Kuala Kurau in Perak
Playing tourist in Malaysia never goes out of style, especially with the abundance of lesser-known gems waiting to be explored. One such hidden treasure is Kuala Kurau, a fishermen’s village in Perak that whispers tales of the sea and simpler times.
Just a 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, this rustic village welcomes visitors with its rows of fishing boats bobbing on the river, the salty scent of drying fish in the air, and a quiet escape from the rush of everyday life.
A traditional fishermen’s village in northern Perak
Tucked away in northern Perak, Kuala Kurau is a place where time moves a little slower, and life follows the rhythm of the tides. A mere hour’s drive from Penang, this charming village is an easy getaway for those looking to soak in authentic coastal living.
Here, you’ll find fishing boats lining the riverbanks, locals drying salted fish under the sun, and an array of small eateries serving up simple yet delicious village fare.
As the sun rises, villagers are already up and about – some heading out to sea, others tending to their businesses. Many prefer to get around on bicycles, lending the village a quaint and nostalgic charm.
A visit to Kuala Kurau isn’t about ticking off attractions at breakneck speed; it’s about embracing slow travel, soaking up the community’s warmth, and discovering the beauty of a life deeply connected to nature.
– Things to do in Kuala Kurau –
1. Visit Hai Hin Rice Mill
Get a glimpse into traditional rice milling
Established in 1943, Hai Hin Rice Mill is one of Kuala Kurau’s most treasured landmarks. Formed during the Japanese occupation, this family-run mill is the beating heart of the village’s rice production.
Unlike the usual brown or white rice, Hai Hin is famous for its embryo rice – a special variety that undergoes an extra hulling process to make it softer and easier to digest. It’s particularly popular among those seeking to switch to a healthier diet, including those with diabetes.
Address: 84 & 85, Jalan Besar, 34350 Kuala Kurau, Perak
Opening hours: 9.30am-5.30pm, Daily
Contact: 05-727 7269
2. Take a Boat Tour
Visit a floating fish farm
A visit to a fishermen’s village wouldn’t be complete without a boat ride. Hop aboard a traditional wooden boat at the Kuala Kurau Bay Hotel for just RM18/person. This 40-minute river tour takes you through the heart of the village, giving you a glimpse of life along the waterways.
One of the highlights is a stop at the floating fish farm, where you’ll have the chance to feed Red Siakap (barramundi) and other large fish bred in the river. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the village’s deep-rooted connection to the sea.
3. Snack on Cucur Udang
The village’s favourite treat
No trip is complete without indulging in a town’s must-tries. At Kuala Kurau, its most beloved street snack cucur udang takes centre stage. These crispy prawn fritters, made from fresh prawns and flour batter, are a favourite among locals.
A famous stall to sample them is Wang Yu Yuan, which has been serving these golden delights since 1993. Be prepared to queue, as locals and visitors alike line up for their signature cucur udang, fried rice cakes, and cassava snacks – all starting from just RM2/piece.
4. Savour the famous seafood curry noodles
A delightful mixture of seafood items
Right next to Wang Yu Yuan’s stall, you’ll find another village treasure – a small eatery selling seafood curry noodles. This family-run stall, now helmed by the founder’s daughter, was once just a simple roadside trishaw business.
What makes this dish unique is a generous mix of seafood – thin slices of ikan pari (stingray), mini prawns, fish balls, and cockles – all swimming in a fragrant, creamy curry broth that perfectly coats the chewy noodles. Plus, the addition of sambal gives it an extra kick of spice
Only open on weekends from 11am-3pm, this place gets packed pretty fast so you might have to wait for a seat that’s very well worth waiting for.
5. Try Kuala Kurau’s pineapple water
Soaked pineapple in sugar water
Pineapple water is a drink you’ll only find in Kuala Kurau. It’s a refreshing concoction made by soaking fresh pineapples in sugar water for hours before serving it over shaved ice.
This tropical treat, found in small hawker stalls around the village, has a surprising flavour reminiscent of lychee water – sweet, juicy, and incredibly refreshing on a hot day.
The best place to try this unique indulgence is at Long Iced Water Stall (隆冰水档), located at the same spot as the seafood curry noodle stall.
6. Unwind at Ban Pecah beach
A 10-minute drive from Kuala Kurau
Just a 10-minute drive from Kuala Kurau, Ban Pecah beach is a serene stretch of coast where you can take in the salty breeze and the soothing sounds of waves crashing against rocky embankments.
Though not suitable for swimming, this scenic spot is perfect for a leisurely walk, a quiet picnic, or sunset watching. A nice addition to keep an eye out for is local fishermen casting their lines from the shore.
7. Buy freshly made salted fish
At Weng Sheng Trading
With all the salted fish you’ll see drying around the village, you’ll be tempted to bring some home. A well-known supplier here is Weng Sheng Trading, offering a wide selection of salted tenggiri (Spanish mackerel), ikan guli, dried prawns, and anchovies at affordable prices.
The seafood here is freshly caught and carefully preserved through traditional methods of drying and salting. Left under the sun for days, the fish develop a rich flavour, making them perfect as flavour-enhancers in hearty curries, a savoury side with rice, or even a delicious snack in a warm bowl of soup.
8. Stroll through Bagan Seberang
Visit a Chinese temple and hawker stalls
For a quiet, scenic walk, head to Bagan Seberang, a charming riverside area with a Chinese temple, hawker stalls, and a small food court selling local favourites like fried oysters and soup noodles.
This village is home to a few Chinese temples, but the main one facing the sea, holds a serene charm. Take a moment to offer incense, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and then enjoy a local snack while watching boats gently drift along the river.
Where to stay in Kuala Kurau
Kuala Kurau has one main hotel which is Kuala Kurau Bay Hotel, but availability can vary with prices starting from RM200/night.
For a more authentic experience, opt for a homestay, where friendly hosts welcome you into their homes, offering a taste of true village life. Prices start from RM100/night, and bookings can be made via online booking platforms such as Agoda or Booking.com.
Explore the laidback Kuala Kurau fishing village in Perak
In a world where modern cities keep expanding, Kuala Kurau stands as a quiet reminder of a simpler, slower way of life. This village, shaped by the tides and the hands of its fishermen, offers visitors a rare glimpse into a life untouched by the rush of time.
So if you’re looking to explore the lesser-known gems in our country, consider a visit here to bask in the charms of a fishermen’s village and its coastal life.
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Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local Malaysia
Photography by: Yusintha