OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST & ACTIVITES
Taman Tamadun Islam
Taman Tamadun Islam or the Islamic Heritage Park is located on the Wan Man island of Terengganu in Malaysia. The star attraction is the congregation of various Islamic historical monuments from around the world which makes it a perfect place for those too who want to see get a glimpse of Muslim culture prevalent globally.
There are a number of offers and packages of attractions bundled together which enable the visitors in getting the maximum value for their money. Since its inception in 2008, Taman Tamadun Islam is all hustle-bustle with activities being carried out at various attractions within the park in a scenic backdrop.
Taman Tamadun Islam is a great place to visit as the activities are not only a lot of fun but also make one abreast with the teachings of Islam alongside.
Chinatown Terengganu
Located in Kuala Terengganu is a 16th century old Chinatown which is believed to be one of the oldest Chinese settlements in Malaysia. The Chinatown brims with ancestral shop houses, clan townhouses, temples, delicious food and vibrant street art.
Apart from the buildings, one can also go around exploring the Chinese temples, small food courts, kopitiams or local coffee shops and other small outlets. Buying souvenirs, especially those related to turtles is a common activity here.
The whole of Chinatown has several lane ways filled with murals and unique street art, which is a photographer's paradise. It is a gold mine for shopping enthusiasts and foodies. Those visiting Chinatown must surely try out or pack for home the butter buns and kopitiam. Also, those looking for perfect photography opportunities must not forget to capture the traditional architecture of Negeri Sembilan and the art murals along the alleys.
Pasar Besar Kedai Payang
Explore the many alleys and amongst the labyrinth of exotic looking herbs and food products, you will find our signature food condiment in the form of fermented shrimp paste called “budu”. Those who are less culinary adventurous, stay away; but one thing’s for sure, budu is what makes Terengganu folks “tick”!
Smell, taste and feel the essence of Terengganu at Kedai Payang. There’s a saying, if you can’t find what you want at the shops, you’ll find it at Kedai Payang. It has been with us for more than a hundred years, it is a part of Kuala Terengganu’s cultural icon and identity.
Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque
The first real floating mosque of Malaysia, Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque is located near the banks of Kuala Ibai Lagoon, just 4 km from the Kuala Terengganu. The 25 years old Moorish architecture mosque was built by the late Sultan of Terengganu, in memory of his mother. The shimmering white marbles of the mosque, along with bomanite paving and mosaic works, look even more attractive during the night time.
While the main prayer hall is downstairs and allows only males to enter, the hall on the upper level allows females. Winning the Aga Khan Award for exceptional Architecture in 1994, Tengku Tengah can accommodate 2000 attendees in its 5 acres of the circumference. The pristine white 125 Feet tall minaret of the mosque against the peeping South China Sea on one side makes Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque a major attraction for tourists around the world.
State Museum
With bragging rights as the largest of its kind in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, it too can be considered be one of the most beautiful buildings in terms of architecture. Based on old Terengganu palaces, with its distinctive peleleh or sloping roof, the many design elements derived from the past make this building an attraction in itself.
The Museum has a floor area of over 75,000 square metres spread over four interconnected buildings. The whole museum compound covers an area of 27 hectares that also includes outdoor displays of old maritime vessels and old palace buildings, such as the reconstructed old houses and palaces depicting traditional Malay architecture.
The famous Terengganu inscription stone or Batu Bersurat is displayed here. It was discovered by Syed Hussein Ghulam Al Bukhari in 1902 at Kampung Buloh, Kuala Berang in Hulu Terengganu. The ‘Batu Bersurat’, stone depicts the classical Malay inscription in Jawi writing, which is considered the earliest evidence of the acceptance of Islam in the Malay Peninsula, predating the founding of the Malacca Sultanate.
Crystal Mosque
Nestled in the Islamic Heritage Park, the Crystal Mosque is one of the most unique and popular attractions of Malaysia. Since this mosque was constructed between 2006 and 20008, it encompasses several modern architectural elements. The crystal mosque boasts of four minarets which appear to radiate a golden hue during the daytime.
The exterior is made up of glass, crystal, and steel. The interior of Crystal mosque is adorned with ginormous crystal chandeliers, the corridor is decorated with magnificent latticework, and the gorgeous yellow mihrab has calligraphy engraved on it. The beauty of this structure is further accentuated by the surrounding river where one can view the reflection of this breathtaking structure. This mosque can accommodate up to 1500 people at a particular point in time.
