By Nom - 1 February 2024
Destination Guide: Best Things To Do In Langkawi
Langkawi is a stunning archipelago of 99 paradise islands located in the Andaman Sea, off the northwest coast of Malaysia. The main island of Langkawi has so much to offer and is a must-visit on your Malaysia travel itinerary.
Known for its breath-taking natural beauty, Langkawi is a popular destination for both local and international tourists.
Spend up to a week on Langkawi, experiencing its stunning beaches, islands and boat trips. Dig deeper into Langkawi’s adventurous side by exploring glorious waterfalls, viewpoints, dense jungle, and lush mangroves – home to many species of wildlife.
Where To Stay In Langkawi
Langkawi is a large island and offers many options for accommodation. For an ‘away from the crowds’ secluded vibe head up to the north coast.
If you prefer to be closer to watersports, nightlife and restaurants stay close to Pantai Cenang (Chenang Beach) Langkawi's most tourist friendly beach, which is also not far from the airport.
We stayed at the Aseania Resort & Spa Langkawi which was perfect for our family. We chose to stay in one room which was spacious enough for us for three nights. We all loved the lazy river, wave pool and water slides and there were many restaurants within a short walking distance. The pool here is listed in the Malyasian Book Of Records as the Longest Pool in Malaysia!
‘Lang kawi’ means ‘eagle red’, as the island of Langkawi is famous for the many red-brown eagles living here. It’s hard not to spot them during your time on the island. What better way to start your time in Langkawi than by seeing it from a birds-eye view on the SkyBridge?
How To Get To Langkawi
Langkawi has an international airport with regular internal flights from Kuala Lumpur and other destinations in Malaysia.
Once on the island of Langkawi, you can easily make your way around the island via Grab (taxi app) or public taxi. If you’d rather have more flexibility in your journeys, there are plenty of places to hire a motorbike.
Or you may choose to hire a car so you can cover a greater distance and have more freedom and flexibility on your trip.
Best Time To Visit Langkawi
Weather-wise, the best time to visit Langkawi is between January and March, when it is the dry season. However, this will also be the peak tourist season. November to December and April to August can have a few drops of rain, but there will be fewer tourists.
Best Things To Do In Langkawi
Langkawi's enchanting beauty, diverse attractions, and welcoming culture make it a perfect destination for travellers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences - read on for the best things to do on Langkawi.
Cultural Attractions
Mahsuri's Tomb: A historical site dedicated to the legendary Princess Mahsuri, offering insights into Langkawi's folklore.
Atma Alam Batik Art Village: Experience traditional Malaysian artistry and purchase handcrafted batik items.
Duty-Free Shopping
The main commercial centre of Kuah Town has duty-free shopping, making it an ideal place to buy souvenirs, chocolates, and alcohol. There is also The Zon Duty Free Zone at Pantai Cenang.
Water Sports
Engage in various water activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. Head over to Pantai Cenang to hire jet-skis to fly over waves, take a short banana boat ride, or soar above the crowds while parasailing.
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1. Langkawi Panorama
SkyCab Cable Car & SkyBridge
Langkawi SkyCab is a thrilling cable car ride that takes visitors to the peak of Mount Machinchang and provides panoramic views of the islands and the Andaman Sea.
The Langkawi SkyCab is the world’s longest Free Span Mono-Cable Car and takes you up to 660m above sea level, where the SkyBridge is located. You can choose from a range of different gondolas: Normal, Glass-Bottom, VIP, 360, Express or Private.
The journey from the Base Station to Middle Station covers 1,700m. You alight at the Middle station and walk up to the viewing platforms where you will enjoy panoramic views of Langkawi as well as the many surrounding islands.
A short walk up the stairs from the Top Station at an elevation of 708m above sea level will provide further stunning views of the Langkawi islands and Southern Thailand as well as dramatic views of the deep chasms, overhanging cliff walls and isolated pinnacles. Such natural formations are seldom seen anywhere else in this combination except in Langkawi.
