Kelantan Malaysia
Kelantan-literally meaning "
History
Though not much is known about Kelantan's early history, Chinese historical documents date back the history of Kelantan between 8000 and 3000 BC. These documents chronicle the existence of a government, which maintained links with
The territories of Kelantan and Patani came under
In 1499, Kelantan was conquered by forces of the Malacca Empire and became its vassal state. With the fall of Malacca in 1511, Kelantan was divided up and ruled by petty chieftains. With the conquest by the Siamese in 1603, most of the Kelantan chiefs became subject to Patani. Around 1760, a petty chieftain of Kubang Labu in Kelantan succeeded in unifying the territory of the present Kelantan. Soon after in 1764, Long Yunos seized the throne and proclaimed himself Raja of Kelantan. With his death, Kelantan came under the influence of Terengganu.
In 1800, Raja Muhammad declared himself as the first Sultan of Kelantan. In 1812, he broke from Terengganu's influence and became a separate tributary state of
In the 1909 Anglo-Siamese treaty,
Kelantan was occupied by the Japanese on
Climate
Kelantan enjoys a pleasant tropical climate. It is almost summer all year round with refreshing intermittent rain. Longer and heavier rainfall is observed in November, December and January. Daily temperature ranges from 21°C to 32°C.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kelantan is between February and May as rainfall is relatively less at this time of the year. The July festival that is held here also attracts lots of tourists.
Tourist Attractions/Places to See
Cultural Centre: Located on Jalan Mahmud close to the Perdana Hotel, the cultural centre is a veritable showcase of the living heritage of Kelantan.
Istana Batu (
Islamic Museum/Syura Hall: The history of Islam in Kelantan is well documented in the artifacts and inscriptions exhibited here.
Istana Balai Besar: Built by Sultan Muhammad II in 1840, the Istana Balai Besar was formerly the residence of past Sultans. However, it is now used solely as a venue for official state functions.
Gunung Stong: Kelantan's highest mountain, it is home to
Masjid Kampung Laut: One of the oldest mosques in
Pantai Cahaya Bulan: This lovely stretch of shimmering is Kelantan's most famous beach. Fringed by swaying casuarinas and coconut palms, the beach is a big hit with the tourists.
Pantai Irama (
Pantai Seri Tujuh (
Shopping
Kelantan offers a great variety of local handicrafts. This is supplemented by merchandise from
Some of the famous shopping places in Kelantan are Bazaar Buluh Kubu and Jalan Temenggong. Bazaar Buluh Kubu is a three-storey shopping complex and contains great variety of locally made souvenirs, knick-knacks, batik, gold and silver songket, fine silverware and imported Thai goods.
Jalan Temenggong is a street lined with craft shops selling gold and silver jewellery, textiles, brassware and woodcarvings.
How to Reach Kelantan
By Road: There is an excellent network of roads linking major towns in
By Rail: Train services from
By Air: Malaysian Airlines operates daily flights to Kota Bharu from
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