Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah, is a district and an archipelago of 99 islands in the Malacca Strait some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia.
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Why travel to Langkawi?
Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands in Malaysia, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a relaxing getaway. With its rich flora and fauna, duty-free shopping, and delicious local cuisine, Langkawi offers an array of experiences that cater to all types of travelers.
How to get there?
Langkawi is easily accessible by air and sea. The most convenient way to reach the main island, Pulau Langkawi, is by flying into Langkawi International Airport (LGK). There are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and other major cities in the region. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis, or Penang in Malaysia or Satun in Thailand. The ferry ride takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the departure point.
What to book in advance?
It's wise to book your accommodation and any popular tours or activities in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (December to March). Consider reserving tickets for the Langkawi SkyCab, a cable car ride that offers breathtaking views of the island, and the SkyBridge, a curved suspension bridge at the top of Mount Mat Cincang.
What are the costs?
Langkawi is an affordable destination for all budgets. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels to luxurious resorts, with prices starting from $10 per night. Meals at local restaurants cost around $2-5 per dish, while a more upscale dining experience can cost up to $30 per person. Activities and tours can range from $10 to $100, depending on the activity and duration.
What are the best things to do?
1. Explore the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park: Visit this UNESCO-listed park to explore mangroves, limestone formations, and diverse wildlife.
2. Island Hopping: Take a boat tour to discover the surrounding islands, and enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.
3. Visit the Underwater World Langkawi: This large aquarium is home to over 500 species of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and turtles.
4. Relax at Pantai Cenang: Langkawi's most popular beach offers soft sand, clear waters, and numerous restaurants and bars.
5. Trek to the Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh): Hike to this beautiful waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim in its natural pools.
Where to eat?
1. Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant: This popular restaurant offers fresh seafood cooked in various styles, including Malay, Chinese, and Thai.
2. The Fat Frog: A cozy café serving delicious Western and Asian fusion dishes, as well as refreshing smoothies and juices.
3. Wonderland Food Store: Enjoy local Malaysian cuisine at this affordable eatery, famous for its nasi campur and seafood dishes.
Where to stay?
1. The Frangipani Langkawi Resort & Spa: A beachfront resort offering luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple pools.
2. Tubotel: A unique budget accommodation option, featuring colorful tube-shaped rooms overlooking the sea.
3. La Pari-Pari: A boutique hotel surrounded by lush greenery, offering modern rooms and an outdoor pool.
Off the beaten path:
For an unusual travel experience, visit the Mahsuri Tomb and Cultural Center, which tells the story of a local legend, Mahsuri, who was falsely accused of adultery and executed. It is believed that her curse caused Langkawi to suffer for seven generations. Today, visitors can learn about the legend, explore the traditional Malay houses, and experience local cultural performances.
Balak Island is an island located near Banggi Island in the Kudat Division on Sabah, Malaysia.
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Visit eight islands in the Langkawi archipelago by Jet Ski. In your small-group convoy, led by an experienced guide, coast over to Pulau Dayang Bunting (Pregnant Maiden Island) for a short jungle trek and a swim in Malaysia’s largest freshwater lake. Take in the stunning scenery where limestone outcrops dot the Fjords, watch eagles soar and stop to snorkel in the tranquil turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Choose a morning or afternoon departure, and if you want to ride single or double. Numbers are limited to eight passengers to ensure a personalized experience.
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Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125-metre curved pedestrian cable-stayed bridge in Malaysia, completed in 2005. The bridge deck is located 660 metres above sea level at the peak of Gunung Mat Cincang on Pulau Langkawi, the main island of the Langkawi archipelago in Kedah.
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Join this guided half-day Kayaking adventure in the beautiful Mangrove Forest. Start the day off with a visit to the fish farm and enjoy a fish feeding show before beginning your kayaking adventure where you will be able to connect with nature and wildlife.
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Set sail for adventure on this half-day mangrove cruise boat visiting Tanjung Rhu River, Kisap and Kilim Rivers in the Langkawi geopark sites.
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See the Langkawi mangroves by boat on a 4-hour tour that includes lunch, and pickup and drop-off at your accommodations or cruise ship. Explore a fascinating tidal ecosystem that’s home to otters, dolphins, kingfishers, and eagles, and learn about Malaysia’s plants and animals firsthand.
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This activity suitable for all ages and skill level. Langkawi geopark is Malaysia’s first established geopark located in the far northwestern corner of Peninsular Malaysia in the State of Kedah. Enjoy the scenic and spectacular views of unique limestone rock formations emerging from the floor of the mangrove swamp and seabed. These fascinating geological wonders will be for your viewing pleasure during the whole tour. A visit to the fish farm in the open sea is an unforgettable experience. Enjoy viewing beautiful wild fishes swimming and fish feeding demonstration to fishes like Giant Trevally, Shark, Horse Shoe Crab, Garoupa and Sting Ray.
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Langkawi is a Malaysian archipelago of a hundred islands located in the northwest of the country, 15 miles (25 km) from the Thai border. It is named after its main island, by far the largest, where the population and travelers are concentrated. The name Langkawi comes from the Malay "helang kawi", meaning "brown eagle". Actually, a large statue of this bird of prey, welcomes visitors at the port of Kuah. It is not a fully developed island, but thanks to this, it keeps much more forests. Its ecosystem is one of the most diverse in the world. It counts for example 240 species of birds. Spectacular and coming from the night of time, the geology of the archipelago interests many people. It motivates the protection by UNESCO of a good part of the archipelago within a Geopark, associating its population and its culture. The spectacular Sky Cab and Sky Bridge allow you to take full advantage of the 2700 feet (850 meters) high Maninchang Mountain. At the same place, Umgawa offers several zip lines, rope bridges and abseiling, to enjoy and feel the beauty of the landscape. But if you are afraid of heights, you can take a boat trip to visit the caves, the aquatic farms and visit the surrounding islands. Pantai Cenang is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Langkawi, with many activities offered, many hotels and restaurants by the beach. But if you prefer peace and quiet, go to Pantai Tengah beach. The archipelago contains many fast-food chains, but will be conquered by the local food. There is no public transport, but the place is served by cabs, otherwise, you can rent vehicles to simplify your excursions. The island offers many activities to discover the archipelago and its beautiful landscapes that are worth the detour, come and enjoy its dream climate and its white-sand beaches.
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