As the capital,
Kota Bharu is a good place to sample traditional Malay culture.
It is also a good place to explore the surrounding countryside.
The town signals the end of the east coast road,
and the beginning of
It is situated on the northern bank
of the flood-prone Sungei Kelantan (
It is also the center of a fertile rice basin,
as well as the Kelantan Royal Family.
With modern architecture,
Kota Bharu looks like any other east coast cities at first glance.
But if you look closer,
it has more to offer.
Many visitors stop by before heading on to
They often end up staying longer than planned.
Museums
Museums in Kota Bharu are located
close to one another
near the "Padang Merdeka" (Independence Square).
All are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
except on Fridays.
Bank Kerapu (War Memorial Museum)
This museum contains collections of
Japanese photographic memorabilia
and documents relating to World War II.
Dating back to 1912,
the War Museum occupies the oldest brick building in Kelantan.
Some artifacts,
especially Japanese swords are on display.
Syura Hall (Islamic Museum)
The history of Islam in Kelantan can be found in this mosque
like building that is located across the road from Bank Kerapu.
Artifacts and inscriptions document
how Islam is so important in the everyday life of the state.
The building itself was once
known as "Serambi Mekah" (Verandah to Mecca),
which refers to its days
as Kelantan's first school of Islamic instruction.
Istana Jahar (Royal Custom Museum)
Built in 1887 by Sultan Muhamad II,
this beautiful old wooden structure is definitely worth a visit.
The carved wooden panels
and intricate wooden framework displayed
act as a testimony to the superb craftsmanship
of the Kelantan people.
Recently renovated and converted as a museum,
it houses many valuable historical and cultural artifacts.
Inside, do take note of the wrought-iron staircases on
either side of the room
that lead upstairs to a glorious wooden verandah.
Istana Batu (The Royal Museum)
This massive blue-and-white building is commonly referred to
as the "Istana Bata" (The Brick Palace).
Built in 1939, the Royal Museum served
as the palace of the crowned prince from 1969,
until it was donated to the state.
It was used as a venue for royal weddings
and to house royal guests.
Today, the museum displays a variety of royal arts and artifacts,
as well as historical paraphernalia
that belonged to former "Sultans" (kings).
Visitors can expect to see items such as a royal dining room,
an opulent living room,
replicas of crown jewels,
and other royal bric-a-brac.
On top of that,
photographic exhibition on the life of the late Sultan of Kelantan
can also be seen.
Kampung Kraftangan (Handicraft Village and Craft Museum)
Kelantan's exquisite range of handicrafts is on display here.
Silverware,
"songket",
batik,
and woodcarvings are exhibited here,
as well as for sale.
Other cultural activities are also depicted in this museum.
Istana Balai Besar (Palace of the Large Audience Hall)
Surrounded by walls,
this palace is closed to the public.
Located opposite the Istana Batu,
the palace was built in 1840 by Sultan Muhamad II
to replace his palace on the Kelantan River.
It now serves as the venue for ceremonial functions
and investiture ceremonies.
By Wei Ling , 5 Alpha
6/5/10
22:19
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