Kota Bharu Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Kota Bharu is a city full of surprises. This city in the north east of Peninsular Malaysia is a place rich in culture with strong Islamic influences. Its proximity to Thailand is evident in the number of buddhist statues and temples in the area. Known sometimes as KB or Kota Baharu, the name of the city means “new city” or “new fort”. As the capital of the state of Kelantan, the city is home to museums, royal palaces and mosques. It is also a common stopover on the way to the nearby Perhentian Islands. Find out more in this Kota Bharu destination guide.

What is Kota Bharu Malaysia famous for?

Kota Bharu is a vibrant cultural centre which continues to celebrate its local customs such as kite making and its spinning tops. The city boasts a wide range of delectable regional dishes and people travel from all over the country to taste the famous Kota Bharu speciality Roti Titab. Additionally, Kota Bharu is home to our favourite Malaysian night market as well as some stunning architecture and fascinating local museums.

Why you should visit Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu is a great stop-over on the way to the Perhentian Islands. This laid-back city has its own distinct atmosphere which is different from other cities in Malaysia. It is a Muslim majority area which also has influences from nearby Thailand. Moreover it is a city of art and culture which celebrates its traditions such as kite making as well as the spinning top game gasing uri. The city has an old and regal feel with impressive mansions dotted around the city. It also has vibrant markets, including one of our favourite night markets in all of Malaysia. Kota Bharu is also famed for a number of dishes such as Roti Titab. The pulled tea drink teh tarik is also extremely popular in this part of Malaysia.

Kota Bharu Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about Kota Bharu Malaysia

• City name in other scripts – كوت بهارو (Jawi), 哥打峇鲁 (simplified Chinese), 哥打峇魯 (traditional Chinese), கோத்தா பாரு (Tamil)
• Language – Malay. Kelantan Malay is a dialect of Malay spoken in Kota Bharu. There are 10 dialects of Malay used throughout thought the country, with Standard Malay being the unifying language. English is becoming more widely spoken in the country. However not everyone you meet will be able to speak English. Mandarin Chinese, Malaysian Chinese, Tamil, other Indian languages as well as Creole are spoken by the various ethnic groups that live in Malaysia.
• Currency – Malaysian ringgit (MYR). This has been the official currency of Malaysia since 1967. Currency exchanges can be found in most cities and ATMs are also available widely throughout the country.
• Population – 319,600 (2017)
• Area – 194 km² (75 sq mi)
• District – Kota Bharu
• State – Kelantan
• Emergency number – 999
• Police number – 999

Utilities in Kota Bharu Malaysia

• Electricity – Malaysia uses Type G power plugs. The country operates on a 240v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are reasonably common in Malaysia.
• Water – the tap water in Malaysia is not generally safe to drink. Tap water is usually treated, but pipes may be old. Therefore most locals boil their water or use a water filter just to be safe.
• Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets as well as Asian style squat toilets are common in Malaysia. Toilets generally come equipped with a spray hose (sometimes referred to as a Muslim shower). The spray hose is like a European bidet and is used for cleaning personal areas as an alternative to toilet paper. All of the accommodation we stayed in throughout the country was equipped with the western style sit-down flushing toilets with spray hoses. Toilet paper is also usually provided. Don’t flush your toilet paper – use the bins provided. The use of bathroom slippers is customary and is provided in accommodation and sometimes also in public bathrooms. Public bathrooms often offer both sit-down and squat style toilets. Public toilets are common in Malaysia. The charge is usually around 30-50 sens.
• Telephone country code: +60

Where is Kota Bharu Malaysia?

Kota Bharu is in the Kota Bharu district on the coast of the state of Kelantan Malaysia. It is located on the South China Sea near the mouth of Kelantan River. The city is at the northern end of the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, one hour drive from the border with Thailand.

The closest towns to Kota Bharu are Tumpat as well as Pasir Mas. Kota Bharu is 30 minutes by car from Tumpat and also from Pasir Mas.

