Kelantan reputed to be the cradle of Malay culture, it offers a delightful profusion of colourful traditions, charm and scenic beauty to the visitor. Located in the noth-eastern corner of Peninsular Malaysia, it is an agrarian state with lush padi fields, rustic fishing villages and casuarinas-lined beaches. The people have carefully preserved their customs, traditions and craft skills over time. One might be pleasantly surprised to see adults, indulging in pastimes such as flying giant kites or spinning giant tops. Renowned for their warmth and hospitality, the Kelantanese display an old world charm that captivates visitors.

PLACES OF INTEREST

• State Museum This museum exhibits Kelantan’s traditional art and history. It was a former administration office during colonial time.



• Islamic Museum The history of Islam in the state can be traced at the Islamic Museum. Exhibits include Islamic fine arts and crafts and photographs of the belongings of Prophet Muhammad and of Islamic historical sites.



• Royal Museum This is a palace in 1939 and was converted as a museum to exhibit the various Sultans royal household of silverware and furniture.



• War Museum The building was built in 1912 and now converted to War Museum. The museum exhibits are several records and memorabilia of World War II and the Japanese Occupation including some Japanese long swords.



• Batik Painting It is a process of applying waxes and dyes onto cloth to create patterns. The art has been well perfected and had gained a reputation in Malaysia’s fashionable designer wear. Malaysian Batik’s are always wanted by visitors as a give away item for their loved ones.



• Wood Carving It is another handicraft that is popular among the Kelantan people who make excellent pieces of art from all kinds of wood. The carvings found here are noted for their intricate and complex designs.



• Silverware It is noted for intricate design and workmanship. Kelantan silversmiths produce items that range from tea sets, fruit bowls, brooches, earrings, rings, bracelets, etc. There are several factories where visitors can watch the process.



• Songket It is a “cloth of gold” richly woven with gold or silver and is a legacy of the early Kelantan royal families. Once used only by royalty, the material is now used for ceremonial occasions and at weddings.



• Handicraft Village and Craft Museum This village displays the silverware making, songket weaving, wood carving and batik painting. Visitors will have an insight of the rich intricate skills by the Kelantan people.



• River Cruise A river cruise up the Kelantan River, where visitors will find several interesting Malay villages along its bank especially fishing and boat-making villages. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the rich cultural lifestyle of these people.



• Wat Photivihan This is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Kelantan. The temple is known for the longest reclining Buddha in Southeast Asia. The temple will be visited by thousands of pilgrims every year since its opening in 1980.



• Central market The main highlight of this market is that 95% of the businesses are conducted by women who show a great entrepreneurial spirit against the man.



• Cultural centre (Gelanggang Seni) This cultural centre showcases the state’s cultural heritage. Visitors are treated with Top Spinning, Shadow Puppetry (Wayang Kulit), Cultural Dances, and Kite Flying competitions.



• And many more exciting places...