Wat Phothivihan - the biggest in Asia

Kelantan has an amazing array of interesting temples and mosques that dot the countryside. North of Kota Bharu, in the Tumpat district, you will find many Thai Buddhist temples, a remembrance of the former links of Kelantan with Thailand.

One temple that many visitors visit is Wat Photivihan. Located near Kampung Jambu, this Wat which houses a 40 metre reclining Buddha.This 40-meter sculpture was constructed in 1973, and was only completed in 1979. The construction cost of RM350,000 was derived from public donation as well as contributions from various Buddhist associations in Malaysia and Thailand. The Wat Phothivihan reclining Buddha is 7 meters longer than the older reclining Buddha of Wat Chaiyamangkalaram in Penang.

Perdana Beach Resort, Kelantan

Perdana Beach Resort located 11 kilometres north of Kota Bharu, drive along a stretch of road which features souvenir shops and traditional cottage industry businesses, paddy fields with its share of buffaloes wallowing in the mud and of course, the always charming sight that is the traditional kampung houses which always brings to my mind images of a peaceful lifestyle, harmonious living and an often-felt wish to be a part of a community which espouses the "simple life" philosophy.

You can combine a love for taking pleasure from the simple life with a comfortable and charming 'village' experience which features the most up-to-date conveniences and facilities.

Istana Jahar

Built in 1887, Istana Jahar was a gift from Sultan Mahmud II to his grandson, Long Kundur. Today, this palace is known as the Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs.

An epitome of the uncompromising standards of Kelantanese wood craftmanship, this beautiful palace is adorned with intricately carved wooden panels. A tour of this museum will reveal the grandeur of the Kelantanese traditional ceremonies and customs. Inside, visitors can find an extensive collection of Kelantan's historical documentation, rare artefacts, photographs and exhibits which portray the state's rich cultural heritage.

The museum opens Saturday through Thursdays, from 8.30a.m. to 4.45p.m. For more information.

Kelantan Culture and Heritage - Fast Track

Cultural Centre

Located on Jalan Mahmud close to the Perdana Hotel, the cultural centre is a veritable showcase of the living heritage of Kelantan. Demonstrations of popular folk arts and pastimes are held daily. Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) shows, Silat (the Malay art of self-defence) performances, Gasing (top spinning) displays, Wau (kite flying) and Rebana (Giant Drum) playing can all be seen at the centre. In the evenings, visitors can see cultural performances featuring traditional Malay music and Wayang Kulit. The cultural centre is open three times a week from March to October.

Royal Museum / Istana Batu

The Istana Batu (Brick/Stone Palace) was constructed in 1939 during the reign of Sultan Ismail. It houses the Royal Museum and was previously used as the venue for royal weddings and as a guest house for visiting royalty. The Royal Museum now serves as a repository for the history of the Kelantan royal family and displays regalia, pictures, silverware, furniture and palace items of former Sultans.

World War II Memorial / Bank Kerapu

Originally constructed in 1911, Bank Kerapu is now a repository for documents, pictures and military paraphernalia of the Japanese Occupation from 1941 to 1945. During the war, the building served as the headquarters of the Japanese Kempetai, the feared secret police.

Istana Balai Besar

Built by Sultan Muhammad II in 1840, the Istana Balai Besar was formerly the residence of past Sultans.

Islamic Museum

The Islamic Museum traces the history of Islam in Kelantan. Exhibits include Islamic arts and crafts and photographs of some of the personal belongings of Prophet Muhammad and Islamic historical sites.
The museum reflects not only the importance of Islam in Kelantan but also the position of the state as a centre of Islamic learning.

Merdeka Square

Other interesting sites in Kota Bharu include Merdeka (Independence) Square, State Government offices and floating raft houses along the river banks.

Handicraft Village and Craft Museum

While the Craft Museum houses many fine examples of Kelantanese craftsmanship, the adjacent Handicraft Village provides visitors the chance to see just how these crafts are made. Demonstrations of traditional embroidery, songket weaving, batik printing, silver work and wood carving are carried out by skilled artisans.
Their products are also on sale at the centre.

State Museum

The State Museum, located along Jalan Hospital, incorporates the State Art Gallery. The building itself was used as the land office from colonial times until 1990 when major renovations were carried out to convert it into a museum.
The museum documents the arts, crafts and musical traditions of Kelantan. Ceramic displays testify to the early trade with China and artefacts from local archaeological sites provide evidence of the existence of the pre-historic civilisation in Kelantan.

Kelantan Beaches - Fast Tracks

Beach of Moonlight

Formerly known as the beach of passionate love, Pantai Cahaya is a picture-postcard beach. Tall casuarinas trees fringe the beach providing shade and a grassy verge gives way to tall swaying coconut palms. Comfortable chalets are available at the beach.

Beach of the Whispering Breeze

Pantai Bisikan is about 50 km south of Kota Bharu in the Pasir Puteh District. Around the village of Semerak, gentle breezes rustle the casuarina needles producing a hushed sound. Surfing is good at certain times of the year, and wind surfers will find excellent spots here.

Beach of Seven Lagoons

Located in the Tumpat district close to the Thai border, this pristine beach is sheltered by the longest lagoon in Malaysia. Home to the annual International Kite Festival, the beach has a variety of food and drink stalls as well as public amenities.

Beach of Melody

About 30 km south of the capital, Pantai Irama offers choice picnic spots and eating stalls. It is reputed to be one of the most beautiful beaches along the East Coast.