BEST Things To Do In Terengganu & Places Of Interest

Terengganu sits on the east coast of Malaysia, a state with a long history that goes back to the 2^nd century. It was part of the maritime trade routes, attracting traders from China, India, and the Middle East. During the height of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, Terengganu became an important region, absorbing cultural influences from these powerful maritime empires. Read further to check out the places of Interest.

With the arrival of Islam in the 15th century, Terengganu became an important center for Islamic culture and learning. Nowadays however, it is best known as a laid-back state, with rich cultural heritage and idyllic islands and beaches. So, join us as we explore the best places of interest that Terengganu has to offer visitors!

Places To Visit In Terengganu: Attractions & Activities

Over the years, Terengganu has emerged as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and cultural attractions. Blending ancient traditions with modern developments makes Terengganu a fascinating place to explore. Because of this, many of its best attractions are places you simply must experience to truly grasp.

1. Taman Tamadun Islam (Islamic Heritage Park)

Taman Tamadun Islam, or the Islamic Civilization Park, is a unique cultural and educational park located in Kuala Terengganu. Originally conceptualized as a park celebrating the diversity and richness of Islamic culture, it now aims to give visitors insight into the achievements of Islamic societies throughout history. It’s very much an educational experience.

One of the main attractions of the park is the collection of architectural replicas representing significant Islamic landmarks. These replicas include famous mosques, palaces, and monuments from various Islamic civilizations, allowing visitors to explore the diverse architectural styles and historical periods.

2. Chinatown Terengganu

Chinatown in Terengganu, also known as Kampung Cina, is a vibrant and historic neighborhood. It reflects the Chinese cultural influence in the heart of Kuala Terengganu, featuring traditional Chinese shophouses with colorful facades and intricate designs. These cultural institutions add to the well-preserved historical ambiance and charm of the area.

Chinatown comes alive during Chinese festivals, such as Chinese New Year. The streets are adorned with decorations, and cultural performances and festivities take place, attracting locals and tourists alike. Other than that, you can explore the heritage trail of Chinatown, which takes you through the historical sites and landmarks of the area.

3. Terengganu River

The Terengganu River flows through the state of Terengganu on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It originates from the Titiwangsa Mountain Range and flows into the South China Sea, sitting at a length of 180 kilometres. The river has facilitated transportation for centuries now, serving as a natural route for the movement of goods and people.

Nowadays, the river supports a vibrant fishing industry, providing livelihoods for local communities. Traditional fishing methods, as well as aquaculture practices, contribute to the region’s seafood production. Boat cruises along the Terengganu River are also a popular tourist activity, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely rides down the riverside communities.

Famous Mosques in Terengganu

Terengganu has many different things to offer visitors, but one of its most prominent features are its many culturally significant mosques. Islamic culture and heritage go hand-in-hand with Terengganu’s history, and as such many of these mosques are now significant landmarks in the state.

1. Masjid Kristal (Crystal Mosque)

The Crystal Mosque is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. It is constructed with steel, glass, and crystal, giving it a futuristic and ethereal appearance comes from its crystal cladding on its domes and minarets. The crystal elements sparkle when illuminated, creating a mesmerizing effect, especially during the evening when the mosque is lit up.

The mosque is strategically built on the Terengganu River, creating an illusion that it is floating on water, especially during high tide. This unique feature adds to the mosque’s allure and has made it a popular photography spot. There’s also a Visitors Center where tourists can learn more about the mosque’s history, architecture, and the cultural significance of Islamic art.

2. Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque

Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque, also known as the Floating Mosque, is notable for its scenic surroundings. The mosque offers panoramic views of the Terengganu River and the South China Sea. The surrounding landscape includes lush greenery and a peaceful environment, making it a picturesque destination for both worship and tourism.

The mosque is named after Tengku Tengah Zaharah, the late wife of Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, the Sultan of Terengganu. The name honors her memory and contributions to the local community. Its strategic location on the estuary of the Terengganu River near the Kuala Ibai Lagoon gives it the appearance of a mosque floating on the water, especially during high tide.

3. Abidin Mosque

The Abidin Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Terengganu, with its construction dating back to 1793. It holds historical significance as a symbol of Terengganu’s rich Islamic heritage. What sets the Abidin Mosque apart is its construction entirely from wood, without the use of nails. The mosque’s intricate carpentry work includes beautiful floral motifs and geometric patterns all over its structure.

