Langkawi | Malaysia

Landmarks in Langkawi

Information

City: Langkawi
Country: Malaysia
Continent: Asia

Langkawi, Malaysia, Asia

Overview

Here’s a closer look at Langkawi, Malaysia’s beloved island getaway, where turquoise waves lap at sandy shores: 1.Langkawi-officially the Langkawi Archipelago-is a scatter of 99 emerald-green islands (104 when the tide pulls back) in the Andaman Sea, just off Malaysia’s northwest coast near the Thai border.It’s in the state of Kedah and draws visitors with golden beaches, green hills rolling to the horizon, and the lure of duty‑free shops.Langkawi Island, or Pulau Langkawi, is the main island here, home to about 100,000 people, most of them living near the coast; recognized as a UNESCO Geopark in 2007 for its striking limestone cliffs and rich biodiversity, it speaks Malay officially, though English is common thanks to tourism, and the currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).Langkawi is known for its natural beauty, from quiet stretches of white sand to lush rainforests and tangled mangrove forests buzzing with life.Pantai Cenang draws the biggest crowds with its soft white sand and clear, blue-green water, and the shore hums with cafés, bars, and little shops.Just next door, Pantai Tengah feels calmer-perfect for stretching out under the sun with only the sound of waves.Farther north, Tanjung Rhu stays quiet and secluded, framed by dramatic limestone formations.Datai Bay offers luxury wrapped in dense rainforest, while Black Sand Beach shimmers with dark grains born from mineral-rich earth.For natural wonders, stroll the 125‑meter Langkawi Sky Bridge, hanging 660 meters above the ground with sweeping views of rainforest and the Andaman Sea.Ride the Langkawi Cable Car to the summit of Gunung Mat Cincang, explore Kilim Karst Geoforest Park’s mangroves and limestone cliffs on a boat tour, and watch eagles swoop overhead.Cool off at Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, where seven sparkling pools tumble down the rocks, or visit Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park to see the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden, steeped in legend.Hike Gunung Raya, the island’s highest peak, for panoramic jungle views.For culture and history, stand beneath the soaring eagle at Eagle Square, hear the tragic tale at Makam Mahsuri, browse batik and wood carvings at the Langkawi Craft Complex, and step into Galeria Perdana’s trove of gifts once presented to Tun Dr.Mahathir Mohamad.At Laman Padi Langkawi, walk past fields of rice and the tools once used to grow them.Langkawi’s a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.Spend your days in Langkawi island-hopping to Pulau Beras Basah, Pulau Dayang Bunting, and Pulau Singa Besar, diving or snorkeling among the coral reefs at Payar Island Marine Park, skimming the coastline on a jet ski, or catching the breeze while parasailing or kayaking off Pantai Cenang; for adventure on land, soar by zipline through the rainforest near Gunung Mat Cincang, glide past twisted mangrove roots in Kilim Geoforest Park, or trek the rugged trails of Gunung Raya, then refuel with fragrant local Malay dishes or whatever international flavors you’re craving.Don’t miss Nasi Dagang-fragrant rice simmered in coconut milk with rich fish curry-along with tangy Laksa Kedah, smoky spice-marinated ikan bakar, and beachfront seafood barbecues at spots like Pantai Cenang.For a bite out, try Orkid Ria’s famously fresh catch, linger over sunset views at The Cliff, or wander a lively night market where the scent of grilled satay fills the air.Time your visit for events like the biennial Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition, the vibrant Geopark Carnival, or the festive feasts of Eid.And if shopping’s on your list, Langkawi’s duty-free status means bargains are everywhere.You’ll find plenty of duty-free treats here-think smooth Belgian chocolates, a splash of designer perfume, or a sleek box of cosmetics.For shopping, browse the compact Cenang Mall in Pantai Cenang, wander the sprawling Teow Soon Huat department store, or stop by Zon Duty-Free just steps from the beach.Getting in is easy: fly into Langkawi International Airport from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Singapore, or catch a ferry from Kuala Perlis, Kuala Kedah, or Penang.Once on the island, most visitors rent a car for freedom to roam, while taxis and Grab rides are everywhere.As for where to stay, Langkawi’s packed with choices, from budget inns to waterfront resorts.Luxury Resorts include The Datai Langkawi, tucked into a lush rainforest by Datai Bay; the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, with its sweeping beachfront and elegant villas; and The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi, where private villas open to quiet, green views.For mid-range stays, you’ll find the eco-friendly Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa on the sand, and the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort at lively Pantai Cenang.Budget travelers can opt for Langkawi Dormitorio, a sleek hostel steps from the shore, or Rainforest Retreats, simple stays surrounded by birdsong and trees.Langkawi’s name means “Island of the Brown Eagle,” a nod to the massive bronze bird that watches over Eagle Square.Some of its rocks are ancient-over 550 million years old.And if you’ve seen the Bollywood hit *Don 2*, you’ve already caught a glimpse of its shores.

Landmarks in Langkawi