3 Days in Kota Bharu Itinerary: Unveiling Cultural Gems of the East Coast

Welcome to Kota Bharu, the cultural heartbeat of Malaysia’s Kelantan state! This three-day itinerary promises to take you on an unforgettable journey through the city’s rich heritage, vibrant markets, and fascinating landmarks. Let’s dive in and explore the best Kota Bharu has to offer.

Day 1: Heritage and History

Start your journey with a dive into Kota Bharu’s rich history and heritage. Today, we’ll visit traditional markets, historic buildings, and museums to get a profound understanding of the city’s cultural tapestry.

1. Siti Khadijah Market

Begin your day at the Siti Khadijah Market, one of Kota Bharu’s most iconic attractions. This bustling market is named after Prophet Muhammad’s wife, a symbol of Khadijah’s importance in Islam. Here, you can find a wide array of local produce, traditional snacks, and unique handicrafts.

• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Address: Jalan Buluh Kubu, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

2. Kelantan State Museum

Next, head to the Kelantan State Museum to delve deeper into the history and culture of the region. The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, including traditional weapons, royal regalia, and ancient manuscripts.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
• Address: Jalan Hospital, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

3. Istana Jahar

In the afternoon, head to Istana Jahar, an ancient wooden palace turned museum that showcases the luxurious lifestyle of Kelantan’s royal family. The architecture of this historical edifice is simply breathtaking, and the exhibits provide a glimpse into Kelantan’s regal past.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Fridays)
• Address: Jalan Sultan, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

4. Dine at Yati Ayam Percik

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Yati Ayam Percik, a highly recommended restaurant known for its mouth-watering ayam percik, a local dish of grilled chicken with a rich, spicy coconut sauce.

• Opening Hours: 12:30–5:40 PM
• Address: Jalan Long Yunus, Kampung Paya Bemban, 15200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

Day 2: Art and Craft Exploration

Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in the artistic and craft traditions of Kota Bharu. From intricate batik designs to traditional shadow play, you’ll experience the city’s creative soul. Let’s get started!

1. Handicraft Village and Craft Museum (Balai Getam Guri)

Begin your artistic journey at the Handicraft Village and Craft Museum. This cultural hub showcases the region’s traditional crafts, including batik, silverwork, and wood carvings. You can watch artisans at work and even try your hand at some of these crafts.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM
• Address: Jalan Merbau, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

2. Istana Balai Besar

Next, visit the Istana Balai Besar, a grand palace that showcases traditional Malay architecture. While the palace is primarily used for ceremonial purposes, its grounds are open for visitors to explore.

• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Address: Jalan Tengku Seri Akar, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

3. Kampung Laut Mosque (Masjid Kampung Laut)

In the afternoon, travel to the Kampung Laut Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Malaysia. The structure, built without nails, is a testament to ancient Malay craftsmanship and devotion.

• Opening Hours: 4:19 AM – 12:00 AM
• Address: Jalan Tok Nek, 16200 Tumpat, Kelantan, Malaysia

4. Dinner at Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu

End the day with a sumptuous dinner at Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu, famous for its authentic Kelantanese dishes. Make sure to try their nasi ulam, a rice dish mixed with various herbs and served with fish or chicken.

• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: Kampung Kraftangan, Jalan Hilir Kota, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15300 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Our final day in Kota Bharu will focus on experiencing the tranquil natural beauty and serene spots that offer relaxation and peace. Let’s make the most of this last day!

1. Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Moonlight Beach)

Start your day with a relaxing visit to Pantai Cahaya Bulan, also known as Moonlight Beach. This beautiful beach offers pristine sand, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a morning stroll or simply lounging by the seaside.

• Opening Hours: 24 hours
• Address: Jalan Pantai Cahaya Bulan, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

2. Min House Camp

Next, visit Min House Camp, an eco-tourism center located just outside the city. Here, you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, or simply exploring the lush greenery and unique wildlife.

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Address: Min House Camp, Lot 1287, Kampung Pulau, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

3. Wat Machimmaram

For lunch, head towards Wat Machimmaram, one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in Southeast Asia. The temple itself is beautifully designed, providing a perfect backdrop for some memorable photos. There are some local eateries nearby where you can grab a delicious meal.

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Address: Jalan Kota Bharu-Pengkalan kubur,Kampung Jubakar Darat, 16200 Tumpat, Kelantan, Malaysia

4. Dinner at Golden City Restaurant

End your Kota Bharu trip with a lovely dinner at Golden City Restaurant, known for its exquisite Chinese cuisine and relaxing ambience. Treat yourself to some of their special dishes like Peking duck or butter prawns, and enjoy your last evening in the city.

• Opening Hours: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Address: 3950G, Jalan Padang Garong, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia

Conclusion: Perfect Trip to Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu offers an incredible mix of cultural richness, artistic heritage, and natural beauty. This three-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of what this captivating city has to offer. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or someone looking for a relaxing getaway, Kota Bharu has something special for everyone. Safe travels and enjoy your journey!