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Malaysia

Arau

Arau

Arau is a town located in the Perlis state of Malaysia. Situated near the border of Thailand, it serves as the capital of Perlis and is kno…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Exploring with transit or a car
  • Historical sites travelers
  • Nature and wildlife travelers
  • Visiting in November to February
See best season Hotels near center Plan a trip
Recommended stay
3-5 days days
Best time
November to February
Walkability
Spread
Guide depth
Solid guide
More about this guide
Historical sites Nature and wildlife Cultural experiences Adventure activities

Arau is a strong pick for historical sites & nature and wildlife — plan about 3-5 days days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: November to February.

Solid guide guide · about 3 min to read · depth score 68/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈12.2 km span)

5 Places to explore
3-5 days Recommended days
November to February Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: November to February

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · September · October

Weather

Autumn

September to October

Spring

March to May

Summer

June to August

Winter

November to February

How to get there

How to reach Arau in Malaysia

Arau is a town located in the state of Perlis, Malaysia. Here are the steps to reach Arau:

  1. By Air:

    2. The nearest airport to Arau is Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) in Alor Setar, Kedah. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Arau. The distance between the airport and Arau is approximately 45 kilometers.

  2. By Train:

    3. Arau has its own railway station called Arau Railway Station. You can take a train from various major cities in Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh, to reach Arau. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside.

  3. By Bus:

    4. There are regular bus services available from different cities in Malaysia to Arau. You can check the bus schedules and book your tickets online or at the respective bus terminals. The bus journey allows you to enjoy the landscapes along the way.

  4. By Car:

    5. If you prefer to drive, you can reach Arau by car via the North-South Expressway (E1). The town is easily accessible by road, and there are signboards along the way to guide you to Arau.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, Arau offers a charming and laid-back atmosphere with its historical sites, local markets, and scenic beauty. Enjoy your journey to Arau!

Getting to know Arau

Arau is a town located in the Perlis state of Malaysia. Situated near the border of Thailand, it serves as the capital of Perlis and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The town is nestled amidst lush greenery and offers a serene environment, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

One of the prominent landmarks in Arau is the Arau Railway Station. Built in 1913, it is an architectural marvel that reflects the colonial era. The station's unique design features a blend of Moorish and Victorian styles, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The Arau Railway Station is not only a transportation hub but also an important historical site that showcases the town's past.

Arau is also home to several historical sites and cultural attractions. The Royal Palace, also known as Istana Arau, is a must-visit destination for history buffs. Built in 1905, it is the official residence of the Raja of Perlis. The palace showcases exquisite Malay architecture and offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and learn more about the rich heritage and traditions of the Perlis royal family.

The town of Arau is also famous for its vibrant local markets, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the authentic flavors of Malaysian cuisine. The Arau Market, also known as Pasar Besar Arau, is a bustling hub of activity, offering a wide range of fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and local delicacies. Exploring the market is a great way to interact with the friendly locals and get a taste of the local lifestyle.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit the Arau Night Market for local street food
  • Explore the beautiful Perlis State Park
  • Take a boat ride along the Perlis River
  • Attend traditional Malay cultural performances

Places worth exploring

5 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

No evening clusters with enough nearby stops.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Arau?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days days in Arau, Malaysia.

When is the best time to visit Arau?

High season is typically November to February.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Arau?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, September, October.

What kind of trip is Arau good for?

Arau suits Historical sites, Nature and wildlife, Cultural experiences, Adventure activities.

Is Arau walkable?

Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.

Any local tips for Arau?

Visit the Arau Night Market for local street food

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Compare with another place Multi-city routes

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Arau → Kangar → Kangar · ≈8 km
  • Arau → Kangar → Kangar · ≈8 km
  • Arau → Kangar → Kuala Perlis · ≈16 km

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