Alor Setar Kedah, Malaysia Travel Guide
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) is the local airport serving Alor Setar, approximately 15 kilometers north of the central area. It handles domestic flights. Penang International Airport (PEN), about 1.5-2 hours to the south, offers more extensive international connections.
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) does not have direct international flights from major global hubs. International travelers typically fly into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) or Penang International Airport (PEN) first.
A small domestic airport with basic services: check-in, small shops, cafes, restrooms, prayer rooms. No extensive duty-free or lounges.
Prices are higher during Malaysian public holidays, school breaks, and festive seasons. Book in advance for better rates. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
From AOR: fixed-price taxi coupons (MYR 20-30), Grab services. From PEN: intercity bus, taxi (MYR 150-250), or car rental.
Alor Setar Railway Station is a stop on the ETS line, offering comfortable and efficient rail travel across Peninsular Malaysia.
Alor Setar Bus Terminal (Shahab Perdana) is the main hub for an extensive network connecting to major cities and Hat Yai, Thailand.
Main highways are well-maintained. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary if your national license is not in English. Drive on the left.
The nearest major land border crossing to Alor Setar is Bukit Kayu Hitam (Malaysia) / Sadao (Thailand), approximately 40-50 kilometers north.
Alor Setar Railway Station is a stop on the KTM Electric Train Service (ETS) line, offering comfortable and efficient rail travel.
Alor Setar Bus Terminal (Terminal Bas Shahab Perdana) serves as the main hub for long-distance buses. An extensive network connects Alor Setar to major cities throughout Peninsular Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh, and Johor Bahru.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary if your national license is not in English. Carry your valid national driving license with the IDP. Main highways are well-maintained.
While Alor Setar itself is inland, its proximity to the Kuala Kedah Jetty makes ocean travel a practical option for reaching nearby Langkawi Island.
No significant river transportation options exist for tourists within Alor Setar city itself. The Kedah River is mainly for local use and does not feature public visitor services.
Passenger Service Charge (PSC) is typically included in your air ticket price. No separate cash payment at the airport. No specific exit fees for land or sea departures.
For flights (AOR), arrive 1.5-2 hours early. For railway travel/buses, 30 minutes. For ferries (Kuala Kedah Jetty), 30-45 minutes, especially during peak season.
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) offers limited facilities. Alor Setar Train Terminal and Shahab Perdana Bus Terminal provide waiting areas, food stalls, and places to buy tickets.
Plan your departure effectively to avoid last-minute stress. Check your flight, train, or bus schedules carefully, factoring in time it takes to get to the departure point.
If departing by boat to Langkawi, ensure you have your ferry tickets ready. Check the ferry schedule for any changes, especially during bad weather conditions.
Limited facilities, basic waiting areas. No vast retail. Car rental return desks available.
Waiting areas, ticket counters, small kiosks for snacks and drinks.
Shahab Perdana features food stalls, convenience stores, waiting areas, and ticket counters.
Double-check all travel documents, including passports and tickets. Confirm all bookings for flights, trains, buses, or ferries before leaving your accommodation.
