1. What is the most popular mode of transportation in Alor Setar?
The most popular mode of transportation in Alor Setar is by car or motorcycle.
2. How easy is it to find taxis in Alor Setar?
It is relatively easy to find taxis in Alor Setar. They can usually be found at designated taxi stands or hailed on the street. Most major tourist attractions, malls, and hotels also have taxis available for hire. Additionally, ride-sharing apps such as Grab are also available in Alor Setar.
3. Are there any reliable car rental services in the city?
Yes, there are several reliable car rental services in the city, including Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, and Thrifty. It is recommended to research and compare prices and customer reviews to find the best option for your needs.
4. Can tourists rent motorbikes or scooters for getting around in Alor Setar?
Yes, tourists can rent motorbikes or scooters for getting around in Alor Setar. There are several rental shops and companies that offer these vehicles for rent at affordable prices. However, it is important to have a valid driver’s license and follow all traffic rules and regulations while riding the motorbike or scooter.
5. Is there a public bus system in Alor Setar, and if so, how extensive is it?
Yes, there is a public bus system in Alor Setar, operated by Kenderaan Bas Maju (KBM). The bus routes cover various areas within the city as well as neighboring districts such as Kubang Pasu and Padang Terap. The frequency of the buses may vary depending on the route, but they generally run from 6am to 10pm.6. Are there any notable landmarks or tourist attractions in Alor Setar?
Some notable landmarks and tourist attractions in Alor Setar include:
– Zahir Mosque
– Pekan Rabu Market
– Balai Besar
– Menara Alor Setar
– Royal Museum (Istana Kota Star)
– Gunung Keriang Recreational Park
7. What are some popular local dishes in Alor Setar?
Some popular local dishes in Alor Setar include:
– Nasi Lemak Royale – fragrant coconut rice served with various side dishes such as spicy chicken curry, sambal fried egg, and anchovies.
– Laksa Utara – a spicy noodle dish with fish broth, herbs, and shredded fish.
– Ayam Percik – grilled chicken marinated in a spicy coconut milk sauce.
– Mee Goreng – fried noodles with vegetables, eggs, and meat.
– Roti Canai – flaky flatbread served with curry dipping sauce.
– Cendol – a dessert made of shaved ice topped with sweetened red beans, pandan-flavored green jelly, and drizzled with palm sugar syrup.
8. What are the major shopping malls in Alor Setar?
Some major shopping malls in Alor Setar include:
– Aman Central Mall
– Tesco Extra Mergong
– Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall (located just outside of Alor Setar)
6. What is the cost of a taxi ride from the airport to the city center?
The cost of a taxi ride from the airport to the city center varies depending on the destination and time of day. It can range from around $20 to $50.
7. Is there a train station in Alor Setar for intercity travel?
Yes, there is a train station in Alor Setar known as the Alor Setar Railway Station. It serves as a stop for the intercity trains operated by Malaysia’s national railway company, KTM Berhad, connecting Alor Setar to other major cities in Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh, and Johor Bahru.
8. Are there any ferry services available from Alor Setar to nearby islands or other cities?
Yes, there are ferry services available from Alor Setar to nearby islands and other cities. These include:1. Langkawi – There are high-speed ferries connecting Alor Setar and Langkawi, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
2. Penang – There is a daily ferry service connecting Alor Setar to Penang island, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours.
3. Satun (Thailand) – There is a ferry service between Bukit Kayu Hitam (located in the outskirts of Alor Setar) and Satun in Thailand, with a travel time of approximately 30 minutes.
4. Pulau Payar Marine Park – Visitors can take a ferry from Langkawi to Pulau Payar Marine Park, which is located about 30km south of Langkawi.
5. Kuala Perlis – Located about 35km north-west of Alor Setar, Kuala Perlis has regular ferry services connecting it to the popular island destination of Pulau Langkawi.
6. Kuala Kedah – This port town, located about 18km north-east of Alor Setar, has regular ferries connecting it to Pulau Langkawi as well as the popular island destination of Pulau Pangkor on the west coast.
