27 Attractions In Kelantan You Must Visit In 2023!

Are you planning to go on holiday to Kelantan and are feeling clueless about where to go? There are many attractions in Kelantan you can visit and explore.

Located in the northeastern corner of the peninsula, Kelantan has enormous numbers of architecture, historic places, temples, jungles, beaches, and paddy fields that you can visit. 

There are many attractions in Kelantan and I am sure one day is not enough. You may even need two or three days if you want to explore the whole state! 

Without further ado, let’s check out Kelantan’s place to visit!

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1. Gua Ikan Complex, Dabong

If you love caving and outdoor activities, this is one of the attractions in Kelantan you should visit, Gua Ikan Complex in Dabong.

Gua Ikan, which translates to Fish Cave, is a 150 years old limestone cave that includes a few other caves such as Gua Pagar, Gua Gelap & Gua Keris. 

You can see a majestic stalactite column resembling a Keris, the traditional Malay dagger in Gua Keris, hence the name. 

If you are lucky, there is a beautiful moment when you can see a direct light known as ‘God Light’ that will enter the cave beautifully. 

However, the caves are not easily accessible and it is recommended to engage a guide to have a full experience of this complex. You can find a guide there or hire someone from the nearby Gunung Stong State Park.

Opening Hours: Not fixed

Entrance Fee: Free

Address: Kuala Gris, 18200 Dabong, Kelantan (Google Maps)

Tips: Wear a suitable layer of clothes since there are lots of mosquitos there, or use an insect repellent before you enter the caves.

2. Gunung Stong State Park

If you are an intermediate to expert mountaineer, head up to Gunung Stong!

 Located in Kuala Krai and nearby the Gua Ikan Complex, you can enjoy the beauty of the tropical rainforest there.

Usually, climbers will spend one night there at Baha Camp before continuing to the summit. You can find interesting places to visit around Baha Camp such as Rantai Caves, Kolam Puteri Waterfall, Seven Wells, and Dua Gunung Waterfall. 

There is also another mount here which is called Mount Ayam. 

The track is less steep than the Mount Stong trail and you will be greeted by bonsai plants at the peak. Also if you are lucky, you can find elephant prints there! It is advisable that you hike with a guide in order to reach the peak without getting lost. 

Entrance Fee: RM5 ($1.21)

Address: Taman Negeri Gunung Stong, Kg Jelawang, 18200 Kelantan (Google Maps)

3. Wat Phothivihan

Located near the Thailand border, one of the famous tourist attractions in Kelantan is Wat Phothivihan, Malaysia’s biggest reclining Buddha statue.

 With a length of 40 meters, it is 7 meters longer than Wat Chaiya Mangakalaram in Penang.

It is one of 25 temples found in Tumpat and one of the most popular in the country to visit.

This temple house is suitable for a day trip as Tumpat houses other temples and it is recommended to drive your own transport there because public transport can be time-consuming.

Famous Temples Near There

• Wat Machimmaram
• Wat Mai Suwankiri
• Wat Phikulthong

After visiting temples, you can have Thai lunch there and have a sip of coconut water after walking around. 

Entrance Fee: Free but donations are welcome

Address: Kampung Jambu, 16200 Tumpat, Kelantan (Google Maps)

4. Gua Cha

If you want to feel like Indiana Jones, you have to come to Gua Cha, Kelantan.

 It is considered one of the most actively researched archeological sites in Peninsular Malaysia. 

Several extensive types of research on the historical significance once conducted and there are more than 30 remains of people in the ages of ‘Hoabinhian’ and Neolithic were discovered in the cave. Interesting fact, huh?

You can also explore nature there and can find 200 years old trees there too.

To get there, you have to arrange for transport from Gua Musang and take about 90 minutes through the logging road.

Telephone number: 09-912 6366

Entrance Fee: Free

5. Pulau Suri Floating Market

This is one of the food attractions in Kelantan you should visit! You do not have to go to Thailand to explore the floating market, just have a floating shopping experience here at Pulau Suri, Tumpat Kelantan.

