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Malaysia
Mosques
Floating Mosque of Perlis: Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis
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| Floating Mosque of Perlis: Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
While many tourists are familiar with the world-renowned Langkawi, Perlis - a state located just 30 miles from the island - is often overlooked. As Malaysia's most northern state that borders Thailand's Satun province, this smallest state in the country has a lot more to offer beyond just delicious food, traditional morning markets and the majestic limestone hills and caves, such as the historical Gua Kelam which is rich with mining histories and artifacts. Have extra time on hand? Why not visit one of the state's most iconic mosque that is built on the sea?
Floating Mosque of Perlis: Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis
There are several must-see attractions in Perlis, such as the incredibly beautiful Al Hussain Mosque that will surely charm both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Dubbed as one of the most beautiful mosque in Malaysia, Masjid Al Hussain makes up for what it lacks in size with the most amazing unobstructed view of the Strait of Malacca.
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| The majestic Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
Built next to the Kuala Perlis Jetty, the structure extends over the sea that has helped it to earn the nickname of a floating mosque. When the tide is at its highest, the mosque appears to be drifting over the sea and this view - accompanied with the setting sun, makes the experience extra memorable and magical.
Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis is one of the greatest spots in Perlis to admire the sunset. The unique colour combination of the sky form an enchanting and rather dramatic backdrop for the mosque, while the mellow sea breeze makes the stay worthwhile and delightful. Don't forget to whip out your camera to capture the sweetest shots to bring home!
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| The breathtaking sunset at Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
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| Beautiful, unobstructed view of the Strait of Malacca at Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
One of the greatest feature of Masjid Al Hussain is its walls - instead of being painted, it is exquisitely adorned with the most beautiful selection of marble, pebbles, quartz and granite. The uniquely tactile and textured surface enhances the delicate lines on its grand gold-and-blue dome, which is constructed using aluminium and protective Polyvinylidene Diffluoride (PVDF). The mosque also takes pride in its twin minarets which are the world's first hexagonal minarets.
As the sun sets, the building comes alive and is illuminated with outdoor lights with each colour representing the different prayer times of the day. As Perlis is still relatively undeveloped compared to other states in Malaysia, you will find birds and insects such as dragonflies roaming freely around the compound. The peaceful environment allows you to feel calm and humbled as you immerse in the heavenly positive energy.
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| Soak up the amazing and calming energy at Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis |
How to Get to Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis, Perlis, Malaysia
As there is no direct flight to Perlis, you can hop onto a plane and land at one of the nearest airport either in Alor Setar or Langkawi.
If you are coming by car, take the North-South (PLUS) Highway and make your way to the Changlun- Kuala Perlis highway to arrive at Kuala Perlis - the second-largest town in Perlis. Alternatively, take the ETS train from KL Sentral in Kuala Lumpur and get off at Arau.
Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis
Lot 5392, Persiaran Putra Timur, 02000 Kuala Perlis, Perlis, Malaysia
Contact number: +604-985 5000, +6011-3545 1301
For related articles, click here.
Don't forget to visit the distinctive Masjid Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail during your trip to Perlis too!
Malaysia
Travel
Booking.com
Gua Kelam of Perlis, Malaysia: Everything You Need to Know
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| Gua Kelam of Perlis, Malaysia: Everything You Need to Know |
Gua Kelam is one of the most underrated caves in Malaysia. Also known as the Cave of Darkness, this interesting Perlis attraction is made up of two smaller connected caves known as Gua Kelam 1 and Gua Kelam 2. The journey into the cave begins at Kaki Bukit and ends unexpectedly at a beautifully landscaped open park. The gangway that runs through the cave keeps curious visitors on track while safety gears such as helmets must be put on at all times as there are several narrow areas with low ceilings and long stalactites.
Note: This article talks about one of the best kept secret of Gua Kelam. Continue reading to learn about this hidden location.
Exploring Gua Kelam of Perlis, Malaysia
The walk through Gua Kelam is a breeze, and it is unlike many of the caving experiences I’ve had. It is absolutely suitable for those who are looking to learn more about the country’s mining history, but adventure seekers can choose a different option - which brings you through the same route but ends with an one-hour river wading experience.
For the usual route: You will not get wet and you will not require a head lamp. There is very minimal climbing involved, other than a few flights of stairs.
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| Upon reaching the site, you will see the Perlis State Forestry Department office |
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| Gua Kelam is located within the Banjaran Nakawan range of Thailand-Malaysia |
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| There is more honestly more climbing involved outside of the cave than inside (heh) |
The History of Gua Kelam
Located 33 kilometres north of Kangar, this 370-metre long cavern was formed during the country’s olden tin-mining days. In 1935, the English used the water pathways as a channel to transport tin ores from the mine which they discovered within Kaki Bukit's underground cavern. According to history, the name Gua Kelam is given by the miners due to the darkness within the cave. The miners had to use carbide lamps to light up the cave in order to carry out their activities.
