Explore Malaysia and immerse yourself in the adventures of the Langkawi Archipelago (The Jewel of Kedah)
Rising from the distance of the Andaman Sea lies one of the world's most exotic paradises in all its emerald splendour: Langkawi, an astonishing archipelago of 104 islands, just a few kilometres off the north-east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
To understand the location a little, it must be assumed that when tourists refer to “Langkawi” they usually mean the island and not the Persian archipelago, which both bear this name. This is the most popular island of the island resort states on the coast of the Malaysian peninsula, and one of the most incredible spots to visit on our next vacation.
The island is part of the state of Kedah, and is 30 km from the Malaysian peninsular coast. Its capital and largest city on the island is Kuah, but the epicentre of this treasure is Pulau Langkawi, which has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in all of Asia, visited by countless tourists every year, looking to spend the best moments of adventure and relaxation, while enjoying a cultural experience that will remain in their memories for a lifetime.
Visiting Langkawi Island is a natural experience that you won't regret, and Langkawi has it all! It is a location blessed with some of the best beaches on the continent, bordered by impressive juglar mountains, sensational local cuisine, duty-free shopping and a vibrant nightlife. It is truly a tourist spot for anyone looking for an unparalleled adventure, to get in touch with nature, to relax from the daily hustle and bustle, and even to spend fun nights partying.
Its stretches of emerald beaches, accommodations and tourist locations are capable of catering to the diverse tastes of its visitors, from backpacking explorers, couples and friends, to family groups in search of the vacation of their dreams. Wherever you look, you will see unparalleled beauty and comfort, based on a natural environment adapted to the conditions of the island and its surroundings, so you will find options tailored to any budget and travel conditions.
Do you dare to dive into the adventure hidden in this wonderful archipelago? Read on to discover the best destinations, activities and moments in Langkawi, Malaysia!
GETTING TO LANGKAWI
Langkawi is connected to the mainland by air and sea.
If you decide to travel by air, Langkawi has an airport and you can easily get to your destination by air. From Langkawi International Airport you can fly at very affordable prices to any destination in Malaysia and international destinations. To get from the airport to any destination on the island you can take an official transport service: the Langkawi International Airport Transportation. with the option of taxis, cars and minivans to go to the exit of the arrivals terminal. They have fixed rates. Please note that there is no public transport at this point.
If you choose to travel by sea, there are many ways to get to Langkawi by boat. The most common way is to arrive in George Town and take a ferry to the island, which costs no more than 20 euros.
The ferry from Georgetown to Langkawi takes approximately three hours. It is a beautiful ride that takes you right from the start of the trip into the world of adventure hidden on this acclaimed island.
You arrive at the port of Kuah, which, as we already mentioned, is the main town on the island.There you will find a dreamlike atmosphere, with locals and tourists who fill the place with a good atmosphere and you will also see the classic Eagle Square in all its splendor, as well as many shops with duty-free products, so it will not be unusual to see both visitors and Malaysians themselves shopping in that spot, and thus leave with suitcases full of products at a lower cost.
Public transport is not in the best condition, and it is possible to take a taxi to get around, but the island is quite large. Many adventurers choose to rent a motorbike for about 7 euros a day (although you can also rent one by the hour) and get around the island this way, since the roads are accessible and easy to navigate.
You also have the option of contacting tour agencies with private drivers who will guide you and drive you around the city to suit you. There is something for everyone!
In addition, from Langkwai Port (Kuah Jetty) you will have the option of connecting by ferry to Penang, which is a neighbouring island and to the coastal ports of Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah.
HOLIDAYS AND TOURISM IN LANGKAWI
Langkawi is an ideal spot for rest and relaxation, but also to delve into the world of activities that this exotic location has to offer, on the main island and also the hundreds of surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea.
First of all, the beaches are the best! Whiter than white sand and emerald water, very clean and welcoming, both in Langkawi and on the other islands of the archipelago, just a boat or ferry ride away. There are many that are even hidden, so it will be an incredible detail for adventurers to discover that there will always be a new beach to discover further afield. But later we will talk about the natural beauties of the island area. Right now, we invite you to visit with us some of the most touristic and essential spots to visit on your trip to Langkawi.
Plus, there is a world of activities and places you can visit that will leave you completely amazed.
