Langkawi is also known as the “Jewel of Kedah!” It has stunning seashores and beautiful landscapes, surrounded by lush rainforests and rice fields.
Let me guide you in discovering the best places to visit in Langkawi. From the gorgeous Pantai Cenang beach to the stunning Pulau Payar islands and the thrilling Adventure & Extreme parks, there’s something here for everyone to relish.
So why wait? Let’s roam around Langkawi virtually with this blog.
Top Reasons to Visit Langkawi
Langkawi is a perfect destination to visit if you love nature, adventures, or history. Langkawi has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the reasons to visit Langkawi:
Beaches – Experience the amazing crystal clear waters and soft white powdery sands from the Pantai Cenang to the Pulau Singa Besar. It’s perfect for relaxation and water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.
Breathtaking Scenery – You can experience Langkawi’s natural wonders, including its amazing mountains, mangrove forest, caves and waterfalls. From Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, Kilim Geoforest Park, Langkawi Wildlife Park and more.
Island Hopping – Take an island hopping tour and visit some of the best islands in Langkawi; each offers unique views and activities to experience.
Experience the Thrill of Wildlife – On most islands; you will see birds, monkeys, hornbills, and monitor lizards. Visit the Crocodile Adventure Land and Langkawi Wildlife Park for a close experience with a variety of animals, birds, and more.
Enjoy Watersports and Adventure Activities – Langkawi’s white sand beaches, dense rainforests, and mountains provide an excellent opportunity for adventure and water-sports enthusiasts.
Duty-Free Shopping – Langkawi is a duty-free island. Everything is affordable, including chocolates, home appliances, alcohol, cigarettes, wines, and more.
Lively Night Markets – You can taste authentic Malay sweets and savory street foods at affordable prices, and also get handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs from local vendors.
Must-Visit Islands in Langkawi
Did you know that Langkawi is a group of 99 islands?
Spending a holiday on an island is interesting, but it can also be more enjoyable and exciting than any other vacation you’ve planned.
Here is a list of the best islands to visit in Langkawi-
Pulau Payar Marine Park
Pulau Payar Marine Park is about 45 minutes away from Kuah Jetty. It is a group of four islands, including Pulau Kaca, Pulau Lembu, and Pulau Segantang. You can reach it by speedboat or catamaran.
This island is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Langkawi! The island’s underwater world is filled with amazing marine creatures and coral reefs. As you dive deeper into the sea, you might get a chance to see black-tip sharks if you’re lucky.
Must Do Activities – Jet- skiing, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving.
Highlights – Pulau Payar is the biggest island so it’s the best snorkelling and scuba diving spot. You can see the sharks and witness fish and varieties of corals on this island.
Pulau Dayang Bunting
Pulau Dayang Bunting, also known as the ‘Lake of the Pregnant Maiden,’ features a landscape that resembles a pregnant woman lying down.
In addition to its striking landscape, this island has the largest freshwater lake in Langkawi. This island is surrounded by attractive hills and a dense, lush forest.
Pulau Dayang Bunting is a must-visit in Langkawi, known for its large limestone formations, and intriguing caves.
You can see lots of playful monkeys, diverse insects, monitor lizards, hornbills, and over 90 species of birds.
Must Do Activities – Swimming, Kayaking, Jet Ski, Paddle Boarding, Jungle Trekking, Bird watching.
Interesting myth of this Island
According to legend, a princess named Mambang Sari married a man named Mat Teja, and they had a baby. Sadly, the baby passed away just a few days after birth. In her grief, the princess laid the baby’s body to rest in the lake and blessed the waters.
Locals believe that the lake has magical powers to heal women who struggle with infertility.
Pulau Tuba
Pulau Tuba is a hilly island, just a 20-minute boat ride from Kuah. Most of the locals are Muslims, which is why it’s often called the Islamic Island. The island is full of natural wildlife, herbs, and shrubs and has a traditional fishing and farming community. There’s also a bridge that connects Tuba Island to Dayang Bunting.
