A hub for the agricultural towns and villages of Kelantan, Bachok is home to a diverse population of ethnic Malays and those of Chinese and Thai descent. It’s a good base for making day trips to explore the natural and cultural attractions nearby, as well as being within close proximity to the idyllic Perhentian Islands.
Things to do in Bachok
Pantai Irama, or the “Beach of Melody”, stretches along Bachok’s main road and is particularly popular on weekends when locals come to swim in the warm waters of the South China Sea. It’s a great spot for kitesurfing when the wind conditions are right and a night market opens once the sun goes down where you can sample authentic Malaysian dishes.
A short drive inland takes you to the village of Bukit Marak, or “Shining Hill”, that is famed as the childhood home of the 17th-century Queen of Kelantan. Go hiking to see the three granite peaks resembling what is said to have been her favourite musical instrument, and visit the natural pool where she is believed to have bathed.
Another popular day trip is to the village of Kampung Balai that was settled by the Thai and Chinese more than 200 years ago. There are numerous Buddhist temples to explore, including Wat Phothikyan Phutthaktham, where the locals still speak a distinct Thai dialect.
Interested in traditional Malay art and handicrafts? Then be sure to visit the Kandis Resource Centre in Bachok which exhibits exquisite wood carvings and artefacts in a 200-year old Malay wooden house.
Getting around Bachok
Bachok lies around 40 minutes’ drive south of Kota Bharu and the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport, with daily flights to Kuala Lumpur. It’s also connected to Kuala Lumpur and a variety of surrounding towns and villages by regular bus services.