Pasar Siti Khadijah: A First-Timer’s Guide
Pasar Siti Khadijah in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. For those of you who’ve never experienced the magic of a bustling Southeast Asian market, prepare to have your senses delightfully overwhelmed! This isn’t just a market; it’s a cultural immersion, a feast for the eyes, and a paradise for foodies and souvenir hunters alike.
Getting There: Your Gateway to Kelantan
First things first, how do we get to this incredible destination?
By Air: The easiest way for most international travelers is to fly into Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) in Kota Bharu. Several domestic airlines, like Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Firefly, offer frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur and other major Malaysian cities.
By Train: For a more scenic (and perhaps nostalgic) journey, you can take the “Jungle Railway” from Gemas (which connects to Kuala Lumpur) directly to Wakaf Bharu station, just outside Kota Bharu. It’s a longer journey but offers a unique glimpse into rural Malaysia.
By Bus: Long-distance buses also connect Kota Bharu to various cities across Peninsular Malaysia. It’s the most budget-friendly option but can be quite a long ride.
Once you’re in Kota Bharu, Pasar Siti Khadijah is quite central and easily accessible. Taxis, ride-sharing apps (like Grab), and even local trishaws are readily available.
Where to Rest: Nearby Hotels
Kota Bharu offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. Here are a few recommendations, keeping in mind proximity to the market and traveler comfort:
Luxury: Perdana Kota Bharu
A popular choice for its central location, comfortable rooms, and good facilities. It’s just a short drive or even a pleasant walk to the market.
Premium: Grand Riverview Hotel
Offers great views of the Kelantan River and is also conveniently located near major attractions, including the market.
Mid-Range: Hotel Ma’Wa
Located 200 meters, or 3 minutes walk from Pasar Siti Kadijah, and just 50 meters from Chinatown. Has a games room, children’s playroom and gym, as well as a cafe that serves lunch.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: Numerous smaller hotels and guesthouses can be found around the city center, offering clean and affordable options for those on a tighter budget.
When to Visit: Timing is Everything!
To truly experience Pasar Siti Khadijah in all its glory, timing is crucial.
Best Days: Weekdays are generally preferred. While still lively, they are less crowded than weekends. If you can only go on a weekend, try to go early.
Best Time: Aim for the early morning, ideally between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. This is when the market is at its most vibrant. The fresh produce is just arriving, the breakfast stalls are in full swing, and the energy is palpable. Plus, you beat the intense midday heat!
Avoid: Friday afternoons, as many shops might be closed or have reduced hours for prayers. The market generally winds down by late afternoon, with many stalls closing by 6:00 PM.
What to See and Do!
As you step into Pasar Siti Khadijah, named after Prophet Muhammad’s first wife, known for her entrepreneurial spirit, you’ll immediately understand why it’s so special. The market is predominantly run by women, and their energy, resilience, and business acumen are truly inspiring.
The Main Dome: The market’s iconic central dome houses the wet market section. This is where you’ll find an astonishing array of fresh produce, spices, and local ingredients.
Visuals & Photography: This place is a photographer’s dream! The vibrant colors, the bustling activity, the friendly faces – there’s a photo opportunity around every corner.
The Food Stalls: Outside the main dome and on the upper levels, you’ll find an incredible variety of cooked food stalls. This is where you can truly dive into Kelantanese cuisine.
The Atmosphere: Don’t just rush through; take your time to absorb the atmosphere. Listen to the friendly chatter, observe the bargaining (it’s part of the fun!), and simply soak in the authentic local life.
Must-Buys & Must-Eats: A Complete Guide!
Now for the really exciting part – what to buy and, more importantly, what to eat! Kelantanese cuisine is known for its distinct flavors, often sweeter and richer than other Malaysian dishes.
Nasi Kerabu (The Blue Rice Delight)
This isn’t just a meal; it’s an art piece on a plate. The striking blue color of the rice comes from the natural extract of Bunga Telang (Butterfly Pea Flower). What makes it “must-eat” is the explosion of textures: the crunch of raw bean sprouts and long beans, the saltiness of the duck egg, the umami of solok lada (stuffed chili), and the fragrance of kerisik (toasted coconut).
Pro Tip: Always mix everything together—the “kerabu” part refers to the salad-style mixing that ensures every bite is balanced.