Today, there is a wooden walkway that has been built inside the cave for visitors to walk on. Almost everything inside the cave are left the way they were - including remnants from the tin mining activities.
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| The out-of-service trolley train rails that were used in the past to get into the the cave |
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| A wooden walkway is built for visitors to walk on throughout the cave |
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| Helmets are a must as the roofs are lower in certain parts of the cave |
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| The guide stops to point out interesting features in the cave |
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| Explanation by the guide is very detailed, making the tour an interesting one |
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| Formations in the Gua Kelam |
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| We were so lucky to come across a cave-dwelling frog! |
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| More interesting formations (which names I unfortunately do not recall) |
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| Another group of visitors ahead of us. |
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| If you look close enough, you can see writings in the cave that were left behind by the former cave dwellers - miners that were brought here to work from China by the British |
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| Inside Gua Kelam, you will find writings on the walls with a similar theme: the miners' professing their love for women and their longing to return home. |
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| Unique inscriptions found in Gua Kelam |
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| 'Graffiti’ on the walls of Gua Kelam |
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| Writings on the walls left behind by the miners in Gua Kelam, believed to be written using charcoal. |
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| A hoe left behind from the mining era |
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| You will find "doors" within the caves marked with initials at the borders that separate different territories belonging to different leaders |
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| The mesmerising interior of Gua Kelam |
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| Interesting formations within Gua Kelam |
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| Remnants from the tin mining operations can still be found intact in Gua Kelam |
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| Beautiful interiors of Gua Kelam |
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| The guide stops to show us the formations in Gua Kelam |
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| One of the many interesting formations in the Kelam Cave |
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| Interiors of Gua Kelam |
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| Beautiful natural formations within the Gua Kelam cave |
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| 天 means sky. The Chinese offer their prayers to Tian (天) which is one of the oldest Chinese term for heaven. This small area is found within Gua Kelam that shows the miners' praying rituals. |
The Secret of Gua Kelam: The Highlight of Our Experience
Almost halfway into the eye-opening caving experience, the guide stopped and told us that he has a surprise in store for us.
In front of us was a steep pile of rubble and crushed rocks. He told us that if we make the climb, we will discover Gua Kelam’s most precious secret.
I thought to myself, “Finally, some real action!” I was so excited. I cannot possibly be anymore ready.
The climb is steep but very short. To our surprise, on top of the rubble is another sizable cave - but this one is different: it holds a few shocking remnants from the past.
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| The steep climb to a secret location within Gua Kelam |
We were stunned to find what is in this cave.
There isn't any information about these findings online. This is a secret treasure that you will only discover during your visit to Gua Kelam.
Within this mini cave are several cairns - or man-made piles of stones that according to history, are typically erected as burial monuments, for defense or for ceremonial purposes. The local authorities are against the idea of knocking down these historical structures, so no one is able to tell what is hidden beneath these cairns with certainty.
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| These hidden cairns within Gua Kelam is the cave's best kept secrets. |
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| I only took archaeology for one semester in university, but I am convinced that these cairns are burial sites for the miners who died during their time in Gua Kelam. In Chinese customs, alcohol (typically rice wine) is placed on the altar before being offered in libation by pouring it in front of the tombstone horizontally from right to left with both hands in honor of the deceased. |
I am still in awe with what I saw.
Think you have the answers for Gua Kelam's greatest mystery? Go on a guided tour into this hidden part of the cave and make your own observations.
Gua Kelam Map
Although there is a map and wooden path to guide you through the cave, hiring a tour guide is a must as the cave is huge.
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| The map of Gua Kelam |
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| Information on Gua Kelam |
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| Upon exiting Gua Kelam, you will be greeted by this beautiful lake and a manicured park. |
Gua Kelam Rock Climbing, Hiking & Flying Fox
There are many activities available at Gua Kelam, such as flying fox and rock-climbing.
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| Craving for some actions? Gua Kelam has a series of activities lined up for visitors, such as flying fox. |
Gua Kelam 3D Gallery
The Gua Kelam 3D Gallery opened in December 2019, and it is the first of its kind gallery in Perlis. It showcases five different concepts, which are flora and fauna, tropical rainforest, mining, cave and the Malaysian jungle. Many of its walls are painted by local artists which make great backgrounds for photographs.