How to get to Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu destination guide: Arriving by land

Kota Bharu Malaysia intercity land transport

The main transport options for travelling overland to Kota Bharu Malaysia are:

• Private vehicle
• Private transport operator
• Train
• Bus
• Bike

Driving to Kota Bharu from within Malaysia

If you are driving to Kota Bharu from within Malaysia, here are the travel times and distances:

• Kuala Besut, Terengganu – 1 hour 9 minutes (53km, 20miles) without tolls
• Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu – 2 hours 46 minutes (160km, 99miles) without tolls
• Kuantan, Pahang – 4 hours 49 minutes (361km, 224miles) with tolls or 5 hours 54 minutes (360km, 224miles) without tolls
• George Town, Penang – 5 hours 42 minutes (346km, 214miles) with tolls or 6 hours 24 minutes (377km, 234miles) without tolls
• Kuala Lumpur – 6 hours 27 minutes (440km, 273miles) with tolls or 7 hours 12 minutes (441km, 274miles) without tolls
• Malacca, Malacca – 8 hours 19 minutes (584km, 363miles) with tolls or 9 hours 15 minutes (581km, 361miles) without tolls
• Johor Bahru, Johor – 9 hours 3 minutes (693km, 431miles) with tolls or 10 hours 32 minutes (679km, 422miles) without tolls

Intercity trains to Kota Bharu Malaysia

There are a couple of train stations close to Kota Bharu. Wakaf Bharu is 15 minutes drive from the city centre. We were able to take a grab there from our accommodation for 11 ringgit.

The Malaysia jungle railway services the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It goes from Tumpat near Kota Bharu to Gemas. Here Malaysia’s east coast rail line meets the west coast line, which continues to Johor Bahru in the south and up to Kuala Lumpur and onwards to Padang Besar on the Thai border in the northern direction. Malaysia’s jungle train is a scenic ride that takes you past karst mountains and rice paddies, stopping at charming Malaysian towns along the way. It is an extremely affordable way to travel and on our journey we met some lovely people along the way.

Malaysia train travel vlog

We spent about a week travelling along the jungle railway in Malaysia, starting ta Kota Bharu and stopping along the way at Kuala Krai, Dabong, Gua Musang and Kuala Lipis. We were surprised that the train from Wakaf Bharu train station near Kota Bharu to Kuala Krai only cost us 3 ringgit each (as at 2023). Travelling by train in Malaysia was a very memorable journey and we never expected to affect us so much. Watch the Malaysia train travel vlog below to find out all about our Malaysia jungle train experience.

Intercity buses to Kota Bharu Malaysia

A common way to get around Malaysia is by using intercity buses. These are budget friendly and the network is extensive. Intercity bus companies in Malaysia include KKKL Express as well as S&S International.

There are 3 different bus stations in Kota Bharu:

• Central Bus Station – city as well as intercity buses depart from here.
• Langgar bus terminal – city, regional as well as long distance buses depart from here.
• Stesen Bas Kota Bharu – long-distance express buses depart from here.

It’s important to check which bus station your bus departs from to make sure you don’t miss your bus.

Popular bus destinations from Kota Bharu include:

• Kuala Besut Malaysia – travel time 1 hour. Tickets cost 6.20 ringgit one way.
• Kuala Terengganu Malaysia – travel time 3 hours 40 minutes. Tickets start from 15 ringgit one way.
• Penang Malaysia – travel time 7 hours 15 minutes. Tickets start from 40 ringgit one way.
• Kuala Lumpur Malaysia – travel time 9 hours 15 minutes. Tickets start from 29 ringgit one way.
• Malacca Malaysia – travel time 10 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 50 ringgit one way.
• Johor Bahru Malaysia – travel time 12 hours. Tickets start from 58 ringgit one way.

Kota Bharu destination guide: Arriving by air

The closest airport to Kota Bharu is Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Airport code KBR). This airport is 7km (4 miles) away.

