This charming location in the north-eastern corner of the peninsula, with its lush paddy fields, rustic fishing villages and casuarinas-lined beaches, seems almost untouched by modernization.

Kota Bharu, its capital town vibrates with life that reflects the harmonious assimilation of modern growth with traditional habits and values.  Fast food restaurants vie with traditional coffee stalls that offer delightful local cuisine such as Nasi Dagang and Laksa.

Modern shopping centres are no threat to the ever-popular bazaars especially the famous Siti Khadijah market where womenfolk dominate the business.  Modern but modestly dressed Kelantanese still don batik, which holds and integral and important position in the state’s traditions and culture.  Till today, batik clothes are among the favourite souvenirs that visitors take back from Kelantan.

The town’s bazaars offer lovely handicrafts such as Wau, Songket, and silverware.  This largely rural state is also known to preserve rich Malay traditions such as kite-flying contests, top-spinning contests, and bird singing competitions.

More over, the capital also offers some very interesting performance that is unique to this part of the region such as the Menora, Mak Yong and Wayang Kulit, which are intriguing ancient plays that have remained imbued in the state’s culture.

Apart from its cultural heritage, visitors can also indulge in nature-based activities ranging from simple river cruises, rafting, bird watching and jungle trekking to serious mountain climbing at Mount Stong.  The mountain in Kuala Krai district is also the site to the country’s highest waterfall, the Jelawang Falls, which is a sight to behold.  Nearby are several interesting and mysterious covers such as the Ikan and Keris caves.

The Gua Musang district is also another upcoming nature destination as this is the location of Kuala Koh National Park, which is the other entry to the popular Taman Negara National Park.  This park is a haven for those who love the jungle and there are many activities one can do here, including boating, tubing jungle trekking and nature watching.