Hotels in Perlis

Looking at the Malaysian map, it is evidently clear that Perlis is the smallest state in this country and is probably one of the quietest state too. Being under the Thai Monarchy for some time before being part of Malaysia shows the rich diversity in culture and architecture, a mix between the Thai and the Malaysian heritage.

Up to this very day, Perlis still maintains most of their old, classic world charm. With just the needed development that goes on here and there, Perlis retains their peaceful and quiet life without the interruption of modern infrastructure.

Because of this small size, some of the amazing sights that can be found in Perlis can be covered in a wee amount of time, but don’t let that stop the wanderlust spirit. The rustic living and its calm, mild and simple people is totally worth a visit.

History of Perlis

In the beginning, Perlis was originally part of Kedah, then changed its rule to be under Siam or Aceh. After the Siamese conquered Kedah back in 1821, they separated Perlis into a its own principality, becoming a direct vassal to Bangkok in 1842.

After the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 where Siam was forced to let go of their hold of the Malay vassal state which also includes Perlis to the Great Britain. Down the road, Perlis became part of the Malayan Union, then the Federation of Malaya in 1957 and lastly the Federation of Malaysia in 1963.

The great unity of the people in Perlis can be clearly seen in their hospitality and their character. The sturdy green wreath of paddy that is in the Coat of Arms of Perlis shows the wealth of the kingdom and the chief economic activity of its people and the shield right in the center represents the great pride of the people in Perlis.

How to go to Perlis

By Flight

Unfortunately, there are no direct flight services to Perlis. Visitors would have to fly into Alor Setar (Sultan Abdul Halim Airport) then take a bus or a cab to Kangar which would take about 45 minutes depending on the traffic.

By Train

From Kuala Lumpur and Butterworth, visitors can get to Perlis via the KTM’s Senandung Langkawi which will stop either in Arau or at the Padang Besar Thai-Malaysian Border. The price and the timing are as follow.

• Kuala Lumpur to Arau – 9.15pm, 8.10pm
• First Class (Bed) RM 70 per person
• Second Class (Bed) RM 41 per person
• Second Class (Seat) RM 35 per person

By Bus

There are two different bus service providers that rides from KL straight to Kangar daily.

• Ekspress National – RM 23.50 per person
• Ekspress PPMP – RM 22.00 per person

From Butterworth to Kangar, there is only one bus service provider that commutes daily to Kangar.

• Ebban Ekspress – RM 6.20 per person

Tourist attractions in Perlis

Gua Kelam

Gua Kelam or the Kelam Cave is a 370m long cave located near the peaceful town of Kaki Bukit. The cave was believed to have formed from the erosion of an underground stream where visitors can admire the unique rock formations or be fascinated at the life that forms in this well-lit cave.

• Address: Kaki Bukit, Perlis
• Opening hours: 9am – 6pm daily
• Admission: RM 1 (Adult) RM 0.50 (Child)

Snake Farm

Being one of the only two snake sanctuaries in Malaysia (the other being in Langkawi), the Snake farm here in Perlis has an amazing array of snakes and other reptiles that would surely amaze. Visitors can be amazed at the amazing King Cobra resting peacefully in their cages or even take a photo with them around your neck.

• Address: Sungai Batu Pahat, 01000 Kangar, Perlis
• Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm daily
• Admission Fee: RM 4 (Adults) RM 1(Child)

Watch an Awang Batil Show

Awang Batil is akin to a ‘story-teller’ who tells of the glory and richness of life of the people of olden times. In a sense, Awang Batil is not much different from the minstrels of old England. Awang Batil is an expert with words, albeit colloquial, and as he proceeds with his story he beats a small drum and plays a tune on his flute as and when the story line demands. Such a presentation was normal during a big feast and during one form of festivity or another in times gone by.

Hotels in Perlis

Putra Putri Lodge

Built in December, the Putra Putri Lodge was built to improve the landscape of Repoh by upgrading the thoroughly run-down 35-year-old building and to provide visitors with an alternative choice of affordable and comfortable accommodation.The name “Putra Putri” was derived by virtue of the lodges being located at Taman Putra Putri, a plot of land owned by the late Raja of Perlis.

Putra Regency Hotel

Step into the warm hospitality of Malaysia’s northern-most state at Putra Palace. The premier hotel in Perlis, it is the pre-eminent choice for accommodation, business functions, banquets and dining.

Hotel Seri Malaysia Kangar

Hotel Seri Malaysia is the largest hotel chain in Malaysia with presence all over the country. With an aim to increase medium-cost accommodation and facilities, the Hotel Seri Malaysia in Kangar is fully equipped to cater for all the various needs.

Travel Tips in Perlis

• Be sure to catch all of the cultural shows in Perlis as it is only shown in Perlis and nowhere else. Ranging from traditional dances and traditional games, these activities are passed down through generations. Be sure to catch the “Tarian Canggung” and the “Tarian Ayam Didik”
• Do not expect any kind of nightlife in Perlis. Most shops close way before 10pm and beers can only be purchase at all 7-11 convenient stores.