Other nearby airports include:

• Narathiwat Airport, Thailand (Airport code NAW). This airport is 70km (43 miles) away.
• Sultan Mahmud Airport (Airport code TGG). This airport is 127km (79 miles) away.
• Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (Airport code AOR). This airport is 204km (127 miles) away.

The national airline of Malaysia is Malaysia Airlines.

Kota Bharu destination guide: Arriving by boat

While Kota Bharu is on the coast of Malaysia, there doesn’t appear to be any scheduled boats to Kota Bharu.

Kota Bharu destination guide: How to get around Kota Bharu Malaysia

Walking in Kota Bharu Malaysia

By far the easiest and also the cheapest way to get around Kota Bharu is to walk. Furthermore, most of the main attractions in the town are within easy walking distance.

Local buses in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Local buses service Kota Bharu. There are 3 different bus stations in Kota Bharu:

• Central Bus Station – city as well as intercity buses depart from here.
• Langgar bus terminal – city, regional as well as long distance buses depart from here.
• Stesen Bas Kota Bharu – long-distance express buses depart from here.

Trams in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu does not have a tram system.

Local trains in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu does not have a local train line.

Metro trains (subway or underground) in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu does not have an underground train line.

Vehicle hire in Kota Bharu Malaysia

A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Malaysia. This includes:

• Electric scooters
• Bicycles
• Motorcycles
• Cars
• SUVs
• Boats

In Malaysia they drive on the left side of the road.

Taxis in Malaysia

Taxis are common in Malaysia. Fares are regulated and are usually metered. However taxi drivers in Malaysia do not have the best reputation, which is why alternative services like Grab are very popular.

In general your fare will include the following costs:

• The pickup fee or minimum fee – this is charged as soon as you get into the vehicle.
• Airport surcharge – this is an additional fixed fee for travelling to an airport.
• Price per kilometre – the rate is double between midnight and 6am.
• Price per hour – this is a price that gets charged when the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic.
• Surcharge for more than 2 adult passengers – this is an additional fixed fee.
• Surcharge for using the luggage compartment – this is an additional fixed fee.
• Surcharge for booking by phone – this is an additional fixed fee.
• Road toll charges

Check that the meter gets switched on at the start of your journey at the right rate. We also recommend bringing enough change in cash as drivers generally only accept cash and may not have change.

Alternatively, if booking in advance the fare may be a fixed price that is agreed on before the trip. Some taxis also operate on a pre-paid coupon system where the coupon is purchased from a counter at the airport.

It is not necessary or expected to tip taxi drivers in Malaysia.

Ride-share services in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Grab is the main app based ride-hailing service in Malaysia. Other ride-share services in Malaysia include MyCar, MULA, DACSEE, EzCar, inDriver as well as the women only service Riding Pink. Uber no longers operates in Malaysia after Grab acquired all of its Southeast Asia assets. Lyft services only Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia via its Grab partnership.

We took a Grab from our accommodation in the city centre of Kota Bharu to Wakaf Bharu train station for 11 ringgit (as at 2022).

Kota Bharu destination guide: Is Kota Bharu Malaysia worth visiting?

Kota Bharu is definitely worth visiting. The night markets at Medan Mara were possibly our favourite night markets in all of Malaysia and are worth the trip for that alone! Additionally, Kota Bharu has fascinating local culture including arts and crafts as well as delicious regional food. The city is also known for its unique architecture along with museums that showcase the local culture.

Kota Bharu destination guide: How long to spend in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu is a culturally rich city with a strong Muslim tradition as well as Thai influences. The city has a number of cultural icons such as its kites and its spinning tops which are proudly displayed and celebrated throughout the city. It has a great food scene with innovative dishes that originate from this area. Furthermore, it has a relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals. The area also boasts some beautiful beaches, bustling local markets, museums, mosques, temples and historic buildings. Located on the northern end of east coast Peninsular Malaysia, it is only an hour’s drive from the border with Thailand. It is also a short drive and ferry ride away from the Perhentian Islands. We spent 7 nights in Kota Bharu and particularly enjoyed visiting the night markets, meeting the locals and learning about the local culture.

