Its strategic location along the wide estuary of the Terengganu River made the city a prime trading port on the east coast of the Malay Peninsula in the 12th century.
Today, the sea remains the lifeblood of Kuala Terengganu, from traditional activities like fishing and trading to tourism, with the city serving as the jumping-off point to some of the country’s most pristine islands.
Chill out on amazing beaches
Terengganu, with its long coastline, is a dream destination for beach bums seeking the perfect stretch of powdery white sands.
If you’re looking for a scenic picnic spot, head to Pantai Air Tawar with its inland lagoon or to Teluk Bidara and its dramatic karst formations.
For some thrilling water sports or to simply enjoy the beauty of nature, try your hand at snorkelling and windsurfing at beaches like Pantai Bukit Keluang. You can also jump on an ATV or go horseback riding at Pantai Penarik.
Want your sun, sea and surf with a side of culture? Catch the weekly cultural show at Kuala Terengganu’s Pantai Batu Burok, where you’ll be treated to folk dances and martial arts performances held on an outdoor stage.
Marvel at vernacular architecture
The Terengganu State Museum offers visitors a chance to fall in love with the state’s rich and vibrant culture with its collection of artefacts and royal regalia.
But Malaysia’s largest museum complex also impresses with architectural features inspired by Terengganu’s unique vernacular tradition, such as its distinctive sloping roof.
Besides the museum’s main building, there’s also the adjacent Kampung Budaya Terengganu, home to reconstructed century-old homes and palaces.
The highlight here is Istana Tengku Nik or Rumah Tele, with its Songkhla-style clay roof tiles. It was in this palace that King Chulalongkorn of Thailand resided during his visit in 1908.
If you’re keen to stay in a traditional home, make your way to Terrapuri Heritage Village. The resort houses a collection of 29 meticulously restored 17th century villas, once the residences of local noblemen.
Discover traditional boat-building
For a different kind of island vibe, check out Pulau Duyong on the estuary of the Terengganu River where visitors can get up close and personal with Terengganu’s boat-building tradition.
Master builders here still handcraft boats the old way using no nails or blueprints, guided only by their memory and past experience.
Another big draw is Kota Lama Duyong, a former centre for religious studies built in 1919 that is now an exhibition gallery housing local artefacts such as old plates, pottery and brassware.
Shop for time-honoured crafts
If you plan to shop for souvenirs, you might want to bring along an extra suitcase for all the swag you’ll find as Terengganu is a haven for traditional handicrafts.
Terengganu-style batik is famous for its floral motifs and vibrant colours. There’s also richly embroidered songket (brocades) fit for royalty and local brassware which boasts a 300-year history.
Visitors will be spoilt for choice at Pasar Payang, which offers a wide array of traditional souvenirs such as woven baskets and wau (kites), as well as at craft centres like Wanisma and Noor Arfa.
Kraftangan Terengganu is also a good choice for its selection of innovative designs that breathe new life into old crafts.
According to airasia.com
