Siti Khadijah Market — Attraction in Kelantan

Embarking on a weekend journey to Kota Bharu with my wife and friends, we eagerly delved into the local experience at Siti Khadijah Market—a top-rated destination for authentic products. Nestled in the city center, the market's vastness was immediately apparent, surrounded by ample free parking. Despite parking a bit farther due to the morning rush, the journey proved worthwhile.

The market's diversity impressed us, featuring sections dedicated to fruits, vegetables, hawker stalls, desserts, traditional clothes including batik and fabrics, a wet market, herbs and spices, as well as cafes and restaurants. Our exploration stretched for a delightful half-day, during which my wife's enthusiasm for shopping was commendable—I had to intervene to prevent an entire day spent in retail therapy! 😆

After our extensive tour, we opted for a brunch featuring Kelantan's renowned dish, laksam. Recommendations led us to Cek Yoh Cafe on the first floor, where we relished a generously portioned bowl. The laksam's flavors were delightful, especially the rich soup and well-prepared vegetables.

While transactions leaned towards cash, with some offering interbank transfers, e-wallet usage was relatively low. The market, in general, appeared somewhat humid and less pristine, possibly deterring international tourists. However, as locals, we found the atmosphere acceptable. Enhancements in cleanliness and ambience could undoubtedly elevate its appeal, making it more welcoming to tourists from around the globe...

Siti Khadijah Market in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, is one of the most famous and lively markets in Malaysia, and it truly lives up to its reputation. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic market is not just a place for shopping but also a cultural experience. The colorful building, buzzing atmosphere, and the variety of stalls make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Kota Bharu.

What makes Siti Khadijah Market so special is the incredible range of local products available. From fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat to spices, batik fabrics, handicrafts, and traditional snacks—you can find almost everything here at affordable prices. It’s a perfect spot to pick up souvenirs and also to enjoy authentic Kelantanese food like nasi kerabu and kuih.

The market is named after Siti Khadijah, the wife of Prophet Muhammad, reflecting the strong role of women in business here. Most of the vendors are women, and their warmth and friendliness make the shopping experience even more enjoyable. Even if you don’t plan to buy much, walking around and soaking up the vibrant local culture is worth the trip.

The market is busiest in the morning, so arriving early will give you the best experience and freshest choices. It is also very photogenic—perfect for travelers who love capturing authentic cultural scenes. For both locals and tourists, Siti Khadijah Market is a true symbol of Kota Bharu’s heritage...

The market is a must-visit place in kota bharu, this is what i heard before coming to kelantan. my first impression from the outer building was quite big and it has a few level. when i first enter the ground floor, it was the image that i normally see from the internet. up to the 1st floor, is the food and snacks level. the food corner are packed with many small stalls serving kelantan local cuisine. i might think twice having food here, as the hygience level are not that high. This part is also the most hot and stuffy, very poor ventilation. and it actually apply for the whole building, but the 1st floor is the worst. ground floor has the best airation. We then entered the snacks and souvenirs part, there are many small stalls squeezed in a small place, more like a maze, with very narrow walkway. The good point is you can compare price among few stalls before making a purchase. you can also bargain to get a cheaper price( don't expect big difference though). most of the stalls sells almost the same things. i could only find a souvenir stalls selling key chains and fridge magnets. Up to the second floor is the batik section selling batik fabrics and other fabrics. BE READY to get sweaty once you enter this market, please wear something that suits hot, stuffy and humid environment and happy shoulder-rubbing(during school and...