This market offers you varieties of traditional food that have been sold on a sampan and small boats. You can also experience a scenic view here while enjoying the local food. 

To get there, you can take a boat ride from Kuala Besar Jetty that will charge around RM3($0.72) to RM10($2.41).

Entrance Fee: Free

Operating hours: Saturday (10am-12pm)

6. Jungle Railway

One of the attractions in Kelantan is here, and let me tell you why. 

This is because of the experience through the journey here where you will find yourself riding a train in a jungle and enjoying the view that is hard to find.

Although known by various names such as the East Coast Line, East Line, or East South Route, the Jungle Railway is the most popular one because of the experience you will gain through this journey. 

The railway runs through the center of Malaysia from Tumpat, Kelantan down to Gemas, Negeri Sembilan. You can also take the train from Kuala Lumpur to Kelantan to make it easier.

Take the train early because you might reach your destination at night, and it is quite difficult to find public transportation at night in Kelantan. 

The best scenery on the Jungle Railway is from Kuala Lipis to Kuala Krai where you can find huge rivers and spectacular limestone hills around Gua Musang.

You can book your tickets here and the price varies depending on your destination.

7. Min House Camp

Located just a few kilometers from Kota Bharu, you can find yourself in nature. 

Surrounded by calm rivers and lovely trees, surely can ease your soul and revive your mind. 

This house camp is home to more than 40 species of birds, 20 species of butterfly, and other animals that will awe you with their beauty. The resorts here are also made of bamboo and wood to suit the environment. 

There are also activities provided here that will make your visit more interesting.

Activities in Min House Camp

• Cooking class
• Organic class
• Beekeeping  Classes

You can book your packages here.

Entrance Fee: Starts with RM25($5.93) 

Address: Min House Camp, Lot 1287, Kampung Pulau, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

8. Street Art Kota Bharu

If you are feeling artsy at the moment, go to Street Art Kota Bharu where you can find creative and some 3D images back at the alley.

“Hope” and “happiness” is the theme of some of the murals here. You can also find artworks that represent all the good things in life.

Aside from that, artists here also have shown their care for world peace in their artworks. You can also find local and international cultures through the artwork and the most famous one is the magic carpet, where you can dream of being Jasmine and Aladdin.

Entrance Fee: Free

Address: Jalan Dato Pati, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

9. Pak Sapie and Sons Wau Gallery

One of the attractions in Kelantan that you cannot miss is Pak Sapie and Sons Wau Gallery. Wau is a big, uniquely designed kite and traditionally flown that resembles one of Malay culture. Wau Bulan is usually flown during the evening as a leisure activity.

You can see an attractive design here at the gallery. 

The owner, Pak Sapie has been established as ‘Craft Master’ due to his expertise in wau-making because making this is not easy! Take your time to visit the gallery and appreciate this beautiful culture. 

They also sell this wau and it can reach thousands of Ringgit depending on the craftsmanship and design. It is advisable to check the availability before going.

Operation hours: 8am – 5 pm (Open every day except Friday)

Telephone number: 013-395 4207

Entrance Fee: Adult – RM2($0.48), Child – RM1($0.24)

Address: Jalan Pantai Cahaya Bulan, 15350 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps) 

10. Chinese Mosque

Chinese Mosque, or Beijing Mosque, is the first mosque that used the Chinese concept in its architecture. It has a unique design that resembles Neujie Mosque in Beijing that is more than 1000 years old. 

It feels like you are walking in the Great Dynasty a long time ago when you enter this mosque. Aside from that, interior concepts from India and Uzbekistan also have been put as one of the elements in the mosque. 

If you appreciate good architecture, you have to come to visit this mosque. 

11. Jelawang Waterfall

If you are planning to visit caves in Dabong, spend another day immersing yourself in a cool, chill, one of the highest waterfalls in South East Asia. Located in Stong State Park, visiting Jelawang Waterfall is one of the things to do in Kelantan. 

