The biggest island off the west coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is one of the 99 islands that make up the Malaysian archipelago. This lush island has long been a popular vacation spot due to its stunning scenery, which includes turquoise waters lapping against expansive beaches and jungle-topped limestone cliffs.
In addition, all of Langkawi’s duty-free stores are located in the island’s main town. And what could possibly be wrong with that?
Rent a vehicle and explore this tropical paradise at your own pace; gas is inexpensive.
Must stay at the Danna Hotel
Landmarks, Beaches, and Tourist Attractions of LangkawiImage source: aaron choi/Shutterstock.com
The colonial-style Danna Hotel has four restaurants, the biggest swimming pool in town, unapologetic elegance, and a great seaside but somewhat out-of-the-way location, making it a wonderful place to relax.
Below, however, are a number of things that can be enjoyed without having to travel too far to reach the hustle and bustle of a larger city.
Must take a boat tour of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park
Exploring the tranquil and thrilling Kilim Karst Geoforest Park with its lushly enclosed streams and little tributaries is an unforgettable experience. You may find a giant water monitor lizard or a sluggish python resting on the tangled roots of mangrove trees at any moment.
Local Tourist Exploring Kilim Geopark Forest in LangkawiImage source: drshahrinmdayob/Shutterstock.com
Kingfishers, both blue and white, and various birdsong fill the air. Observing eagles soar is a birder’s delight (and the symbol of Langkawi). Eagles are often seen flying over tour boats because of the controversial practice of throwing pieces of chicken skin into the sea at selected spots
Breathtaking Bat Cave in BorneImage source: Christian Reinwald/Shutterstock.com
Visit the bat cave, where colonies of mosquito-eating bats roost in the cave’s 550-million-year-old limestone ceiling or fly around. Be prepared to hold your breath as you gaze up in wonder at something that is both noxious and wonderful. Let us add that. The cicadas, which are about the size of your thumb, create a buzzing sound all around you.
Overlooking a mangrove on a wooden bridge walkway, you can get up close and personal with some charming long-tailed macaque monkeys.
Must ride the Skycab cable car & cross the Skybridge
Tucked away in the Telaga Harbour region, close to Burau Bay, lies the Oriental Village, where you can find the Langkawi Skycab. As you ride it, you’ll be lifted far over the Gunung Machincang rainforest canopy. Mount Mat Cincang is a challenging climb, but you’ll reach the summit, which is 708 m above sea level, in the end. As you could expect, the views across the dispersed islands from the observation decks are breathtaking.
Spectacular Langkawi Cable Car and SkybridgeImage source: Vatchara Ruttikul/Shutterstock.com
On a clear day, South Thailand claims the coastline that suddenly appears above the Andaman Sea. The Skycab is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; however, if bad weather is expected, you should call ahead to make sure it will be open.
However, that’s not all. The trip up in the glass-bottomed gondolas to the Top Station could be overwhelming for some, but it’s well worth it. The treetops of the old forest are visible below.
There’s still more to come. Cross the curving, 125-meter-long (410-foot-long) Sky Bridge, unquestionably one of the island’s top tourist attractions. This winding boardwalk appears to round the mountain as it hangs precariously on a lone metal pylon over a deep ravine.
As a general rule, the farther up you go, the colder it will be. It’s a good idea to bring an additional layer of clothing, just in case.
Must go jet skiing
To view Langkawi from the ocean, riding a jet ski has to be the most fun you can have. Riding across the Andaman Sea on such a powerful water bike is an exhilarating experience. At first, we were hesitant to go off in an arrow formation (there were four skis plus the guide), but we quickly learned that the jet skis were more stable the faster we went
Thrilling Action at Langkawi International Formula Jet Ski Super SeriesImage source: pistolseven/Shutterstock.com
We ski past towering islands, coming within touching distance of the limestone cliffs and exploring the caverns. Then we played in the water for a while.
On Dayang Bunting Island, the group stops for a swim on the manmade pontoons. There is a shallow area, so be sure you put on one of the provided life vests.
Must go shopping for Duty Free
Duty-Free Shopping at the AirportImage source: Oliver Hoffmann/Shutterstock.com
This whole island is tax-free and duty-free. In the jetty area and along the retail strip at Pantai Cenang, you can find great deals on perfume, chocolate, and other goods. The biggest draws are the tax-free rates on electronics, candy, booze, and cigarettes.
The selling of the herb “gamut” is probably commonplace everywhere you go. Some consumers purchase sea cucumber extract in the hopes that it will alleviate their symptoms
Must check out the ‘Pasar Malam’ Night Market
Vibrant Night Market in Johor Bahru, MalaysiaImage source: andythyro/Shutterstock.com
The Malay word for night market is “Pasar Malam,” and it is a fantastic place to meet locals and get a feel for the culture. You can find it in a number of places; simply ask around to find the one closest to you.
The Pantai Chenang Night Market, located on Kuah Town’s seashore, is the most well-known and popular of these markets. Prices will naturally be higher due to the great volume of visitors, although haggling is encouraged.
Must go on a Sunset cruise
Serene Sunset over Langkawi Island, MalaysiaImage source: azamshah72/Shutterstock.com
There will be music, food, and companionship, and you might get to go for a swim while being pulled across the sea on a net by a boat. An enjoyable time is guaranteed, but the sunset cruise’s main draw is the breathtaking view it affords its passengers.
Aerial View of Eagle Square and Harbor in Langkawi, MalaysiaImage source: Toshio Chan/Shutterstock.com
A big eagle statue is ready to take flight as the boat passes through Dataran Lang. You can’t miss this bird, which stands 12 meters tall and faces the water.
Jet ski tours: Megawatersports Jetski safari
Skyride and Skybridge: Panaroma Langkawi
Sunset boat cruise: Your Cruise Services Langkawi
