Terengganu State Museum — Attraction in Terengganu

When mentioning Terrengganu, many would think of the beautiful untouched beaches with its clear blue waters in the first place. No wonder. The coast runs along just by the roadside for miles and miles. Seldom would one come up with the State Museum and its neighbouring Culture Village. Foreigners, especially, yearn for the natural landscape of Terrengganu, forgetting the rich malay architecture and culture the area bears.

We came from Kota Bharu by car, heading south towards downtown Kuala Terrengganu. Coming down from the highway, the signboard pointing to the direction of the State Museum can be clearly seen. We followed the signboard and soon came to the spacious parking lot before the archway of the entrance. It was a cloudy Monday, hence the place very empty. Alternatively, you could also drive through the archway slightly uphill and find some parking lots there.

After crossing the road, we took the pedestrian lane up instead of the regular road. At the side of the museum, where we came, there is an exhibition of a historical train. Further up, there are two very grand buildings. They are in a style of Malay stilt houses. We were amazed by the architecture. What we have seen in the Malay villages, the museum has definitely brought the houses to another level. The stilt houses are much bigger, higher, with marvellous carvings on them. Surrounded in a garden landscape of coconut trees, ponds, and bridges, it is no doubt a beautiful scenery of typical malay traditional style, with a luxurious touch. The garden was being cleaned at the time of our visit.

The people working there are very friendly and helpful. That's what we totally appreciate in Malaysia. I needed a washroom. A security member saw me walking around and asked me in a friendly manner (!) what I was looking for. He then instructed me to the direction of the nearest washroom, which was thoughtful of him. After some sightseeing at the area, we climbed the stairs and encountered another security. He talked politely and even introduced us to the culture village nearby. We wouldn't have known this wonderful place, which we stumbled in to take shelter from rain.

The museum we didn't go in, though, as it was already late afternoon. We realised that we would have needed at least 2 hours inside, and we still have the culture village in the list. The entry for the museum is RM5 for Malaysians, which is ridiculously cheap, and RM15 for foreigners. If you plan to visit more places in Malaysia, it is very recommended to get a 'Museum passport '. It covers entrance fees for ALL museums...

There are two types of tickets: One for the main museum galleries One for the outdoor exhibits (traditional houses, boats, etc.) Each ticket is RM5 for adults, while children and OKU (persons with disabilities) enter for free—very thoughtful!

During our visit, several areas were closed for maintenance, including the traditional boat exhibit. While it was a bit disappointing, we understand the importance of upkeep to preserve these cultural treasures. Hopefully more areas will reopen soon!

The museum complex is designed in the style of traditional Malay houses—it’s like walking through a life-sized kampung postcard. The buildings themselves are part of the learning experience.

The museum grounds are stunning—lush greenery, traditional architecture, and serene vibes. Perfect for post-wedding photoshoots, graduation portraits, or even just a peaceful stroll with family.

The open-air layout and spacious grounds make it ideal for families. Kids can explore freely between pavilions, peek into traditional house interiors, and enjoy the outdoor exhibits—even if interactive screens are limited.

Also, The staff were welcoming and helpful, adding to the overall pleasant experience.

There’s a small shop selling books, handicrafts, and cultural souvenirs—great for picking up a memento or educational gift.

Facilities for OKU are available, including ramps and elevators, making the museum inclusive and easy to navigate.

Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except Fridays. It’s best to plan your visit early to enjoy the full experience before closing time.

Suggestion Regular updates on which sections are open would be helpful for visitors planning their trip. Maintenance is necessary, but a little notice...

The Muzium Negeri Terengganu, located in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, is a cultural gem that offers a deep dive into the rich heritage and history of Terengganu. My kids had an enjoyable moment visiting this museum.

Housed in a stunning traditional Malay palace-style building, the museum is one of the largest in Southeast Asia and is divided into several galleries, each focusing on different aspects of the state's history, culture, and natural environment.

Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing traditional Malay craftsmanship, including intricate wood carvings, textiles, and pottery. The museum also features a comprehensive collection of Islamic art, reflecting the state's strong Islamic heritage. One of the highlights is the Royal Gallery, which displays artifacts and memorabilia related to the Terengganu Sultanate, offering insights into the royal family's history and traditions.

The natural history section is equally impressive, with exhibits on the state's diverse flora and fauna, as well as its geological formations. The museum also includes a maritime gallery, highlighting Terengganu's historical significance as a trading hub and its relationship with the sea.

Overall, Muzium Negeri Terengganu is a must-visit for anyone interested in Malaysian culture and history. Its well-curated exhibits, beautiful architecture, and informative displays make it a valuable educational resource and a fascinating destination for both locals...