Trishaws of Melaka

An examination of the antecedents of Melaka, reveal that this historic trading port evolved from the amalgamation of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Portuguese and Dutch cultures. As a result, this lively town located by the Straits of Malacca offers a very varied assortment of attractions which include old forts, churches, temples, markets and quaint shop-house restaurants that serve delectable Peranakan delights.

A notable attraction worth adding to this list is the unique trishaw of Melaka, a form of bicycle-powered rickshaw that once served as the main form of public transportation in this historic town.  Over the years with rapid growth and industrialization, the trishaw has been phased out for it has been replaced by more modern modes of transportation like buses and taxis. Today, the trishaw of Melaka functions primarily as an old-world attraction for tourists.

These charming trishaws which can usually be seen lined  in front of the main square present a wondrous sight, as they are elaborately embellished with trinkets colorful artificial flowers, flashing lights, flags and souvenirs. Some trishaw drivers even go a step further and equip their vehicles with audio players that spin popular tunes in a more zealous effort to attract customers.

A one-hour tour on a Melaka trishaw is currently priced at 40 Malaysian ringgits which approximately works-out to $12. This trishaw tour traverses most of the major sights of the port city and is usually accompanied by a running commentary provided by the driver.  These trishaw rides form an extremely popular attraction in Melaka and in order that they do not degenerate into tourist traps, the Majlis Bandaraya Melaka Bersejarah (the municipal council of Melaka) regulates the trishaw services by stipulating the rate the drivers can charge. These regulated rates are then advertised on boards at popular tourist attractions in Melaka like Christ Church and the Stadthuys.

A cruise of on trishaw in Melaka offers tourists with a wonderful opportunity to gain an insight into the soul of the vibrant, melting-point of cultures that is Melaka.