Do I need a visa to visit Kedah?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia for short stays; check with the Malaysian embassy.

Is English widely spoken in Kedah?

Yes, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas like Langkawi and in hotels, but learning basic Malay phrases is helpful in rural regions.

What is the currency used in Kedah?

The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Can I drink alcohol in Kedah?

Alcohol is available in Langkawi due to its duty-free status and in licensed establishments elsewhere, but consumption is less common in conservative mainland areas.

What are the must-try foods in Kedah?

Don't miss laksa Kedah (spicy fish-based noodle soup), nasi ulam (herb rice), and traditional desserts like dodol. Langkawi offers fresh seafood.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 30-90 days visa-free. Check with Malaysian immigration.

What is the currency?

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). ATMs are widely available.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, in tourist areas and cities. Malay is the official language.

Can I drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or boiled water.

What is the dress code?

Modest clothing is recommended, especially at religious sites.

Is Langkawi duty-free?

Yes, Langkawi is a duty-free island; alcohol and chocolates are cheaper.

How do I get to Langkawi?

By ferry from Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis, or fly into Langkawi International Airport.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid pointing with your finger, use your thumb. Don't touch someone's head.

What is the tipping culture?

Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.

Is it safe to eat street food?

Yes, choose busy stalls with high turnover for freshness.

Can I use credit cards?

Yes, in hotels and larger shops, but cash is needed for small vendors.

Kedah

StateMalaysia, Asia

Kedah is a STATE in Malaysia, Asia.

Kedah, known as the 'Rice Bowl of Malaysia,' is a captivating state in the northwest, offering a serene blend of lush paddy fields, ancient history, and island paradise. Its crown jewel is Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands famed for stunning beaches, the SkyCab cable car, and duty-free shopping. On the mainland, explore Alor Setar's majestic Zahir Mosque and the Kedah Royal Museum, delve into the prehistoric mysteries of the Bujang Valley archaeological site, and trek through the pristine rainforests of Gunung Jerai. Kedah's charm lies in its unhurried pace, where you can cycle through emerald-green rice terraces, savor local delicacies like laksa Kedah and nasi ulam, and experience warm Malay hospitality. The state's cultural tapestry is woven with traditional crafts, such as songket weaving, and vibrant festivals, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking an authentic Malaysian escape beyond the usual tourist trails.

Best time to visit Kedah

December to April is the best time, during the dry season with less rainfall, ideal for beach activities in Langkawi and outdoor exploration. Avoid the monsoon season from August to October, which brings heavy rains and potential flooding. Festivals like Hari Raya Aidilfitri (dates vary) offer cultural experiences but expect crowds. The harvest season around June showcases vibrant green paddy fields.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 25°
Feels like: 31°
Humidity: 98%
Wind: 2 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Rainy 27-32°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Transition month

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

LGK

Langkawi International Airport

International

0 km away

AOR

Sultan Abdul Halim Airport

Domestic

0 km away

PEN

Penang International Airport

International

100 km away

HKT

Phuket International Airport

International

300 km away

Getting around

"In Langkawi, rent cars or scooters (international license required), use taxis (negotiate fares or use meters), or ride-hailing apps like Grab. On the mainland, buses connect major towns, but services can be infrequent. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility to explore rural areas and attractions like Bujang Valley. Trishaws are available for short trips in Alor Setar. Ferries operate to Langkawi from Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis. Domestic flights serve Langkawi International Airport."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+60

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scams are rare but beware of overpriced taxis at ferry terminals.

Night safety

7/10

Scams are rare but beware of overpriced taxis at ferry terminals.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Kedah is generally safe for travelers. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and be cautious on beaches. In Langkawi, watch for strong currents when swimming. Petty theft like bag-snatching can occur in crowded places. Scams are rare but be wary of overcharging by unofficial taxis; use ride-hailing apps. Road safety: drive carefully, especially on rural roads. No specific areas to avoid, but stay informed about local news. Respect local laws and customs to avoid issues."

Police

999

Ambulance

999

Fire

994

Tourist Police

+603-2149 6590

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are adequate in urban areas like Alor Setar and Langkawi, with public hospitals and private clinics. In rural areas, services may be limited. Common health concerns include mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever; use repellent and wear long sleeves. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or boiled water. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; consider hepatitis A and typhoid. Travelers to rural areas may need malaria prophylaxis; consult a doctor. Pharmacies are widely available. Travel insurance with medical coverage is recommended."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas; cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes and some shops. Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items. Tipping is not customary but appreciated in tourist areas; a 10% service charge is often included in bills. Respect Ramadan: avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Greet locals with a smile and a slight nod; handshakes are common, but some Muslim women may avoid physical contact."

MalayEnglishChinese dialectsTamil

Costs and practicals

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) · RM

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Langkawi is slightly more expensive due to tourism.

Timezone

Asia/Kuala_Lumpur +08:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

2,200,000

Area

9,500 km²

Government

Constitutional monarchy with a state government headed by a Menteri Besar (Chief Minister)

ISO code

MY-02

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Кедах, கெடா, קדה, قدح, ケダ, ಕಟಾಹ, Kedah, 吉打州, 크다, कदा, Kedah Darul Aman, Kedahi osariik, کداح, Kedah suyu, قدح (ریاست), केदाह, কেদাহ, قدح دار الأمان;قيدا;قيداه;كيداه;كيدا, ไทรบุร, Kedaho, Quedá, Kedahas, கடாரம், รัฐเกอดะฮ์, MY-02, Darul Aman;Kedah Darul Aman;قدح در الامن;قدح دار الأمان, Kadaram, Kuah, Kuakh, Kuan, Kwah, LGK, Langkawi, Куах

Major HubBeachHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingIslandCulturalNature