Melo Villareal
Terengganu Bucket List: What is Kuala Terengganu famous for?
Terengganu is home to lovely mosques, fried fish sausages, breathtaking oceans, and more! It can be considered a great state to have the perfect respite you’ve always wanted.
If this is your first time traveling to Terengganu, Malaysia, Here are our Top 15 best things to do to make your vacation in Terengganu a memorable one.
How to Get There
To go here, book a flight from Manila to Kuala Lumpur, and from there, book another flight to Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG), which flies daily from the capital. Alternatively, you can take the bus, which costs RM 45 – RM 55 and takes 7h 12m.
Eat Keropok Lekor
The first order of business when in Terengganu is eating Keropok lekor – a Malay favorite! It’s a thick hot dog-like sausage, which is made from fish paste and sago palm flour.
Locals suggest it should always be accompanied by a reddish-brown dipping sauce, a combination of tamarind, chili, sugar, and vinegar.
Explore new cafes and coffee houses
If you’re on a budget but want to eat as much as you can in Terengganu, visit some coffee houses found along roadsides and villages. We suggest you see the following:
Qawa Coffee. Located at Jalan Budiman, this coffee shop is known for its sustainable way of running its business. Serves sandwiches, cakes, and coffees. Outdoor seating is also available.
The Pallet Café. They serve coffee in a light bulb container and take pride in their varied menu, from western to local delights. Try their milkshake and Vietnamese coffee. They’re located at 31041 Ground Floor, Taman Sri Permata.
Mek Awang Café. Peranakan food are the highlights here at this café located in Chinatown. They also offer a mix local Chinese and Malay delights like keropok lekor, nasi hailam, Peranakan Kay Hong, ayam percik, and laksa Terengganu.
On The Way Kopitiam. If you love ice fruit-based desserts, then this is the place to be. Take note they are open from 11 am to 12am but closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Diff café. Built-in a container, this café located in Uptown Kontena is a must-visit if you’re into Takoyaki.
Visit the Crystal Mosque
Don’t miss out on this picturesque Crystal Mosque located at the Islamic Heritage Park. It is made of steel, glass, and crystal, which cost USD 80 million.
Inaugurated in 2008, this mosque can accommodate up to 1500 people at one time and is now of the iconic tourist spots to visit in Terengganu, Malaysia.
Beach Time at Lang Tengah
No vacation in Terengganu is complete without having to visit the pristine Lang Tengah beach. It’s nestled between Redang and Perhentian islands, and although not popular among international tourists, this destination will bring you the most relaxing experience you can ever imagine.
The locals also offer volunteer work in protecting nesting turtles on the island. Now, that’s hitting two birds in one stone, savoring the view, and being able to care for the turtles.
Buy Souvenirs at Pasar Payang
There is no scarcity of pasalubongs at Pasar Payang. Here, you’ll find various local products such as batik, silk, songket, brocade, brassware, fresh produce, and local snacks.
There’s also a local trishaw you could ride and roam around the town, but at a very affordable price, of course.
Check out Kampung China
You’ll find the most imaginative spaces, exciting artwork, themed murals, and graffiti at some of the alleys in Terengganu, most especially in Chinatown or Kampung, China.
Don’t forget to check out some hidden cafes along the corner. It’s perfect for your next Instagram post!
Visit Kota Lama Duyong
Learn more about Terengganu’s vibrant history and visit Kota Lama Duyong, built in 1920 by Dato’ Biji Sura.
From what was once the house of a prominent man, this house was turned into museum housing artifacts.
It resembles pretty much the old houses in Bacolod, with European influences in terms of architecture.
Art appreciation at Terengganu State Museum
Walk around the Terengganu and see how the state’s rich history unfolds as you see some memorabilia and collections related to Archeology, numismatic, ethnographic, material, and natural history collections.
It’s a great place to visit if you’re traveling with the little ones.
Visit the Ho Ann Kiong Temple
This temple is named the oldest Taoist temple in the state. It was built in 1801 by early Chinese immigrants in Terengganu to fulfill their religious obligation. In 2010, the temple was ravaged by fire but had immediately raised funds to repair and restore the damaged temple.
This temple is considered one of Chinatown’s most attractive buildings with red and gold architecture. You should also explore the ‘wishing tree’ behind the temple.
Visit Masjid Sultan Zainal Abidin
Bask in Terengganu’s rich culture and history and visit Masjid Sultan Zainal Abidin. It is touted as one of the oldest located at the heart of the city, built in the 19th century.
Note that you should adhere to the mosque’s regulations before entering, from the proper dress code and ethical codes. It’s very accessible and has lots of accommodation in the nearby area.
Mosque replicas at Islamic Civilization Park
Allow yourself to discover more about Islamic cultures and their various architectural beauties. Exploring this park is a perfect combination and education.
The 23-hectare Islamic Civilization Park is situated on Wan Man Island, which houses 21 beautiful replicas of some of the world’s famous Islamic structures, including the Taj Mahal and Al-Hambra Citadel in Spain.
Surf at Batu Burok Beach
Experience the ultimate beach getaway and surf at Batu Burok Beach. Besides jet-skiing, tourists visit the beach to watch professional surfers ride its crazy waves or even learn how to surf.
The best time to visit here and catch some surfing competitions is from October to March.
Explore Fireflies Sanctuary & Penarik Fishing Village
A lot of tourists are awed by how picturesque this fishing village is. One of the most exciting things to do here is having a relaxing picnic, paddling along the river, witnessing thousands of fireflies dancing in the mangroves, and enjoying the scenic beach view.
It is suggested to bring an insect repellant, cap, umbrella, and bottled water.
Dine at Madam Bee’s Kitchen
If you want to taste local Chinese, Peranakan, and Terengganu’s dishes, then make sure to visit Madam Bee’s Kitchen, located in the heart of Chinatown.
Some must-tries include the Nasi Kerabu, mee Jawa (a sweet and sour yellow noodles), Yao char kwai, and the famous Terengganu’s laksa.
Chill at Terengganu’s most famous coffee joints
To make your Terengganu visit more worthwhile, visit Star Anise Cafe in Jalan Bandar – Terengganu’s best coffee joints. It’s a very quaint and vibrant cafe, known for its cakes and aromatic coffee specialties, both hot and cold beverages.
The best thing about Star Anise is they also offer local delicacies and souvenirs at a very reasonable price. It’s also best if you don’t miss out on their famous chicken pie.
Visit Kenyir Elephant Conservation Village
Kenyir Elephant Conservation Village (KECV) is one of the latest addition to Tasik Kenyir’s vast tourist attractions. The Elephant Conservation Village was built in 2012 on 256 hectares of land, providing a natural habitat for the elephant orphan living in it.
KECV ensures the support and survival of the current 18 elephants living in harmony with nature and the community. Moreover, the elephants are taking care of by professional veterinarians and elephant keepers.
Terengganu Travel and Tour Packages
Searching for the best hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Terengganu, Malaysia? Please follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.
Also read:
- Bewah Cave At Kenyir Lake Terengganu, Malaysia
- Islamic Civilization Park In Kuala Terengganu Malaysia: A Unique Cultural Immersion
- Hotel Review: Lake Kenyir Resort And Spa In Terengganu
- Kuala Terengganu City Tour: Malaysia Asean East Coast Trail Day 4
- Exploring Caves And Museums In Terengganu: Malaysia Asean East Coast Trail Day 3
- Hotel Review: Ri-Yaz Heritage Marina Resort & Spa