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| Preserved snakes found in Gua Kelam |
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| Remnants left behind by the Chinese miners in Gua Kelam |
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| Display of preserved butterflies that can be found in the Perlis State Park |
Gua Kelam Camping
There is an allocated camping ground at Gua Kelam, called the Hujan-Hujan Camp Site. Gazebos, an activity hall and other facilities are available. Campsite rental charges are priced at RM2 per adult and RM1 for students.
Please inquire before your visit if you are planning to camp here.
Gua Kelam Nature Run
The Gua Kelam Nature Run or #GEKRUN is an annual marathon that brings participants through narrow town trails along former mining sites, state parks, rubber farms, limestone caves and oil palm plantation. The event starts and ends at the entrance to Gua Kelam located at Kaki Bukit, Perlis.
Be a Responsible Visitor at Gua Kelam
There are certain parts in the tunnels which are narrow with low ceilings. Although you will be given a protective helmet, always be aware of your surroundings and try to avoid grazing the roofs as you could be breaking the calcite crystal straws which take decades to form!
Most importantly, do not vandalise! Walking through the last part of the cave was a heart-breaking experience
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| Vandalism found near the exit of the cave by irresponsible visitors when the cave was open to public a few years ago. |
How to Get to Gua Kelam, Perlis
You can reach Gua Kelam either by car or public transport.
If you are going by bus, hop onto a bus that heads to Kaki Bukit from the Kangar’s main bus station, and walk for 10 minutes to get to the ticket office.
If you are going by car, exit from the North-South Highway (PLUS) via Changlun and take the Changlun-Kuala Perlis highway to Kangar and drive toward Padang Besar. Look out for signboards with Kaki Bukit.
Gua Kelam Guest House & Hotels
There are several guest houses and budget hotels located close to Gua Kelam available for less than RM100 per night. For a more comfortable stay, you can opt for hotels in the city that are located approximately 20 kilometres away.
Gua Kelam Ticket Price
Here is the list of ticket prices for the activities and services in Gua Kelam:
(Mykad / Non-Mykad)
Gua Kelam 1 Entrance Fees
Adult RM3 / RM5
Child RM1 / RM3
Gua Kelam 3D Gallery
Adult RM3 / RM5
Child RM2 / RM3
Gua Kelam 2 Guided Tour
RM80 per group (max 10 pax)
Gua Kelam Perlis, Malaysia
Address: KM 2, Jalan Kaki Bukit, 01000 Kangar, Perlis
Phone Number: +604-938 4466 (Perlis Forestry Office), +6012-455 2121
Email: forestry@perlisforestry.gov.my
Opening hours: 9.00am-6.00pm
For related articles, click here.
Food
Malaysia
10 Must-Try Local Food in Perlis
Perlis is a wonderland for food explorers.
Located just beneath Thailand’s Satun province, the food variety in Perlis carries heavy Thai influences while staying true to its Malay roots. Expect plenty of sweetness, spices and piquant herbs with each bite! As Perlis is also one of the largest rice-producing state in Malaysia, you will notice that rice dishes in all forms and shapes are loved by the locals of all ages.
Read also: A Truly Authentic Local Market: Nat Pokok Getah Arau, Perlis
This sweet and uber crispy traditional snack is made from rice flour and it resembles vermicelli because of its thin texture. To make Kuih Karas, the liquidy batter is scooped into a coconut shell pierced with tiny holes that allow the formation of long, thin strings when it flows through them and hits the hot oil.
Read also: Experience Malay Culture at Kampung Raga Homestay, Kedah
The Belinggai fruit is also known as the wood apple, and those planted in Perlis typically ripe during the eastern wind season. The content from the fruit is added to coconut milk to make the sira. This traditional mixture can be eaten with ringgi or emping and enjoyed as a hearty evening snack.
Need a cold, refreshing drink to go with all these delicious traditional delicacies of Perlis? Why not try Air Nira Nipah - a natural drink derived from the Nipah palms that are planted locally here. Get the freshest nira drink at the Ladang Nipah Kipli of Sanglang, Perlis!
Eat well and don't stop exploring!
Located just beneath Thailand’s Satun province, the food variety in Perlis carries heavy Thai influences while staying true to its Malay roots. Expect plenty of sweetness, spices and piquant herbs with each bite! As Perlis is also one of the largest rice-producing state in Malaysia, you will notice that rice dishes in all forms and shapes are loved by the locals of all ages.