The interior of the mosque is equally impressive, featuring a spacious prayer hall adorned with beautiful carpets and traditional Islamic calligraphy. The wooden pillars and beams create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Over the years, efforts have been made to preserve and maintain the historical integrity of the Abidin Mosque.

Best Marketplaces in Terengganu

Terengganu boasts many vibrant marketplaces that offer a glimpse into the local culture, crafts, and culinary delights. These range in specialty, from cultural markets that focus on traditional clothing and jewelry, to food markets with hawkers and vendors selling all manner of local and international cuisine. They’re dotted all over Terengganu, but here we’ve listed some of the more popular ones.

1. Pasar Payang (Payang Market)

Pasar Payang is one of the most famous markets in Terengganu. Sitting in the heart of Kuala Terengganu, this bustling marketplace offers a wide range of goods, including traditional Malay batik, textiles, handicrafts, souvenirs, and local snacks. It’s a fantastic place to experience the local atmosphere and shop for unique items you can’t find anywhere else.

2. Pasar Batu Buruk (Batu Buruk Market)

Located near Batu Buruk Beach in Kuala Terengganu, this market is known for its variety of street food. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies while taking in the coastal breeze. The market is especially lively in the evenings when more vendors begin to open shop. This market is definitely geared more towards foodies, though some vendors do offer other types of goods as well.

3. Bazaar Warisan (Warisan Bazaar)

Bazaar Warisan is a heritage market located in Kampung China. It focuses on traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs that showcase the cultural heritage of Terengganu. The market is an excellent place to discover unique handmade items and souvenirs of your time in Terengganu. As is the case with the other markets, Bazaar Warisan also brings with it a drove of food vendors.

Popular Beach Islands in Terengganu

Ask anyone about Terengganu, and the first thing that comes are its stunning islands and beaches. Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life attract tourists in droves, quickly becoming a highlight of the Terengganu tourism experience. If you’re looking for a nice beach day to rest and relax, then here are some good options.

1. Pulau Redang (Redang Island)

Redang Island is the most popular tourist destination in Terengganu, and it’s abundantly clear why. With beautiful powdery white sand beaches and picturesque surroundings, it’s a dream for anyone wanting to go on a beach vacation. For fans of snorkeling and diving, Redang is also a marine conservation area, which makes it the perfect spot for some snorkeling action.

Redang Island has a ton of amenities available for visitors, with higher levels of development compared to the other islands. Accommodations range from the lavish and luxurious to more affordable options. Redang is also always eventful, which can make it less relaxing, but enticing for those who like always having things to do.

2. Pulau Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian Island)

The Perhentian Islands are made up of two landmasses, those being Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. Perhentian Besar is naturally the bigger of the two, and also the more laid-back one. With lush jungles and beautiful beaches, Pulau Perhentian Besar has a ton to do, while also maintaining its calm, relaxing atmosphere and vibe.

Of the two islands, Perhentian Besar offers more for families and people just looking to relax. Accommodation is generally a bit pricier than Perhentian Kecil, with more luxurious options being the focus. The nature trails on Perhentian Besar are easy to follow and well maintained as well. Generally, Perhentian Besar is a good place to go if you’re looking to unwind more than you want to party.

3. Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island)

The smaller counterpart to Pulau Perhentian Besar makes up for its size in its sheer breadth of activities. Pulau Perhentian Kecil has the same beautiful beaches, but it has a much livelier atmosphere and vibe. Generally, things are more condensed, meaning you’ll get to see more people, experience a lot more things and have more fun here.

Some chalets and resorts are a fair bit more isolated, but generally with Perhentian Kecil, you’re missing out if you aren’t close to the center of the island. Perhentian Kecil is also generally a bit more affordable than Perhentian Besar, with lower-cost resorts and cheaper eats all around the island. When night hits, things still go back to being laid-back, giving it a nice balance.

4. Pulau Kapas (Kapas Island)

If you’re more interested in a quiet, serene island experience, then Pulau Kapas is the island for you. Kapas has maintained a more laid-back and undeveloped atmosphere. Accommodations on the island range from simple chalets to eco-friendly resorts, allowing visitors to connect with nature. The calm and clear waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and simply lounging by the sea.

