With majestic palaces, historical sites, and architecture splendour, the royal city of Perak is crowned by Kuala Kangsar. It is home to generations of traditional artisans such as keris craftsmen, labu sayong makers who craft especially for common folk and not to mention the embroiderers who serve royalty. Located only 30 km from Ipoh, it’s a must to visit this town before you go back home or else you might be in a great regret! Here’s the list of 6 things to do in Kuala Kangsar!
1. Visit Istana Kenangan
Istana Kenangan was once the residence of the Perak royal family, and also served as a venue for royal ceremonies. I was also known as Istana Mayat (Palace of the Deceased), which was also used for funeral preparations. First Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman renamed it as Istana Kenangan (Palace of Memories), and has been launched as the Perak Royal Museum since 1986. Istana Kenangan’s architecture symbolize of traditional Malay craftsmanship. The palace has a unique shape which resembles a sword in its sheath.
2. Visit Historical Victoria Bridge
The Victoria Bridge is one of Malaysia’s oldest railway bridges, which crosses the Perak River at Karai. Established in 1897, coinciding with its Diamond Jubilee Year, it was named after Queen Victoria. Victoria Bridge was once used for the transportation of tin ore, connecting the western Malay states to Penang, before it closed in 2002.
3. Make a traditional Labu Sayong on your own
Kuala Kangsar definitely famous with its Labu Sayong, a traditional water pitcher that shape like a gourd. Some people claim that Labu Sayong has its own charms that are able to cure various diseases, most townsfolks use it to keep water cool. The art of creating Labu Sayong using a wheel throwing machine is one of the fascinating things that you can experience in Kuala Kangsar. You can see how it is made traditionally in some factories, or you can experience it by get your hands dirty by making your own.
4. Visit Ubudiah Mosque
The Ubudiah Mosque, boasting gold and Italian marble domes, casts a dramatic backdrop against Kuala Kangsar’s landscape. It also known as one of the most Malaysia’s magnificent mosques in its majestic structures. Sultan Idris Murshidal Azam Shah has ordered Ubudiah Mosque to be built after he recovered from his illness in 1913. However, the sultan sadly never lived to see it completed. If you wish to visit the mosque, make sure your attire is appropriate and polite.
5. Delight your Stomach with Laksa Pak Ngah
If you mention Laksa in Kuala Kangsar, everyone would suggest you to go to Pak Ngah’s Laksa. The most delicious and famous laksa in Kuala Kangsar. Pak Ngah has been serving up delicious bowls of this fish-based rice noodles for years since 1955. Their soup has that salty tangy taste but not a thick as most places. Fill your stomach with this delicious Laksa in town!
6. Take a boat ride along Perak River.
Kuala Kangsar has its own nature especially along the Perak River. Formerly used to transport ore in the 19th century and was also known as Malaysia’s second longest river that now contains hydroelectric dams. Cruising down the river will give you a glimpse of Perak’s rustic side. Come and experience it yourself! You won’t regret!
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