7. Belantik Jetty – Located about 35km east of Alor Setar, visitors can take a ferry from this jetty to explore various islands off the coast such as Pulau Songsong and Pulau Dayang Bunting.
9. What are some popular destinations for day trips from Alor Setar and how can one get there?
1. Langkawi Island – Located just a short ferry ride or flight away, Langkawi Island is known for its stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and adventurous activities like island hopping and cable car rides.
2. Kuala Kedah – This fishing village is known for its fresh seafood and offers a glimpse into traditional Malaysian village life. It’s located about 17 km from Alor Setar and can be easily reached by car or public transportation.
3. Penang Island – Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Penang Island is a cultural melting pot with delicious street food, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. It can be accessed by car or bus within 2-3 hours from Alor Setar.
4. Perlis State Park – For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Perlis State Park offers scenic hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting opportunities within a 45-minute drive from Alor Setar.
5. Bukit Kayu Hitam – Located at the border between Malaysia and Thailand, Bukit Kayu Hitam is a popular pit-stop for travelers going to Thailand. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Alor Setar and has duty-free shopping options.
To get to these destinations, you can either rent a car or take public transportation such as buses or taxis. Some tour companies also offer day trips from Alor Setar to these destinations.
10. How long does it take to travel from Alor Setar to Bangkok, Thailand by road or rail?
The approximate travel time from Alor Setar to Bangkok by road is around 24 hours. By rail, the journey can take around 30-36 hours, depending on the route and type of train.
11. Are there any notable landmarks or attractions that can be reached by foot in Alor Setar?
Some notable landmarks and attractions that can be reached by foot in Alor Setar include:1. Zahir Mosque
2. Balai Besar (Grand Audience Hall)
3. Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Gallery
4. Menara Alor Setar (Alor Setar Tower)
5. Pekan Rabu Complex
6. Rumah Merdeka (Independence House)
7. Kedah State Art Gallery
8. Aman Central Mall
9. Masjid Tunku Anum (Tunku Anum Mosque)
10. Masjid Negeri (State Mosque)
11. Paddy Museum
12. Are bicycle rentals available for exploring the city’s surroundings and rural areas?
Yes, there are several bicycle rental services available for visitors who wish to explore the city’s surroundings and rural areas. Some popular options include renting from local bike shops, using bike-sharing programs like Citibike, or joining a guided bike tour.
13. How convenient is it to use ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek in Alor Setar?
Grab and Gojek are not widely available in Alor Setar. However, there are a few local ride-sharing apps such as MyCar and EzCab that are commonly used by locals. These apps can be convenient to use, but availability of cars and drivers may vary depending on the time and location. It is recommended to have a backup transportation plan when traveling in Alor Setar.
14. Are there any organized sightseeing tours of the city and its neighboring areas?
Yes, there are organized sightseeing tours of the city and its neighboring areas offered by various tour companies and organizations. These tours typically include visits to popular tourist attractions such as historical landmarks, cultural sites, natural wonders, and scenic viewpoints. They may also offer options for various types of transportation such as bus tours, boat tours, walking tours, or bike tours. Some tour companies may specialize in specific themes or interests such as food and drink tours, architecture tours, or adventure tours. Information on these tours can be found through local travel agencies, online tour booking websites, or at the tourism office of the city.
15. How accessible are disabled-friendly transportation options in Alor Setar?
The accessibility of disabled-friendly transportation options in Alor Setar may vary. Public buses operated by Alor Setar City Council (MBAS) have ramps and designated spaces for wheelchair users, but these buses are not very frequent and not all routes may be accessible.
Taxis are also available in Alor Setar, but not all taxis are equipped to accommodate wheelchair users. It is recommended to book a taxi in advance that is specifically designed for disabled passengers.
Another option is the use of ride-hailing services such as Grab and MyCar, which have wheelchair-accessible vehicles available in Alor Setar. However, availability may be limited and the fare may be higher than regular rides.