While Kapas is a relatively small island, it offers nature trails that lead through its lush interior. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the island’s greenery, and the viewpoints provide breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding seas. Kapas Island is also a nesting ground for turtles, and during the nesting season, visitors may have the chance to witness turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.

Things to Eat in Terengganu

Terengganu, with its rich cultural heritage, offers a delectable array of traditional Malay and local delicacies. Many of these dishes have become so popular that you can find them all over Malaysia. Come to Terengganu however, and you’ll get a true authentic taste of the rich flavours that these mouthwatering dishes have to offer.

1. Nasi Dagang

A signature dish of the east coast, Nasi Dagang is a flavorful rice dish cooked in coconut milk and served with a side of fish curry, hard-boiled eggs, and pickled vegetables. It’s a breakfast favorite in Terengganu. Typically, Nasi Dagang Atas Tol often gets recommended as one of the best, and we agree.

2. Nasi Kerabu

Nasi Kerabu features its signature blue-tinted rice, dyed with butterfly pea flowers. It is typically served with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, salted eggs, and grilled fish or chicken. The dish is known for its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors. Fauzi Nasi Kerabu are well-known for their tantalizing version of the dish.

3. Keropok Lekor

Keropok Lekor is a popular local snack made from fish paste, sago flour, and various spices. The mixture is shaped into cylindrical forms and deep-fried until crispy. It is often enjoyed with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. You can generally find this snack food just about anywhere in Terengganu, don’t hesitate to try it.

4. Otak-Otak

Otak-Otak consists of fish or seafood blended with herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled or steamed. It results in a flavorful and aromatic fish cake that’s a favorite among locals. Most restaurants you visit in Terengganu will have a stall selling this delectable snack.

5. Laksam

Laksam is a type of rice noodle roll served with a rich coconut milk-based gravy, shredded fish, and herbs. The dish is known for its creamy texture and distinctive taste, as well as it’s thick cut, rolled up rice noodles. This is another one of those dishes that’s available in many places, so try it wherever you find it!

6. Ayam Percik

Ayam Percik is grilled or roasted chicken marinated in a flavorful mixture of coconut milk, herbs, and spices. The result is tender and juicy chicken with a deliciously spiced exterior, caked in seasoning. It’s typically a side dish and other restaurants, but the best stuff tends to be served at marketplaces like the aforementioned Pasar Batu Buruk.

When is the Best Time to Visit Terengganu?

Terengganu is really at its best between February to April, where days are sunny without being too hot. Rain can really damper your experience visiting Terengganu, so avoid October to January as they feature heavy rainfall. May to September isn’t too bad, though the weather gets incredibly hot and the rain can fall sporadically.

How Many Days Do You Need In Terengganu?

Depending on how you plan your trip, Terengganu is a relatively short visit. You can explore most of what the coastal state has to offer in about three days. If you’re visiting the islands however, you may want to stay longer to enjoy the island life and still get a taste for Terengganu’s unique mainland offerings.

Where to Stay in Terengganu?

Most hotels in Terengganu, be it on the islands or the mainland, tend to lean towards the more affordable end. Many of these aren’t the best, which is why we’ve curated a list that makes it easier to choose a comfortable stay. The ones we’ve selected here are clean, well maintained and get many customers throughout the year.

• Grand Puteri Hotel – A comfortable and affordable hotel in Kuala Terengganu.
• Primula Beach Resort – A beachside hotel that’s affordable and cozy.
• Redang Reef Resort – A 3-star hotel in Pulau Redang that’s solid.
• The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort – A luxurious 5-star beach resort in Pulau Redang.
• Perhentian Island Resort – One of the better affordable resorts in Perhentian Besar.
• Alunan Resort – A secluded but excellent resort in Perhentian Kecil.
• Kapas Coral Beach Resort – One of the main sources of accommodation in Pulau Kapas.

How Do You Get Around in Terengganu?

As with any place in Malaysia, motorcycles and cars tend to be the main method of transport. It’s convenient, and getting to the more obscure spots in Terengganu practically requires them. If you’re mainly going for the islands however, you can take a bus to Kuala Terengganu and then simply walk everywhere else.

Conclusion

Terengganu is laid-back, moving at its own pace at all times. Turtle watching, beaches and island hopping is the main source of fun here, and you’re encouraged to relax at all times. If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, then Terengganu may not have much to offer. On the other hand, those craving rest and relaxation will find a ton to appreciate in the beautiful state.