Alor Setar Weekend Escape: Royal Heritage & Rustic Charms of Kedah🌾🏰

#springitinerary
**Why You MUST Visit:**
As the royal capital of Kedah, Alor Setar blends **Malay heritage, golden rice fields, and majestic architecture**. From the tallest mosque in Malaysia to nostalgic street food, this underrated gem offers culture without the crowds!

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## **📅 2-Day Alor Setar Itinerary**

### **Day 1: Iconic Landmarks & Local Flavors**
**🌅 Morning: Majestic Architecture**
- **Zahir Mosque** (One of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques, with black domes and intricate carvings)
- **Alor Setar Tower** (Menara Alor Setar) – Climb for 360° views of rice fields and Mount Keriang
- **Balai Nobat** (Royal Drum Tower) – See the sacred *nobat* instruments (outside only)

**🍜 Midday: Kedahan Food Adventure**
- Lunch at **Nasi Lemak Ong** (Try *nasi lemak kukus* with spicy *sambal*)
- Dessert at **Kedai Kopi Sin Heong** (Famous *cendol pulut* and *rojak*)

**🏛️ Afternoon: Royal & Cultural Gems**
- **Kedah Royal Museum** (Istana Kota Star) – Former palace with royal artifacts
- **Pekan Rabu Market** – Buy local snacks like *dodol*, *laksa Kedah*, and *kuih karas*

**🌙 Evening: Sunset & Street Eats**
- Walk along **Tanjung Chali Waterfront**
- Dinner at **Medan Selera Stadium** (*Ikan bakar*, *laksa*, and *murtabak*)

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### **Day 2: Countryside Escape & Hidden Gems**
**🌾 Morning: Rural Kedah Adventure**
- **Paddy Museum (Muzium Padi)** – Walk through immersive rice-field dioramas
- **Drive through Kubang Pasu** – Stop at scenic *bendang* (paddy fields) for photos

**🚲 Midday: Cycling & Local Crafts**
- Rent bikes at **Anak Bukit Village** (Cycle past traditional wooden houses)
- Visit **Ubudiah Cottage** – Handmade *batik* and pottery workshop

**🕌 Afternoon: Offbeat Mosques**
- **Masjid Al-Hussain** (Floating mosque on Kuala Kedah’s river)
- **Kuala Kedah Fort** – Historic fort with sea views (entrance RM3)

**🍢 Evening: Seafood Feast**
- Dinner at **Kuala Kedah Seafood** (Butter prawns, grilled fish, and *sotong celup tepung*)

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## **💡 Insider Tips**
✔ **Best Time to Visit:** Nov-Feb (harvest season = lush green fields)
✔ **Transport:** Grab taxis or rent a car (public buses are limited)
✔ **Must-Try:** *Laksa Kedah* (sour fish broth noodles) and *pulut mangga*
✔ **Hidden Gem:** **Gunung Keriang** – Limestone hill with caves and durian orchards

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## **🚆 Getting There**
- **From KL:** 4h drive or 5h ETS train (RM50-80) to Alor Setar Station
- **From Penang:** 1.5h drive or bus (RM15)

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### **🌴 Why You’ll Love Alor Setar:**
This is **old Malaysia at its most authentic**—where royal traditions meet village life, and every meal tells a story. Perfect for culture lovers and foodies seeking the road less traveled!