Overall, while there are some options for disabled-friendly transportation in Alor Setar, it may still be limited and require some planning ahead.
16. Is it safe to drive or ride motorcycles on the roads of Alor Setar?
As with any city, there are risks associated with driving or riding motorcycles on the roads of Alor Setar. It is important to always follow traffic laws and wear safety gear while riding or driving. It is also advisable to be aware of local traffic patterns and road conditions, as well as stay alert for other motorists.
17. What is the best time of day to avoid traffic congestion in the city?
The best time of day to avoid traffic congestion in the city varies depending on factors like location, local events, and construction. However, generally speaking, the best time to avoid traffic in the city is early in the morning (before 7 am) and after evening rush hour (after 7 pm). You may also have luck avoiding traffic during lunchtime (around 12-1 pm) and later at night (after 9 or 10 pm). Weekends may also see less traffic during mid-morning and mid-afternoon. It is always a good idea to check traffic reports before hitting the road to plan your route and avoid any potential delays.
18. Can visitors easily find parking spots in popular tourist areas of Alor Setar?
It depends on the time of day and the specific area. In general, finding parking in popular tourist areas of Alor Setar can be challenging, particularly during peak hours or on weekends. Some areas may have designated parking lots or street parking available, but it is recommended to plan ahead and arrive early to secure a spot. Paid parking options may also be available in certain areas.
19: What are some recommended modes of transportation for exploring rural villages and scenic routes around Alor Setar?
1. Bicycle: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation for exploring rural villages and scenic routes around Alor Setar. There are many bike rental shops in the city and you can also join organized cycling tours.
2. Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is another convenient way to explore the countryside around Alor Setar. It allows you to cover more distance compared to cycling and gives you more flexibility to stop at various points of interest.
3. Car: You can also rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in Alor Setar. This is a good option if you want to explore farther areas or if you prefer a more comfortable ride.
4. Tuk-tuk: A unique and fun way to explore rural villages is by hiring a tuk-tuk, which is a small three-wheeled vehicle commonly used as a taxi in Southeast Asia.
5. Private tour: If you prefer a guided experience, you can hire a private tour guide who can take you on a personalized trip around Alor Setar and its surrounding areas.
6. Walking: For shorter distances, walking is always an option for exploring rural villages and scenic routes. This allows you to take your time and immerse yourself in the local culture.
7. Boat ride: Some villages surrounding Alor Setar are only accessible by boat, so taking a boat ride can be an interesting way to explore these areas.
8. Public transportation: If you are on a budget, public transportation such as buses and taxis are available for traveling between towns and villages in Kedah state.
20: Are there any local customs or rules to keep in mind while using public transportation in Thailand?
1. Paying for tickets: In most cases, you will need to purchase your ticket before boarding the vehicle. In some instances, you may be able to pay for your fare on board.
2. Reserving seats for monks and elders: On public buses and trains, there are designated seats for monks and elderly people. It is considered respectful to give up your seat for them if they are standing.
3. Dress appropriately: When using public transportation, it is important to dress modestly as a sign of respect to the local customs and culture.
4. Avoid eating and drinking: It is generally considered rude to eat or drink on public transportation in Thailand, especially on buses, trains and in busy areas where there may be limited seating.
5. Remove shoes when entering trains or temples: It is customary in Thailand to remove your shoes before entering certain places such as temples or train cars with carpeted floors.
6. Avoid loud conversations or music: Keep conversations and music at a moderate level so as not to disturb other passengers who may be trying to rest or relax during their journey.
7. Show respect for religious statues: Many forms of public transportation in Thailand have religious statues or images on board. Be respectful of these religious symbols by avoiding touching or leaning on them.
8. Respect queues: When queuing for a bus or train, wait patiently in line and avoid pushing ahead of others.
9. Avoid pointing with your feet: Pointing with your feet is considered rude in Thai culture, so avoid doing so while on public transportation (or anywhere else in Thailand).
10. Follow the rules: Be sure to follow all rules and regulations set by the transportation authority while using their services in order to avoid any fines or penalties.