Things To Do in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu Things to Do

Often called simply K.T., Kuala Terengganu is a coastal town in Malaysia. The town attracts visitors who want to experience authentic Malaysian culture and explore the area’s famous cuisine.

Terrengganu State Museum

For a better understanding of the forces that have shaped this entire area, head for the Terrangganu State Museum. The museum is built on stilts in the traditional architectural style. It has many exhibits about the area, with particular attention devoted to the petroleum industry, as it has been a huge source of wealth for locals. When you’re done walking through the museum, enjoy as stroll through the gardens.

Chinatown

The local Chinese community has established a Chinatown. Look for the brightly colored arch near the Sri Malaysian hotel, that marks the entrance. An ideal place to have lunch is at the food court, where you’ll find lots of sellers offering Chinese street food and selling elegant textiles like batik.

The Pasar Payang

This is the central marketplace of the area and a shopper’s paradise. It’s housed in a modern building with air-conditioning and ample parking. Once inside, you’ll see many people selling everything from food to handicrafts. This is an ideal place to find souvenirs. Look for sellers offering traditional handicrafts such as batik, silk dresses and scarves, yards of an intricately patterned fabric known as a songket, equally elaborate brocade items, and other items such as statues, and cooking object made from brass. Bargaining is acceptable and expected. If you see turtles or turtle eggs for sale, they are protected so do not buy them.

Cruise the River

Life in Kuala Terrengganu revolves around the sea. Head for the  Pasar Payang area and buy a boat ticket. A few dollars brings you on the water for an hour.

Try the Local Cuisine

The local cuisine is a mixture of many influences including Asian, Chinese and western. Visit a lemang factory to see how lemang are made. These are long sticks of rice cooked inside bamboo and eaten with coconut milk or with beef. Try the fried crackers known as the keropok. These are made from various kinds of seafood, including shrimp and squid.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Kuala Terengganu.