, 33600 Kuala Kangsar
- Phone: +6013-3937997
- Facebook: Victoria Bridge Malaysia
7. Traditional Keris Making
Witness the forging of traditional Malay daggers by master craftsman Pak Mazin, who continues the centuries-old heritage of keris-making.
- Best to visit: By prior appointment or guided tour
Top Place to Stay
Casuarina @ Kuala Kangsar
This colonial-themed boutique hotel offers elegant décor and modern facilities. Its strategic location makes it ideal for exploring Bukit Chandan’s royal attractions.
- Address: Jalan Bukit Kerajaan, 33000 Kuala Kangsar
- Phone: +605-7702021
- Facebook: Casuarina Kuala Kangsar
Top Food to Try
Laksa Telur Sarang
A specialty of Kuala Kangsar, this laksa dish is topped with a crispy nest-shaped egg and served with thick rice noodles and spicy, tangy broth.
Where to find:
Local stalls and kopitiams in Bukit Chandan or Sayong area. Ask for “Laksa Telur Sarang” to try the local favourite!
How to Get There
- By Car: Approx. 3 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur via PLUS Highway (Exit 143 – Kuala Kangsar)
- By Train: KTM ETS trains stop at Kuala Kangsar Railway Station
- By Bus: Intercity buses from Ipoh, Taiping, and other Perak towns available
Nearby Attractions
- First Rubber Tree in Malaysia – Near District Office
- Kuala Kangsar Clock Tower – Classic colonial landmark
- Sultan Abdul Jalil Shah Bridge – Another scenic photo stop
- Perak River Cruise – Enjoy the riverside views and heritage walk
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques and palaces
- Best travel period: March to July or September to November
- Look for souvenirs like labu sayong, embroidered textiles, and keris replicas
- Book ahead for guided heritage or craft tours
Final Thoughts
Kuala Kangsar is more than just a royal town – it’s a living museum of Malay culture, Islamic architecture, and handcrafted tradition. Whether you’re admiring the grandeur of Masjid Ubudiah or watching a labu sayong artisan at work, every corner of this town tells a story.