Langkawi Cable Car and the bridge (Sky Cab and Sky Bridge)
Going to the Langkawi Cable Car and Bridge is a must when visiting this wonderful Island.
The Sky Cab and the Sky Bridge They are part of a tourist complex created so that visitors from all over the world can admire the beauties of the area from above. The Langkawi Cable Car covers a distance of 1,700 metres until it reaches the main station, at a height of 650 metres.
It is the steepest cable car in the world, reaching a height of 42 degrees. You will enjoy a ride that will take you through impressive views of rocks that are more than 500 million years old, islands on the horizon, waterfalls, and other natural beauties.
It has a second platform that rises to 700m, which is where the Langkawi Sky Bridge is located. A true architectural work, suspended in a curve, the longest in the world at 125m long. It is certainly a little scary to cross it, but it is an experience recommended for the most adventurous.
There is no doubt that the Cable Car and the Sky Bridge should be included in your tourist agenda when visiting Langkawi, because it is one of the most emblematic attractions. They are visited together, and there is no different way, because where one ends the other begins.
Langkawi 3D Art Museum
One of the most fun and interactive museums.Visit the 3D museum and get involved in the three-dimensional art pieces as if you were part of them!
The Langkawi Art in 3D Museum is a museum with 3D objects and artistic representations. It is divided into different and fun themes to spend an incredible time with different and unconventional works.
It has more than 200 works of art, which makes him the second largest 3D museum in the world and of course the first in Malaysia. It is located in the same complex as the Sky Cab and the Sky Bridge. Its price includes when purchasing your ticket.
Eagle Square Langkawi
If you arrive to the island by ferry, the first thing you see is the Eagle Square: Langkawi's Eagle Square. There you will find a huge eagle, which is an emblem symbolico from the island. Did you know that? Langkawi translates to “reddish brown eagle” in Malay language? The eagle in Langkawi has its own legend, and it is said that this location was one of the refuges of Garuda, the mythological bird, since the god Vishnu I used it for commute from one place to another as if by magic. Do you think it's true? This square is where the largest figure on the island is.
It has brick bridges and restaurants with terraces. It also joins the park of legends, with beautiful gardens and numerous monuments detailing the myths and legends of the island. You can't miss it!
The Upside Down of Lanwaki
It is a key point on the island and it is special because it is made of recycled materials. And the idea that everything is upside down is also fun. The truth is that it is a very particular and entertaining installation that is worth taking a look at. It is ideal for taking some of the most memorable photographs of your entire trip. In addition, it is an area where you can spend a super pleasant time and have a bite to eat in its food truck area with a menu and dishes for all tastes.
NATURAL PARADISES IN LANGKAWI
In addition to the key points we have just mentioned, Langkawi is full of natural spots that leave a mark on those who visit them. Numerous waterfalls, water and adventure sports, boat trips, walks along the beach, jungle and more - all here, on this Malaysian island! It is worth noting that these islands have been classified as a Global Geopark by UNESCO since 2007 due to their natural beauty. What an honour!
We have already talked about Langkawi's beaches, but it never hurts to mention again that they are a big part of the experience of visiting this archipelago. Among the most recommended are: Pantai Kok, Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah and Burau Bay.
Cenang Beach
It is an area that is represented as half beach, half neighborhood, very busy with many facilities to walk, eat and enjoy a good time on the island. It is an area of Langkawi where many of the accommodations menos expensive from the island. It has numerous restaurants, easily accessible beaches, shops, markets, among other amenities to enjoy and stay comfortably. The Pantai Cenang beach is very famous for watching the sunset and for practicing water sports of adventure.It's very cool!
Mount Guning Raya
It is from here that you can experience the best and most panoramic views and sunsets of all Langkawi, as it is the highest point on the island, at 880m high. How to get there? You cross the Lubok National Park along the road on a rented motorbike, a ride in which you will enjoy priceless views of the entire area, typical vegetation, flora, fauna and waterfalls... And you will surely come across some typical Malaysian monkeys!
Seven Walls Falls
These waterfalls are a must-see when you visit Langkawi. Although they are not the most impressive waterfalls in Asia, they do have a special, almost picturesque charm with a picnic area. They will also refresh you greatly if you visit on a hot day!