The beauty of Jelawang Waterfall can be seen from a distance as you travel towards the park entrance. From the park, you can hire a guide to lead you, or you can hike yourself following the trails given. 

You can also stay in Jelawang Resort or camp there if you want. There are 12 chalets provided in the state park. 

Entrance Fee: RM2 for the waterfall

Telephone number: +609-748 2140

12. Pantai Senok Lighthouse

Catch an amazing sunset here! 

Malaysia does not have many lighthouses, so you might as well want to visit when you are in Kelantan. Located at the tip of Senok Beach, the lighthouse stands tall on a rocky foundation just by the sea. 

You can have a nice evening here seeing oceanic views with fishermen coming from the sea like in the movies. 

This place is also famous for its pine trees that have the same landscape as in Nami Island, Korea. 

People always have photoshoots here for weddings, convocations, and birthday parties. You can also have a picnic here and if you come with empty hands do not worry. This place offers varieties of food stalls. 

13. Rantau Panjang Tax Free Zone

If you like to shop, this place can be a haven for you!

As it is tax-free, the prices will be cheaper compared to other places. Here you can find almost anything and everything. Cookware, clothes, toys, household items, and many more. Resellers like to come here since this place offers everything cheaper especially when you buy in bulk.

This place is usually congested during school and public holidays from 11am to 4pm.

If you do not prefer shopping, you can come here for the food. 

Since it is located at the border with Thailand, you can find Thai food here and it is recommended to try mee celup (Thai spicy and sour soup noodles) with icy water, perfect for a hot sunny day and after a long shopping haul.

Operation hours: 9am – 8pm (Open everyday)

Address: Jalan Hilir Pasar, Kampung Rantau Panjang, 17200 Rantau Panjang, Kelantan (Google Maps)

14. Tok Bok Hot Springs

Looking for the best nature attractions in Kelantan? Nature offers us therapy even if we think we do not need it.

Did you know hot springs can naturally improve your blood circulation? Soaking in hot springs is also a good way to detox, rejuvenate, and will relax your skin and body due to the high mineral content in the water.

You can find hot springs here in Kelantan in the district of Machang. Without any entrance fee, you can soak yourself in the hot spring and relax with your friends and family. 

After enjoying your hot springs, fill up your tummy with light food that you can easily find around there. 

Address: Kampung Rengas, 18500 Machang Kelantan (Google Maps)

Operating hours: 7am – 12am (Friday until Wednesday), 2pm – 12am (Thursday)

15. Wakaf Che Yeh

If you are staying in Kota Bharu, do not miss a chance to visit Kota Bharu attractions, that is the lively midnight bazaar Wakaf Che Yeh.

The atmosphere here is fun and loud, sellers keep asking us to come and buy from them, and sometimes they will sing songs to attract buyers. 

There are lots of things being sold here from clothes to food. 

If you just want to stroll around and are not in the mood of shopping, it is okay. 

You can taste the local food here such as mee celup and mango sticky rice, and dodol (sweet toffee-like sugar palm-based confection). 

Come early if you drive here because parking lots got occupied quite fast and you have to park further then.

Operating hours: 7pm – 2pm (Saturday and Sunday)

16. Istana Jahar

One of the things to do in Kota Bharu is visiting Istana Jahar Palace.

Once a palace, it is now a Royal Kelantan Customs Museum. The name “Jahar” was taken from a tree that grew on the palace grounds. 

The museum portrayed the many Royal ceremonies practiced in earlier times. 

Some of the rituals include weddings, childbirth, head-shaving, and circumcisions.

You can also find various types of textiles, jewelry & brass items. On the first floor, you can see a huge balcony and that is where the Royal family would convene before any major events.

Operating hours: 8.30am – 4.45pm (Open daily except for Friday)

Entrance fee: Local – RM2($0.48) for adults, RM1($0.24) for children. International RM4($0.97) for adults, RM2($0.48) for children

17. Siti Khadijah Market

This is one of the attractions in Kelantan you cannot miss, your journey will not be complete if you did not come here. 

This is where you can find the essence in Kelantan. From the culture, the people, and the things.