Langkawi SkyBridge is a curved suspension bridge offering breath-taking views of the rainforest and geological formations and it is a truly astonishing experience. At 125m in length, it is the longest Free Span and Curved Bridge in the world.
Walk across the beautifully constructed bridge, suspended between two peaks, and see panoramic views across the jungle and ocean. One of the special features is the shape of the bridge, providing a change of scenery from every viewpoint. If there is one thing you should do in Langkawi, it should be to visit this place!
The internationally famed Langkawi SkyCab and SkyBridge attracts travellers from all over the world.
Tip: To avoid the crowds try to time you visit as soon as the SkyCab opens 09.30-18.00
Note: Strong wind speeds sometimes force the SkyBridge to cease operation for a few hours.
This area, Panorama Langkawi, is constantly being upgraded and new attractions are being added all the time. Other things to do in this area are the Oriental Village, Eagle’s Sky Walk, Sky Glide, Sky Trail, 3D Art, Machinchang Pet Land and Sky Dome. Various package options are available.
Telaga Tujuh Waterfall, also know as Seven Wells Waterfall, is a series of seven natural pools linked by waterfalls, offering a refreshing and picturesque setting. It is situated next to the Oriental Village near the base of Mount Machinchang in Langkawi. As per a local legend, the seven wells of Telaga Tujuh are bathing pools of the fairies, and they give its water a mystical healing capacity.
There are a few different routes you can take to reach the falls, depending on whether you prefer a shorter or longer hike, but if you can’t make it to the falls, you can also see it from the SkyCab on your way up to the SkyBridge.
2.Telaga Tujah Waterfall – Seven Wells Waterfall
Located within the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park, the falls are split into 2 sections, the upper pools and the lower pools, separated by a striking vertical waterfall cascading down a 91m high cliff face.
You can visit the waterfalls independently, be aware that there are hardly any facilities near the waterfall and it is best to bring ample drinking water and refreshments for the climb.
Get your adrenaline pumping by zipping across the 12 zip lines in the Langkawi jungle. The longest zipline of Langkawi is located at the foot of the Seven Wells Waterfall. It gives a spectacular view of both the waterfall and jungle.
The wet season from September to December, when there is plenty of water, is the best time to visit Telaga Tujuh. However, during this season the rocky surface around the fall can be very slippery. Hence, one must be extremely careful when walking on slopes or near the edge of the cliff. Also, monkeys around this waterfall are especially opportunistic. Be wary of them as they might try to snatch your bags expecting to find some food.
A dip in one of the pools at the top is a refreshing way to cool down after the climb. The flowing water has created an irresistible natural slide for entering the pool. If you prefer to stay dry, the view from the top of the falls is quite magnificent and worth the climb.
The lower pools are reached after climbing around 200 steps. These are the most popular for their ease of access, view of the vertical waterfall, and large plunge pool at the bottom of a slippery rockface.
If you hike 638 steps further up you will reach the upper pools, this will take about an hour. Here you’ll find the fall’s namesake 7 pools of various depths, shapes, and sizes. The pools are connected by a river forming a smooth natural waterslide along the smooth rocks.
Langkawi is home to the Langkawi Geoforest Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its unique geological formations, dense rainforests, and diverse ecosystems.
Langkawi’s northeast coastline is covered with dense mangrove forest and is incredibly important for the island’s ecosystem. This mangrove forest is a UNESCO Global Geopark, in other words: a protected area that can only be visited by taking a boat tour.
3. Kilim Geoforest Park UNESCO Mangrove Tour / Kayaking
A mangrove tour is a great way to learn about plants and wildlife and how they all work together in the ecosystem. Highly experienced guides will take you by boat through the mangroves and explain why these areas are so crucial for the island, before finishing at the stunningly peaceful crystal pool.
You will encounter diverse wildlife, including eagles, macaques, and various bird species.
The only way to access the Kilim Geoforest mangrove forest is on a guided tour. A tour has the added benefit of including a local guide who will spot wildlife and explain the importance of the mangrove forest ecosystem. Reserve your tour now and pay later here
Pantai Cenang (Chenang Beach) is Langkawi's most tourist-friendly and popular beach with a 2km stretch of soft white sand lined with coconut trees, beach umbrellas, watersports vendors and beach bars with a vibrant nightlife.
