If you are looking for enriching cultural experiences in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, a visit to Kampung Kraftangan & Muzium Kraf (Handicraft Village & Craft Museum) is an absolute must. Housed in traditional stilted wooden Malay architecture (rumah panggung) in the Kota Sultan Ismail Petra heritage zone along Jalan Hilir Kota and Jalan Merbau, this cultural complex (also known as Balai Getam Guri) was established by state cultural and tourism authorities to preserve and showcase Kelantan’s artisan trades. It is one of the most rewarding family-friendly things to do near Troika Kota Bharu.
Authentic Artisan Trades and Interactive Workshops
Inside the complex, the ground floor features open-air artisan stalls where visitors can witness live craft demonstrations. You can watch master artisans practicing batik canting (wax-resist painting), intricate songket weaving on traditional wooden looms, silversmithing, and wood carving. For a hands-on experience, families and children can take part in craft activities, such as painting their own batik cloth piece to bring home as a keepsake (typically RM10 to RM20 depending on canvas size).
Upstairs, the craft museum galleries display an array of Kelantanese artisanal heritage. You will discover traditional Malay wedding costumes, royal regalia, silverware, antique tools, and Kelantan’s giant Wau (moon kites). Access to the craft village grounds and workshops is free, while entry to the upstairs museum galleries involves a nominal fee of approximately RM2.00 per adult, purchased directly at the counter on arrival. You can also purchase authentic souvenirs directly from the artisans, including handmade batik shirts, scarves, songket, woven handicrafts, and carved keris hilts.
Practical Tips for Muslim Families and Getting There
Getting to the village is simple. Residensi Troika on Jalan Sultan Ibrahim is located just 1.5 to 2.0 km south of the complex. It takes approximately 5 to 8 minutes by Grab, taxi, or car along Jalan Sultan Ibrahim and Jalan Hilir Kota (with paid or street parking available around the square), or a pleasant 20 to 25-minute walk north through the town centre toward Padang Merdeka.
The complex typically operates from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM, Saturday through Thursday. It is closed or runs on limited hours on Fridays for weekly rest and Friday prayers (Solat Jumaat), making Saturday to Thursday morning ideal for visiting. Because Kelantan observes conservative standards (Serambi Mekah), modest clothing covering the shoulders and knees is expected, with loose cotton recommended for the humid climate.
For meals and prayers, the venue is exceptionally accommodating for Muslim travelers. Located directly inside the compound is the famous, 100% Muslim-owned Restoran Nasi Ulam Cikgu (Restoran Nasi Ulam Kampung Kraftangan), open from approximately 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closed Fridays). Here, you can enjoy authentic Kelantanese herbal rice (nasi ulam), fresh raw vegetables with budu, fried river fish, and local Malay side dishes. Basic prayer spaces are available on-site, and Kota Bharu’s historic state mosque, Masjid Muhammadi, is just a 3- to 5-minute walk (300 to 400 meters) away for your daily prayers.
After an inspiring day exploring local heritage and craft traditions, return to the comfort of Troika Kota Bharu. As a premier Muslim-friendly hotel Kota Bharu, it provides the perfect base for a restful, halal-friendly stay in the heart of the city.
Photo: Ruyat Supriazi / Pexels
