Alor Setar is the capital of Kedah and provides easy access to the Thai border and the rest of Kedah. Like all towns in Kedah, Alor Setar still retains its old world charms and is the place to visit if you want to be 'Far from the Madding Crowd'. The town has developed along Jalan Pekan Melayu and most of the places of interest are within walking distance. The most notable is the Balai Nobat, a three-tiered octagonal tower housing the instruments of the royal orchestra.