If you are a seasoned trekker, be sure to trek to Wang Buluh Cave. It’s one of the caves used by the locals to escape from the Japanese military. You must be in good physical form to complete this trek.
One of the best ways to explore Pulau Tuba is by motorbike. It’s easy to rent one on the island.
Must-Do Activities: ATV riding, jungle trekking, kayaking, and bird watching.
Note: Check out the local handicrafts shop for affordable hand-woven bags, baskets, purses, and mats.
Pulau Singa Besar
Pulau Singa Besar is also known as Big Lion Island, lies between Pulau Beras Basah and Pulau Dayang Bunting. The island features breathtaking scenery with tall palm trees and warm, tropical sand. It also has some rare species of flora and fauna.
On your island hopping tour, you can witness reddish-brown eagles. Usually, the boat driver throws meat into the water, attracting the eagles, which swoop down to grab their food.
You can also see wild animals like Macaques, monkeys and mouse deer. Rare species like Water monitor and Large Headed Frog.
Must-Do Activities – Jungle Trekking, Bird watching, Swimming and Snorkeling.
Things to Remember:
- Mosquitoes and other insects are everywhere on the island. To avoid bites, be sure to apply insect repellent, especially in rainforests or mangroves.
- Before going into the water, check for jellyfish and wear protective clothing.
Best Beaches to Visit in Langkawi
Langkawi is the place to visit if you are a beach person. Its pristine shores offer a blend of relaxation and adventure. Langkawi has some of the best beaches for experiencing water sports activities such as scuba diving, parasailing, snorkelling, and more.
Here is the list of beaches to visit in Langkawi,
Pantai Cenang Beach
Pantai Cenang Beach, located on the western coast of Langkawi, Malaysia, is one of the most popular and must-visit beaches in Langkawi.
The white sand and clear water make it a perfect beach for swimming. This beach also offers a wide range of water sports activities for you to experience.
You can also find cafes, restaurants, duty free shops, and clubs, which is one more reason why you shouldn’t miss this beach if you plan to visit Langkawi.
Enjoy the sunset along with the famous fire show, which happens every evening in Pantai Cenang.
Must-Do Activities – Jet Ski, Parasailing, Kayaking and Banana boat ride, Paddleboarding, snorkelling.
Tanjung Rhu Beach
The name ‘Tanjung Rhu’ translates to ‘Cape of Casuarinas,’ named after the trees that you can find on this beach.
Tanjung Rhu is a beautiful beach with soft white sand and diverse wildlife. It has unique coastal scenery and limestone cliffs. Snorkel in the shallow waters to experience underwater marine life.
Take a boat tour around the Kilim Geoforest; you can witness mangroves, hidden coves, monkeys, eagles, hornbills, and monitor lizards.
Must Do Activities – Kayaking, ATV Riding, Swimming, Sunbathing, Snorkeling, Boat Tours
Pulau Beras Basah
Pulau Beras Basah is in the western part of Langkawi, also known as the “Island of Wet Rice.” The beach has clear water, perfect for an incredible experience. The area is full of green scenery, and you might even spot dolphins swimming around.
Must Do Activities – Snorkelling, Diving, Parasailing, Jet Ski, Swimming, Banana Boat Ride.
Pantai Tengah Beach
Tengah Beach is just a 20 to 30-minute walk away from Pantai Cenang Beach. A small rock cliff separates both beaches. It’s one of the less crowded beaches in Langkawi with clear waters. It’s a worthwhile place to visit for its beautiful sunset and peaceful evening.
Must Do Activities – Jet skiing, Parasailing, Banana Boat, Paddleboarding, Swimming.
Waterfalls to Visit in Langkawi
Want to take a break from the beach? Another top place to visit in Langkawi is waterfalls. You can admire the scenery and relax in the pure water at the top of the hills.
