Arau Travel Guide

Arau Travel Guide (1 November 2009)

Also available: Panduan Melawat Arau

Arau is the Royal Town of Perlis, Malaysia's smallest state, and occupies a special place in the history and identity of the state. While Kangar serves as the state capital and administrative centre, Arau is closely associated with the Perlis royal family and is home to Istana Arau, the royal palace. ¹

The town is located in the southern part of Perlis, a short distance from Kangar. Its convenient location and railway connections make it one of the main gateways to the state for visitors travelling by train. Arau Railway Station is served by KTM services, providing connections with major towns and cities along the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. ²

Arau's importance is closely linked with the Jamalullail dynasty, which has ruled Perlis since the establishment of the modern state in the 19th century. The town developed as an important centre of royal administration and continues to be identified with the monarchy of Perlis today.

For visitors, Arau offers a quieter and more historical experience than a major tourist city. Its attractions are centred largely on royal heritage, local history and the atmosphere of a small northern Malaysian town. The town can also serve as a convenient base for exploring Kangar and other destinations throughout Perlis.

Arau is particularly suitable for travellers interested in Malaysian history and the country's constitutional monarchy. A visit provides an opportunity to learn about the distinctive history of Perlis and its royal institution while experiencing a part of Malaysia that is often overlooked by visitors heading instead for larger destinations.

Because Perlis is a small state, Arau can easily be combined with other destinations during the same trip. Visitors can explore the state capital of Kangar, travel north towards Padang Besar and the Thai border, or visit coastal and rural destinations elsewhere in Perlis. This makes Arau a useful stop on a wider itinerary through Malaysia's northernmost state.

History of Arau

The history of Arau is closely connected with the history of Perlis and the Jamalullail dynasty, which has ruled the state since the 19th century. Before Perlis emerged as a separate state, the area formed part of the wider political sphere of Kedah, while Siam also exercised considerable influence over the northern Malay Peninsula.

Arau became important through Syed Harun Jamalullail, a member of the Jamalullail family who settled in the area during the 18th century. He became the first Penghulu, or local chief, of Arau and established the family's influence in the district. His descendants would later play a central role in the creation and government of Perlis. ³

After Syed Harun's death in 1825, his son Syed Hussein succeeded him as Penghulu of Arau. During a period of political change in the northern Malay states, Syed Hussein rose to prominence and was eventually recognised as the ruler of Perlis. In 1843, he was formally installed as the first Raja of Perlis, establishing the Jamalullail dynasty that continues to rule the state today. ⁴

Arau subsequently developed into an important royal centre. Its status was further strengthened during the reign of Raja Syed Alwi Jamalullail, the fourth Raja of Perlis, who ruled from 1905 to 1943. During his reign, Istana Arau was built and became an important symbol of the Perlis monarchy and the town's position as the Royal Town of the state. ⁵

The development of modern transport also contributed to the importance of Arau. Railway connections in northern Malaya made the town more accessible and helped link Perlis with other parts of the Malay Peninsula. The railway remains important today, with Arau Railway Station serving travellers arriving in Perlis by train.

Arau continues to be closely associated with the Perlis royal institution. Its royal heritage is reflected in landmarks such as Istana Arau and the Galeri Diraja Arau, which preserves and presents material relating to the rulers and royal family of Perlis. For visitors, the history of Arau provides an important introduction to the distinctive development of Malaysia's smallest state. ⁶

Getting to Arau

Arau is easily accessible by road and rail, making it a convenient destination for visitors travelling to Perlis from other parts of Peninsular Malaysia. The town is located a short distance south of Kangar and can be reached from neighbouring Kedah as well as from the major cities along the west coast of the peninsula.

By train: Arau Railway Station is one of the main railway gateways to Perlis. KTM ETS services stop at Arau, providing connections with major destinations including Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Butterworth. This makes the train a convenient option for visitors who prefer not to drive. ⁷

Visitors arriving from Penang can travel by train from Butterworth, while travellers from Kuala Lumpur and other southern destinations can use ETS services heading north. Train schedules and services may change, so it is advisable to check the latest timetable before travelling. ⁷

By car: Visitors travelling from the south can use the North-South Expressway before continuing towards Perlis via the road network in northern Kedah. Arau is easily reached from towns such as Jitra and Changlun. Driving is particularly convenient for travellers who intend to explore several destinations around Perlis during the same trip.

From Kangar: Arau is located about 10 kilometres south of Kangar, the state capital of Perlis. The journey between the two towns is relatively short, making it easy to visit Arau as part of a wider exploration of the state.

By bus: Long-distance bus services generally provide connections to Kangar and other major transport points in Perlis and northern Kedah. From there, visitors can continue to Arau by local transport, taxi or e-hailing service. Depending on where you are travelling from, the train may offer a more direct and convenient alternative.

Getting around: Arau is a relatively small town, but not all places of interest are within comfortable walking distance of one another. Taxis and e-hailing services can be useful for short journeys, while renting a car provides the greatest flexibility for visitors planning to explore attractions throughout Perlis.

Food in Arau

Arau offers a variety of food that reflects its location in northern Peninsular Malaysia. Visitors can find Malay dishes, Malaysian favourites and northern-style food, while the proximity of Perlis to the Thailand border has also influenced the flavours found in the state.

Malay food is widely available in and around Arau. Local restaurants and food stalls serve rice dishes, noodles, fried food and a variety of traditional Malaysian meals. Muslim visitors will generally find halal food readily available, although visitors with particular dietary requirements should check with individual restaurants when necessary.

Visitors to Perlis may also wish to look for local northern specialities. Laksa Perlis is among the state's better-known dishes and differs from the more familiar versions of laksa found elsewhere in Malaysia. Rice-based dishes, fresh seafood and traditional Malay cooking are also part of the wider food culture of Perlis.

The influence of southern Thai cuisine can also be seen in northern Malaysian food. Restaurants in the area may serve Thai-inspired dishes such as tom yam, spicy salads, fried rice and noodle dishes. These flavours are particularly popular among visitors who enjoy spicy, sour and aromatic food.

Arau is best suited to casual local dining rather than fine dining. Small restaurants, coffee shops and food stalls provide opportunities to experience everyday Malaysian food at relatively affordable prices. Visitors can combine meals with sightseeing in Arau or stop for food before continuing to Kangar and other destinations in Perlis.

Because Kangar is only a short distance away, visitors staying in Arau are not limited to the town's own food options. Travellers with a car can easily explore restaurants and food stalls elsewhere in Perlis, giving them a wider choice of local dishes during their visit.

Places to Visit in Arau

Arau's main attractions are associated with the history and royal heritage of Perlis. The town does not have a large number of conventional tourist attractions, but it is worth visiting for travellers interested in the history of the Perlis monarchy and the character of a Malaysian royal town.

Istana Arau is the most prominent landmark in the town. Built during the reign of Raja Syed Alwi Jamalullail, the fourth Raja of Perlis, the palace is an important symbol of the Perlis royal institution. The palace grounds are a royal residence and are not generally open to the public, so visitors should not expect to tour the interior. ⁵

Galeri Diraja Arau is another important attraction for those interested in the state's royal history. The gallery displays collections associated with the Perlis royal family and provides an opportunity to learn more about the rulers of Perlis and the history of the Jamalullail dynasty. ⁶

Masjid Negeri Arau, located near the royal area, is another notable landmark in the town. Its proximity to the royal complex makes it part of the distinctive townscape of Arau. Muslim visitors may also find it a convenient place for prayer while exploring the town.

Beyond the immediate town centre, Arau's location makes it convenient to visit other attractions in Perlis. Kangar, the state capital, is only a short drive away, while other destinations such as Kuala Perlis, Padang Besar, Wang Kelian and the Perlis State Park can be incorporated into a wider itinerary.

