Historical record shows that Kelantan was influenced by the Chinese and Siamese before it was handed to the Malacca Sultanate and eventually to the British. Evidence of these cultures could still be found to date with its towering statue of Buddha, Thai influence temples and Muslim mosque.

Sitting Buddha		State Mosque		Statue at Burmese Temple

Dubbed as the “Cradle of Malay Culture”, Kelantan is located on the north eastern of Peninsular Malaysia. This unique destination is a treasure trove which offers rustic fishing villages that has survived the threat of urbanization and it is here you will be able to witness kite flying, top spinning, shadow play or “silat”, a traditional Malay art of self defense which are among the age old traditions and the lifestyle of these simple fishing villages of the east coast.

Silat (malay art of self defense)		Shadow play

Kota Bharu, the capital of Kelantan offers visitors an insight to the unique lifestyle of the Kelantanese where women play a major role in the economy as seen in the colorful wet market of Siti Khadijah. Here one can find a wide selection of food and goods ranging from vegetables, dried food and seafood to handicrafts.

Wet Market		Batik painting

The local handicraft produced in Kelantan such as batik, silverware, wood-carving and songket are among the best in Peninsular.

With such a colorful culture one can also expect an interesting combination of food ranging from hot and spicy to sweet and tangy, and all within easy reach.

So, hop on this journey of culture and see Kelantan, you will be amazed at what it has in store for you!

(News extract from: www.discoveryoverland.com)