Here you can find most of the traders are women, hence the name of the market is Siti Khadijah, the name of Prophet Muhammad’s wife who was a wealthy businesswoman herself.  

If you arrive in the morning, you can find a selection of wet items such as chicken, meat, and vegetables. 

You can go straight up and will find dry items. You must try serunding, it is a floss made of a protein such as chicken, meat, or fish. The taste is usually a mixture of sweet and spicy where you can eat it with bread or rice or even on its own.

 There are also varieties of local desserts or kuih you can find here. 

On the upper level, you can see textiles being sold here. Women like to buy batik (a technique where wax is being applied on a cloth to make designs) and songket (a hand-woven piece of fabric with gold or silver threads) here. The price varies according to the grade. 

Come here, as this is a good place to buy souvenirs, there are lots of small and cute handcrafts accessories too you can find here.

Operating hours: 7.30am – 12pm (Open everyday)

Address: Jalan Buluh Kubu, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

18. The Cultural Centre

Compared to other states in Malaysia, aside from the food here, Kelantan is where you can find the Malay culture easiest. Kelantanese people stay close to their roots and you can see and learn their culture here at The Cultural Centre.

This center displays Kelantan and Malay’s cultural heritage whereby visitors will be introduced to traditional cultural heritage.

 The activities range from Gasing (top spinning game), Rebana Ubi (drum beating) Congkak (game of marbles), and Wau Bulan (moon kite making and flying.

The shows that you cannot miss are Dhikir Barat (singing and music in Kelantan dialect) and Wayang Kulit (shadow puppet telling folks). These two activities are very lively and fun and you can learn more about the stories behind Kelantan cultures. 

Operating hours: 3.00pm – 5.30pm (Open on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday), 9pm – 10.30pm (Saturday & Wednesday)

Entrance fee: FREE

Address: Jalan Mahmood, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15200 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

19. Bank Kerapu War Museum

Bank Kerapu War Museum is one of the important buildings in Malaysian history. 

This is because the building was used as Japanese headquarters during their colonization. Before that, this building was the first trading bank in Kelantan. 

This museum displays more than 1000 exhibits relating to war such as Japanese tools that were used during the occupation. 

You can imagine yourself in the war by watching and observing the exhibition and surely there will be something you can learn from this. 

Operating hours: 8.30am – 4.45pm (Open everyday except Friday)

Entrance fee: Local – RM2($0.48) for adults, RM1($0.24) for children. International RM4($0.97) for adults, RM2($0.48) for children

Address: Jalan Sultan, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

20. Kuala Koh National Park

Situated at the three state borders of Kelantan, Pahang, and Terengganu, Kuala Koh National Park offers a much more peaceful and untamed forest than the more commercialized Pahang National Park. 

You can experience staying in undisturbed tropical rainforest, fishing in the forest rivers, and bird watching here. You can also go on jungle trekking, canoeing/rafting, and going on the canopy bridge.

Facilities included chalets and hostels and you can also opt to camp here.

 Kuala Koh National Park is located 96 kilometers from Gua Musang town and is easily accessible by road. It is advisable to call the place first to confirm the itinerary and the availability.

Contact: 6012-9654788 Nik Nora (Manager of Taman Negara Kuala Koh Resort)

Address: Taman Negara Kelantan National Park Kuala Koh, 18300, Gua Musang, Kelantan (Google Maps)

21. Gua Musang Etnobotani Park

If you are a rock climber, this is one of the best attractions in Kelantan, climb!

Surrounded by limestone hills and caves, this is one of the popular climbing spots in Malaysia. It is bolted with 30 routes with grades from 5b to 7a. Local climbers like to gather here and an international rock climbing competition also was held here. 

Aside from climbing, this park is also a place for research centers for trees, especially herbs. Here you can learn about herbs and increase your knowledge. You can also find Cassuari birds and deers here.  

Located just 3 kilometers from the town center, you can take a taxi for RM7($1.69).