Kota Bharu destination guide: What to do in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Kota Bharu is a relaxed Malaysian city with a number of interesting activities on offer. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Kota Bharu destination guide: Free things to do in Kota Bharu Malaysia

There are enough free activities in Kota Bharu Malaysia to keep you entertained for a weekend:

• Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah (Siti Khadijah Market)
• Pantai Cahaya Bulan
• AEON Mall Kota Bharu
• Handicrafts Village Kota Bharu Kelantan
• Masjid Muhammadi Kota Bharu Kelantan
• Pantai Sabak
• Street Art Kota Bharu
• Pasar Malam Wakaf Che Yeh
• KB Mall
• Padang Merdeka
• Kota Bharu Trade Centre
• Sultan Mohammad IV Stadium
• Kelantan Tourist Information Centre
• Istana Balai Besar
• Medan Mara Night Market

Kota Bharu destination guide: Paid activities in Kota Bharu Malaysia

A number of attractions in Kota Bharu Malaysia charge an entry fee:

• Min House Camp
• Istana Jahar – entry fee is 3 ringgit for foreign adults (as at 2022).
• Min Fireflies Garden – walking tour 5 ringgit per person, kayaking 10 ringgit per person and traditional boat 70 ringgit per trip (max 5 adults plus guide).
• Muzium Diraja Istana Batu – entry fee is 4 ringgit for foreign adults (as at 2022).
• Bank Kerapu – entry fee is 4 ringgit for foreign adults (as at 2022).
• Kelantan State Museum – entry fee is 4 ringgit for foreign adults (as at 2022).

Weather in Kota Bharu Malaysia

The climate for Kota Bharu is classified as tropical, with relatively uniform hot temperatures and also high humidity throughout the year. The hottest month is May with an average temperature range of 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) and conversely the coldest month is December with an average temperature between 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 83°F). There are two monsoon seasons in Malaysia, November to early March, which is typically the most rainy, and June to September. Kota Bharu is not impacted by the June to September monsoon. The period of March through to June between the two monsoons is the hottest and also the most uncomfortable weather of the year.

Best time to visit Kota Bharu Malaysia

If you want to enjoy the pleasant weather and avoid the heavy rain in Kota Bharu, the best time to visit is between January and mid March. The temperature is slightly cooler and more comfortable during these months.

Internet and mobile phones in Malaysia

Major internet and phone companies in Malaysia – Celcom, Digi, Hotlink (Maxis), U Mobile, UniFi Mobile, Tune Talk, Yes, XOX Mobile / ONEXOX, redONE, Yoodo, Telekom Malaysia and Time dotCom.

5G has been in Malaysia since December 2021. 2G will not be be switched off in Malaysia. 3G is was switched off in March 2022.

Malaysia is ranked 61^st fastest in the world for mobile internet speeds and 38^th fastest for fixed broadband. For Fixed Broadband the average download speed is 90mbps and upload is 51mbps (as at October 2022).

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in a numbers of places throughout Malaysia. These include phone stores, in shopping malls, at bus stations as well as at airports. Some form of ID, such as a passport, is required in order to purchase a SIM card in Malaysia.

How much to budget for Kota Bharu Malaysia?

Is Kota Bharu Malaysia expensive?

Kota Bharu is a great value Malaysian city with plenty to offer. The cost of living in Malaysia is low by world standards and this part of Malaysia is particularly affordable. Notably, Kota Bharu is one of top 10% least expensive cities in the world according to livingcost.org. With great value local markets, tons of cheap or free activities as well as a great range of affordable and high quality accommodation, Kota Bharu is the perfect destination for those seeking a budget friendly vacation.

