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Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah in Malaysia, a cultural and historical treasure. Less known than Kuala Lumpur or Penang, the city still has much to offer in terms of historical values, architecture, and common traditional Malay charm, from the nation's history down to its rice fields, imposing landmarks, this city has much more to offer.
Alor Setar symbol (Source: Agoda)
Alor Setar history dates as far back as 1735 when it was founded by Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Adilin II. The strategic position of the city made it at once the Kedah Sultanate's hub of administration. In 1735, it achieved the status of the capital of Kedah, superseding Kota Setar. Alor Setar was an administrative hub during the British colonial era and still remains pivotal in Malaysia's road to independence.
The city is also the birthplace of two of Malaysia's prime ministers, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Tunku Abdul Rahman, the latter being the first Prime Minister and widely regarded as the "Father of Independence" for his pivotal role in Malaysia's path toward sovereignty.
History of Alor Setar (Source: Britannica)
Over the centuries, Alor Setar evolved into a regional commercial and agricultural center. Its rice fields, one of the largest contributors towards Malaysia's food supply, are part of the "Rice Bowl of Malaysia," as Kedah is fondly known.
Alor Setar is located in the north-western part of Peninsular Malaysia about 93 km from Penang and approximately 45 km south of the Malaysia-Thailand border. The town is a seafront city overlooking the Strait of Malacca, surrounded by extensive rice paddies that form part of its wonderful scenery.
Famous destination in Alor Setar (Source: Facts)
The Zahir Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Malaysia, and it serves as an epitome of Islamic architecture. Built in 1912, the mosque is a well-known spot because of its beautiful domes, intricately designed with both Moorish and Malay influences.
Located in the center of Alor Setar, the Zahir Mosque has become the iconic image of the city. Probably the most photograph-shooting building in Kedah, its black domes and white marble walls rise superlatively.
Zahir Mosque (Source: Wikipedia)
It is among the tallest telecommunication towers in the world. This panoramic view of the countryside at 165.5 meters encompasses Gunung Keriang and even extends as far as Langkawi on a clear day. Especially for tourists who would like a bird's-eye view of Alor Setar and its surrounding rice fields.
Alor Setar Tower (Source: TheIslandDrum)
A guided tour of the birthplace of Malaysia's fourth and seventh Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, is a staple for history buffs since it brings one closer to the early life of this country's most influential leaders.
The premises have been converted into a museum containing his personal artifacts, photos, and mementos that tell the story of Mahathir's humble beginnings and rise to prominence.
Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's Birthplace (Source: LeverageHotel)
Pekan Rabu in Alor Setar has evolved from a traditional market to a modern shopping complex. It is also considered the best place to feel the great depth of local culture. Many vendors occupy the market to sell their traditional Malay items, ranging from batik fabrics to local snacks and handicrafts. One will also have a good time tasting the authentic Kedah cuisine that includes Laksa Kedah or Pulut Sambal.
Pekan Rabu Complex (Source:TheStar)
Kedah Paddy Museum is the only museum in Malaysia 'dedicated to the cultivation and history of rice'. This unusual museum will provide an insight into the life and culture associated with rice farming in Kedah.
It is situated in a building formed as bundles of harvested rice stalks, thus signifying the importance of rice to the region. Visitors learn about traditional and modern techniques of rice farming in different ways, while panoramic murals of the Kedah countryside are simply stunning.
Kedah Paddy Museum (Source: LeverageHotel)
Read more: Wonderful Journey in Malaysia
Alor Setar has a tropical climate, it is warm throughout the year. However, the temperature ranges between a minimum of 27°C and a maximum of 33°C. The general climatic scenario of this region usually displays two prominent seasons: the dry season starts from December and continues till April, while the wet season prevails from May to November.
The time that is considered to visit Alor Setar is during the dry season, and this falls between January and March. At that time of the year, you will enjoy clear skies, which means that sightseeing can be done quite well, and you can go out into the fields of rice too.
Best time to visit Alor Setar (Source: Agoda)
By Air: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, located about 13 kilometers from the city center, offers domestic flights primarily from Kuala Lumpur and other Malaysian cities.
By Train: Alor Setar is part of the KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu) rail network, making it accessible by train from cities like Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth (Penang), and even from southern Thailand.
By Bus: There are various express bus services that link Alor Setar to major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh. It takes about 5-6 hours to get here from Kuala Lumpur. The bus station is located quite near the town.
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport in Alor Setar (Source: MalaysianWings)
Alor Setar might not be one of the major cities in Malaysia, but it certainly does have a lot in store for anyone who comes here looking for real Malay culture, history, and nature. Be it walking around the historic roots or simply marveling at the scenic rice fields, Alor Star will surely take one deep into Kedah.
Read more: Malaysia Classic Highlight