If you want to climb here, you need to ask for permission from KESEDAR (The Southern Kelantan Development Board), the authority there. Climbing equipment for rental is also provided with a price range from RM50($12) to RM150($36).

Telephone number: 09-912 1788

Address: Lebuhraya Kuala Lumpur – Gua Musang, 18300 Gua Musang, Kelantan (Google Maps)

22. Kelantan State Museum

History folks, this is the place for you. This building was used as the premises of the Land Office during the colonial days. 

This museum displays artifacts relating to Kelantan’s crafts and traditions.

What makes this museum interesting, you can find artifacts from local archeological sites such as those found along the Neggiri River.

Operating hours: 8.30am to 4.45pm (Open Saturday to Thursday)

Entrance Fee: RM2($0.48) for adults, RM1($0.24) for children

Address: Jalan Hospital, Bandar Kota Bharu, 15000 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

23. Kampung Laut Mosque

Kampung Laut Mosque is the oldest mosque in Kelantan, and one of the oldest mosques in the Malay archipelago. Kampung Laut Mosque is one of the best attractions in Kelantan you must visit if you are interested in antique buildings. 

Built in the 15th century, its style is a remnant of a once culturally southern Indian Hindu architecture. It was built with architectural styles that are suitable to the local climate, just like the local houses around the sea.

If you appreciate good old architecture, come here and visit Kampung Laut Mosque.

Address: Jalan Kuala Krai, 16010 Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

24. Pergau Lake

Surrounded by green tropical rainforest that is said to be older than the Amazon Basin, Brazil, Pergau Lake offers a wonderful experience to visitors. 

With an abundant collection of flora and fauna, it is a surprise that this lake is actually man-made, due to the construction of hydroelectric dams. At night, the temperature can get as low as 18°c and it is fun to stay there with the view and the surroundings. 

The chalet is provided if you want to spend the night by the edge of the lake for only RM70($17).

People like to come to fish here, and you can directly cook the fish as a stove is provided here. 

The resort also organizes jungle trekking programs for those who are interested.

Telephone no: 09-9440281 

Address: 17600, Jeli, Kelantan (Google Maps)

25. Istana Batu Royal Museum

If you are in Kota Bharu and have free time, visit Istana Batu Royal Museum, not far from Istana Jahar. The name Istana Batu, or Brick Castle was given to distinguish it from Istana Jahar, the wooden castle. 

Fun fact here, this castle was built as a wedding present to Sultan Yahya Petra and his bride in 1939. 

It was used as their official residence until 1960 and later converted to a museum but still retains the feel of a home with displays of personal possessions among other exhibits. 

You can view the elegantly furnished dining room, an unchanged bedroom and a tiger skin rug adorn the floor. Come here and feels what is like living like Royals back then. 

Operating hours: 8.30am to 4.45pm (Open Saturday to Thursday)

Entrance Fee: RM2($0.48) for adults, RM1($0.24) for children

Address: Jalan Tengku Puteri, 15300, Kota Bharu, Kelantan (Google Maps)

26. Pulai Princess Cave

Located 8 kilometres from Gua Musang, Kelantan, the cave is located in a limestone tower called Princess Hill at Pulai Village. The village is also known as Zhi Xia Dong or Zi Xia Dong.

You can see Princess Hill easily from the village. From there, you have to cross a river, walk about 10 minutes through a rubber plantation to the other side of the lake. 

Prepare your stamina because you have to climb up to 150 steps to reach the entrance to Princess Cave. From the entrance, take a look back to the village and you can see how beautiful and magnificent the view of the village is. 

Inside the cave lies an impressive and magnificent 12-meter high statue of the Goddess Guan Yin which was carved from a large stalagmite. 

Back in the village, there is also a temple called the Water & Moon Temple and is thought to be one of the oldest in Malaysia. 

Get more information here on their website. The cave opens at 8am until dusk.

27. Mount Reng Recreational Park

If you happen to be in Jeli, this is one of the must attractions in Kelantan to visit. If you like bats or caves, this is the place where you can see thousands of bats emerging from the cave. 

Cool, right?

