From JB to Kota Bahru

The train slipped off slowly from JB Central. My 16 hours journey begins.

I had Sleeper Seat for S$18. There was no baggage compartment. So just have to leave it on the aisle. To my surprise there are no chairs in this coach if I needed to sit during these 16 hours. My only option is to sit in the cafeteria which was in the next coach.

I have the upper bunk. But climbing up that bunk with the poorly placed steel ladder was an obstacle course for me. Nevertheless the bunk was comfortable and when the curtains are drawn, the privacy was good.

The train chuckled through the darkness, occasionally making stops. I managed to sleep early but was awakened a couple of times to visit the depilated toilet. I think this train must be over 20 years.

I was widely awake by 6.30am. I walk to the next coach where the cafeteria is. It was already opened. From my seat I can see the morning light creeping through the forest mist. I ordered Kopi and started reading the last few days’ news on my iPad.

With the grey clouds hanging low, the sun was obscured and the sunlight wasn’t bright. There was occasional drizzle. On both sides of the train was jungle or green vegetation. Occasionally the train passed through small kampongs with houses on stilts and zinc roofs. The train also crossed a couple of metal bridges where the river was filled with fast flowing yellow muddy water as the result of continuous monsoon rain at this time of the year.

My train is scheduled to arrive Kota Bahru station around 1 pm. I have booked a room in Destiny Riverside Hotel along the Kelantan River for the next 2 nights.  

There are no PA for pre-boarding and arrival. Instead the train attendant will walk down the aisle to announce the name of approaching station. As for me I am listening out for Warkaf Bahru, nearest stop to my booked hotel.

I am expecting very much from this small city in Kelantan. As I mentioned earlier, I am trying to adjust to the slow lanes.

  

 

KOTA BAHRU

 

My hotel was on the riverside of Kelantan River. The water level was indeed high. The riverside was very well built. It’s like our Boat Quay.

I started my discovery of Kelantan and found my way to Kota Bahru Chinatown with its universal Chinese Arch. Had Bah KutTeh for lunch. I walk around the town to feel the pulse of the city.

I will update on Kota Bahru in my next posting.