Bukit Puteri
A legend tells the story of a kind hearted princess who lived on the hill who was generous enough to lend her dining and cooking utensils to those who sought her help for their celebrations. Unfortunately, these utensils were never returned to her and disappointed with the attitude of the folks who lived at the foot of the hill, she left the Bukit Puteri and never returned.
The hill had already been documented in the annals of Terengganu history since the 16th Century and it was during the reign of Sultan Mansur, Sultan Muhamad and Sultan Omar in the early to late 19th Century that Bukit Puteri was better known and became significant as a stronghold to defend the sultanate during the civil war that occurred at the time.
Today, visitors will find an old relic in the shape of a bell or genta which was used to mark special occasions or when an unfortunate event happened. During the month of Ramadhan, the genta was sounded for the breaking of the fast. There is also a set of cannons (meriam beranak) left from whence there were once aplenty and a lighthouse that was used as a beacon for maritime travellers to find their way into Kuala Terengganu. From the top of the hill, you will get a panoramic view of the Terengganu River and its surroundings and the Istana Maziah next to the hill.
Terengganu River
The Terengganu River is a beautiful river that originates from Lake Kenyir in Hulu Terengganu, and flows through Kuala Terengganu, leading up to the South China Sea. This beautiful river has several bridges namely the Sultan Mahmud Bridge, the Manir Bridge, the Pulau Sekati Bridge, and the Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge. Several cruises also operate at the site which provides an enjoyable experience to visitors. A boat ride in this beautiful river will enable one to witness traditional fishing boats, traditional silt houses, as well as wonderful wildlife creatures.
Kota Lama Duyong Pulau Duyong
The Kota Lama Duyong house is described as a “fort” or kota in Malay simply because it was surrounded by sturdy high brick walls that surround it. This residence belonged to one of Pulau Duyong’s proud son by the name of Dato Biji Sura, a senior officer working with the Terengganu state government. He was the great grandson of Tok Sheikh Duyong, a Muslim scholar who was born in Champa, in southern Cambodia who lived there in the 1800s. He was a well respected teacher and his teachings were sought after by both the palace as much as the ordinary folks. His scholarly pursuits had even earned Pulau Duyong the moniker “the tongue of Terengganu”.
Merang
Merang is a dainty port town in the city of Terengganu in Malaysia. It happens to be a mesmerizing diving region in the state. The town acts as the gateway to the beautiful islands of Pulau Lang Tengah and Pulau Redang. You can spot many speedboats ferrying people to and fro from the town to the islands. This fishing village has little but nothing less than beauty to offer visitors. Take a quick stroll on the white sand beaches that are encompassed by the tall and elegant palm trees and the vibrant sails, before you take a ride.
Noor Arfa Craft Complex
Noor Arfa has the reputation of being the largest batik producer in Malaysia. Throughout its more than 30 years experience in the batik industry, it has produced innovative designs and supplies to many big corporations as well as directly to consumers. Visitors can visit its batik making and retail complex in Cendering, where hand drawn batik painting is demonstrated and where you can even have a hands-on experience of making your own piece. The showrooms display batik designs of different creative styles and visitors will learn how the design of batik pieces have evolved over time, from using the old technique of using metal blocks (batik terap) to the hand drawn techniques using the canting.
Terengganu Drawbridge
Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge is the newest landmark in the capital of Terengganu, and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. It was opened for public access on August 2019. The 638 metre bridge across Terengganu River’s embouchure connects the city of Kuala Terengganu and Seberang Takir. The drawbridge displays a modern, striking architecture with the design of four of its 15 storey towers inspired by the Tower Bridge in London. At night, the structure is lit with colourful lights. If you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of the double-leaf bascule opening up to make way for ships passing through.
Masjid 8 Kubah
Built in 2012, Masjid 8 Kubah can seem like a Russian replica at first glance. With its unique design of eight colourful domes in vibrant blue, white, green and yellow colours, Masjid 8 Kubah bears close resemblance to the St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow. This mosque is a fan-favourite across both locals and tourists alike who travel far and wide for an up-close view of this Russian-inspired mosque. Masjid 8 Kubah is actually a beautiful replacement for an old wooden mosque dating over 100 years old that was able to house over 500 people.
Masjid 8 Kubah is located amongst a paddy field, which can be reached in multiple ways. Visitors can take the bus from Terminal Bas Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur to Jerteh and from there, hop into a taxi or any e-hailing service for a 12-minute drive to the mosque. Alternatively, you can also take the bus from TBS to Pengkalan Kubor in Kuala Terengganu. Once you reach the bus station, take a car (taxi or e-hailing services) to the mosque, which will take you approximately 19 minutes to reach.