Built in 1840 on the orders of Sultan Mohamed II, the Istana Balai Besar replaces the old palace, Istana Kota Lama along the Sungai Kelantan (Kelantan River) as the Sultan of Kelantan's new administrative centre. Since the palace was erected, the town where the Istana Balai Besar is located has been named Kota Bharu (New Town) and later became the state capital of Kelantan.

The palace stands proudly, surrounded by a fort within an area that covers over 1627square metres. This beautiful wooden structure is made of timber provided with courtesy from the people of Ulu Kelantan and Pasir Puteh. The palace houses an impressive audience hall, throne room and a fine collection of royal regalia. Once the residence of Sultans in the past, Istana Balai Besar today serves mainly as a venue for official state functions and investiture ceremonies, and is mostly restricted to visitors.

For more information, please contact: (609) 7442212.