The Malay Archipelago is a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia. Langkawi is rich in attractions, making it an excellent choice for an exotic vacation!
The archipelago of 104 islands is located in the northwestern part of Malaysia, in the Andaman Sea, about 30 km west of the Malay Peninsula, near the southwestern border of Thailand.
It’s not a large island, but it’s worth spending a few days here. I visited in October 2017 and can confidently recommend a visit to Langkawi!
Table of Contents
Langkawi attractions
Langkawi Sky Bridge
The most popular attraction, offering a stunning view.
The base station below is a large park with many shops and restaurants, as well as a 4D cinema.
A cable car (SkyCab) takes you to the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang, the second-highest peak on the island. The ride up is an experience in itself.
There is an intermediate stop along the way, where you can also enjoy a lookout point.
The Sky Bridge is located just below the upper terminal. This is a suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks. You can reach it from the cable car with a few minutes of climbing stairs (a bit tiring on the way back but manageable) or by a funicular (for an extra fee).
When I was there, a sudden dense fog enveloped the bridge, giving me a Jurassic Park 3-like feeling when the dino-birds arrived. 😊
All information can be found here!
Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh)
This 90-meter-high waterfall is located not far from the Sky Bridge parking lot.
You can reach it from a parking lot by climbing over 600 steps to the base. However, it’s worth climbing to the top of the waterfall where rest areas and beautiful views await visitors.
You can swim in the waterfall.
Crocodile Farm (Taman Buaya Langkawi)
The park offers opportunities to feed crocodiles and alligators and watch a show.
The main attraction is the crocodile show. The caretaker performing the show does hair-raising things like putting his hand in the animal’s mouth and lying on its back.
I felt a bit anxious during the show, hoping not to see anything terrible. But fortunately, the animal „performed” the show without a flinch. 😊
The park also has a Jurassic Park section for kids, with dinosaur exhibits.
All information can be found here!
MARDI Park
This agrotechnological park focuses on the ecological cultivation of fruits.
On its 35-hectare area, you can learn about more than 20 fruits, such as citrus, mango, durian, and guava. Naturally, you can also taste them.
Besides the basic ticket, there are options for guided tours by car, bike rentals, and even camping on the grounds.
All information can be found here!
Kilim Geopark
Located in the northeastern part of the island, it features one of the most pristine ecosystems.
Excellent boat trips are organized through the extensive mangrove forests. These include several programs: eagle feeding, crocodile and bat caves, fish farms, and more.
Langkawi Wildlife Park
The park houses many animals in a pleasant environment. Its bird park is particularly noteworthy, featuring about 150 bird species.
Visitors can feed the animals and get very close to them.
Galeria Perdana
Founded by former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad, displaying gifts he received during his tenure.
The two-story museum features various items such as weapons, ceramics, Islamic artworks, and even a Formula 1 car.
Underwater World Langkawi
Located at Cenang Beach, the aquarium showcases a variety of fish and marine creatures.
Don’t expect anything outstanding; the interior is not the most modern.
Night Markets
Among Langkawi’s attractions are the night markets, which are a staple in Southeast Asia, offering a great atmosphere along with delicious food.
I visited Temonyong near Cenang Beach on a Thursday evening. I bought a delicious hamburger and a bottle of cola for just 180 forints (about RM3). 😊
There is a market almost every day at different locations on the island. The list of markets can be found on this page.
Langkawi beaches
Pantai Cenang
Langkawi’s most famous and popular beach. Located in the southern part, close to the airport.
The beach is lined with hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Pantai Tengah
A continuation of Cenang to the south, possibly even more beautiful.
The nearly 2 km long beachfront road also has many restaurants and bars. The further south you go, the smaller the crowd, making it a great beach for those seeking a quieter area.
Teluk Datai
Located in the northwest corner of Langkawi, somewhat hidden, this beach in a bay is stunning.
The golden sand and surrounding forests make the beach very beautiful. There are several luxury hotels in the area.
Pantai Pasir Hitam (Black Sand Beach)
As the name suggests, this is a black sand beach, the only one of its kind on the island.
Interestingly, there is no obvious explanation for the black color. It’s worth noting that it’s not completely dark but rather a mix of yellow and black.
Nonetheless, this unique feature makes it worth visiting.
Pantai Pasir Tengkorak
Perhaps the smallest beach on the island. Located in a small bay on the northern part.
The fine sandy beach is usually not crowded, offering peaceful relaxation.
Tanjung Rhu
Located at the northern end of Kilim Geopark, on a small peninsula.
The beach offers a stunning panorama with several rocks emerging from the water. Many mangrove forest tours start from nearby.
