Getting Around Alor Setar. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: City Buses

Alor Setar does not have a metro or tram system. The main public transit system consists of local buses, operated by Cityliner, a part of the MARA Liner group. This bus network serves various routes within Alor Setar and connects to nearby towns.

The main hub for local buses is the Shahab Perdana Bus Terminal. Routes connect this terminal to areas and attractions, including Alor Setar Tower, Zahir Mosque, Aman Central shopping mall, and residential zones.

Bus Travel Essentials

Fares are typically paid in cash directly to the bus driver upon boarding.
Fares are generally low, ranging from MYR 1-5, depending on the distance.
Buses operate from early morning (6-7 AM) until late evening (8-9 PM).
Limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.

Route Coverage

Routes connect city attractions and residential areas from Shahab Perdana Terminal.

Fare Payment

Cash directly to the driver. Have small Ringgit denominations ready.

Efficient Travel

Plan routes in advance using online maps. Prepare for potential delays due to traffic.

Navigating Public Transport

Route Information

Specific route maps may be available at the terminal.
Frequency varies; more frequent during peak hours.
Check Cityliner's website for any online route information.

Travel Tips

Be prepared for potential delays due to traffic.
Carry small MYR denominations for bus fares.
Ask locals for advice on routes and when to go.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Convenient Travel

Licensed Taxis

Red/white or blue/white, display a meter. Hail on street or at stands.

Grab App

Most popular ride-sharing app, transparent pricing, cashless options.

Payment Methods

Cash for taxis (insist on meter). Grab allows cash or linked card.

Safety Advice

Verify driver/car details on Grab. Avoid unofficial "taxis" or touts.

Rental Options for Freedom

Rental options, from cars to bicycles, offer flexibility to explore Alor Setar and its surrounding areas at your own pace.

Car Rental: Explore Beyond

Requirements: Valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP), passport, credit card.
Most companies require drivers to be 21-23 years old with 1-2 years driving experience.
Major international brands (Hertz, Avis) and local companies (Hawk Rent A Car) operate.
Book online in advance or at airport/city counters. Compare on DiscoverCars.com.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Less common in Alor Setar city center than tourist islands.
Requires valid motorcycle license (national and IDP).
Always wear a helmet. Malaysian traffic conditions can be challenging.
Exercise extreme caution due to traffic and road conditions.

Walking & Cycling: Local Exploration

Alor Setar has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure.
Cyclists generally share roads with vehicles; exercise caution.
Wear a helmet and bright clothing to improve visibility.

City Centre regions near attractions are quite walkable.
Self-guided walks are possible; use maps for historical routes.
Major highways are not recommended for pedestrians or cyclists.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the left. You must wear seatbelts. Mobile phone use while driving is illegal.

Road Conditions

Main roads are generally good. Be aware of speed bumps, potholes, and motorcyclists.

Parking

Available in designated areas, often with coupon systems or parking apps. Malls offer ample parking.

Specialized Transportation Notes

Alor Setar's transportation options focus on practicality, with limited specialized tourist transport within the city itself compared to other destinations.

Tour Buses & Charters

Alor Setar does not offer hop-on-hop-off bus services.
Private tour operators or local travel agencies offer chartered buses.
For group tours to specific attractions in and around Alor Setar.

Limited Unique Transport

No boat taxis or public water transportation within the city.
No cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique local systems in Alor Setar.
Ferry services are exclusively for travel to Langkawi Island.

Accessibility Services

Limited Infrastructure

Accessibility is generally limited outside of modern shopping malls and newer hotels.

Plan Ahead

Public Transport

Public buses may not be fully accessible, often with steps for boarding.

Seek Alternatives

Private Transfers

Pre-booking accessible chauffeured cars or taxis is recommended, may require advance arrangement.

Book in Advance

Driving & Parking Information

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Everyone must wear a seatbelt.
Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal.

Parking in Alor Setar

Parking is available in designated areas.
Often requires a coupon system or payment via parking apps.
Shopping malls offer ample parking facilities.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Major highways are not recommended for walking or cycling.
Busy roads with fast-moving traffic pose safety concerns.
Stick to little roads, exclusive pathways, or pedestrian zones for safety.
High volume of motorcycles requires extra vigilance.

Pedestrian infrastructure can be inconsistent outside of urban center.
Limited dedicated cycling lanes, making road sharing challenging.
Slippery roads and reduced visibility during heavy rain.
Consider Grab or taxis for longer distances or less pedestrian-friendly routes.

Safe and Smooth Journeys

Whether you choose public transport, ride-sharing, or your own rental vehicle, planning your routes and staying aware of local traffic conditions will help you travel safely and efficiently surrounding Alor Setar.

Embrace the local pace, and enjoy discovering the sights and sounds of Kedah's charming capital.

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