Kuala Terengganu Itinerary | Activities & Island Excursions for a Well-Rounded Trip to K.T.

A well-rounded Kuala Terengganu itinerary will include some of the region’s most popular activities, like island hopping, snorkeling and shopping. Guests also will want to tour the city’s exquisite mosques and take loads of photos in colorful China Town. These activities include can’t-miss attractions in K.T. that contain local culture, history and flair.

Day 1 Kuala Terengganu Itinerary | Cultural & Historical Attractions

For a smallish city, K.T. contains an epic amount of history and culture, and guests will want to fit in some tours of local museums and historic landmarks. These attractions can be viewed in less than an hour, allowing time to get from one destination to the next in the same day.

• China Town, Kuala Terengganu – The K.T. Waterfront district is one of the most prominent destinations within the city. It’s not only the home of several attractions, but it also is next door to China Town. The area was founded by the region’s Chinese population near the end of the 19th century and is considered one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world. It also is an art-lover’s dream and a shopper’s paradise. Inside the colorful shophouses and stalls, guests will find quaint coffee shops, restaurants and souvenir stores. Outside, visitors can stroll down cobblestone lanes and enjoy themed murals and exhibits by local artists.
• Bukit Puteri – this scenic hill within the city is not far from China Town and offers stunning views of fishing boats carrying out daily expeditions on the South China Sea. Atop the hill, visitors will find remnants of a fort, specifically cannons, a royal flagpole, a historic bell and a lighthouse. Bukit Puteri is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque – known by foreigners as the Floating Mosque, this stunning religious site is built on a lagoon in the Kuala Ibai River. Built in the 1990s, the mosque exemplifies modern Malay architecture and mosaics and is best admired after the sun goes down.
• Crystal Mosque – regarded as one of K.T.’s most magnificent buildings, the Crystal Mosque sits in Islamic Heritage Park on Wan Man Island. The working religious site is constructed of mostly glass, which sparkles as its façade is reflected off the water. The mosque can hold up to 1,500 people and is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Admission is free.
• Istana Maziah – the official palace of the Sultan of Terengganu, Istana Maziah can be found at the foot of Bukit Puteri near the K.T. Waterfront. While inside tours are not available, visitors should stop by to admire the architecture, which originally was designed by local workers from mixtures of chalk, clay, sand salts, egg whites, lime and honey!
• Kota Lama Duyong – a fort turned museum, Kota Lama Duyong is a cherished example of Malay architecture mixed with British influence. Guests can tour the grounds to view historic artifacts and learn more about the history of the region. Kota Lama Duyong is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

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Day 2 Kuala Terengganu Itinerary | Day Trips & Shopping

Kuala Terengganu is a wonderland for outdoor activities and shopping. With the right planning, visitors can squeeze in both island tours in one day, but it’s ok to linger longer if the mood hits you! Guests heading to the islands may want to get an early start in order to be back in time for some souvenir shopping in the afternoon or evening.

• Pulau Redang – part of nine islands known as Redang Island Marine Park, this island is beautiful just to visit, but many travelers visit the region for its pristine diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island is famous for crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, not to mention about 500 varieties of coral and an endless bounty of colorful marine life.
• Pulau Kapas – just a 20-minute boat ride from the pier, Pulau Kapas is a gorgeous island popular with budget travelers and backpackers. The island keeps accommodations and facilities simple and relaxation a top priority. Guests can lounge in hammocks, set up campsites and lose themselves on white sand beaches for dayzzzz.
• Central Market (Pasar Payang) – this market is the most popular shopping destination in K.T. for good reason. It features aisles and aisles of local handicrafts, fabrics, produce, silk textiles and delectable food. The market sits on the Terengganu River at the foot of Bukit Puteri.
• Wanisma Craft & Trading – a smaller shop that features batik clothing and handmade brass and metal pieces, Wanisma Craft & Trading is a working boutique where guests can watch locals create their wares. It’s a perfect place to support the local economy and pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

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