You cannot miss Mount Reng if you are driving on the East-West Highway in Jeli, it is a spectacular limestone outcrop located close to the highway.

According to the locals, this mountain is a piece of rock brought down by God to destroy a village. This happened due to the evil activities by the resident and have to be punished. It is now a famous picnic spot and has a nice chill river to cool down your body. 

You can access the cave just beside the recreational park and even from the outside, you can hear the screeching bats.

 Be careful because the cave is slippery with green and black guano.

Do not forget to bring torchlights or headlamps because the cave can be quite dark for its spacious area. There are other small caves inside but please only go if you are an expert or with a guide. You can find the unique structures of stalactites and stalagmites which look like anthropoid living things. 

Entrance Fee: FREE

Address: Jeli, 17600, Kelantan, Lebuhraya Timur-Barat, 17600 Jeli, Kelantan (Google Maps)

Getting Around Kelantan

Taking The Bus

If you are staying in Kota Bharu, you can get around there easily as the bus services are provided to most of the places. It is advisable to check the fare and timetable at the bus station since they are not available online. 

If you want to get to other districts, you can check the timetable and the frequency on this website. 

Hop On A Trishaw 

After your visit to Siti Khadijah Market, hop on a trishaw and have a ride around. It will be a fun ride seeing the city street closer. You can find a trishaw at Siti Khadijah Market and its surrounding. 

The fare is usually around RM5 to RM10, depending on the location you want to go to. 

Tips: Negotiate and agree on the fare before the journey begins so they will not easily increase the fare. 

By Taxi

You can easily spot a taxi here in Kelantan, especially in cities. The fare varies depending on the location. 

Grab Service

Grab is one of the popular e-hailing services in Malaysia. You can choose this service if there are no public transportations available at your place. 

Using Train

If you want to travel inter-district in Kelantan, the train is an interesting mode of transportation. The Ekspres Rakyat Timuran Train Service is the one used by most tourists along the East Coast Line or the famous Jungle Railway. 

Check out the timetable here and how you can buy the ticket.

What To Buy In Kelantan

Moon Kites

As the moon kite is one of the famous attractions in Kelantan, you can grab a kite as a souvenir. Just choose a smaller one to bring back home for your convenience. 

Get a kite here at Pak Sapie and Sons Wau Gallery.

Textiles

Batik and songket are the most famous textiles here in Malaysia as they represent the culture and traditions. There are many types and grades you can find but Kelantan is one of the fine producers of these textiles. 

There are few places you can buy:

• Nordin Batik & Craft Sdn Bhd
• Cik Minah Songket & Batik
• Pusat Jualan Kraf Kelantan

Dry Food & Snacks

If you have tried famous food in Kelantan, then you know Kelantan is heaven for foodies! Food is one of the biggest attractions in Kelantan!

Do not forget to try the local desserts and snacks such as:

• Akok (a dessert made of flour, sugar, eggs, coconut milk and cooked using charcoal) 
• Cek mek molek which means beautiful lady (deep fried kuih made from sweet potato with sugar as filling) 
• Serunding (meat floss) 

You can easily buy from small stalls and supermarkets and the dessert usually only costs RM2($0.48) for 5 pieces. 

Unique Tips You Should Know When Visiting Attractions In Kelantan

• Always check on the opening days especially Friday because most of the places will close on Friday. This is because Muslims will go to Friday prayer and the state government decided to make Friday an off-day. 
• Wear comfortable and decent clothes (no singlet and shorts especially women) because most Kelantanese are Muslims and most buildings require you to wear appropriate clothes. 
• Always bring mineral water because the weather in Kelantan is quite hot and can reach up to 36°c.
• Learn a few Kelantan dialects to bargain and get a cheaper price such as “bulih la boh” or “adjust boh”. It means “please” and “timo kasih deh” means “thank you”.

There you are, folks! 27 Attractions in Kelantan you must visit when you are here.

Spend around a week to get the best of Kelantan attractions and have the best memories here. 

27 Attractions in Kelantan You Must Visit