Langkawi, nicknamed the “Jewel of Kedah”, is an archipelago consisting of 99 islands and boasting just as many unique experiences – if you know where to find them. Whether or not you’re a new visitor, or you’re returning to catch what you missed out on before, here’s our list of activities and destinations you absolutely cannot skip to see every aspect Langkawi has to offer!
1. Geopark Discovery Center
Head on over to the Geopark Discovery Center, where you can learn more about the gorgeous islands that make up Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark. Sneak a peek into the biodiverse locales you can explore for yourself. Of course, you can’t forget the rich cultural tapestry that makes up much of the history of the islands. Get a primer into the lay of the land, and set off!
2. Kota Mahsuri
The legend of Mahsuri is a story every Malaysian would know. The tale of a truly beautiful village girl, both in appearance and soul, may normally end in a happily ever after, but alas, not for Mahsuri. Wrongfully accused of adultery and sentenced to death, she laid a curse on Langkawi as her mystical white blood – proof of her innocence – stained the ground.
17 kilometers from Langkawi International Airport, you will be able to visit her tomb and the museum with dioramas depicting the story of her life. Learn about the original legend, and discover for yourself how Mahsuri’s tale has endured for so many generations. It’s not entirely relegated to the annals of history either – the seventh generation of Mahsuri, Wan Aishah, resides in Thailand. Much like her ancestor, Wan Aishah – also known by her Thai name, Sirintra Yayee – has an air of mysticism about her, in that her birth is believed to have finally lifted Langkawi’s curse.
3.Kilim Karst Geoforest Park
Much of Langkawi is described as flat plains, accentuated by limestone ridges, forests, hills and mountains. You can get a bit of everything at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, where you can admire the limestone arches, stacks and pinnacles.
Then, you have the mangrove forest that makes up most of this park. It is home for a rich variety of rare flora and fauna including the Limestone Cycad, a primeval gymnosperm growing in cliff crevices, the almost neon-yellow sea hibiscus, Hibiscus tiliaceus, and the Brhamniny Reddish Brown Kite Sea Eagle, which inspired the name of Langkawi.
4.Dataran Lang and Taman Lagenda
Speaking of the eagle, you naturally have to visit one of Langkawi’s most iconic landmarks. Let the 12-meter monument of the majestic bird shelter you under its wings as you cast your gaze to the waters over at the horizon. Langkawi’s name is derived from ‘helang’ (eagle) and ‘kawi’ (reddish brown), duly represented by the grandeur of the eagle looking to take flight.
Nearby is Taman Lagenda, where you can treat yourself to more cultural displays to learn more about the myths of the island. Once you’ve taken your fill of photos at the star-shaped deck, or of the colourful installations at Taman Lagenda, it’s time to spread your wings and soar yourself, to explore more of Langkawi!
5.Pulau Singa Besar
Also known as “Big Lion Island”, it doesn’t have any actual lions, but its silhouette is reminiscent of one.
The Lion Marine Park is home to incredible marine and terrestrial biodiversity – so you’ll be able to swim, kayak or snorkel in the waters, or you can head into the dense rainforest and possibly witness the feeding of the white-bellied sea eagles that soar above the island. Perfect for those looking for a break away from the urban jungle.
6. Night Markets
After a long day of adventure, fill your stomachs with some of the local cuisine at the night markets, or ‘pasar malam’ as they’re locally known. Malaysia as a whole has a robust foodie culture. Langkawi is no exception, boasting some unique delicacies of its own.
Depending on the day – or night, as it were – one of Langkawi’s six night markets will come to life, the air filled with the cries of the crowd and the hawkers in tow. Besides some quintessential Malaysian delicacies like laksa, satay and keropok, see if you can find some sup gamat or bronok. These two varieties of sea cucumber are not just delicious Langkawi specialties, they also have health benefits that see them be a key part of many traditional remedies.
7. Cenang Mall
For those needing some good old shopping, then head on over to Cenang Mall. It prides itself in being the latest upmarket shopping destination of Langkawi, being strategically located five minutes away from Pantai Tengah where even more high-end resorts and restaurants can be found. Familiar franchises and creature comforts can be found here while you shop till you drop!
And there you have it: just some of Langkawi’s myriad offerings to help you get started on your next island adventure! There are, of course, many more places to visit, but we wouldn’t want you to have choice paralysis just as you arrive, do we?