For visitors interested primarily in sightseeing, Arau can be explored relatively quickly. However, combining its royal and historical attractions with other destinations around Perlis makes for a more rewarding visit. The town is particularly worthwhile as part of a road trip around the state or as a stop before or after travelling by train through northern Malaysia.

Where to Stay in Arau

Arau has a modest selection of accommodation, making it suitable for visitors who prefer to stay in a small town rather than in a larger urban centre. Accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses and budget lodgings, although the choice is more limited than in Kangar.

Staying in central Arau is convenient for visitors who want easy access to local shops, restaurants and everyday amenities. It also places them close to the town's royal landmarks and within easy reach of Arau Railway Station.

For visitors arriving by train, accommodation near Arau Railway Station can be particularly practical. The station is an important transport hub for Perlis, and taxis or e-hailing services can be used to reach accommodation elsewhere in the town.

Another option is to stay in Kangar, which is only a short distance from Arau. Kangar offers a wider range of hotels, restaurants and other facilities. Visitors with their own vehicle can easily travel between the two towns.

Travellers planning to explore the whole of Perlis may find that the exact location of their accommodation is less important than having convenient access to the road network. Since Perlis is a small state, many of its attractions can be reached relatively quickly by car.

When choosing accommodation, Muslim travellers can consider properties located close to halal restaurants and mosques. During school holidays and public holidays, booking ahead is advisable, particularly because the number of accommodation options in Arau is limited.

Practical Information for Visitors

Arau can be visited throughout the year, although the weather in Perlis is generally hot and humid. Visitors exploring the town on foot should wear comfortable clothing, use sun protection and carry drinking water, particularly during the hotter part of the day.

Arau is a relatively small town, but having a car is useful if you plan to explore attractions beyond the town centre. Taxis and e-hailing services can be used for shorter journeys, while the railway station provides a convenient option for visitors travelling between Arau and other towns in northern Malaysia.

Visitors should remember that Istana Arau is a royal residence and not a conventional tourist attraction. The palace and other royal facilities may have access restrictions. Visitors should respect signs, security instructions and any restrictions on photography or entry when visiting areas associated with the royal family.

Muslim travellers should have little difficulty finding halal food in Arau. Mosques are also available in the town and surrounding areas for daily prayers. Visitors seeking formally certified halal establishments should check for the appropriate certification rather than assuming that every establishment serving Malay or Muslim-friendly food is officially certified.

Arau is conveniently combined with a visit to Kangar and other parts of Perlis. Since the state is small, a visitor can explore several destinations within a single day by car. Arau is also a practical starting point for travellers continuing north towards Padang Besar and the Malaysia-Thailand border.

For travellers arriving by ETS, it is worth checking the latest KTM timetable before departure, as train schedules and services can change. Those planning to stay overnight should also consider booking accommodation in advance during weekends, school holidays and public holidays, when the limited number of rooms in Arau may fill more quickly.

Overall, Arau is best appreciated as a destination for royal heritage, history and local character rather than as a major sightseeing centre. A short visit is sufficient to see its principal landmarks, while combining Arau with Kangar and other Perlis attractions makes for a more complete exploration of the state.

Map of Arau, Perlis

Places of Interest in Arau

Arau Railway Station (GPS: 6.42977, 100.26921)
Chapel of the Holy Cross (GPS: 6.42796, 100.27499)
Dataran Sungai Arau (GPS: 6.430323, 100.272540)
Galeri Diraja Arau (GPS: 6.431628, 100.271012)
Masjid Lama Arau (GPS: 6.42972, 100.27161)
Masjid Negeri Perlis (GPS: 6.43008, 100.27017)
Perlis Royal Mausoleum (GPS: 6.428815, 100.271555)
Royal Palace of Perlis (GPS: 6.43085, 100.27178)

Arau is on the map of Towns in Perlis

References

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