Alor Star Hotels

Alor Setar Rundown

The capital of Kedah and an important Malay cultural centre, Alor Setar is a great place to visit if you want to learn about the history and culture of Malaysia. The attractions in Alor Setar are mostly temples, galleries, museums and landmarks. Wat Nikrodharamis an enormous Buddhist temple in the downtown area that attracts visitors from all over the globe. The Zahir Mosque is another important religious structure in Alor Setar, and it is among the oldest and largest mosques in Malaysia. The State Art Gallery offers exhibits of works by Kedah-based artists, and the Nobat Gallery is where the Royal Orchestra keeps its ‘sacred instruments’, which are only used in the most honourable Royal ceremonies held at nearby Royal Hall. The exhibits at Muzium Padi provide information about the rice-growing history and culture of Malaysia. The MenaraAlor Setar is actually a communications tower, but it has become a landmark to signify the recent economic growth of Kedah. You do not have to spend all of your time in Alor Setarsightseeing, however. While the Kuala Kedah Fort does have historical significance, the area is also a great place to enjoy local seafood. ... Read more »

Alor Star

Alor Star, the beautiful capital city and cultural centre of the Malaysian state Kedah, is located on the west coast of the peninsula. Though the city is quite modern, visitors can still glimpse its lengthy regal history through the numerous ancient temples and historical exhibits. If you are interested in Kedah art and culture, Alor Star is the city you must not miss.

Alor Star Attractions

Wat Nikrodharam
Zahir Mosque
Alor Star State Art Gallery

Alor Star Activities

Enjoy the centuries-old noble architecture of Balai Besar
Explore the ruins of Kuala Kedah Fort
Learn about Malaysian agriculture at the Muzeum Padi of Alor Star

Alor Star Climate

Alor Star is a tropical area subject to monsoons, so be aware that it rains up to 32 cm monthly from June through August. If you prefer drier weather, you might visit during January and February. It is typically hot year round with highs around 31-33°C and lows of 22-23°C.

Getting There & Around

Alor Star has its own airport located about 13 km from the city's centre. You can also travel to this city by train or comfortable, cheap coach bus. If you drive, you will use the North-South or East-West expressways.

You may want to rent a car to get around in Alor Star, as the state of Kedah has the best roads in Malaysia. There are cheap public buses, but many tourists prefer local taxis because cab drivers are more likely to speak English.

When To Go

Alor Setar is tropical like many areas in Malaysia, with a monsoon climate that is hot and humid year-round. Temperatures do not vary much from season to season, but it rains more from June through August, with accumulation around 26-32 cm (10-13 inches) per month, and about half that for the rest of the rainy season. February is considered the ‘dry season’, with about 5 cm (2 inches) of rain. January and February are the best months to visit since there is less precipitation. The average annual rainfall is 240 cm (94 inches). The typical daily temperature is 31-33°C (88-91°F), and the nightly low is 22-23°C (72-73°F).