12 Must-See Attractions in Kedah
Kedah is one of the best states to visit in Malaysia if you’re looking to be spoiled with some of the country’s best attractions.
Whether it be beaches, man made attractions, or historical landmarks, you can always expect to have a memorable time whenever you visit this state.
With this kind of variation, it’s hard to find a place to start–that’s where we come in! Below is our list of must-visit attractions in Kedah and we’ve also included some insider tips that you may find useful once you do get a chance to visit.
Tree Top Walk Sungai Sedim
Website: https://www.treetopwalk.com.my
Address: Kg Ulu Riau Tree Top Walk Kg Ulu, 09700 Karangan, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 19-450 1588
Entrance fee:
- Locals (MyKad Holders): RM10 (Adults) and RM6 (Kids between 7 to 12 years old)
- Foreigners (non-MyKad): RM 20
Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Tree Top Walk Sungai Sedim offers its visitors a one-of-a-kind adventure that revolves around strong towering trees. Here, you can walk through the world’s longest rainforest canopy walk, spanning 1.5 km long which is already an impressive thing in itself.
This canopy walk is elevated at 26 meters from the ground, giving you and your loved ones a beautiful 360-degree view of tall trees as far as the eye can see. Aside from this canopy walk, you can also engage in other exciting activities such as trekking, paintball and river crossing.
Pro tips:
- If you’re someone who’s not a big fan of heights and you’re not planning on conquering it anytime soon, don’t worry! There’s a shorter route that you can take.
- There’s a nearby lodging option we highly recommend called Sedim Rainforest Resort Kulim Kedah Malaysia. This is a solid choice if you’re planning to stay overnight near the canopy walk.
Pusat Rekreasi Air Panas Ulu Legong
Website: https://ululegonghotspring.wixsite.com/ululegonghotspring
Address: Kampung Keda Ulu Legong, 09100 Baling, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 19-450 1588
Entrance fee:
- Locals: RM8 (Adults) and RM4 (Kids)
- Foreigners (non-MyKad): RM15 (Adults) and RM8 (Kids)
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Pusat Rekreasi Air Panas Ulu Legong is a must-visit for anyone who finds themselves near Baling Mountain. It features amazing hot springs that are sure to warm your soul during those cold and wet months in Kedah.
What we love about this place is that it’s open 24 hours, which means that you can also dip in its pools at night when the temperature drops.
Going here isn’t just for fun either, as after dipping your toes in the warm waters of these hot springs, your body will instantly feel rejuvenated!
Pro tip:
- We’d recommend bringing some ready-to-grill food during your trip here, as there’s a barbeque on the park’s premises. Doing this will let you save money, as you’ll only need to bring ready-to-grill food!
- Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a more professionally prepared dish, you can visit the restaurants on the park’s premises.
Zahir Mosque
Address: Jalan Kampung Perak, Bandar Alor Setar, 05150 Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-733 3288
Entrance fee: Free
Operating hours: Daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Zahir Mosque is hands down one of the most beautiful places of worship in Kedah. Whether you’re a fan of architecture or not, it’s easy to fall in love with the beautiful facade of this mosque, which takes inspiration from the Azizi Mosque in North Sumatra.
Aside from being one of the best-looking mosques in the country, it’s also one of the oldest, being built way back in 1912 by Sultan Muhammad Jiwa Zainal Abidin II. Today, it garners several visitors who seek the place to pray or to simply admire its beauty.
Pro tip:
- Make sure to dress modestly to make sure that you can enter this place of worship. As a general rule of thumb, make sure that your shoulders, knees and chest are appropriately covered.
Kedah Royal Museum
Address: Medan Bandar, Kedah, 05400 Alor Setar, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-732 7937
Entrance fee: Free
Operating hours:
- Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and re-opens from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Always wanted to know what a sultan’s life looks like on a daily basis? Well, now you can by visiting the Kedah Royal Museum!
For starters, the facade of this museum looks like the palace of a sultan, with its huge standing pillars and equally massive staircases. However, what’s inside is more important, as it contains over 2,000 artefacts and documentation of Sultan Abdul Halim, the former Sultan of Kedah.
Aside from that, you can also find tons of possessions of the late Sultan himself, making you feel like a guest at his palace.
Pro tip:
- While you’re here, you might as well visit Balai Besar, which is another tourist attraction in Kedah that features beautiful architecture.
- Make sure to bring a camera or at least a drawing pad to capture the beautiful paintings and other things on display inside the museum.
Merdeka Beach
Address: Kampung Bagan Ulu, 08500 Kota Kuala Muda, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-437 7555
Entrance fee: Free
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re looking for a great place where you can chill with your friends and family, we recommend checking out Merdeka Beach. This spot is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kedah, and you’ll easily see why once you experience its serene nature.
