Escape and Explore
A tropical dreamland of azure waters, lush valleys, and sun-drenched beaches, Langkawi, an archipelago of around 100 islands, is often ranked among the top five island destinations in the world. While its natural beauty is breathtaking, there's more to uncover as one steps into the region. What is said to be one of the oldest lands in Malaysia, Langkawi's serene mountains, beaches and islands record a geological history that goes back over half a billion years. This rich heritage led to Langkawi being awarded the UNESCO Global Geopark status, the first such in Southeast Asia.
Island Hopping
The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, a spectacular landscape of mangrove forests, is a haven for adventurers, with huge limestone formations, Brahminy kites and portunid and grapsid crabs. Boat and jet ski tours are perfect for exploring these wild habitats and tranquil beaches. Do keep some time in hand to go island hopping around the smaller islets.
Water World
Underwater World Langkawi offers an impressive educational experience, housing thousands of varieties of marine animals. Known as one of the largest marine and freshwater aquaria in Southeast Asia, it’s home to African penguins, fur seals, varieties of sharks, turtles, stingrays, arapaima and more.
Beaches and Hikes
In addition to Langkawi’s popular beaches — Pantai Tengah and Pantai Cenang — relax with a sunset at Pantai Kok beach. Try kayaking or jet skiing at Tasik Dayang Bunting. Gunung Raya, the tallest peak in Langkawi, can be reached by hike or drive. Sign up for a guided tour of Gunung Raya Rainforest Reserve Area and encounter various species of birds. You can also hike to Gunung Machinchang, the island’s second-highest point. The cascading Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall offers a serene setting, with seven interconnected natural pools fed by separate waterfalls. Temurun Waterfall is another hidden gem.
Sky Bridge View
The Langkawi Cable Car, one of the world’s steepest, soars over dense forests, ancient mountains, and the Andaman Sea, to the top of Gunung Machinchang. For an extra dose of thrill, you can walk across the SkyBridge, considered one of the world’s longest curved suspension bridges. The bridge appears to hang between mountains and offers jawdropping views. A popular attraction, it is well worth the experience.
Nightlife
After a busy day, eat, shop, and enjoy at the numerous night markets around the islands, which rotate locations. The markets at Pantai Cenang, Kedawang, Kuah, and Ulu Melaka are particularly popular, offering a range of local food, clothing and jewellery. Look out for unique iced teas, boba drinks, ayam goreng (Malaysian-style fried chicken), and curry mee made with local ingredients. Other local favourites include pisang goreng, nasi ayam, nasi lemak, and fried noodles.
Highlights
Try batik painting at Atma Alam Batik Art Village. The Langkawi Craft Complex is the place to shop for traditional handicrafts, batik fabrics, and intricate wood carvings. For a dive into local folklore, visit Dream Forest Langkawi, an interactive theme park that brings mystical legends to life amidst lush rainforest settings.
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