Things to do in Langkawi: 10 amazing island-hopping ideas
It’s odd to think that an archipelago of 99 islands could have remained relatively off grid, but that’s exactly what Langkawi has managed. Dotted off the west coast of Malaysia, these islands – many uninhabited except for majestic species of bird and monkey – are rich tapestries of culture, wildlife and vibrant rituals, all beneath the rainforest canopy. A 60-minute flight from Kuala Lumpur and 90 minutes’ from Singapore, Langkawi is becoming the destination of choice for those in-the-know.
Getty ImagesTake a boat tour through the mangroves
Langkawi’s waterways run through the dense mangrove fields of Kilim Geoforest Park on the main island and spill out into the Andaman Sea, making them the perfect way to explore. The channels range from wide, open stretches – sometimes large enough for restaurants to float atop of them – to narrow labyrinths, thick with plant life. A boat trip here is a tranquil way to get close to the wildlife, as well as learn the history of Langkawi, as an expert spotter joins each tour to point out the creatures that dart through the undergrowth. Weather permitting, the tour ends with a journey out in the open ocean. No need for bug repellent as the mangrove trees keep mosquitos and other pests at bay, however the resident monkeys aren’t as distant. They’ve learned to swim out to boats in search of food and drink so be careful with sweet drinks in open cans and easily-accessible food such as fruit. Visit: junglewalla.com to book their Langkawi Unesco Geopark Mangrove Cruise.
Getty ImagesVisit the roving night market
Exploring a market in a foreign country can offer a fascinating insight into its flavour, and Langkawi’s night market (pasar malam), which roams from place to place, is particularly special. You won’t find the traditional tourist trinkets here, but rather good quality food for as little as 40p. Local Malay food isn’t available in abundance around Langkawi, and often roadside restaurants can be hit and miss, so this floating food fair is an ideal taste of what island life is all about. After a feast, pick up a sugar cane juice, spooned out of giant vats and immensely refreshing. The biggest markets are on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Markets:
Monday: Jalan Makam Mahsuri Lama, 6pm to 11pm;
Tuesday: Kedawang, 5.30pm to 10pm;
Wednesday and Saturday: Kuah, 5.30pm to 10pm;
Thursday: Bohor Tempoyak, 6pm to 11pm;
Friday: Padang Lalang, 6pm to 11pm;
Sunday: Padang Matsirat, 6pm to 10pm.
Getty ImagesGo island hopping
There are so many choices here but JungleWalla is a good sustainable option – its tours respectfully observe the wildlife rather than coax the animals out for visitors’ enjoyment. The rivulets, small-scale beaches and caves make ideal jumping-off spots and the wider waters offer chances to spot whale sharks. If you do choose the eco-friendly option, tour times are limited so booking early is a must. It’s also more environmentally friendly for the boats to pootle at a slower pace – something for adrenalin junkies to bear in mind. Visit: junglewalla.com for more information.
Getty ImagesHead skywards
The Langkawi Sky Bridge may be one of the better-known things to do in Langkawi but is worth a visit nevertheless – and anyway, the islands’ version of busy pales in comparison to that of larger Asian destinations. This 125-metre long, curved structure, is suspended 660 metres above sea level, making it the longest free span, curved bridge in the world. Those who brave it are rewarded with a truly wondrous view, including the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls and several surrounding islands. Skip the queues by buying your ticket beforehand, but only book on the morning you want to go as the views are weather dependant. If it’s raining or cloudy, choose another day. Visit: panoramalangkawi.com for more information.
Getty ImagesUp, up and away
The Langkawi Cable Car, also known as Langkawi SkyCab, is said to be the steepest in the world and takes visitors on a 15-minute journey from the Oriental Village at Teluk Burau to the peak of Gunung Machinchang (also home to the the Langkawi Sky Bridge). Head above the canopy of trees towards the open air decks at the top, to see vistas of the lush Langkawi rainforest from a bird’s-eye vantage point. The glass-bottomed SkyCabs offer an entirely 360 experience and an exceptional viewpoint – although they can feel slightly hair-raising if you aren’t comfortable with heights. Visit: panoramalangkawi.com for more information.
Getty ImagesPull on your walking boots
Hiking up towards Gunung Raya's 880-metre peak is no easy feat but well worth the effort. An expert guide who knows how to navigate is a must, but journey to the roof of the island to discover white-bellied sea eagles that soar above the tree canopy, cheeky macaque monkeys and the astonishing flora and fauna that dot the mountainside. Closer to the top, the climb becomes steeper, but those who do make it should look out for the large hornbill birds that can be spotted from here.
Getty ImagesRevel in an underwater experience
Langkawi’s marine life attracts divers and snorkelling enthusiasts to its underwater world and Pulau Payar Marine Park often tops their list. Some 30km south of the main island, around a 45-minute boat trip from Kuah jetty point, four uninhabited islands stretch over two nautical miles and are strictly regulated to maintain their unspoiled state. Seasoned divers swear this is the best site on Malaysia’s west coast while, for first-timers, even the shallow waters provide an array of life, including little blacktip reef sharks (pictured above).
Getty ImagesWade into the padi fields
Nowhere on these islands is particularly busy, but the Laman Padi rice garden and museum has really managed to slip under the radar. For a gentle activity to offset all the watersports, this working rice farm, with water buffalo, is great. Free to visit, Laman Padi translates to rice fields and that’s exactly what’s on offer across this sprawling complex. Finding a staff member can be tricky but persevere – you’ll be given a fascinating glimpse into the process of rice farming.
Address: Jalan Pantai Cenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Telephone: +60 4 955 4312
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Getty ImagesMake a splash
Langkawi is home to many beautiful falls but the most spectacular is the Durian Perangin Waterfall. It’s hidden right in the heart of the jungle and those who make it through the dense undergrowth will appreciate the refreshing dip (don’t worry, you can also drive and park nearby). Named after the spiny oval-fruited durian trees that are found in abundance here, the waterfall is located at the north-eastern side of Langkawi. Avoid the dry season (from mid-November to mid-April) when there is scant water, but the area is beautiful nevertheless.
Address: Durian Perangin Waterfall, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Telephone: +60 12 476 0403
Getty ImagesTake the driving seat
You might hear people refer to the ‘rhino tour’ while you’re in Langkawi but alas, there is no rhino spotting to be had. Rather these are tours of the local villages, landscapes and jungle trails while driving a 4x4. It’s an exhilarating way to see the island as you spin through streams and different terrains, slowing down for nuggets of knowledge from the personal guide who accompanies you. Don’t forget the mosquito repellent – some of the jungle’s inhabitants like to get more up-close and personal than you’d like.
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