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Alor Setar, the capital of Kedah, Malaysia, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From grand mosques to vibrant markets, Alor Setar offers something for every traveler. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 attractions in Alor Setar, including locations, opening hours, highlights, facilities, nearby food spots, and reasons why you should visit.

Here is a list of the top 10 Attractions in Alor Setar

Zahir Mosque (Masjid Zahir)
Location: Jalan Kampung Perak, Bandar Alor Setar, 05150 Alor Setar
Opening Hours: Open daily; prayer times vary
Highlights: One of Malaysia’s oldest mosques, featuring five black domes representing the five pillars of Islam
Facilities: Prayer halls, ablution areas
Food Spots Nearby: Local eateries around Alor Setar Square
Why Visit: Stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture and a spiritual landmark in Kedah
Alor Setar Tower (Menara Alor Setar)
Location: Lebuhraya Darulaman, 05100 Alor Setar
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Highlights: 165.5-meter-high tower with panoramic city views
Facilities: Observation deck, revolving restaurant, souvenir shop
Food Spots: On-site revolving restaurant
Why Visit: Enjoy breathtaking views and a unique dining experience
Kedah Paddy Museum (Muzium Padi)
Location: Gunung Keriang, 05150 Alor Setar
Opening Hours: Sat–Thu: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Fri: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Highlights: Showcases rice cultivation history in Malaysia’s “Rice Bowl”
Facilities: Exhibition halls, souvenir shop, café
Food Spots: Café offering local delicacies
Why Visit: Learn about the cultural and economic significance of rice in Kedah
Kedah State Art Gallery (Balai Seni Negeri Kedah)
Location: Bandar Alor Setar, 05000 Alor Setar
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Fri: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Highlights: Local artworks including paintings, woodcarvings, and crafts
Facilities: Air-conditioned exhibition halls
Food Spots: Nearby eateries in Alor Setar
Why Visit: Experience the rich artistic heritage of Kedah
Kedah Royal Museum (Muzium Diraja Kedah)
Location: Near Balai Besar, Alor Setar
Opening Hours: Check locally for opening times
Highlights: Historical artifacts and royal family exhibits in a Roman-inspired building
Facilities: Exhibition halls
Food Spots: Local restaurants nearby
Why Visit: Gain insight into Kedah’s royal history
Alor Setar Clock Tower (Menara Jam Besar)
Location: Dataran Alor Setar, Alor Setar
Opening Hours: Open daily
Highlights: Built in 1912, mixing Islamic, Hindu, and colonial architectural styles
Facilities: Public square, surrounding gardens
Food Spots: Nearby markets and eateries
Why Visit: Iconic landmark showcasing architectural fusion
Balai Besar (Grand Hall)
Location: Alor Setar, Kedah
Opening Hours: Check locally
Highlights: Former royal audience hall with intricate Malay carvings
Facilities: Public square, gardens
Food Spots: Local eateries nearby
Why Visit: Explore the grandeur of Kedah’s royal architecture
Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Gallery
Location: Alor Setar, Kedah
Opening Hours: Currently closed for renovations
Highlights: Exhibits on the life and legacy of Sultan Abdul Halim
Facilities: Exhibition halls
Food Spots: Local restaurants nearby
Why Visit: Learn about Kedah’s revered Sultan
Pekan Rabu Market
Location: Alor Setar, Kedah
Opening Hours: Daily; check locally
Highlights: Vibrant market selling batik, songket, and traditional food
Facilities: Market stalls, public restrooms
Food Spots: Street food vendors
Why Visit: Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine
Rumah Kuning (Yellow House)
Location: Alor Setar, Kedah
Opening Hours: Check locally
Highlights: Colonial architecture, perfect for photography
Facilities: Public square, surrounding gardens
Food Spots: Nearby cafés
Why Visit: Charming stop with a laid-back atmosphere

Alor Setar combines history, culture, and modernity into a compact, traveler-friendly city. From exploring ancient mosques and royal palaces to shopping at local markets, this city offers a rich Malaysian experience. Plan your visit to include a mix of historical sites, cultural attractions, and food stops to truly appreciate Alor Setar.