Kelantan's Natural Wonders by Janice Pelayo

Penang and Kuala Lumpur may be the first on the list when it comes to top Malaysia destinations, but for those who are looking for an alternative place to visit that is equally interesting, Kelantan in Kota Bharu is worthy of consideration. The Malaysian state offers numerous natural attractions, giving visitors plenty to see and do during their stay.

Kelantan has several inviting beaches with amusing names when translated into English, such as Pantai Irama or the Beach of Melody, Pantai Bisikan Bayu or the Beach of the Whispering Breeze, and Pantai Cahaya Bulan or Moonlight Beach. For those who look forward to going on a relaxing tropical holiday, Kelantan lets you have your pick of sandy shores and inviting waters.

Another natural attraction that Kelantan proudly offers is its waterfalls. Hidden in lush forests but can easily be accessed by roads coming from the state capital, visitors can go for a relaxing dip at these waterfalls or go trekking and camping in the surrounding area. Some popular ones worth checking out would be Jeram Pasu, Jeram Lenang, and Lata Beringin.

But if you're hard put to pick just one natural wonder to see in Kelantan, it will have to be Gunung Stong. One of Kelantan's highest peaks towering at 1,422 metres, this majestic mountain challenges avid mountain climbers and trekkers. It also treats visitors to fantastic views of the surrounding landscape, and caves that are just waiting to be explored. One of these is Gua Ikan, named after a rock that looks like a fish. It is said that the cave was once a hiding place for treasure during the Japanese Occupation.

If you're considering going to Kelantan for a vacation, an appealing place to stay would be the Dynasty Inn. Situated near most of these interesting local attractions, it makes for an ideal base for those planning to explore them. Offering comfortable, well-appointed accommodations, it is also an inviting place to go home to after a long day of sightseeing. Each air-conditioned room of this Kelantan hotel is equipped with all the necessities for a relaxing stay, having coffee and/or tea maker, daily newspaper, hair dryer, Internet connectivity in room, ironing board, private toilet and bath, telephone, cable television, DVD in-house movies, mini-fridge, small dressing table or writing desk with chair, and two resting chairs with small side table.