Kelantan is known to every Malaysian as the only state
in Malalysia
under the governance of an opposition party, called PAS (not the ruling
coalition government). So be prepared to see some different
Islamic state laws that differ from other states. At supermarkets and
department stores male and females have to have separate queues.
In Kota BaHru
(Capital of Kelantan)
Central Market Kota Bahru Its a great place to visit, as it is the most vibrant shopping area in
this part of Malaysia, perhaps the most fascinating fresh market to
visit. Traders display brilliantly coloured fresh produce and you
will see the traders dominated and 'ruled' by the women of Kelantan.
Royal Museum Istana Batu in Kota Baru, built in
1939, was fomerly used as a venue for royal weddings as well as to house
royal guests. Today, it is the Royal Museum where items belonging to
former Sultans are on display. These include silverware, bedroom items
and furniture from the royal household. There are also photos on the
royal household on display.
Istana Balai Besar was built by Sultan Muhamad II in 1840 is now
used as a venue for ceremonial functions.
Handicrafts
Kelantan is famed for her batik, songket, wood carvings, silverware and
wau (kites). Visit the Handicraft Village
and Craft Museum to see and even buy Kelantan's exquisite
range of handicrafts.
(Songket is traditional Malay cloth hand
woven with silk or cotton threads, and has silver or gold threads
interwoven with it. Songket existed since the 15th century.)
Beaches
Cahaya Bulan Beach / Pantai Cahaya Bulan, sometimes called the Beach
of Passionate Love or Pantai Cinta Berahi is just like a picture post
card. (see Kampong stay)
Pantai Bisikan Bayu (Beach of the Whispering
Breeze) - is located near Semerak, District of Pasir Puteh, about
50 km from Kota Bharu. It is also called Pantai Dalam Rhu.
Pantai Irama (Beach of Melody) - in the
district of Bachok, about 25 km south of Kota Bharu, is considered as
the most beautiful beach along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It
is popular with picnickers and campers.
Home stay at Kampongs
Kampung Blok Ulu Kusial in Gua Musang offers a home stay
programme. For more information, contact the South Kelantan Development
Authority (KESEDAR) in Gua Musang at 609- 912 1788 or the Kota Bharu
Tourist Information Centre at 609-7485534.
External links:
Kelantan State Government
For more on Kelantan check
Tourism
Malaysia websites
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