Majestic Istana Besar: A Glimpse into Johor's Royal Heritage
Explore the grandeur of Istana Besar, Johor Bahru's royal palace, where history and culture blend in stunning architecture and serene gardens.
Istana Besar, the majestic royal palace of Johor Bahru, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and history of the Johor Sultanate. Nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, this stunning architectural marvel is a must-visit for travelers eager to explore Malaysia’s royal past. Constructed in the late 19th century, the palace showcases a blend of Malay and European architectural styles, making it a breathtaking sight. The grand facade, adorned with intricate details, draws visitors' eyes and invites them to capture the moment in photographs. While the palace is primarily the residence of the Sultan, the surrounding gardens are accessible to the public, offering a serene environment for leisurely walks and reflection. The opulent interiors are not open to the public, but the palace's exterior beauty alone is worth the visit. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Royal Abu Bakar Museum, housed in the former palace, which provides deeper insights into the history and royal lineage of Johor. The museum displays artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that narrate the story of the Johor Sultanate. For those interested in culture and history, Istana Besar serves as a perfect entry point into the legacy of Johor and its royal family. Whether you are seeking to appreciate historical architecture, indulge in cultural exploration, or simply enjoy a peaceful retreat in a beautifully manicured garden, Istana Besar promises an enriching experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the gardens in cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.
- Check local schedules for any cultural events or exhibitions at the nearby Royal Abu Bakar Museum.
- Respect the royal grounds and observe any posted rules regarding photography and access.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for a quieter experience.
A brief summary to Istana Besar
- Istana Besar Royal Abu Bakar, Johor Bahru, Taman Istana, Johor, 80000, MY
Getting There
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Bus
From Bukit Timah, walk to the nearest bus stop, which is located along Upper Bukit Timah Road. Take Bus 67 or Bus 170, which goes towards Johor Bahru. Make sure to check the bus schedule as the frequency may vary. After approximately 30-40 minutes, you will arrive at the Woodland Checkpoint. Here, you will need to clear customs to enter Malaysia. Once through, take Bus 950, which will take you directly to Johor Bahru. Alight at the stop for Taman Istana. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to Istana Besar, following the signs towards the royal palace.
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Taxi/Grab
If you prefer a more direct route, you can book a Grab (a popular ride-hailing service) from your location in Bukit Timah. Simply open the Grab app, set your pickup location, and enter 'Istana Besar, Johor Bahru' as your destination. The journey will take around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic and you will directly arrive at the palace without the need for bus transfers.
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Walking to MRT and then Bus
If you are near the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, walk to the nearest MRT station, which is the Beauty World MRT Station on the Downtown Line. Board the train towards Expo and alight at the Bugis Station. Transfer to the East West Line and board a train heading towards Pasir Ris. Alight at the Tanah Merah Station, then change to the Bus 36 towards Johor Bahru. This bus will take you directly to the Woodland Checkpoint. After clearing customs, switch to Bus 950 to reach Taman Istana, where Istana Besar is located. It's a short walk from the bus stop to the palace.
Attractions Nearby to Istana Besar
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Jubilee Arch
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VOA Monument
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Johor Tourist Information Center
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Johor Zoo
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Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque
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Laluan Kebudayaan Tan Hiok Nee
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Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum
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Persatuan Hainan Johor Bahru
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Jalan Tan Hook Nee
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JB Mural Art
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Tan Hiok Nee
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Heritage Walk & Food Street
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Street Art Jahor Bahru
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Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam அருள்மிகு ராஜமாரியம்மன் தேவஸ்தானம்
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Johor Ancient Temple
Landmarks nearby to Istana Besar
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Zero Kilometre (0 KM) of Peninsular Malaysia
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Pasar Karat (Bazar JB)
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JB Mariamman Temple
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Gurdwara Sahib Johor Bahru
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CIQ Street
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JB Street
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Holy Light Presbyterian Church
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WIP Merlin Tower
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Church Of The Immaculate Conception
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Angry Birds Activity Park, Komtar, Johore.
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Skyscape Johor Bahru
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Mahmoodiah Royal Mausoleum
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0 km Danga Bay
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Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple
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Jam Besar Dataran Johor Bahru