Here is the list of must-visit waterfalls in Langkawi:
Telaga Tujuh
Telaga Tujuh, also known as Seven Wells Waterfall, is one of the must-visit waterfalls in Langkawi. It gets its name from seven natural pools that cascade into one another. According to a local legend, these pools are the bathing places of fairies.
This waterfall is split into two sections: lower pools and upper pools. If you want to swim in the cool waters, you have to hike to the upper pools, where you can see all seven pools.
To reach the top, hike up approximately 600 steps and witness breathtaking views of Mutiara Burau Bay and Pantai Kok. Along the way, you can also see monkeys, hornbills, giant squirrels, lizards, butterflies, and dragonflies.
Must Do Activities – Cliff Jumping and Hiking
Pro Tip – For your safety, participate in climbing to the top of the waterfall only if you are in good physical condition. The hike can be slippery, so it’s crucial to wear non-slip footwear. Never walk without footwear, as the rocks have sharp corners. Additionally, take breaks as needed and stay hydrated to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
Temurun Waterfall
Temurun waterfall flows down the north side of Gunung Machinchang which is the three-tier waterfall in the Datai Bay area.
This waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Langkawi which adds the adventures to your trekking part. You can swim at the base of the mountain. You need to be careful in the water, the rocks at the bottom can be slippery and have sharp edges you might slip or cut your leg.
Climbing the mountain might be challenging because the stairs are steep and uneven in certain places. The path leading to the waterfall goes through a forest filled with monkeys. Be careful, as these monkeys might snatch your stuff while you swim!
The area is usually quiet with no facilities around. If you live far from the waterfall, make sure to pack food and water since there are no restaurants, cafes, nearby.
Must Do Activities – Swimming and Hiking
Note: There are a lot of mosquitoes in the forest and around the pond so make sure to bring the repellent or wear covered clothing.
Durian Perangin Waterfall
Durian Perangin Waterfall cascades down a series of 14 tiers, each forming natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxing. It’s believed that the waterfall is named ‘Durian’ because tall durian trees grow around the area.
This waterfall flows on the northern side of Gunung Raya, the tallest mountain in Langkawi. To reach it, you need to climb a long staircase with about 200 steps carved into the rock.
Must Do Activities – Swimming, Hiking and canyoning.
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park – Best Park to Visit in Langkawi
Langkawi Geoforest is Malaysia’s first global geopark.Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, part of the larger (100 Sq Km) Langkawi Geopark which was recognised by UNESCO in 2006.
It stands out as one of the best places to visit in Langkawi for its rare combination of karst formations, mangrove forests and rich biodiversity.
Dominated by ancient limestone formations that date back over 500 million years. Kilim Karst Geoforest Park showcases karst formations, sculpted by natural erosion processes. It also has wide varieties of flora and fauna.
Must Do in Kilim Karst Geoforest Park
Kilim River Cruise:
One of the best ways to experience the wonders of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. You can experience large numbers of limestone cliffs, dense mangrove forests, and diverse wildlife.
Visit Bat Cave:
The Bat Cave, or Gua Kelawar, is a must visit place within Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. This cave is home to thousands of bats, primarily fruit bats and insect-eating bats.
Eagle Watching & Feeding:
Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is also known for its eagle watching and feeding opportunities. The park is home to several species of eagles, including the white-bellied sea eagle and the Brahminy kite.
Experience Fish Farming:
Gain insight into local aquaculture practices by visiting the fish farms within the park. These farms cultivate various species of fish, including groupers and snappers.
Must Do Activities: Boat Tours, Kayaking, Hiking, Cave explorations.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm
Langkawi Wildlife Park – Must Visit in Langkawi
Langkawi Wildlife Park is one of the best places to visit in Langkawi. It allows you to get up close to a variety of species.
You may go around the enormous cage and feed the birds or go to the animal area to observe raccoons and Javan deer. The park also contains a reptile section where visitors may observe snakes and lizards.
You’ll get the opportunity to engage with some of the animals.
Opening Hours: All Days 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Activities in Langkawi Wildlife Park:
- You can engage in feeding activities with rabbits, macaws, tortoises, deer, flamingos, budgerigars, and crocodiles.