During your visit here, you’ll find tons of locals and tourists spending time either by the shore just to admire the beautiful view of the sea. Of course, you can also splash around its calm waters and cool down during those hot and humid days in the state.
Pro tip:
- If you find yourself hungry during your visit, don’t worry! There are tons of food stalls by the shore of the beach where you can order some of the most famous street foods in Malaysia.
- There’s a place nearby called Merdeka Beach Resort, which can accommodate you overnight if you want to stay near the beach during your visit to Kedah.
Alor Setar Tower
Website: https://www.facebook.com/menaraalorsetarofficial/
Address: Lot 99, Darul Aman Hwy, Bandar Alor Setar, 05100 Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-720 2234
Entrance fee:
- Weekend:
- Observation Deck: RM8 (Adult MyKad holders), RM6 (MyKid, senior citizens), RM11 (adult foreigners), RM8 (foreign children and senior citizens)
- Star View: RM26 (MyKad Adults), RM16 (MyKid, senior citizens), RM37 (adult foreigners), RM27 (foreigner children and senior citizens)
- Weekdays:
- Observation Deck: RM7 (Adult MyKad holders), RM5 (MyKid, senior citizens), RM10 (adult foreigners), RM7 (foreign children and senior citizens)
- Star View: RM25 (MyKad Adults), RM15 (MyKid, senior citizens), RM36 (adult foreigners), RM26 (foreigner children and senior citizens)
Operating hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
The Alor Setar Tower is one of the most magnificent pieces of architecture in Kedah and or in the entire country for that matter. Standing 165.5 meters, This telecommunication tower is the second-tallest tower in Malaysia and 19th tallest globally, which is a pretty amazing feat!
What we love about this tower isn’t its sheer size, but the fact that people can enter it and climb to the observation deck. Here, visitors will get first-class tickets to witness stunning panoramic views of the city!
Pro tips:
- Make sure to stop by the gift shop so that you can take a piece of this attraction with you. Alternatively, you can also purchase goodies that you can gift to loved ones waiting for you at home.
- We recommend visiting this tower around lunchtime. This is because some restaurants inside the tower will treat you to an amazing gastronomic experience.
- It would also be better if you could visit during weekdays as the ticket prices will be significantly lower. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about droves of people visiting at the same time as you.
The Big Clock Tower
Address: Bandar Alor Setar, 05150 Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
Entrance fee: Free
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
The big Clock Tower at Alor Setar, Kedah is another one of the state’s oldest attractions, being built back in 1912. At first glance, it may look like a lighthouse because of its towering presence, but that can’t be further from the truth, as it’s simply a clock to announce prayer times.
It’s not as big as the other towers on this list and the ones found across the country, but it’s one worth visiting if you appreciate fine craftsmanship. Its bright yellow appearance and beautiful exterior design scream colonial architecture.
Pro tip:
- Make sure to stop by the nearby Zahir Mosque so that you can visit two iconic attractions in one go! It’s also a short walking distance from other must-see attractions including the Kedah Royal Museum and Alor Setar Tower.
Langkawi Sky Bridge
Website: https://panoramalangkawi.com/skybridge/
Address: 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-959 4225
Entrance fee:
- Adults: RM6
- Children: RM4
Operating hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM
When people talk about Langkawi, one attraction that’s bound to be included in the conversation is Langkawi Sky Bridge and for good reasons.
For starters, it’s 125 metres long and 2,300 feet above sea level, making it one of the country’s most amazing feats of architecture.
This massive bridge will allow you to bask in majestic views of the beautiful rainforest below it along with some massive hills that will make you feel tiny. Make sure to take tons of photos here, as it’s not always that you’ll get the pleasure of being treated to these kinds of sights.
Pro tip:
- Try to avoid visiting on public holidays and weekends, as this is when the attraction sees the most visitors.
- Check the weather app before going here, as you wouldn’t want your trip to be spoiled by heavy rainfall. Avoid visiting during the wet season, which starts in April and ends in October.
Cenang Beach
Address: Pantai Cenang 07000, Kedah, Malaysia
Entrance fee: Free
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Of course, you can’t visit Langkawi without stopping by what’s arguably its best attraction, Cenang Beach. This place is among the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia, and you’ll easily understand why once you get a glimpse of its pure white sand and beautiful cerulean waters.
Aside from swimming, you can also do some water activities on this beach such as parasailing, banana boat riding, jet skiing, etc. On the other hand, if you want a more laid-back experience, you can chill by the shore and get your tan on while being serenaded by the sound of waves.
Pro tip:
- You don’t have to pack your lunch when going to this beach, as the shores are lined up with some of the finest seafood restaurants on the island. There are also shops and cafes located here so make sure to check out each one!
