Recently, I took a short trip to Sitiawan and was pleasantly surprised by the interesting experiences this small coastal town has to offer. I was staying in an Airbnb in Kuala Kangsar and decided to make a day trip here — just a little over an hour’s drive away. From temples with sea views to famous local snacks, here’s how I spent my day.
Tua Pek Kong Temple
Located by the Straits of Malacca, the Tua Pek Kong Temple is definitely worth a visit. The temple is huge, decorated with many impressive white stone statues, and best of all — it’s free to enter.
Just across the road is a beautiful seaview, perfect for a quick photo stop. Inside the temple grounds, you’ll also find a few small shops selling souvenirs, tea, and coffee. The combination of spiritual calm, sea breeze, and cultural heritage makes this place a must-see when you’re in Sitiawan.
Address:
Setiawan Tua Pek kong Temple
Jalan Pasir Panjang,
32000 Sitiawan, Perak, Malaysia
Lunch at Sitiawan Dindings Tea House
We were lucky to make it here just before closing for a late lunch. Dindings Tea House serves all the Sitiawan specialties, including their signature Hong Zhao Red Wine Chicken with Mian Xian.
What makes this place stand out isn’t just the food, but the atmosphere. The décor is filled with nostalgic treasures — old landline telephones, typewriters, charcoal irons, and vintage posters. It feels like stepping back in time while enjoying a hearty meal.
Address:
Sitiawan Dindings Tea House, Jalan Lumut, 1, Taman Sitiawan 2, Taman Bunga Ros, 32000 Sitiawan, Perak
Cheong Cia Gong Pian (光饼)
Next stop — Cheong Cia Gong Pian, the most famous biscuit shop in town. Their Gong Pian is crispy on the outside, chewy inside, and filled with savory onions.
Fresh batches come out throughout the day, but they sell out fast. When we visited, there was already a line, and the meat-filled version had sold out. Locals told me this place is the real deal — not just a tourist trap.
Address:
Cheong Cia Gong Pian
12, Lorong Tok Perdana,
Taman Tok Perdana, 32000 Sitiawan,
Perak, Malaysia.
One highlight was watching the baking process. The biscuits are slapped onto the sides of a charcoal-fired clay oven, just like making Indian naan. This old-school method gives them a unique flavor and freshness. My tip: eat it while it’s still hot!
Near by the Gong Pian biscuit there is a cendol stall that you may want to try, run by Indian, there are chairs for you sit down and have the cendol, it cools down after taking the warm gong biscuit.
Li Ji Bao Dian (利记包店)
Our final stop was Li Ji Bao Dian, a traditional bun shop located next to a bushy area. Stepping inside, I saw rows of wooden steamers stacked high with soft buns in different flavors — red bean, peanut, coconut, lotus paste.
Unfortunately, what shocked me was the number of flies in the shop. We still bought a few baos to try, but honestly, I didn’t feel confident eating them. It’s a reminder that while old-school charm is great, cleanliness is just as important.
Address:
实兆远著名福州枕头包。
LEE JI PAO SHOP 李记包店
No 1177, Pekan Gurney
32010 Sitiawan
Perak
Lastly, we took a half-hour drive to Lumut to check out some local snacks. Honestly, they weren’t that tasty, but the riverside was a nice spot to relax and chill.
If you’re heading to Sitiawan, this little itinerary covers a mix of heritage, food, and local specialties — but do go early if you want to beat the queue and get the freshest bakes.
Where I stay: De’ Kuala @ Kuala Kangsar airbnb