In the balmy Andaman Sea off Malaysia's northwest coast lies the 104-island archipelago of Langkawi, also known as the "Jewel of Kedah." Many unique activities await tourists here, including taking a cable car to a mountaintop sky bridge at 7,000 feet elevation. Meanwhile, a lush tropical environment cradles diverse destinations such as wildlife parks, breathtaking beaches and fantastic shopping.
The Great Cable Car in the Sky
- To properly survey the sprawling tourist opportunities here, you’ve got to obtain some perspective. The best way to do that is aboard the Langkawi cable car, which utilizes a series of three different stations along a staggering climb up the Machincang range. The route tops out at a dizzying 7,217 feet, delivering you to the threshold of a 574-foot span pedestrian bridge. From this lofty vantage point, you’ll enjoy a commanding 360-degree view of the surrounding Andaman Sea, acres of vast jungle forest, the delicate threads of numerous waterfalls and the distant Thailand border. The towering pinnacles of nearby mountain terrain can easily be observed up close from this remarkable perspective.
Marine and Wildlife Parks
- Spanning four islands is Pulau Payar Marine Park, considered the best marine park on Malaysia’s west coast. It offers sparkling translucent waters and colorful reefs ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. One of the most unique interactive encounters is at the Langkawi Wildlife Park. Inside a completely screened, 5.5-acre enclosure modeled after a tropical rainforest, you can observe and hand-feed more than 150 animals and birds from all around the world.
Upon the Wings of Duty-Free Bliss
- Perched majestically in the corner of the harbor at Pulau Langkawi, with enormous sweeping wings outstretched 36 feet into the open sky, the Dataran Lang eagle immediately inspires awe. The visually arresting statue was created as a homage to the island chain’s folklore-inspired name, and remains a national symbol of grace and strength. Not far from Eagle Square is some of the finest duty-free opportunities in all of Langkawi. The shops in Kuah feature ample tax-free merchandise. Outlets offer perfume, chocolate, clothing, alcohol, antiques and many other items at great prices. If you’d like to mix in a little adventure with your shopping, try Pasar Malam. It’s a locally run variety market that takes place five nights a week, each time in a different place. You must ask around to find out where it will be on the day you plan to attend, but if you crave authentic local goods and food, it's the place to be.
Mystery in the Waters
- Even though you're touring islands surrounded by a saltwater sea, a remarkable freshwater source exists, full of mythology and mystery. Dayang Bunting, the second-largest island in Langawi’s extensive chain, has a feature like no other. In its center lies a body of freshwater known as Tasik Dayang Bunting, which translates into Lake of the Pregnant Maiden. Formed when a large limestone cave collapsed, the water connects to the sea but, miraculously, remains uncontaminated. Local lore fervently holds that if a barren woman should bathe in its magical waters, her fertility will return. This natural phenomenon is one of the most popular traveler destinations in the area, so there are several boat tour companies available for transport directly to the island.