Kota Bharu destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Kota Bharu Malaysia

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

• Low-budget daily spend – 150 ringgit per day for a couple will get you hostel accommodation, meals from bakeries and markets, local transport and free or cheap activities such as visiting shopping centres and markets
• Mid-range daily spend – 300 ringgit per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, local transport, restaurant meals and a few paid activities
• Luxury spend – 2000 ringgit per day for a couple will get you a premium experience in Malaysia, staying at high end hotels, travelling by private transport, doing a range of paid activities and eating at high end restaurants

Kota Bharu destination guide: Accommodation in Kota Bharu Malaysia

There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Kota Bharu Malaysia. Airbnb operates in Malaysia, and there are a number of Airbnb properties in Kota Bharu. Wifi is not always provided for Airbnb properties in Malaysia, so we recommend checking if it is included in the listing. One thing to keep in mind with hotels in Malaysia is that smoking in hotel rooms is often permitted.

Where to stay in Kota Bharu Malaysia

We recommend the following accommodation in Kota Bharu Malaysia:

• Best budget-friendly hotel in Kota Bharu Malaysia – Assalam Hotel is the best hotel in Kota Bharu Malaysia. This is a good value accommodation option with rooms that are spacious, clean and cosy. Additionally, the staff are very friendly.
• Best luxury hotel in Kota Bharu Malaysia – Perdana Kota Bharu is the best premium hotel in Kota Bharu. The staff are excellent, the rooms are spacious and the food is delicious.
• Best furnished apartments in Kota Bharu Malaysia – we stayed at Troika Residence during our visit to Kota Bharu. This new apartment complex is a major landmark on the Kota Bharu skyline. There are plenty of different apartments to choose from and they are well appointed with heaps of amenities. We particularly enjoyed using the rooftop pool.

How much is accommodation in Kota Bharu Malaysia?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

• Budget accommodation – 30 ringgit for a bed in a dorm.
• Mid-range accommodation – 50-150 ringgit for a private room.
• Luxury accommodation – 150-350 ringgit a night for a high end hotel.
• Rental property – 160-750 ringgit a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home.

Tourist tax on accommodation in Malaysia

From 1 January 2023 there is a tourist tax of 10 ringgit per accommodation per night in Malaysia. This tax is collected by the property. Permanent residents and Malaysian nationals are exempt from the tax. Furthermore the tourist tax does not apply to homestays and kampung stays registered with the Ministry of Tourism.

Kota Bharu destination guide: Food in Kota Bharu Malaysia

Being right near the border with Thailand, Thai food is very popular in Kota Bharu. The area is also home to a number of regional dishes.

How much does food cost in Kota Bharu Malaysia?

Our price guide for your food budget in Kota Bharu Malaysia is as follows (prices as at 2022):

• Restaurant meal – 30-60 ringgit for a main dish
• Night market or hawker market food – 5-15 ringgit for a dish
• Ais kachang – 4-6 ringgit
• Coffee – 1.50-2.50 ringgit

Regional dishes in Kota Bharu Malaysia

• Nasi tumpang
• Roti titab
• Nasi kerabu
• Ayam percik Kelantan
• Nasi kak wok
• Khao Jam
• Laksam
• Nasi Ulam
• Maggi ketam
• Teh madu float

Cheap Eats in Kota Bharu Malaysia

• Bakeries are a great place to get cheap and delicious food.
• Hawker centres in Malaysia are ubiquitous and have excellent budget friendly food. The variety of stalls available means that you have a good range of options to choose from.
• Night markets in Malaysia are another of our go to places for affordable and tasty food. There’s also usually stalls selling items like clothes, toys and shoes in addition to the food stalls. Our favourite night market in Kota Bharu was Medan Mara Night Market.
• Street food is also a very common cheap eat option in Malaysia. You can often find street food around transport hubs as well as scattered in various places around the city.

