· MY

Kangar

Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia

Kangar, located in the charming state of Perlis, Malaysia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists seeking a unique and enriching travel experience. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, Ka…

#Kangar#Perlis#Malaysia#small town#government administrative center

1/2

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kangar.

Top Hotels in Kangar

Top Flights to Kangar

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kangar.

Tours

Explore Limestone Caves

Discover the natural beauty of the limestone caves in Kangar.

Shopping

Local Market Shopping

Visit local markets to shop for fresh produce and local crafts.

Outdoor

Kayaking Adventure

Enjoy a kayaking experience surrounded by scenic views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kangar.

Currency

RM | MYR | Malaysian Ringgit

Population

48898.0

Languages

Malay, Thai

Average weather

Kangar

Jan

32°23°

Feb

33°23°

Mar

34°24°

Apr

34°24°

May

33°24°

Jun

33°24°

Jul

33°24°

Aug

33°24°

Sep

32°24°

Oct

32°24°

Nov

31°23°

Dec

31°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kangar.

What people love

Kangar, the capital of Perlis in Malaysia, offers several advantages for travelers:

Rich Cultural Experience: Kangar is known for its cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites and traditional Malay architecture. Visitors can explore places like the Kota Kayang Museum and Istana Arau to learn about the region's history and culture.
Scenic Beauty: The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including paddy fields, lush greenery, and the scenic Perlis River. Nature lovers can enjoy activities like hiking, bird-watching, and river cruises in the area.
Authentic Local Cuisine: Kangar is a great place to sample traditional Malay dishes and local delicacies. Visitors can savor authentic flavors at local eateries, food stalls, and night markets, offering a culinary adventure for food enthusiasts.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Kangar offers a tranquil and laid-back environment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town's slow pace allows visitors to unwind and rejuvenate.
Accessibility: Kangar is easily accessible by road, with well-maintained highways connecting it to major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The town also has public transportation options for getting around locally.

Overall, traveling to Kangar can provide a unique cultural experience, beautiful scenery, delicious food, a peaceful ambiance, and convenient accessibility for visitors to enjoy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia could include:

Limited tourist attractions: Kangar is a small town and may not offer as many tourist attractions or activities compared to larger cities in Malaysia. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or extensive shopping options may find Kangar lacking in these aspects.
Limited accommodation options: Kangar may have fewer accommodation options compared to popular tourist destinations in Malaysia. This could result in limited choices for travelers in terms of budget, amenities, and location.
Limited public transportation: Getting around Kangar and the surrounding areas may be challenging as public transportation options could be limited. Renting a car or relying on taxis may be necessary for exploring the region.
Language barrier: English may not be as widely spoken in Kangar compared to more touristy areas in Malaysia. Travelers who do not speak Malay may face communication challenges, which could make navigating the town and interacting with locals more difficult.
Lack of international cuisine options: Kangar may have fewer international dining options compared to larger Malaysian cities. Travelers who prefer a variety of cuisine choices may find the dining scene in Kangar to be limited.

Please note that these points are based on general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It is always recommended to conduct thorough research and plan accordingly before traveling to Kangar, Perlis.

Kangar is the state capital of Perlis, the smallest state in Malaysia, which is located in the northern part of the Malay Peninsula. Here is a detailed history of Kangar, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

Early History: The history of Kangar and Perlis can be traced back to the 19th century when it was part of the Kingdom of Kedah. It was a small settlement and served as a trading hub due to its strategic location.
Formation of Perlis: In 1843, Perlis was separated from Kedah and became a separate entity under the rule of Syed Hussain Jamalulail, who became the first Raja of Perlis. This marked the beginning of Perlis as an independent political entity.
Colonial Era: During the British colonial period, Perlis, including Kangar, came under British protection following the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, which transferred the suzerainty of several northern Malay states from Siam to British Malaya.

Significant Events

World War II: During the Japanese occupation of Malaya from 1941 to 1945, Kangar, like many other parts of the region, experienced significant hardship and disruption.
Post-Independence: After Malaysia gained independence in 1957, Kangar continued to develop as the administrative and commercial center of Perlis.

Historical Figures

Syed Hussain Jamalullail: The first Raja of Perlis who established the royal lineage that continues to this day.
Subsequent Rajas: The royal family has played a significant role in the cultural and political life of Perlis, with each Raja contributing to the development of the state.

Important Landmarks

Masjid Alwi: One of the oldest mosques in Perlis and a significant religious site in Kangar. It was built in the 1930s and features traditional Malay architectural elements.
Istana Arau: Although not located directly in Kangar but nearby, it is the royal palace of the Raja of Perlis and an important cultural site.
Al Hussain Mosque (Floating Mosque): Located in Kuala Perlis, near Kangar, this mosque is unique because of its location and modern architecture, drawing visitors for both its spiritual and aesthetic appeal.
Kota Kayang Museum: Situated close to Kangar, this museum provides insights into the history and culture of Perlis, with exhibits ranging from archaeology to local history.

Modern Developments

Kangar has developed into a modern town with the presence of governmental offices, educational institutions, and commercial centers. Despite its growth, it retains a charm with a blend of historical and modern elements.

Kangar remains a vital part of Perlis, serving as the administrative heart of the state, while also embracing its historical roots and cultural heritage.