SPORTS AND ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES IN LANGWAKI
Are you into adrenaline and adventure sports? We know you are! This island is incredible to enjoy adventure activities by going into its nature, surrounded by typical vegetation of the area and exotic birds. And in Langkawi you can spend the day in any adventure park with ziplines through the jungle, hanging bridges, rappellingl, jet ski tours of 8 and 10 islands depending on the package you choose, lasting 4 hours, which are amazing.
You can also rent one jet skiing, parasailing, canoeing through the jungle, jungle trekking, helicopter rides and other activities that will get your adrenaline pumping. The most famous are Zipline Eco Adventure and Sky Trex Adventure Park Experience.
However, as we have already mentioned, on Pantai Cenang beach you will find many locals offering water activities such as jet skis, which are also super cool if you are on a budget on your trip.
STAY AND ACCOMMODATION IN LANGWAKI
Many people think that you need a lot of money to visit and enjoy Langkawi, but this idea is far from reality. It is true that many luxurious beaches are attached to luxury hotels, but if you do not stay in them you can enter for a modest daily price and enjoy all the comforts or choose other beaches that do not have this condition.
If backpacking is your plan, there are some excellent hostels with shared rooms that will serve the purpose of your trip best, and most include breakfast in the price, which is always a good thing. In Pantai Cenang you will also find simple accommodations for moderate budgets with a basic room with private bathroom and restaurants nearby.
Entertainment is not outrageously expensive, especially with regard to duty free, so tourism benefits from the fact that many products are available at a lower price and therefore some bar and restaurant services are also more accessible in terms of prices.
But even though these options exist, it is true that luxury does reign in this tourist town. There are a variety of excellent accommodation options and more luxurious and comfortable hotels that you can choose from if you are able to invest in them, with the guarantee that they will combine excellent service and quality with the incomparable natural beauty of their surroundings.
As we said, there is something for everyone!
GASTRONOMY IN LANGWAKI
On this island, and in the entire Langkawi archipelago, the cuisine is based on a culinary culture combined with Indian, Thai and Chinese traditions that provide it with an unparalleled distinction, with abundant spices full of flavor for lovers of this type of food.
But in addition to finding restaurants with national and traditional cuisine, there are places to eat that specialize in cooking European dishes, especially seafood-based dishes, which are common in the archipelago. In addition, you can find classic American dishes such as hamburgers, pizzas and sandwiches that are delicious. You will find options for all tastes! And after a long day of adventure, there is nothing like ending up in one of the numerous restaurants or cafes, which offer traditional dishes from Malaysian cuisine, as well as Thai, Indonesian, Chinese food, and as we said, fusion. A real gastronomic delight!
Night Markets in Lankawi
In addition, you can visit the numerous night markets, very classic of Asian cultures! The night market Temonyong, north of Pantai Cenang, opens its doors to the public Thursdays from 6:00 p.m.. We mention it because it is very economical and complete. But the truth is that there are many different ones that open on different days of the week, until not long ago they worked with the following dynamic:
- Monday: Ulu Melaka Night Market
- Tuesday: Kedawang Night Market
- Wednesday: Kampung Raja
- Thursday: Temonyong Night Market
- Friday: Berries Night Market and Ayer Hangat Friday Night Market
- Saturday: Kampung Raja
- Sunday: Padang Matsirat Night Market
WHEN TO VISIT LANGWAKI?
Your visit will certainly depend on the days you have free from work and can take vacation, but if you have the opportunity to choose the date you travel, you can look at the seasons and base your decision a bit on the weather.
November to March is the high season, an ideal time to enjoy the beaches because there will be less wind and clouds, with a stable tide and few waves.
April through August is shoulder season, great for those who want to save money while taking a break from the daily hustle and bustle. There may be bad weather, but not every day, it depends on the weather that day. There are few tourists and many places offer crazy discounts of up to 50%.
September to October is off-season. It is the rainy season, so the bad weather intensifies and the clouds cover the sky much more.
A little break in this tourist destination doesn't sound bad at all, eh! Relaxing, fun and adrenaline-filled moments await you on the island of Langkawi, Malaysia. Dare to explore the continent and feel the freedom offered by one of the most splendid archipelagos in the world!
