Perlis: Small State, Big Wonders
At Malaysia’s northern tip lies Perlis, the smallest state with the biggest surprises. Bordered by Thailand and Kedah, this peaceful countryside gem is where paddy fields meet limestone hills, and life moves at a calm, welcoming pace. From ancient hills and forest reserves to authentic village dining, Perlis is the kind of destination that wins hearts quietly but completely.
Start your Perlis adventure at Bukit Chabang, one of the state’s most iconic natural landmarks. With its twin limestone peaks rising gracefully from the green paddy fields, it’s a sight that captures the serene essence of northern Malaysia. The view here changes beautifully throughout the day — from misty mornings to golden sunsets — making it a favourite spot for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
If you’re in search of a little adrenaline, head to Bukit Keteri, one of Malaysia’s best-known sport climbing destinations. Climbers from around the world come here to scale its rugged cliffs and take in panoramic views that stretch endlessly across Perlis’s countryside. Nearby, Bukit Chuping and Bukit Jernih offer gentler hikes, each rewarding visitors with peaceful vistas of rolling hills and scattered villages.
Don’t miss exploring the majestic Nakawan Range, the oldest continuous limestone range in Peninsular Malaysia, estimated to be over 250 million years old. This ancient formation near the Thai border shelters fascinating caves, hidden trails, and lush forests teeming with life. For an unforgettable experience, make your way to the Wang Kelian Viewpoint — where every sunrise unveils a breathtaking “sea of clouds” over green valleys and distant peaks. It’s the perfect place to pause, breathe in the cool air, and feel the quiet wonder of Perlis’s natural charm.
Nature's Beauty
Flavours of the North
"...a land of sweetness, flavor, and charm...”
No trip to Perlis is complete without tasting its sweetest treasure — the Harumanis mango. Known for its rich aroma, golden hue, and irresistible sweetness, this seasonal delicacy is the pride of Perlis. Locals love it best when paired with glutinous rice (pulut mangga) — a simple yet heavenly combination that perfectly captures the state’s tropical charm. Harvested only once a year, the Harumanis is more than just a fruit — it’s a symbol of Perlis’s fertile land and local pride.
Beyond mangoes, Perlis offers plenty to delight your taste buds. In Kuala Perlis, head to Komalaut for a seaside feast of grilled fish, butter prawns, and spicy squid — dishes that taste even better with the ocean breeze. For a countryside experience, stop by Ladang Nipah Kipli in Kuala Sanglang, where you can savour laksa Perlis and sip on freshly tapped nira nipah (palm sap) beneath rows of swaying palms.
Back in Kangar, Anjung Keli serves a delicious spread of traditional kampung dishes, while Capati Arau is a local favourite for its soft, warm chapati paired with fragrant curry. From sweet Harumanis delights to hearty local fare, every bite in Perlis tells a story — one of tradition, simplicity, and authentic northern flavours.
Charming Simplicity
ake a leisurely stroll through the Padang Besar Duty-Free Zone, a favourite stop for both locals and travellers in search of great bargains and unique border finds. From colourful souvenirs and local snacks to Thai trinkets and traditional crafts, it’s a lively spot that reflects Perlis’s blend of cultures and border charm.
But beyond the bustle of shopping, what truly defines Perlis is its quiet, unhurried pace of life. The rhythm here is gentle — rice fields swaying in the breeze, friendly faces greeting you with genuine warmth, and sunsets painting the sky in golden calm. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where beauty lies not in grandeur but in the little things — the laughter at a roadside stall, the scent of rain over paddy fields, the stillness that soothes the soul. Perlis reminds us that sometimes, simplicity is the most beautiful luxury of all.