Nasi Dagang (The Trader’s Rice)
Known as the “Breakfast of Champions” in Kelantan, this dish uses a special mixture of white and purple glutinous rice steamed with rich coconut milk, ginger, and fenugreek seeds. It’s served with a signature Gulai Ikan Tongkol (tuna curry) that is slow-cooked until the fish is firm yet tender. The gravy is thick, slightly sweet, and deeply savory.
Ayam Percik (Spiced Gravy Chicken)
Forget standard BBQ chicken. Ayam Percik is unique because it is basted multiple times while grilling with a thick, creamy sauce made from coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, and chilies. The result is a smoky, charred exterior with a “custard-like” coating of spicy-sweet gravy that keeps the meat incredibly juicy.
Laksa Kelantan (The White Broth)
Unlike the sour, tamarind-based Laksa Penang or the curry-based Laksa Nyonya, Kelantan’s version features a creamy white gravy made from boiled fish meat, coconut milk, and black pepper. It’s served over thick, handmade rice noodles. It’s mild, comforting, and has a clean, oceanic flavor.
Keropok Lekor & Salted Fish
The dry section of the market is a treasure trove. Keropok Lekor (fish sausages) are best bought fresh, but you can also buy the vacuum-packed versions to fry at home. Also, look for Ikan Masin (salted fish) and Serunding (meat floss). Kelantanese Serunding is world-famous for its dry, fine texture and spicy kick—it lasts for months and is perfect for travelers to take home.
Souvenirs & Local Products
Batik Kelantan (Hand-Drawn & Block-Printed)
While batik is found throughout Malaysia, Kelantanese batik is prized for its bold, floral motifs and vibrant use of color. You’ll find two types: Batik Terap (block-printed) which is more affordable for daily wear, and Batik Tulis (hand-drawn with wax), which are one-of-a-kind masterpieces.
What to look for: Look for “Kaftans” here—they are incredibly soft, breathable, and much cheaper than in the capital.
Songket (The “Cloth of Gold”)
Songket is a textile traditionally reserved for royalty. It involves weaving metallic gold or silver threads into silk or cotton. At Pasar Siti Khadijah, you can find anything from full 5-meter pieces for weddings to smaller, more accessible items like Songket clutches, cushion covers, or “Sampin” (the wrap worn by men in traditional attire). It is the pinnacle of Malay weaving.
Hand-Woven Mengkuang Products
Using the leaves of the screwpine (Pandanus), local artisans weave intricate mats, baskets, and colorful “tote bags.” These are eco-friendly, durable, and feature beautiful geometric patterns. They are surprisingly sturdy and make for excellent, lightweight gifts that won’t break in your suitcase.
Practical Tips for Travelers:
Dress Modestly: Kelantan is a more conservative state in Malaysia. Dressing modestly (shoulders and knees covered) is respectful and will ensure a more comfortable experience.
Bring Small Denominations: While some stalls might accept larger notes, having smaller Malaysian Ringgit (RM5, RM10, RM20) will make transactions much smoother.
Bargain Gently: Bargaining is common, especially for non-food items. Do it with a smile and good humor. Don’t be aggressive.
Stay Hydrated: It can get warm and humid. Bring a water bottle or buy drinks from the vendors.
Be Open to New Experiences: Try new foods, engage with the vendors (even if just with a smile), and let yourself be immersed in the local culture.
Watch Your Belongings: As with any crowded place, be mindful of your personal belongings.
Pasar Siti Khadijah is more than just a market; it’s a living, breathing testament to Kelantanese culture and hospitality. I guarantee you’ll leave with a full stomach, unique souvenirs, and a camera roll full of incredible memories. Enjoy your adventure!
Discover Comfort
The newest hotel in the Salaam Suites repertoire. Hotel Ma’Wa is located in the heart of Kota Bharu City, providing easy access to the town hotspots, entertainment facilities and above all, a tranquil night’s sleep.
- 24-hour access gym, recreational room & children’s playroom.
- Daily breakfast & lunch options at our coffeehouse.
- Grand ballroom, private meeting room & wedding hall (coming soon).
- Fully digital access with CCTV for safety & security.
Brand new high-quality mattresses & linen for a comfortable rest.
- Free parking
- Family rooms
- Full Gym
- Games Room
- On-Site Cafe
- Free High-Speed Wifi
- Children's Playroom
