Kangar is a lively city set on the Perlis River and surrounded by rugged limestone hills and lush jungle. Explore a state park laced with underground caves and visit a museum dedicated to the region’s unique heritage. Proximity to the border means you’ll enjoy a tantalising mix of Thai and Malaysian cuisine in Kangar.
Things to do in Kangar
Set on the Thai border, Taman Negeri Perlis is best explored with a guide. The state park is home to famous cave systems like Wang Burma, which features narrow tunnels, muddy passageways and caverns decorated with stalagmites, stalactites and soaring rock columns. Above ground, there’s a chance to spot rare animals like the stump-tailed macaque and white-handed gibbon.
The seven-kilometre trip to the Kota Kayang Museum is worth the effort. The small but engaging museum features exhibits on the rich history, heritage and culture of Kangar and the surrounding area. See centuries-old ceramics, ancient neolithic tools and clothes worn by Malaysian aristocrats.
Venture into Gua Kelam, a 370-metre-long limestone tunnel carved by tin miners in the 18th and 19th centuries. Follow the boardwalk through the tunnel to an emerald-green lake surrounded by lush jungle. Swim in the lake and dry off on the grass before heading back to the cave entrance.
Like other cities in Malaysia, Kangar has unique culinary traditions. Dine at local restaurants and try specialties like “pekasam puyu” fermented fish tossed with fried rice and “mentarang” clams served in a spicy turmeric broth. Street stalls will tempt you with “kuih dangai” grilled rice flour cakes sweetened with shredded coconut and sugar.
Getting around Kangar
Parts of Kangar are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while taxis are a fast and affordable way to get from A to B. Kangar is a two-hour drive from George Town in Penang and six hours from Kuala Lumpur by car or train. Penang International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away.