Kelantan is one of the most culturally distinct states in Malaysia — a predominantly Malay Muslim state on the northeast coast of the peninsula, bordered by Thailand to the north and the South China Sea to the east. Its capital, Kota Bharu, is one of the most traditional Malay towns in the country, with a lively night market (the Bazaar Buluh Kubu) that is one of the most colourful in Southeast Asia.
The state is known for its rich tradition of Malay crafts and performing arts: wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), kite-making, top-spinning, batik weaving, and silverwork are all practised here. The cultural centre in Kota Bharu holds regular demonstrations. Kelantan is also the starting point for treks into Taman Negara, Malaysia's oldest national park, accessible from the southern district of Gua Musang.
The monsoon season runs from November to January, when the east coast receives heavy rainfall. Most visitors come between February and October. The border crossing to Thailand at Rantau Panjang is an easy day trip from Kota Bharu and a lively market town in its own right.