Hovel Glamping Homestay, Alor Setar — A Solid Pick for Big Group Getaways

The Vibe

Let's be straight about this one — Hovel Glamping Homestay is not a pitch-your-tent-in-the-jungle kind of place. This is a private glamping homestay with a pool. You're booking the whole property, not a campsite lot. No tent pitching, no sleeping on the ground, no river nearby. If that's what you're after, scroll down to the You Might Also Like section. But if you're planning a family gathering, a group trip, or a raya getaway in Alor Setar and you want something comfortable with a bit of an outdoor feel — this one delivers.

The vibe is relaxed and kampung-adjacent. It's tucked in Taman Andalas, a residential area in Alor Setar — so don't expect sweeping views or jungle sounds. What you get instead is a clean, spacious private property that fits a big group comfortably, with a pool to cool off in and a BBQ setup for malam ramai-ramai sessions. Very much a "staycation with the extended family" kind of energy.

Reviews suggest the owner is genuinely helpful and responsive — the kind of host who picks up the phone and sorts things out without drama. That goes a long way when you're organising a last-minute trip for 13 people.

Getting There

The address is 18, Jalan Andalas 2, Taman Andalas, 05350 Alor Setar, Kedah. It's inside a residential neighbourhood, so use Google Maps and it'll take you right there — just search for Hovel Glamping Private Pool or use the Maps link directly. Road is standard tarmac all the way, no 4WD needed, parking shouldn't be an issue for a private booking. If you're coming from the North-South Expressway, take the Alor Setar exit and it's a short drive in.

What to Expect

This place is built for groups. Thirteen people fit comfortably based on one family's stay — that's a decent size. Rooms are spacious and clean. The kitchen is properly equipped with cutlery and utensils, so you can actually cook real food, not just instant mee goreng. The private pool is well-maintained and clean, which is the main draw. Add in the BBQ pit and you've basically got everything you need for a full day and night with the family.

Don't come expecting glamping in the traditional sense — no canopy tents in the forest, no stargazing hammocks. The "glamping" label here refers more to the comfortable, styled accommodation style rather than outdoor camping. Think of it as a nicely set up private villa with a pool rather than a glamping ground. Suitable for families, friend groups, or anyone who wants a private retreat without going too far from town.

Facilities

Swimming Pool

Private pool, clean and well-maintained. Reviewers specifically mentioned this. Big enough to enjoy, not just a decorative dip pool.

Kitchen

Fully equipped with utensils and cutlery. You can cook proper meals here, which is great for big groups trying to save on eating out.

BBQ

BBQ facilities are available and were a highlight for most groups that stayed. Good for night sessions after a swim.

Rooms

Spacious, clean, and cozy. Fits up to 13 people comfortably based on reviewer experience.

Parking

Private property so parking should be available on site. Not mentioned as an issue by any reviewer.

What Campers Are Saying

One family who booked this as a last-minute plan for 13 people said the place exceeded their expectations. Rooms were spacious and clean, kitchen was properly equipped, and the pool was well-maintained. They gave a lot of credit to the owner for being responsive and helpful throughout the whole booking process — especially important when you're scrambling to organise a big group at short notice.

A repeat guest mentioned they came back a second time, calling it a "cool place with fresh vibe as always." Repeat customers are always a good sign — especially for a homestay where the experience depends heavily on how well the place is maintained.

Others kept it short — "simply amazing", "nice view", "awesome". Not a lot of detail, but across the board everyone's rating it full marks. No complaints surfaced in any review, which for a private homestay booking is a good indicator that the basics are consistently done right.

TAHAN Tip

Since the kitchen is fully equipped, this is the perfect setup to actually cook something proper as a group. Market run in the morning, cook together, BBQ at night — that's the move. Alor Setar has some great wet markets nearby (Pekan Rabu is famous for local produce and snacks). Stock up there and make a full day of it. The cooking and eating is half the fun on trips like this.

If your group is big and you want to make the BBQ session easier without relying solely on the in-house setup, the TAHAN Windmaster Double Burner Stove is worth throwing in the boot. Cook two dishes at once — rendang on one burner, sambal on the other. Works great as a supplement when you've got 13 people to feed and one grill isn't enough.

Mike has been camping across Malaysia for over 10 years — from jungle treks in Taman Negara to beach camps in Perhentian. He writes about it so you don't have to find out the hard way. Follow along on TAHAN Outdoor's blog for honest campsite reviews, every week.

You Might Also Like

• Amantara Glamping — another Kedah glamping option if you want more of an outdoor feel while staying comfortable
• Senjana Glamping Resort — a proper glamping resort also in Kedah worth checking out if you want something with more nature around you