Kota Bharu food vlogs

Kota Bharu food tour vlog

People travel from all over Malaysia to try a unique Malay food called Roti Titab in Kota Bharu Malaysia. In the Malaysia food vlog below we’re on the hunt for a unique Kelantan Food called Roti Titab in Kota Bharu Kelantan on the Malaysia east coast. Kopitiam Kita is the restaurant that invented this iconic Kota Bharu food and has even trade marked the recipe! In this Malaysia vlog we go on a Kota Bharu food tour and sample two types of Roti titab – the most famous Roti in Malaysia. In this Malaysia travel vlog we also discover some amazing Malaysian food and drinks including Teh Beng Madu, Mee Celup, Kelate Jebok, Malaysian street food such as Cek Mek as well as the popular Malaysian dessert Cendol. Trying all the delicious Malaysia food is one of the best things to do Kota Bharu.

Kota Bharu Night Market Tour vlog

How far would you travel for the best food in Malaysia? In the Malaysia food vlog below we go on a Malaysia Street food tour of Medan Mara Kota Bharu Kelantan Malaysia. Is this the best night market in Malaysia? Decide for yourself after watching this Malaysia vlog! During our Kota Bharu Street Food Tour we sample some of the best street food on the Malaysia east coast including Laksam, Teh Beng Madu from a Malaysia Food Truck and local Kelantan Food – Nasi Sup Perut Air. Visiting Malaysian night markets is one of our favourite things to do in Malaysia and Street Food Kota Bharu is worth travelling for! Watch this Malaysia travel vlog to discover a Malaysia night market tour you don’t want to miss!

Kota Bharu Malaysia culture

Weekends in Kelantan Malaysia

Which days are weekdays and weekend days vary in Malaysia depending on the state you’re in. In the state of Kelantan weekdays are Sunday to Thursday and weekends are Friday and Saturday. Keep this in mind as weekends can affect prices and availability (particularly for accommodation). Additionally weekends may impact opening hours as well as how crowded attractions are.

Kelantan public holidays

Malaysia has one of the highest number of public holidays in the world. In total, there are between 18 and 20 public holidays observed in each state. This includes national holidays as well as state based holidays. Public holidays for the state of Kelantan are as follows:

• Chinese New Year’s Day – 1^st day of 1^st lunar month, in January or February
• Chinese New Year Holiday – 2^nd day of 1^st lunar month, in January or February
• Nuzul Al-Quran Day – 17^th day of Ramadan
• Labour Day – 1 May
• Wesak Day (Buddha’s birthday) – May or June, date varies
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri – the last day of Ramadan, date varies
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday – day after the last day of Ramadan, date varies
• Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Birthday (King’s Birthday) – 1^st Monday in June
• Hari Raya Haji (Feast of the Sacrifice) – date varies
• Hari Raya Haji Holiday (Feast of the Sacrifice) – date varies
• Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year) – date varies
• Merdeka Day (National Day, Independence Day) – 31 August
• Malaysia Day – 16 September
• Maulidur Rasul (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) – 12^th day of the 3^rd month of the Islamic calendar
• Deepavali – date varies, October or November
• Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday – 11 November
• Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday Holiday – 12 November
• Christmas Day – 25 December

National symbols of Malaysia

• Malaysia flag – 14 alternating red and white stripes with a blue canton with a yellow crescent and 14 pointed star. The Malaysian flag is called the Stripes of Glory.
• Malaysia coat of arms – two tigers supporting a shield with a yellow crescent and a 14 pointed star on top and a yellow banner with words that translate to “Unity is strength” written in both romanised Malay and Jawi at the bottom.
• National flower – hibiscus
• National bird – rhinoceros hornbill
• Malaysia national animal – the Malayan tiger

Malaysia pastimes

• National dish – nasi lemak
• Popular drinks – teh tarik, Ipoh white coffee, milo ais, sirup bandang
• National sport – sepak takraw
• Religion – 64% Islam, 19% Buddhist, 9% Christian, 6% Hindu (as at 2020)