Pantai Cenang is well located on the west side of the island, where most cafes, restaurants and music bars are located. As the long stretch of white sand is the most popular beach on the island, it makes for a lively, fun atmosphere.
4. Pantai Cenang (Chenang Beach)
After a busy day, chill and see the sunset at one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, plonk down on a bean bag and sip your favorite cocktail while waiting for a beautiful sunset.
Pick your favorite beach bar or try out a few to party the night away with cheap drinks, neon lights, and good music.
You could also check out Tanjung Rhu beach a remote beach on the northern tip of Langkawi sandwiched between the lush jungle and the Andaman Sea. This area is much quieter than other parts of Langkawi and hosts only a few exclusive resorts. A little piece of heaven!
For stunning sunset views head over to Tanah Lot Beach, a tranquil beach with clear waters
During the day Pantai Cenang is popular with sunbathers, swimmers, and watersport enthusiasts dominating the sparkling shoreline. As the sun softly sets, a series of beach bars become the center of attention as beanbags and cocktail menus are brought onto the sand.
Pantai Cenang is the most popular place to leave for a jet-ski tour to explore the nearby islands. Jet-skis are also available for short-term hire while other watersports available include banana boat rides, parasailing, and kayaking.
Hungry beachgoers don't have to wander far for a satisfying meal. The beachfront main road is lined with international restaurants like Mexican, Thai, Italian, and Chinese cuisines.
Shoppers can indulge in the several duty-free shopping outlets and local clothing and souvenir vendors.
One of the most popular things to do in Langkawi is to take one of the many boat tours that are on offer around the island. A range of cruises is available, such as island-hop on and off cruises, luxury sunset cruises, and mangrove tours. Visit nearby islands like Pulau Payar for snorkelling and diving opportunities
A hop-on and off cruise allows you to see some of the biodiverse waters and islands surrounding Langkawi, freshwater lakes, and islands famed for their corals and rich marine life.
5. Island Hopping - Sunset Boat Tour
Be aware that the corals are protected in Langkawi due to excessive coral bleaching, so make sure to only swim where instructed and never touch the corals. Opt for a private tour if you want to be flexible in your itinerary and avoid the crowds of travellers that may also be visiting these places on the standard island-hopping tours.
Check availability, reserve your tour now and pay later here
Night Markets
When the night has fallen, the night markets open their doors. Night markets are a great place to sample inexpensive authentic local dishes and to buy the freshest produce.
Langkawi has a different market every evening, at a different location, of a different specialty. It’s a great way to try some traditional Malaysian foods and get the vibe of the locals, as they cook and sell.
These are the market locations every night:
Mon: Ulu Melaka Market
Tue: Kedawang Market
Wed: Kuah Night Market
Thu: Temoyong Night Market
Fri: Ayer Hangat Night Market
Sat: Kuah Night Market
Sun: Padang Matsirat Night Market
Langkawi For Children
There are several attractions on Langkawi that are perfect for families. Underwater World Langkawi at Pantai Cenang is an entertaining to pass a few hours. This is a well-run aquarium that has exhibits of aquatic creatures from both salt and freshwater. Try to time your visit to include the live feedings displays to learn more about the animals and their activities. Don’t miss the penguins and otters, very entertaining!
For fun and excitement head over to Langkawi Adventure Xtreme Park which has a number of attractions including ATVs, Go Carts, horse riding, paintballing, archery and the Sky Bikes.
Rent A Motorbike And Cruise Around
Langkawi is a fairly big island that has lots to explore. Renting a motorbike is a great way to easily reach most parts of the island within 30/40 minutes. From north to south, east to west, you will find a variety of beaches and landscapes on Langkawi. Cruise with your motorbike around the island, along the rice paddies and white-sand beaches. Langkawi is a safe island to drive around on your own and all main roads are very well maintained for traffic.
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