Pasar Siti Khadijah
City Centre 2 hrs
Explore a bustling market known for fresh produce, local delicacies, and vibrant atmosphere.
Where to stay
Hotels in Kota Bharu
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At a glance
Climate
Tropical
Languages
Malay and English and Kelantanese Malay
Local currency
MYR
(MYR)
Local time
(GMT+8)
Ideal trip length
2–5 days
Cost level
2 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
City Centre
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Not customary
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
70 · Good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Nasi Kerabu
Laksa Kelantan
Ayam Percik
Keropok Lekor
When to visit Kota Bharu
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: May, June
Busiest: Mar-Oct
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Jan40
Heavy monsoon rain
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Feb50
Monsoon easing, rain
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Mar75
Dry season starts
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Apr80
Warm, pleasant
-
May85
Hot, dry
-
Jun85
Hot, dry
-
Jul80
Hot, dry
-
Aug75
Warm, dry
-
Sept70
Dry, some showers
-
Oct60
Monsoon approaching
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Nov45
Monsoon rain starts
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Dec35
Heavy monsoon rain
Things to do in Kota Bharu
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
2 places
State Museum
City Centre 1.5 hrs
Learn about Kelantan's rich history, culture, and natural heritage.
Best in the afternoon
4 places
Istana Jahar
City Centre 1.5 hrs
Discover the royal history and traditional Malay craftsmanship within a beautiful wooden palace.
Handicraft Village and Craft Museum
City Centre 2 hrs
Witness traditional Kelantanese arts like batik, songket weaving, and kite making.
Pantai Cahaya Bulan
Kuala Besar 3 hrs
Relax on a popular local beach, enjoy sea breeze, and try local snacks.
River Cruise on Sungai Kelantan
Pengkalan Datu 1 hr
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Kelantan River, observing local life and nature.
Any time of day
1 place
Wat Pothivihan
Tumpat 1 hr
Visit one of Malaysia's largest reclining Buddha statues in a serene Thai Buddhist temple.
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Kota Bharu
Straight-line distance from the centre of Kota Bharu.
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