Join us today for a delightful Day Trip adventure in Malaysia, starting right from Dannok in Sadao, Songkhla. After a restful night at Satit Grand View Hotel in Dannok, we're ready to set out on our journey to Alor Setar and back into Thailand, all within a day. Let’s see what fascinating stops we can make on this whirlwind trip!

What to Know Before You Go? 

Before embarking on your tasty and shopping-filled day trip in Malaysia near the Dannok border in Sadao, Songkhla, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth journey:

Dannok Border Operating

• Malaysia side: Open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
• Thai side: Open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Although the border stays open late, it's wise to arrive a bit early as the lines can get long during peak times.

Prepare Cash Make sure to have Malaysian Ringgit on hand for shopping and various purchases in Malaysia. While many shops near the border offer currency exchange, it’s more convenient to exchange money in Thailand to save time during your trip.

Grab Breakfast in Dannok

Start your day with breakfast in Dannok before heading into Malaysia. With the border area bustling in the morning, it’s best to fill up before the queues start. At 8:00 AM, we stopped by AKIKO'S TEA, not far from our hotel, where the coffee is exceptionally tasty—a perfect start to the day. After coffee, we enjoyed some delicious duck noodles and congee at a local noodle shop, leaving us satisfied and ready to continue our journey at 9:00 AM. Remember to have your passport ready for a smooth entry into Malaysia!

Enter Bukit Kayu Hitam

Upon crossing the border into Malaysia, our first stop was Bukit Kayu Hitam. Thinking of heading back to Thailand by evening, we decided to shop first at The Zon Duty Free Complex, located near the Sadao border. This duty-free shopping center offers a variety of tax-free goods ranging from cosmetics to perfumes and alcoholic beverages. It’s a highlight of Bukit Kayu Hitam, where you can find gifts for loved ones or personal treats. By 2:00 PM, our car was packed, and we were ready to move on. Additional info: The Zon Duty Free Complex closes at 10:00 PM.

Today’s Main Destination: Alor Setar 

Today’s highlight is Alor Setar, a city brimming with charm and attractions. The drive from Bukit Kayu Hitam to Alor Setar is comfortable, covering about 50 kilometers, which takes about an hour by car. Alor Setar is packed with places worth visiting, from historical sites to large shopping malls

and local markets offering native goods and delicious foods. If traveling with family, consider stopping at Fantasia Aquapark Fun-tastik—a water park with various fun rides perfect for family enjoyment.

Alor Setar’s Top 8 Must-Visit Places

Here are the top 8 must-visit places in Alor Setar

1. Alor Setar Tower - A telecommunications tower, the third tallest in Malaysia, offering a panoramic view of the city from its viewing deck.
2. Kedah Paddy Museum - Learn about rice cultivation and the agricultural history of Kedah near Gunung Keriang, just 10 kilometers from Alor Setar.
3. Aman Central - The largest shopping mall in Kedah with a variety of stores, restaurants, a cinema, and a bowling alley.
4. Fort Kuala Kedah - An ancient fort built in 1771 to defend against invaders, rich in history and architectural beauty.
5. Zahir Mosque - One of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Malaysia, constructed in 1912 with its distinctive five black domes.
6. Mahathir’s Birthplace - A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Malaysia’s longest-serving Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.
7. Gunung Keriang - A 250-million-year-old limestone hill, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
8. Pekan Rabu Complex - A local market with various shops selling local products and souvenirs, perfect for experiencing the local culture and cuisine.

Though we intended to visit all eight locations, we only managed the first four due to the evening setting in and needing to return to Thailand. We ended our day at Aman Central, shopping until our car was full. At 1:00 AM, we left Alor Setar, crossed back into Thailand at the Dannok border, and spent a night in Hat Yai. The next morning, we headed to the airport, ready to return to Bangkok. This trip offered new experiences and a taste of Malaysia’s delicious offerings, especially the local sweets, which were a hit with the kids. We look forward to our next visit to Hat Yai and another excursion to Dannok. Until the next article, we hope this adventure inspires you to travel more!