Alor Setar

Alor Setar is in northwest Malaysia the state capital of Kedah and is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Malaysia. Alor Setar has not only long beaches with white sand and clear blue water, but is also surrounded by endless paddy fields. Add Zahir Mosque, among Malaysia’s best examples of Islamic architecture, and traditional shophouses unchanged in generations.

The iconic Alor Setar Tower, which looks like a spaceship, dominates the city center. North Malaysia’s oldest fort and a museum dedicated to rice lie a short drive from the capital. Besides, you can grab a coffee in a restored shophouse, or sit along the shady Alor Setar Waterfront, taste Kedah street food at Chinatown Food Court, especially sunset cocktails at the Sky Garden. In Alor Setar, you can also see vibrant Buddhist temples such as Chek Temple which is adorned with large windows topped with intricate decorations sitting underneath the red triangular roof. Bronze statues line the interior as monks chant prayers in the background.

Location: Kedah, Malaysia
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
Where to Stay: Royale Signature Hotel, The Leverage Lite Hotel, Grand Alora Hotel