- If you’re planning to stay for multiple days in Langkawi, we recommend booking a room at one of the world-class hotels located on this beach. This way, you’ll always have the convenience of having a beautiful beach right outside your doorstep.
Langkawi Wildlife Park
Website: https://www.facebook.com/langkawiwildlifepark/
Address: Lot 1485, Jalan Ayer Hangat, Kampung Belanga Pechah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-966 5855
Entrance fee:
- Locals: RM45
- Foreigners: RM60
Operating hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Langkawi Wildlife Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for family-friendly activities to do with your kids. That’s not to say that adults won’t have fun here though, as this place features one of Malaysia’s most impressive collections of animals, containing hundreds of species!
What we love about this place is that it doesn’t let you simply admire animals behind glass enclosures or cages. Instead, it lets you interact with some of them by letting you feed them their favourite snacks during their respective feeding times.
Pro tip:
- If you don’t want your visit to be crowded with other tourists, we advise visiting this place on weekdays. If you have no time to visit but at the weekends, you can visit early in the morning so that you can have the place virtually to yourself.
- This is one of the best places to visit if the weather outside isn’t too beach-friendly, as it provides a roof while providing awe-inspiring attractions.
- Try scheduling your visit during the fun animal talk show so that you and your loved ones can have a laugh together.
Underwater World Langkawi
Website: https://www.underwaterworldlangkawi.com
Address: Jalan Pantai Chenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-955 6100
Entrance fee:
- Adult: RM53 (foreigners), RM43 (MyKad holders)
- Children: RM43 (foreigners), RM33 (MyKad holders)
- Senior citizen: RM33 (MyKad holders)
Operating hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Underwater World Langkawi is another great place if you’re looking for places to visit with your kids. Here, instead of the usual land animals, you’ll be greeted by a wide variety of sea creatures that will make your kids scream with glee!
Some of the cutest critters that you’ll find inside this indoor aquarium include the penguins and the otters.
However, these two animals are barely scratching the surface, as the place features tons of species of fish as well such as Tropical Garfish, Bala Shark and Red-tailed Catfish.
Pro tip:
- If the famous Langkawi heat is getting the best of you, this attraction is a great place to pass the time. This is because not only will you be able to see cool sea creatures, but you can also enjoy the cool breeze of air conditioning!
- Make sure to pack your swimming attire if you’re planning to visit this indoor aquarium because it’s located by Pantai Cenang, one of the best beaches in Langkawi.
Tanjung Rhu Beach
Address: Tanjung Rhu Beach 07000, Kedah, Malaysia
Entrance fee: Free
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Tanjung Rhu is another beach that you must stop by when you’re in Langkawi, as it’s quite literally paradise on Earth. Unlike Pantai Cenang and Merdeka Beach, this beach is a bit more secluded, making it a prime honeymoon spot for couples around the world.
Everything about this place screams paradise, from the long stretch of white sand to the clear blue water as far as the eye can see. Plus, you can elevate your experience even more by checking in at one of the beach’s luxurious hotels so that you can be treated like royalty!
Pro tip:
- If you’re not sure which hotel to book, some of our most recommended establishments include Tanjung Rhu Resort, Four Seasons Resort and De Balqis Chalet Tanjung Rhu.
- If you’re planning on visiting during summer, make sure to bring suitable footwear, as the sand can get extremely hot, especially in the morning and afternoon.
Payar Island
Address: Pulau Payar, Malaysia
Payar Island is another example of why Malaysia is the perfect vacation destination. On this small patch of land in the middle of the Andaman Sea, you’ll get to enjoy a serene island experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
What’s great about this island is that it’s more than just a resort, as it’s also a marine park. This is why it’s considered a premier snorkelling and diving site, as its surrounding waters are bustling with healthy marine life.
Pro tip:
- Don’t forget to bring your snorkelling gear to make the most out of the beautiful marine life that surrounds the island.
- If you’re going to visit Pulau Payar, make sure that you’re going to do so during an island-hopping trip. This is because several islands near it are also worth checking out, so make the most out of your trip!
Aman Central
Address: Aman Central, 1, Darul Aman Hwy, Kampung Lubok Peringgi, 05100 Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact details: +60 4-735 2626
Operating hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Of course, you can’t leave Kedah without shopping! For this need, we recommend making your way to Aman Central, one of the state’s biggest and best malls that feature hundreds of stalls and restaurants.
Whether you’re looking for clothes, gadgets, shoes and anything in between, you’ll surely find something that will pique your interest in this shopping mall. Then, when you get tired from scanning as many stores as you can, you can try one of its amazing restaurants!
Pro tip:
- This mall is located in the heart of Alor Setar, near other attractions such as the Alor Setar Tower and Kedah Royal Museum. Make sure to stop by them as well so that your trip to this mall will be more worthwhile.