Read also: A Truly Authentic Local Market: Nat Pokok Getah Arau, Perlis
10 Must-Try Local Food in Perlis
Kuih Dangai
Kuih Dangai is a popular traditional snack in northern Malaysia, particularly in Perlis and Kedah. It is prepared simply using glutinous rice flour, grated coconut, sugar and salt, and is grilled until it is beautifully brown and crispy on the outside. |
| Kuih Dangai is a popular traditional snack in Perlis Photo credit: syok.my |
Emping
Emping is the Malay word for rice flakes. This unique traditional snack is made using the young, green grains of the glutinous paddy that are separated from their husks through several heating and pounding processes. It is customarily served with freshly grated coconut, sugar and salt, and is delicious when eaten during the colder, windier months here. |
| Emping made from young green glutinous paddy rice is a nutritious and popular food in Perlis |
Mempelam Harum Manis
Harum means fragrant and manis means sweet - this should give you an idea of how the Harum Manis mangoes taste like! The fruit is seasonal and hence more expensive compared to other types of mangoes, and it can only be found in Perlis and some parts of Kedah. It has a high demand thanks to its rich taste and rarity. |
| Mempelam Harum Manis is the most demanded type of mango in Perlis |
Pulut Mempelam
This dish comes in two parts: pulut sibar (sticky glutinous rice mixed with rich coconut milk) and slices of sweet, juicy local mangoes. It is also very common to find other topping varieties such as durian, banana and even sapodilla. After all, anything goes well with rice! |
| Pulut Mempelam is a common dish in Perlis, and it is highly similar to the Thai mango sticky rice |
Laksa Perlis
As the most popular and appreciated dish in this state, Laksa Perlis a sour and savoury noodle soup bowl that consists of rice noodles, torch ginger, daum kesum or vietnamese coriander, as well as local fish - typically mackerels and round scads. Compared to other varieties of Laksa across Malaysia, Laksa Perlis has a relatively thicker gravy and a paler hue. |
| The famous Laksa Perlis |
Pulut Ikan Kering
A very common breakfast dish in Perlis, Pulut Ikan Kering is enjoyed by all classes of the society and is typically served during large social events. It only consists of three simple yet richly textured ingredients including glutinous rice, dried fish and grated coconut. |
| Simple yet gratifying: Pulut Ikan Kering - a popular breakfast food in Perlis |
Pekasam Puyu
This traditional dish of fermented fish is a common appetizer to start a meal in Perlis. The primary component of this dish is Ikan Puyu or the Climbing Perch which is a common freshwater fish in this part of the world. It is fermented for about two months together with rice that has been fried, tamarind and salt. There are other varieties of fish that are also fermented in a similar way, including the Javanese carps and Tilapia. |
| Pekasam Puyu is a traditional fermented fish dish in Perlis Photo credit: Jabatan Penerangan Malaysia |
Kuih Karas
This sweet and uber crispy traditional snack is made from rice flour and it resembles vermicelli because of its thin texture. To make Kuih Karas, the liquidy batter is scooped into a coconut shell pierced with tiny holes that allow the formation of long, thin strings when it flows through them and hits the hot oil.Read also: Experience Malay Culture at Kampung Raga Homestay, Kedah
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| Kuih Karas is a sweet and crispy snack from Perlis, Malaysia |
Mentarang
I finally had the opportunity to try Mentarang or the Angel Wing clams for the first time during my recent trip to Perlis! These molluscs are scientifically called the Pholas Orientalis and they breed in the muddy shores of Kuala Perlis. The most popular method of cooking Mentarang is by grilling or stewed in a hearty turmeric gravy. |
| Love seafood? Menterang is a popular choice here and it is both juicy and huge! |
Nasi Ulam
This beautiful and colourful rice dish is a salad of nutritional and healing tropical herbs and aromatic spices. Leaves and fruits from plants such as putat, sekuntut, selo, mentalun, noni and cemumar are shredded into tiny pieces before being mixed into rice that has been cooked. Dried fish is usually added to give saltiness to the dish. |
| Delicious and nutritious Nasi Ulam from Perlis Photo credit: phoenixhillna.org |
Sira Belinggai
The Belinggai fruit is also known as the wood apple, and those planted in Perlis typically ripe during the eastern wind season. The content from the fruit is added to coconut milk to make the sira. This traditional mixture can be eaten with ringgi or emping and enjoyed as a hearty evening snack. |
| Belinggai or the wood apple is surprisingly a highly appreciated fruit in Perlis, Malaysia Photo credit: FirstCry Parenting |
Need a cold, refreshing drink to go with all these delicious traditional delicacies of Perlis? Why not try Air Nira Nipah - a natural drink derived from the Nipah palms that are planted locally here. Get the freshest nira drink at the Ladang Nipah Kipli of Sanglang, Perlis!
Eat well and don't stop exploring!
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