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Cultural Centre
 Located on
Jalan Mahmud close to the Perdana Hotel, the cultural centre is a
veritable showcase of the living heritage of Kelantan. Demonstrations of
popular folk arts and pastimes are held daily. Wayang Kulit (shadow
puppetry) shows, Silat (the Malay art of self defence) performances,
Gasing (top spinning) displays, Wau (kite flying) and Rebana (giant
drum) playing can all be seen at the centre. Evenings see cultural
performances featuring traditional Malay music and Wayang Kulit.
The cultural centre is
open three times a week from March to October each year. Performance
times are 3.30pm to 5.50pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and 9.00pm
to midnight on Wednesday and Saturday.
World War Two
Memorial/Bank Kerapu
Originally constructed in 1911, Bank Kerapu is now a repository for
documents, pictures and military paraphernalia of the Japanese
Occupation from 1941 to 1945. During the war, the building served as the
headquarters of the Japanese Kempetai, the feared secret police.
State Mosque
 Construction
of this mosque was completed during the reign of Sultan Ismail IV after
almost a decade of work. Also known as the Al-Muhammadi Mosque or the
‘Brick Mosque’, it is the centre for Islamic missionary activities in
the state.
Istana
Jahar
Built in 1887 by Sultan Mohamad II for his grandson, Long Kundur, the
Istana Jahar has been transformed into a museum featuring Kelantan's
cultural heritage. Photographs and a great variety of artefacts bear
testimony to the rich Kelantanese cultural legacy. The building itself
is laced with intricate wood carvings, serving as an example of the fine
craftsmanship of local artisans.
State
Museum
The State Museum located along Jalan Hospital incorporates the State Art
Gallery. The building itself was utilised as the land office from
colonial times until 1990 when major renovations were carried out to
convert it into a museum. The museum documents the arts, crafts and
musical traditions of Kelantan. Ceramic displays testify to the early
trade with China and artefacts from local archaeological sites provide
evidence of the existence of the pre-historic age in Kelantan.
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Historical Zone
The main cultural and historical zone of Kota Bharu is situated along
Jalan Hilir Kota and Jalan Sultan where many museums and heritage
buildings are located. Some museums charge a nominal fee for admission.
Royal Museum/Istana
Batu
The Istana Batu (Brick/ Stone Palace) was constructed in 1939 during the
reign of Sultan Ismail.
It houses the Royal Museum and was previously used as the venue for
royal weddings and as a guest house for visiting royalty.
The Royal Museum now
serves as a repository for the history of the Kelantan royal family and
displays regalia, pictures, furniture, silverware and palace items of
former Sultans. Opening times 8.30am to 4.45pm daily - except Fridays.
Handicraft
Village and Craft Museum
While the Craft Museum houses many fine examples of Kelantanese
craftsmanship, the adjacent Handicraft Village provides visitors the
chance to see just how these crafts are made. Demonstrations of
traditional embroidery, songket weaving, batik printing, silver work and
wood carving are carried out by skilled artisans. Their products are
also on sale at the centre.
Istana Balai
Besar
Built by Sultan Muhammad II in 1840, the Istana Balai Besar was formerly
the residence of past Sultans. However, it is now used solely as a venue
for official state functions. The palace boasts a large audience hall, a
throne room and a fine collection of royal regalia.
Islamic Museum
The Islamic Museum traces the history of Islam in Kelantan. Exhibits
include Islamic Arts and Crafts and photographs of some of the personal
belongings of Prophet Muhammad and Islamic historical sites. The museum
reflects not only the importance of Islam in Kelantan but also the
position of the state as a centre of Islamic learning.
Merdeka Square
Other interesting sites in Kota Bharu include Merdeka (Independence)
Square, State Government offices and raft houses along the river banks.
Kuala Krai
Museum and Mini Zoo
 Located in Kuala Krai
about 64 km from Kota Bharu, the mini zoo is home to a variety of
animals such as bears, deer, monkeys and birds. The mini museum houses a
collection of preserved animals as well as photographs and documents
relating to the founding of Kuala Krai. Opening hours: 9.00am - 6.00pm
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