Famous people from Kota Bharu Malaysia

• Famous people born in Kota Bharu Malaysia – politician Husam Musa, actor Izzue Islam, politician Khalid Abdul Samad, former Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan, Sultan Abdullah of Pahang, politician Ng Yen Yen, politician and Muslim cleric Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, physician Nur Amalina Che Bakri, actor Pekin Ibrahim, Crown Prince Tengku Muhammad Fa-iz Petra, model Julia Rais, politician Mohamad Fatmi Che Salleh, actress Nelydia Senrose, politician Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah, Chief Justice of Malaysia Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, Queen Consort Tuanku Tengku Fauziah, politician Zaid Ibrahim, actor Issey Fazlisham, actress Mawar Rashid.
• Sports stars from Kota Bharu Malaysia – footballer Ahmad Fakri Saarani, footballer Muhammad Azri bin Abdul Ghani, footballer Daudsu Jamaludin, badminton player Muhammad Hafiz Hashim, footballer Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, footballer Mohd Badhri Mohd Radzi, badminton player Roslin Hashim, football coach Samuel Siew, footballer Syihan Hazmi, footballer Amirizdwan Taj, Olympic archer Wan Khalmizam, footballer Zairul Fitree Ishak.

Is Kota Bharu Malaysia Safe?

Malaysia travel guide: Safety in Malaysia

We have spent around 4 months travelling extensively through Malaysia over two separate trips. In our experience the country is extremely safe. Malaysia ranks 18^th safest country on the Global Peace Index (as at 2022). As with any country, there are good areas and bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets and bag snatching particularly at crowded tourist attractions. In particular, when eating out don’t leave your bag, phone or wallet on the table or next to you where someone can quickly grab it and run away. Instead keep your belongings physically attached to you at all times. Make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase.

General safety considerations in Malaysia

Other general safety considerations for travel in Malaysia:

• Drinking water – tap water in Malaysia is not generally safe to drink. Tap water is usually treated, but pipes may be old. Therefore most locals boil their water or use a water filter.
• Mosquitoes – mosquito borne illnesses are a significant risk in Malaysia, particularly dengue, Zika and chikungunya. Malaysia is in the pre-elimination phase of malaria. While malaria is a greater risk in Malaysian Borneo, there have also been cases on the Malaysian peninsula. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
• Altitude sickness – Malaysia has areas of high altitude and therefore altitude sickness risk. If you visit high altitude areas in Malaysia, allow sufficient time to acclimatise. If you experience signs of altitude sickness, including headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite or shortness of breath, get help immediately.
• Road safety – Road accidents are a significant risk in Malaysia. While road conditions in Malaysia are generally very good, traffic is often very heavy. Furthermore drivers in Malaysia tend to speed up rather than slowing down for amber lights. We also found that roads in Malaysia are not typically built with pedestrians in mind, and footpaths often stop unexpectedly in busy areas.
• Water safety – take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect.
• Earthquakes – Malaysia experiences both regional and local earthquake activity. In an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If inside, get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
• Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes and immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.
• Dogs – rabies from rabid dog bites is a risk in Malaysia. For more on dog safety while travelling, check out this video.

As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.

Kota Bharu travel vlog

Looking for an off the beaten path destination with cultural gems, fantastic food and friendly locals? Come to the Malaysia east coast – Asia’s best kept secret! We have the ultimate Kota Bharu travel guide in the Malaysia travel vlog below!

Kota Bharu is the capital of the state of Kelantan Malaysia. It is famous for its rich Malaysian culture including Malaysian kite making as well as the Malaysian game of gasing. Kelantan Food is worth travelling for, especially the Kelantan dishes, Roti Titab and Nasi Kerabu. Kota Bharu Malaysia also has some amazing local Malaysian markets including Siti Khadijah market, Medan Mara Night Market and Wakaf che yeh night market. Near Kota Bharu Kelantan you can also find some impressive Buddhist statues including the sitting Buddha at Wat Machimmaram and the recliding Buddha at Wat Phothivihan. You can catch buses from Kota Bharu Malaysia at Kota Bharu Bus Terminal. We recommend staying at Troika Residence Kota Bharu Kelantan Malaysia.

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