Kampung Kraftangan Kota Bharu: Traditional Kelantanese Craft Village
Kampung Kraftangan (Handicraft Village) is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Kota Bharu, Kelantan. This heritage center showcases the finest in traditional arts, crafts, and Malay architecture. Visitors can explore beautiful wooden buildings, watch artisans at work, and purchase authentic, handmade items like batik, silverware, wood carvings, and songket — all while immersing themselves in the living spirit of Kelantanese tradition.
This is more than just a craft center—Kampung Kraftangan is a living museum where tradition breathes through the hands of artisans. Surrounded by traditional wooden buildings and shaded courtyards, it's a serene space that celebrates Kelantan’s artistic soul.
Unmissable Experiences
Batik Painting Workshops: Try your hand at creating your own batik masterpiece.
Artisan Demonstrations: Watch live silverwork, woodcarving, and weaving.
Heritage Architecture: Admire the beautiful Malay timber buildings with intricate carvings.
Cultural Souvenirs: Shop for high-quality handmade crafts to bring home.
Coastal Soul of Kelantan
Although not directly by the sea, Kampung Kraftangan echoes Kelantan’s coastal identity through its motifs, materials, and centuries-old trade of handcrafted goods, especially batik and silverware—once prized exports by sea.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Experience Kampung Kraftangan Kota Bharu
Morning to early afternoon (9 AM – 1 PM) for cooler weather and active demonstrations.
Visit during festive seasons (e.g., Hari Raya, school holidays) for cultural performances and extra events.
Getting There from Cabana 2281
From Cabana 2281, it takes about 55 minutes (approx. 50 km) to reach Kampung Kraftangan in Kota Bharu.
Take Route 3 north towards Kota Bharu, and head toward Jalan Hilir Kota near the Istana Jahar. The center is located next to the Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs.
Locate this location to get to Kampung Kraftangan Kota Bharu
Bring cash for purchases; some shops may not accept cards.
Be respectful when entering workshops—ask before taking photos.
Dress modestly, especially if combining your visit with nearby mosques or palaces.
Support local artisans by purchasing directly from their stalls.
Must-Try Activities
Hands-on batik or woodcraft sessions
Silversmithing demo – see Kelantan’s iconic fine silverwork
Try traditional Kelantanese desserts at the nearby café
Stroll the compound for peaceful photo opportunities
Conservation Meets Tourism
Kampung Kraftangan serves as both an economic lifeline for traditional artisans and a conservation hub for endangered Malay heritage arts. It merges tourism with cultural preservation by offering education, employment, and exposure for local artists.
Why Visit Now
In a time when mass production overshadows handmade art, Kampung Kraftangan offers a rare and meaningful experience. Plus, with increased focus on heritage tourism in Kelantan, this site is becoming a must-see stop before it’s widely commercialized.
Visitor Essentials
Location: Jalan Hilir Kota, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee: Free for the village grounds; some workshops may charge a small fee
Workshop participation: Around RM15–RM30 per activity
Snacks/café: RM5–RM15 per meal/snack
Facilities
Artisan workshops
Craft stalls & souvenir shops
Washrooms & prayer room
Tourist information center
Small café or snack stalls
Shaded seating areas and rest zones
Kampung Kraftangan isn’t just a craft village—it’s a living gallery where Kelantan’s cultural soul is carved, woven, and painted into life. Tucked in the heart of Kota Bharu, this artistic enclave celebrates the hands of local artisans who preserve traditional Malay crafts with passion and precision. Come not just to see batik being made or wood being carved, but to feel the heartbeat of heritage, support local creativity, and experience Kelantan’s artistic spirit up close.
