Langkawi is a beautiful cluster of around 104 tropical islands in the state of Kedah, Malaysia.
How do I get there?
By Air: The two nearest airports are the Langkawi International Airport (13 kms away from the city) and the Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (68 kms away) in Alor Setar.
Direct flights are available to Langkawi from cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Phuket and Singapore.
By Ferry: Regular ferries ply from the Malaysian towns of Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis and Penang to the Kuah Jetty, Langkawi.
How do I get around?
There is no public transport on the island so you'll have to use taxis or rent your own vehicle. Bicycles are also an option to explore the place in the best possible way.
When's the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Langkawi is from November-March. These months offer pleasant, sunny mornings and cooler nights, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The mid season (between April-August) is also a good time to visit, with the occasional rains and discounted prices. Also, if you want to experience Langkawi with less tourists around, the mid season would be the best time.
How many days to ideally spend in Langkawi?
If you're on a time crunch, then 3 days would be perfect. If you're here to spend your days lazy, then 1-2 weeks should be enough to luxuriate your holiday.
What are the top attractions?
Things to see
Underwater world: Lull around this huge structure which is a home to over 200 different species of marine animals.The best time to go is during feeding time when you can witness a lot of them, including the biggest freshwater fish in the world - the Amazonian Arapaima.
Gunung Raya: Standing 881 metres tall, the Gunung Raya is the highest mountain here and is one of Langkawi's major tourist attractions. Witness the best of Langkawi's rich flora and fauna.You can drive for 25 minutes or trek to the peak.
Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise: Home to over 150 species of birds and animals from all over the world that are preserved in their natural habitat, 'Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise' is one of Asia's oldest national parks.
Langkawi Art in Paradise 3D Museum: Known as the largest 3D art museum in Malaysia, you can walk past more than 200 amusing artworks in this three-storey structure. Divided into nine different zones, this is place to be for museum lovers!
Beaches:
Tanjung Rhu -You will find the 'Tanjung Beach' sitting calm, secluded and tucked into a thick forest. The waters are clear and very calm, making it a perfect holiday destination.
Pantai Cenang - The most popular town for its numerous cafes and restaurants bordered by a beach. Only a 10 minute drive from Langkawi, you can experience best of Langkawi's night life here!
Datai Bay - Situated on the edge of the Andaman sea, and also featured in National Geographic as one of the top 10 beaches of the world, the 'Datai Bay' Is admired by many for its blue waters, sandy beaches, scenic views and all the richness in flora and fauna.
Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls: Catch the waters flowing fluvially surrounded by an unperturbed ambience. These waterfalls are a very popular natural water body.
Things to do
Cable car: Ride the Langkawi cable car and climb up the Mat Cincang standing 709 metres tall. You can stop by the base station to pick up some souvenirs and goodies or choose to ride higher to the peak where you catch magnificent views of the rainforests below.
Shopping: Make sure to stop by the Teow Soon Huat Duty-Free Shopping or The Zon Shopping Paradise for a massive shopping spree. Temoyong Night Market is a popular street bazaar offering local relishes, ornaments, glasses, watches, etc. Apart from this, the island is home to infinite souvenir stores and flea markets.
Water sports:
Do not forget to stop by Payar Island if you're keen on watersports. Payar is one of Langkawi's favourite islands. Found in the south of Langkawi, it houses several beaches and offers a wide range of marine activities. Go snorkelling, deep sea diving, jet skiing, etc. and have a fun-filled weekend!
Spa:
Langkawi is one of Malaysia's top spa destinations. With endless luxurious spa resorts, it'll be morally illegal not to treat yourself to a relaxing therapy session while you're here!
What to eat and where?
Langkawi encloses countless restaurants offering exciting food. Here are some of the top rated eateries in Langkawi that we recommend:
Fine Dining - The Gulai House, Ikan-Ikan, Privilege Restaurant & Bar, The Cliff Restaurant & Bar, and Pahn Thai Restaurant are some popular ones!
Mid-range - FatCupid best suited for a mid-range budget.
For some delicious seafood - Hole In The Wall, Orkid Ria, Maya Seafood Restaurant
Street food/snacks - Wonderland Food Store, Skycup Bistro,Teo Seafood Restaurant
Budget-friendly - BNZ Sempoy Nasi Campur, Restoran Siti Fatimah, Tomato Nasi Kandar, Bella Restaurant, etc. are good options that are light on the pocket.