A Quick Day Trip In Perlis, Malaysia And Must-Visit Restaurants!

I recently visited Perlis for a work trip, and during my stay, my local colleagues were kind enough to take me on a quick day trip. They showed me some of the most well-known (and Instagram-worthy!) spots, giving me a glimpse into the charm of this underrated destination. The best part? Everyone was incredibly kind, and they even gave me souvenirs to bring home—such a sweet and thoughtful gesture!! 💕

Honestly, I didn’t expect much from Perlis at first, but I was so wrong. This small state has so much to offer! I only wish my trip had been longer because there were still so many places I wanted to visit.

If you’re planning a trip to Perlis, here’s a quick and exciting day trip itinerary that you might find useful!

📍 Visit Santuari Timah Tasoh For Instagrammable Photos

First stop: Santuari Timah Tasoh—a hidden paradise perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts!

This place is not just about stunning views. If you have time, you can go camping, try water activities like kayaking, or take a scenic boat ride across the beautiful lake. One of the highlights is the stop at an isolated island known as Pulau Burung (Bird Island), where you’ll find a mystical-looking tree with a swing—a must-capture moment for your Instagram! 🌿✨

💡 Pro tip: Don’t miss the boat ride. Trust me, the experience is unforgettable!

Before you leave, grab some ikan pekasam, a traditional fermented fish delicacy. The locals recommend picking the tasty Ikan Bongkok variety, so if you love trying local specialties, make sure to take some home.

🛍️ Visit Padang Besar Perlis, To Shop Until You Drop

Next up: Padang Besar, the busiest shopping district in Perlis!

Whether you’re hunting for local crafts, clothing, electronics, or household items, this place has it all. The market scene is vibrant, with a mix of Thai and Malaysian products at bargain prices. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs or just enjoy the thrill of shopping.

💡 Pro tip: Bring cash because some vendors might not accept cards. And don’t forget to haggle a little—it’s part of the fun!

🍽️ Where to Eat in Perlis: Must-Try Local Restaurants

Now, let’s talk about food—because what’s a trip without indulging in delicious local dishes?

📍 Warung Seri Kesinai Indah, Padang Besar 🍤

The star dish here? Nasi Kawen—a generous plate of fried rice, fried prawns and squid served alongside soup, sambal belacan (shrimp paste sambal), and chili sauce. The portion is big enough for two, but let’s be real—I finished it all by myself because it was just that good! 😂

I also couldn’t resist ordering the chicken tom yam soup, and wow—absolutely delicious! If you’re in Padang Besar, this warung is a must-visit!

📍 Wansyah Kitchen, Kangar 🍛

Located in Kangar, this restaurant specializes in authentic Malay cuisine, particularly Masak Lemak Salai.

Some of their standout dishes include:
✅ Set Nasi Biryani Kambing (Mutton Biryani)
✅ Set Ikan Bawal Goreng (Fried Pomfret Fish)
✅ Keropok Lekor (Traditional fish crackers)
✅ Cucur Udang (Shrimp fritters—so crispy & tasty!)

I highly recommend trying their Cucur Udang as an appetizer while waiting for your main meal. It pairs perfectly with their flavorful peanut sauce!

I ordered the Set Itik Salai Masak Lemak (smoked duck cooked in a rich, spicy coconut gravy), served with sambal belacan and fresh Ulam-Ulaman (raw veggies). It was an absolute delight—the flavors were bold, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

📍 Kak Su Laksa, Kuala Perlis 🍜

If you’re a laksa lover (like me!), Kak Su Laksa in Kuala Perlis is a must-visit.

Malaysia has many versions of laksa, and I was curious to try Perlis’ take on this iconic dish. The gravy tasted similar to the ones in Penang or Kedah, but what made it special was the noodles—they were handmade from rice, giving them a unique texture. Another interesting twist was how the locals ate it—with Pulut Udang (sticky rice with shredded coconut and shrimp) and a bit of soy sauce. It was definitely a new experience for me!

I gave it a try the local way, and while it was unique and delicious, I think I still prefer eating Pulut Udang separately. 😂 But hey, you should totally try it and decide for yourself!

Will I Return to Perlis? ABSOLUTELY!

My trip to Perlis was short but so worth it! The food was amazing, especially with the strong Thai influence due to its proximity to Thailand. There were so many Siamese restaurants to explore, which was a cool experience.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t visit all the places I wanted to because I had to head to Kedah for my flight back home. But one thing’s for sure—I’ll definitely be back! 😍

If you’re from Perlis, drop me an email or comment below with recommendations for my next trip! I’d love to explore more hidden gems in this wonderful state.

Until next time—stay adventurous, eat well, and explore often!

X, Hani. ❤