Welcome to Perils
Perils, the northern gem, exudes natural beauty and is characterised by
sprawling paddy fields. Predominantly agricultural, its historical background is
marked by ancient archaeological discoveries and its multiracial society is a
fascinating amalgamation of Malays, Chinese, Indians and Thais as it shares a
border with Thailand.
There are several natural attractions that make this state unique such as the
Perils State Park and Gua Kelam. However, there's a lot more to to Perlis. For
those who love cities and towns with a relaxed pace of life and a little history
on the side, Kangar, the state capital, has historic buildings such as the Syed
Alwi Mosque while the Royal Palace and Royal Mosque are located in the Royal
town of Arau. Visitors can select their accommodation from among various hotels
and budget inns located in the city and major towns.
Places of Interest
Perlis State Park The park provides the perfect setting for activities
such as caving, bird watching, jungle trekking and hiking. Species of animals
such as the Stumped-tail Macaque and plants like ginger, ferns and balsams
endemic to the state are found here. Visitors can stay in hostels and chalets or
camp at the designated site. Those intending to visit are required to obtain
permission from the Perlis State Park management.
Gua Kelam Recreational Park Situated within Kaki Bukit town, the
highlight of this park is Gua Kelam, a 370-metre limestone cave which is filled
with interesting stalactite and stalagmite formations. This well-lit cave is
believed to have been hollowed out from a limestone massif by an underground
stream over many eons. Located nearby is Gua Kelam II which is suitable for more
experienced cavers.
Gua Wang Burma The Wang Burma Cave has unique and challenging chambers
and shelters a large population of insects, bats, toads and other cave
inhabitants. It is located north near the Bukit China Granite and tucked between
Gua Kelam and the Perlis State Park. Those intending to visit are required to
obtain permission from the Perlis State Park management and engage the services
of a ranger or qualified guide.
Wang Kelian Sunday Market Wang Kelian is a popular market situated along the
Thai-Malaysian border. A myriad of goods such as handicrafts, tableware and
clothing are available here. Visitors can visit the market without the use of
passports, provided that they remain within the market area.
Kuala Perlis The major ferry terminal for visitors departing for Langkawi is
located at the mouth of the Perlis River. The major activity found here is
fishing and many superb seafood restaurants can be found in this small fishing
town.
Taman Herba Adjacent to the Bukit Air Recreational Park, on 12ha of land is
the Herb Garden. Opened in 1998, this ethno botanical museum now contains over
1,000 species of herbs, spices and other medicinal plants of local and foreign
origin. Here, visitors can learn about their uses and how to care for such
plants as well as purchase them.
Padang Besar Located along the border, this bustling town is a shoppers'
paradise where one can choose from a wide variety of produce, handicrafts and
clothing. It is also a major stopover along the rail route between Singapore,
Malaysia and Thailand.
Chuping Named after Bukit Chuping, a limestone hill, the landscape here
is dominated by 8,000ha of lush sugar cane plantations. The seemingly endless
expanse of greenery is truly a sight to behold. Those intending to visit are
required to obtain written permission from the Perlis sugar factory.
Snake and Reptile Farm The farm was formerly a research facility set up to
develop serums for snakebites, it has open air enclosures as well as closed
exhibits and is home to over 20 species of snakes, crocodiles and monitor
lizards.
Tasik Timah Tasoh Lake Timah Tasoh is located along Sungai Korok, about
2.5km below the confluence of Sungai Timah and Sungai Tasoh. It is frequented by
visitors who come to the lake to enjoy beautiful sunset views.
Tasik Melati This picturesque man-made lake is the ideal place for boating
and is favoured as a picnic spot. It is also frequented by joggers as there's a
good jogging track with ample rest areas.
Royal Museum The museum houses a collection of royal regalia such as
headgears, Malay daggers, tiaras as well as swords which are used during royal
ceremonies. Also highlighted here is the history of the Perlis Royal family.
Those intending to visit are required to obtain permission from the Arau Palace
officials.
Syed Alwi Mosque This majestic 96 year-old mosque is also known as Masjid
Alwi. It features Islamic and Malay architecture, and was once the Perils State
Mosque.
Harumanis Plantation Come the month of May this 64.6ha plantation in the
Bukit Bintang Agriculture Centre will be flocked by mango lovers who come to
purchase varieties of mangoes such as harumanis, mas indera, mas muda, chok anan
and sala.
Kota Kayang Museum The museum is situated close to what was historically
a fortified area, which is marked by the mausoleums of two 16th century sultans
of Kedah and the remnants of timbers that demarcated the burial sites. During
the construction of the museum, several ancient artifacts dating back to at
least 2,000 years were discovered.
Dato' Wan Ahmad's House A multi-stratum roof, beautiful woodcarvings and
colourful panels adorn this charming wooden village house. This 70-year old
structure once belonged to the late Dato' Wan Ahmad.
Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
Travellers can shop for duty free items at Padang Besar or scour the local
markets for interesting knick-knacks and handicraft items. Alternatively, you
can embark on a gastronomic adventure and sample local delicacies such as laksa
perils, a seafood noodle soup with rich, spicy and creamy fish gravy, ikan
bakaror spicy grilled fish and Chinese seafood steamboat. The choice of eating
places in Perils range from hawker centres and air-conditioned restaurants to
cafes and hotels, where western fare is also available.
Getting There
The Sultan Abdul Halim airport in Kepala Batas, Kedah receives flights from
Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru. At the airport, taxis and buses to Perils
are available. For those who prefer to drive, the state is accessible by road
via the North-South Highway. Alternatively, travellers can take a bus or taxi
from Johor, Terengganu, Kelantan, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kedah. You
can also catch a train from Kuala Lumpur, Alor Star, Haadyai, and Singapore to
Arau and Padang Besar or take a ferry from Langkawi to Kuala Perils.
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