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 Kedah,
together with the neighboring state of Perlis, in north
of Malaysia, are traditionally known as the
'Rice Bowl of Malaysia' and offers visitors the
refreshing scenery of rolling paddy fields with
mountains as a backdrop and a rich historical
heritage. So, it is no surprise that vast stretches of rice fields dominate Kedah's panoramic
landscape. Alor Setar, its capital city, is home to many
old buildings which still stand in their original form
together with other relics of the past. Of interest is
the Balai Besar, an impressive wooden edifice built in
1898. It is frequently used for state and royal
functions. The Zahir Mosque, another outstanding
landmark built in 1912, is one of the most
beautiful mosques in the Photo: Eagle Square in Langkawi
country. The Royal Museum, a
fine example of local architecture, house a veritable
collection of Kedah's royal and cultural heritage.
 Other attractions include
the birthplace of Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir
Mohamad, ex-Prime Minister of Malaysia at No.18, Lorong
Kilang Ais, Seberang Perak which is popular among the
locals and foreign tourists. At the Pekan
Rabu Bazaar, one can shop for a variety of local
wares and handicrafts as well as sample traditional
fares like dodol, a popular Malay sweetmeat. This place
is packed with shoppers especially during the public
holidays. The Alor
Setar Tower, Kedah's most recent landmarks provides a
breathtaking view of the town and its surroundings. A
short drive from Alor Setar brings one to the border
town of Bukit Kayu Hitam, a duty-free Photo: Balai Besar
in Alor Setar centre for
shopping.
This state is one of the
oldest states in the country. Relics uncovered at the
Bujang Valley, at the foothills of Gunung Jerai (Jerai
Mountain),
Kedah's hill resort, point to Hindu-Buddhist influence
dating back to the fourth century A.D. The findings are
now displayed in the Archeological Museum at the site
and include Chinese porcelain and gemstones from the
Middle East. Further south, Kedah has a good seaside
beach picnic spot at Pantai Merdeka. For those in search of
solitude and relaxation, the scenic Pedu Lake provides
a worthwhile retreat.
Kedah's most famous
destination is Pulau Langkawi (Langkawi Island), known over the world for
its idyllic setting, legends and myths. Pulau Langkawi
comprises a group of 99 islands, each with its own
natural appeal. Among the prominent ones are Pulau
Dayang Bunting (Isle of the Pregnant Maiden), Pulau
Singa Besar, a wildlife sanctuary, Pulau Payar, a
marine park suitable for diving and Pulau Beras Basah (Isle of Wet Rice),
a popular spot for swimming. Pulau Langkawi is a free
port which offers plenty of good buys.
 Kuah,
its main town, is a shopping haven with many modern
shopping areas. The island is fast
gaining a reputation as a popular venue for
international exhibitions and conferences. It is also
the venue for the exciting Langkawi International
Maritime and Air Show (LIMA). Other points of interest
are the Mahsuri Mausoleum, Air Hangat hot springs, Galeri Perdana, Eagle's
Photo: Tanjung Rhu Beach Square, Seven Wells, Underwater World, a crocodile farm and the
beautiful and serene Tanjung Rhu
Beach which is usually full with tourists.
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