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Perlis may be Malaysia's most diminutive state by land area but it packs a punch above its weight in terms of character and beauty. Situated on the north-western tip of the Malay Peninsula, geographically Perlis sits by the Satun and Songkla regions of Thailand in the north; Kedah in the east and south; with the Straits of Malacca on the west. Despite its small size, Perlis boasts one of Malaysia's most stunning landscapes.
This state was originally part of Kedah before coming under Siamese influence and subsequently being named 'Palit' when forces conquered Kedah in 1821. Perlis forged a unique and distinct identity over the years to come with British accession of the wider area. Despite being the smallest Malaysian state, only 810 square kilometres, Perlis does not fall short as a tourist destination by any stretch of the imagination. It is blessed with rich cultural history and abundant nature. Perlis is the perfect destination to head to in search of old world charm with its many quaint villages and rolling green fields of paddy.
Getting there
We suggest that visitors to Perlis base themselves out of the charming and well-connected state capital of Kangar. From here there is plenty to explore with some of the hightlights discussed below. The stunning destinations of Langkawi and Penang are nearby too, making Perlis a perfect launchpad for longer trips and for those visiting from South East Asia and India.
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After a hard day of exploring what we all want is exemplary service and luxury to depend upon - that's why MalaysiaExplorer.net's Kangar accommodation top-pick accolade goes to the splendid Putra Palace Hotel (pictured), complete with swimming pool, amenities and gym |
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Life here is at a very laid-back pace - a far cry from the hustle and bustle of the city. Transport and infrastructure is excellent nonetheless as primary rail and road routes pass through Perlis, making access by car pleasant and fast from both Kuala Lumpur and Singapore southwards, and Bangkok across the border in Thailand. Kuala Perlis serves as the states primary transport hub through its thriving port situated at Kuala Perlis, which arranges regular ferries with nearby Langkawi Island.
With the Malacca straits along its western coastline driving around the state is a pleasant way to take in its mix of bucolic charm and serenity.
Things to see & do: Cuisine
The major activity found here is fishing, which makes the state a haven for seafood lovers! The local speciality of 'laksa' (rice noodles dipped in a fish based gravy) is very popular amongst locals and foreigners alike.
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Fascinatingly, Perlis is home to a popular research institute and snake farm that opens its doors to tourists located at Gua Kelam. All visitors to Perlis should make a point of visiting. It isn’t a conventional tourist attraction but it is certainly one of the most interesting!
Perlis State Park
The Perlis State Park, one of the states major tourist attractions, is located on a range of sprawling and beautiful limestone hills known as the 'Nakawan Range'. It also contains the only semi-deciduous forest in Malaysia. The stunning, thick green slopes, jagged cliffs, rustic streams and the Nakawan Range are a few of the finest attractions in this 500 year-old Setul limestone formation.
Caves
Both Gua Wang Burma and Gual Kelam are extensive cave systems, popular as show caves for visitors fascinated by natural landscapes. The Gua Kelam has been used as a shortcut through the hill between neighboring villages by the locals since its inception, and the encircling land has been a tin mine since WW1. A walkway was built to make the transportation of tin easier, but it doubles up to allow those on-foot and motorcycle to pass through without taking a long and troublesome journey over the hilly range.
Both the caves have since been lit and turned into tourist attractions and recreation parks for activities like adventure caving. The State Park overall is composed primarily of protected, beautiful forest reserve spanning a land area approaching five thousand hectares.
Access & Accommodation
The park is also home to foliage and flora including ginger and balsams that are native to the state. Entry to the grounds requires permission from the park's management and it is important to note that visitors must hire a qualified ranger whilst exploring. This policy is aimed at protecting and preserving the beautiful surroundings from unsupervised damage. The park offers VIP chalets, hostels and even camping facilities for visitors who wish to stay out in the beautiful rural setting overnight.
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The Snake Farm
The capital of Perlis is Kangar and the Royal capital is Arau. Just 10km north of Kangar lies a large snake farm that also houses other fascinating reptiles. In amongst the Bukit Bintang Forest Reserve you'll experience an amazing 23 different species of snake up close but thankfully in a safe environment!
The farm was established to research and develop effective anti-venom for snakebites. You'll also be treated to the remarkable sight of crocodiles and monitor lizards at the farm, sure to delight the whole family. Perlis' snake farm is the only one of its kind in Malaysia.
There is a combination of open air outdoor enclosures and indoor exhibits, and the farm's experienced handlers are always happy to help visitors get a memorable photograph with the tame snakes!
Where to stay
Batu Pahat and the state capital of Kangar offer 2 and 3-star hotels for tourists to kick back and relax after an eventful day of sight seeing. The hotels in Kangar, in particular, are pretty, clean and well-maintained with good-value deals to be found. Kangar is also noted as the rice bowl of Perlis with its lush paddy fields. The city is also home to some fine architecture. The State museum and The State mosque are amongst those that uphold the rich history and culture of Perlis.
Shopping
For a quaint shopping experience there is Pekan Siam - a home-from-home for bargain lovers packed with clothing, crafts, traditional foods and souvenirs. This popular market is in Padang Besar, at the Malaysian-Thailand border. The town offers an insight into the merger of the Thai people with the Malaysians.
Thai Border
The Malaysians travel into Thailand and vice versa through Perlis for shopping, business and recreation. The railway station at Padang Besar is sizeable, with the border policed by Malaysians and Thais on opposing sides. Having said that, if not for these checkpoints and physical boundaries it would be difficult to identify the border's location because the cultures and even the dialect spoken are thoroughly alike.
Search the widest range of accommodation options and resorts in Perlis' tranquil old-world capital Kangar and other areas of the state with MalaysiaExplorer.net's booking partner - also find verified guest reviews™ and image galleries.
Complete your trip with our travel essentials checklist: Tours, Flights and Car Rental
- Tailor all aspects of your holiday or visit to Kangar with comprehensive tour and package choices.
- Read our top tips on car rental to ensure you choose a suitable vehicle at a good price.
- Our guide to Malaysia flights is packed with advice and pointers on finding the best routes and super deals.
Double click the map below to zoom in on Perlis, and double right-click to zoom out!
Photo Credits: emrank and Nicolai Bangsgaard