- Other notable activities include cuddle time with raccoons, a Fear Factor challenge with snakes, and interactions with eagles.
Crocodile Adventureland
Langkawi Crocodile Adventureland spreads over 10 acres of lush greenery, making it feel like a park. You’ll find different species of crocodiles in their own ponds, and you can walk around to see them up close.
In the Juvenile pond, you can do activities like fishing and feeding the crocodiles.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:30 am – 6 pm
Highlights: You can see the three different types of crocodiles: Crocodylus Novaeguinea, Crocodylus Porosus and Tomistoma Schlegelii.
You can watch the crocodile show,
|
Crocodile Shows Names |
Timings |
|
The legend of Sarcosuchus |
12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 4:30 pm |
|
Bujang Lang Giant Crocodile |
11:15 am, 2:45 pm |
|
Thrilling & Aggressive Wild Croc |
10:00 am, 3:45 pm |
|
Adult Crocodile Jumping |
10:30 am, 5:30 pm |
|
Giant Crocodile Feeding |
11:45 am, 1:15 pm, 3:15 pm |
Theme Parks in Langkawi – Let the Fun Begin!
Langkawi theme parks are just for what you need. From exciting water slides to the heart-pumping roller coaster rides.
Check out the list of must-visit theme parks in Langkawi given below,
Splash Out Langkawi
Splash Out Langkawi is a water wonderland that offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. It is packed with exciting slides, rides, and attractions for all ages. This is an interesting place to visit in Langkawi where you can spend quality time with your family.
Check out these exciting waterslide activities: Ragin’ Racers, Poseidon’s Revenge, Splash-Tacular, Shipwreck Falls, and Splash Python.
These activities will make you feel the adrenaline rush as you zip down twisting slides. Enjoy with family and friends.
Opening Hours: Thursday to Monday: 11 am – 7 pm
Note – Closed on Tuesday & Wednesday
Langkawi Adventure And Extreme Theme Park
Langkawi Adventure and Extreme Theme Park offers 12 amazing fun activities. This theme park features a range of activities, from the high-flying zip line to the adventure ghost house. Feel the wind and admire the natural scenery all around.
You must try this adventure like ATV ride, Ghost House, Sky Bike, Archery, Go Kart, and more. You can also check out the other attractions inside the theme park like Horse feeding, 7D Cinema Motion, 3D Art Museum, Paintball Target Shooting and Upside down Museum.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Must-visit Night Markets in Langkawi
Thinking of street foods on the Island. Well, yes, Night Markets are must-visit places in Langkawi. Feel the aroma of sizzling dishes and offer you a flavorful feast from Satay to sweet desserts.
Night Market is one of the most popular places to visit at night, which has excellent street food options in Langkawi. You can expect different stalls piled up one after the other. Apart from street food, you’ll find handmade crafts, local fabrics, household items and more.
Langkawi’s night markets are truly special. They open on different days, so if you miss the Ulu Melaka night market on Monday, don’t worry. You can visit the Kedawang Night Market on Tuesday or another one later in the week.
Check out the must-visit street food places to visit in Langkawi are given below,
- Ulu Melaka Night Market – Monday
- Kedawang Night Market – Tuesday
- Kuah Night Market – Wednesday/ Saturday
- Temoyong Night Market- Thursday
- Ayer Hangat Friday Night Market – Friday
- Padang Matsirat Night Market- Sunday
Some of the best street foods you can try at the Night Markets include Nasi Lemak, Flame-Grilled Chicken, Char Kway Teow, Laksa, Satay, Nasi Kandar, Pisang Goreng, Nasi Kerabu, Sambal Stingray, Beef Burgers, Sweet Coconut Milk, and Boiled Squid.
Must- Visit Shopping Malls in Langkawi
Langkawi is a duty-free shopping destination offering a diverse shopping experience at an affordable price. Whether you are hunting for souvenirs or looking for the latest trends, Langkawi shopping malls have it all!
