With a total population of just over 250,000 according to a 2019 survey, Perlis is the smallest state in Malaysia. This charming state spans 892 km and is about a 5-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur. I had the opportunity to visit Perlis last week, and here are a few attractions worth exploring while you’re there.
Gua Kelam, or Dark Cave, is located 27 km from Kangar, the capital of Perlis. This is an essential stop when visiting the state. True to its name, the cave is quite dark, but don’t worry—there are lights along the 1.5 km pathway inside. I visited alone, and it was a bit unsettling; it felt cold, dark, and windy. The sound of rushing water beneath the walkway reminded me of the story of the 12 Thai boys trapped deep inside Tham Luang cave. It must have been a terrifying experience for them.
Around the area, you can explore the Secret Garden or enjoy a picnic near the cave—just make sure to check with local authorities about the water levels, as it can be dangerous.
Padang Besar is a border town located in the northern part of Perlis, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Kangar and about 57 km southwest of Hat Yai. It’s known as a shopping paradise for Thai snacks and delicious food. Additionally, it’s a checkpoint for crossing into Thailand’s Songkhla Province. I recommend two shopping spots—Arked Niaga and Padang Walmart. Personally, I prefer Padang Walmart for its wider selection. If you use Waze to navigate to Padang Besar, you’ll pass by the AKSEM (Agensi Kawalan Sempadan Malaysia) checkpoint, where they will ask about your destination and purpose of visit, but there’s no need to worry.
The museum, situated on a 2-hectare plot, is just a 10-minute drive from Kangar. It features three galleries: the General Gallery, the Archaeological Gallery, and the Perlis Gallery. The museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and best of all, entrance is free!
Bukit Keteri, a well-known limestone formation in Perlis, rises 65 meters high. The climb to the top takes about 30 minutes and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding paddy fields. To get there easily, search for “Bukit Keteri West” on Google Maps or Waze. The limestone formation is visible on your right as you stand in a paddy field across from a mosque. Unfortunately, I couldn’t climb it during my visit as it was closed, but I heard it’s quite challenging! If you prefer not to climb, you can still capture stunning photos with the limestone backdrop.
It’s important to mention other attractions and activities you can enjoy while in Perlis.
Taman Melati Recreational Park
I spent my evening jogging at Taman Pengkalan Asam. It’s a lovely park featuring a colorful hanging bridge and a beautiful river view. There is also a vibrant rainbow bridge nearby, perfect for photos!
If you’re planning to visit Perlis, I recommend spending two days and one night there. Despite being Malaysia’s smallest state, Perlis offers a unique charm with its quaint towns, lush green paddy fields, and the warm smiles of its people. You’ll find plenty of good hotels in the area—I stayed at Hotel Sri Garden, a 2-star establishment that provides all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
