Located in the northwestern region of Malaysia, Kedah is the largest grower of paddy in Malaysia, hence its nickname 'The Rice Bowl".
Its royal seat and capital city is Alor Setar and it borders the Thai provinces of Yala and Songkhla. With just over 1.8 million citizens,
it's not exactly what you call big. It's population is a roughly even mix of the 3 major ethnic groups of Malaysia, with a few Thais here and
there and, over the years, the cultures of these four groups have mixed.
Many people do not venture to the Northern States as it is quite far and have the perception that it's a going to be a farmer's country
with nothing much to see. Don't be fooled. Kedah is one of the country's best kept secret.
Here are a few places to see if you ever decide to drop by this beautiful state!
Mount Jerai
Located between the borders of Kuala Muda and Yan, lies Kedah's Peak. She has always been written in history as the landmark for
sea farers to the country. According to a folklore, there's a big rock in the form of a ship that exists at its peak which the
locals call "Batu Kapal". The rock used to be once a ship that belonged to the great Maharaja Merong Mahawangsa which was
cursed by Sang Kelambai while the Maharaja tried to land his ship in Pulau Serai, which is what they used to call Mt. Jerai.
Mt. Jerai is famous for its lush greenery and a big attraction to those who enjoy nature. The variety of flora and fauna is abundant,
and this is a perfect getaway from city for those who prefer a quiet time in the mountains. At the peak, you can find
the Museum of Forestry to learn more about its information and artefacts.There're rooms and bungalows that
are catered to the needs for tourists and hikers, so you never have to worry about looking for shelter in the mountains if you have
forgotten to pack a tent with you! Not far from there lies the famous Alur Naga waterfalls, which is said that once a great dragon
lived behind the caves and was often seen bathing in the pools.It's a great place for sight-seeing, hiking, picnics and camping, so if you
feel like enjoying the rich beauty of Kedah's forests, Mount Jerai is the place for you.
(picture courtesy of www.cuti.com.my)Langkawi Island
An archipelago of 99 islands, the Jewel of Kedah is probably one of main attractions.You can do so much in Langkawi like watching
eagles, visiting Mahsuri's tomb, visiting the ports and aquariums, and having fun in the beach. But the most exciting thing to do in
Langkawi is island-hopping. There are so many islands around Langkawi you can visit. Among the very famous ones are Pulau Singa,
Pulau Payar, Pulau Cenang and Pulau Dayang Bunting. At Pulau Payar, snorkeling and scuba diving is a must as it is famous for
its corals, which researchers tend to visit from time to time to check on it. As for Pulau Dayang Bunting, you can spot its shape from
afar as it looks like a pregnant woman lying down on her back. In the middle of the island lies a large lake, which many tourists come
to have a swim and enjoy. Pulau Singa happens to be an island filled with animals that you can pet and ride on, which is a big hit
especially with children. There's also Pulau Beras Basah, a private island which you can actually hop on along the way. This island,
which I have heard countless of times from my sister and have witnessed it myself, that you know you're reaching the island when
you see that the sea has changed from emerald green into a rich sapphire blue. I kid you not. This island is one of the best kept secrets
in the country, in my opinion. The beaches are sandy white and the shallow waters are a cerulean blue; so clear you can see your
feet in the water. Never slip a chance to have a visit at the place when you have a chance. Aside from the islands, Pulau Langkawi is the
only other place you can get duty-free items from so this is one heavenly place when it comes to buying imported things.
(picture courtesy of www.goway.com)Lembah Bujang
Malacca's not the only place that's rich with historical qualities. Situated near Merbok, between Mount Jerai and Muda River,
boasts the richest archaeological area in the whole Malaysia. This is one of the most exciting places for geologists, historians
and adventurers as this place is one of the longest standing places in the country, and has been like this way before Parameswara
discovered Malacca! Known as 'Dragon Valley', this is the place where the great kingdoms of Langkasuka and Kadaram once reigned.
The proof of their existence can be found in the archaeological museum, but its longest living proofs are the ancient tombs called candis,
which represented the impact of Hinduism and Buddhism in the country. Till today, Lembah Bujang remains a mystery as there is much
yet to understand about its history. Rumor has it that there's gold within Muda River so if you're feeling plucky, you can try your luck
to find some. Walking on Lembah Bujang feels like walking to another side of the world as the earth is slightly tilted there so don't be
alarmed if you think you're seeing things in a tilted angle.
(picture courtesy of www.asiaexplorers.com)Alor Setar
The heart of the state, Alor Star is a city caught between its historical beauty and modernization. One can say that Alor Star is one
of the most beautiful and lively cities to have existed. You can visit a lot of places by foot or by bus, which isn't too expensive.
There are buildings filled with rich Malay designs such as the Balai Besar and the Balai Nobat, which is near the beautiful Masjid Zahir,
the State High Court and the State Art Gallery which is just a stone throw's away. If you want to grab some delectable tidbits or
a gift, never fear, there's Pekan Rabu. It's a huge market that's opened everyday that houses many stalls and restaurants.
Take a trip to Wat Nikrodharam, one of the biggest temple made in gold that supports both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist traditions.
Rich in Thai elements and minor Chinese motifs, the shrine is one of the most beautiful places to sightsee if you ever choose to
walk through its ginormous doorway. Standing tall in the heart of Alor Star is the Alor Star Tower. One must take the time to go up
once and see the whole of Alor Star through telescopes provided there. If you feel hungry, never fear: There's a wonderful hotel nearby
which hosts very delicious food at an affordable price called Hotel Samila, which is rich with the 1970s feel mixed with Thai art.
Alor Star is abundant with tasty affordable meals, so you can expect to live a Hobbit's way of life when visiting this city.
(picture courtesy of www.asiaexplorers.com)
No comments:
Post a Comment