Check out the list of must-visit shopping malls in Langkawi,
- Langkawi Parade Shopping Malls
- Cenang Mall
- Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall
- Langkawi Saga Shopping Center
You’ll get everything from alcohol and cigarettes to designer sunglasses and chocolates. The brand’s accessories, fashion clothes, footwear, parlours, jewellery, leather bags and more are available here.
Best Sunset Dinner Cruise from Manta Blu Cruise Boats
Do you want to enjoy the sunset? Langkawi has sunset cruise options, which give the best cruise experience. Check out the Sunset Dinner Cruise with Manta Blu, which offers three yachts: Manta Blu, Baltazar and Damai Puter. Enjoy your sunset with an open bar.
The cruise will be a shared transfer and offer food and beverages.
Timings: 5 pm – 8 pm
Depart: Royal Langkawi Yacht Club
Duration: 4 hours
Seating Capacity: 2 – 30 people
Ticket Cost:
- For Adults – Approximately MYR 250
- For Child – Approximately MYR 150
Here is the list of boat options you can try,
- Manta Blu – Luxury Catamaran
- Damai Puteri – Luxury Charter Boat
- Baltazar Pirate Cruise – Traditional Bugis schooner with pirate-themed boat.
Temples in Langkawi
If you are looking for a different side of Langkawi beyond the sandy beaches, wildlife, adventures and thrills. Then here it is, Langkawi has the sacred sites with rich traditions and religious heritage. From the iconic Thean Hou temple to the Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam with a blend of spirituality and architectural beauty.
Check out the list of must-visit temples in Langkawi.
Langkawi Thean Hou Temple
Langkawi Thean Hou Temple is dedicated to the deity Mazu which is a Chinese Buddhist. It is a six- tier temple which blends with Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.
This temple features the statues of Guanyin, the goddess of Mercy, and Shui Wei Shang Niang, the goddess of Waterfront. It has a double-tier roof with curved ridges decorated with colourful porcelain pieces.
Each pillar stands for a different dialect group, with the Hainanese taking the lead since the temple is built on Hainanese-owned land.
Opening Hours: All days – 8 am – 8 pm
Nearby Attractions: You will visit Jetty Family Fun Fishing within 3.0 km and Boardwalk kampung Tok Senik.
Nearby Restaurants: Karia Food Court, Bonda’s Chicken, and Anifa Seafood Restaurant.
Wat Tham Kisap
Wat Tham Kisap is a Thai Buddhist temple which is carved into a limestone cliff. Its unique five-headed dragon guards the staircase to the main deity, the gold Buddha, on the upper floor. You can also see statues of various animals, such as cows, elephants, giant cobras and Deer.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 5 pm
Nearby attractions: Maha Tower and Legenda Park.
Nearby Restaurants: Ka Kee Lang Restaurant, and Albay Restaurant Langkawi.
Wat Koh Wanaram
Wat Koh Wanaram is a Buddhist temple that is also known as a lucky temple. Once you enter, you feel calm and complete worship.
The most iconic feature is the 19-metre-long Buddha statue, with wall paintings that show scenes from Buddha’s life.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Nearby Attractions: HM IZ Empire and Darulaman
Nearby Restaurants: Veena Thai Seafood Restaurants and Yi San Thai Restaurant
Note:
- Worshippers may offer food, flowers, and candles as a sign of devotion
- You can seek counselling from the monks
- They offer morals and emotional support.
Note: You should not touch the statue without permission.
Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam
Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam is the biggest Hindu temple. It has colourful architecture and a roof covered with statues of various gods.
Nearby Attractions: Langkawi Nature park, Lucky Temple, and Eagle Sculpture.
Nearby Restaurants: Harisai Indian Restaurant and Raja Rani Restaurant.
Things to Remember: You need to remove the shoes. While visiting the temple, you need to dress modestly.
How to Get Around in Langkawi
Getting around in Langkawi is Simple and convenient. Langkawi offers many options, such as taxis, renting a car, or renting a scooter.
You can even ride a bike to enjoy the scenic beauty on your own. Public transport is limited.
Let’s ride in for more details!
Renting a Car:
For self- driving people, renting a car is the best option. There are various rental agents available around the island. The prices vary depending on the season. You can check out the car rental booths at the Langkawi International Airport. You need to drive on the left hand side.
Useful Information –
- Car Rental Services in Langkawi:
- EZ Car Rental
- Merge Car Rental Langkawi
- For online car rental services, check out Klook, MRR Holidays, and Kayak.
Renting a Motorbike:
Scooters and bicycles are available for rent. They are cheaper than cars. You can find them around the Pantai Cenang area.
Check out this Bike Rental Services while going to Langkawi,
- Uncle B Langkawi Scooter Bike Rental & Motor Sewa.
- A-One Super Duper Scooters Cars Rental & Langkawi Tours Adventure.
- Go Island Scooters, Bicycle Rental Services & Mini Market.
- Langkawi Nice Scooter & Car Rental.
For online services, check out Riderly, and Book2Wheel.
Bus:
The bus has limited stops and runs from the Kuah jetty centre. The bus station is in front of City Bayview Hotel. You can also take a bus to Pantai Cenang.
Taxi
This is the easiest option, and you’ll find it at the airport, ferry terminal, taxi stands, tourist spots or you can even wave down on streets. However, compared to other modes of transport, it is a little bit expensive and also has fixed rates. You can choose the Grab (Cab booking App) rather than taking a taxi.
Note: You need to have an Indian license along with an IDP to rent a bike or car. Additionally, ensure you have travel insurance.
Day Trips To Experience from Langkawi
Langkawi offers plenty of amazing day trips that offer adventure and relaxation.
Here is a list of day trips in Langkawi,
Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Tour in Langkawi: You’ll take a mangrove tour on a boat. Visit the Bat caves, Crocodile caves, Mangrove forest tour, Eagle watching, view of Kilim Geopark, and view of Gorilla mountain.
Pulau Dayang Bunting and Langkawi Islands Jet Ski Tour by Mega Water Sports: You’ll visit Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa Besar, and Pulau Intan Kecil. They offer various sports activities like jungle trekking, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling, and swimming.
Langkawi Island Hopping Shared Speedboat Tour: You will visit Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Beras Basah. This offers hotel transfers.
Langkawi Island Hopping Jet Ski Tour: You will witness the eagles, Lake of pregnant maiden and Beras Basah island.
Conclusion
Langkawi offers a different perspective on the world, with many amazing places to visit. Appreciate the beauty and embrace the life around the island. You’ll love the gorgeous Pantai Cenang beach and stunning waterfalls like Telaga Tujuh.
The islands offer duty-free shopping, and their lively night markets give a taste of local cuisine. Discover the unique flora and fauna at the Kilim Geoforest Park and Crocodile Adventureland, or enjoy water sports activities at the theme parks. Overall, Langkawi is a must-visit tourist spot.
So what are you waiting for, plan your trip now for an exciting journey!
FAQ’s
Where to go in Langkawi?
The most popular visiting places are Langkawi Theon Hou Temple, Pulau Besar Beach, Pantai Cenang, Kilim Geoforest Park, and Langkawi Wildlife Park.
What are the best things to do in Langkawi?
The best things to do in Langkawi are Underwater World Langkawi, Pulau Payar Marine Park, 3D Art Museum, Seven Wells Waterfalls, and Island Hopping Tour
How much are the entry fees for Splash Out Langkawi Theme Park?
The entry tickets for Splash Out Langkawi are,
- For Adults – Approximately INR 500
- For Child – Approximately INR 400
- For Senior – Approximately INR 400
What are the places to visit on Island Hopping Tours?
The places you visit in Inland hopping tours are Pulau Beras Basah, Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa Besar, and Pulau Payar Marine Park. The places may change based on the tours you choose.
When to Visit Langkawi?