Langkawi

Ride on the cable car to enjoy fantastic panoramic views of Langkawi and delight in breathtaking views of the many islands scattered around Langkawi itself and the islands of Thailand. The top station sits on the majestic Machincang Mountain that is said to have been formed some 500 million years ago.

Continue past scenic paddy fields with groups of buffaloes resting in their muddy ponds. Quaint Malay Kampung (villages) are scattered all over the island, giving you a true insight into the landscapes of Langkawi.

Visit the Rice Garden, one of Langkawi’s eco-tourism attractions. Here, you can view all aspects of rice cultivation, the oldest industry in Malaysia. Appreciate the rich heritage and chart its history to recent developments while viewing fascinating exhibits at the Museum.

A stop at the Harbour Park allows you to appreciate the scenery.

Visit a functioning rubber estate where you will have a close-up view of the art of rubber tapping. Observe a demonstration showing how a skillful cut can make the rubber tree bleed latex.

The Mausoleum of the Martyred Princess immortalises the legend of Mashuri, the tragic story of a young maid who lived on the island. When her husband was called to the army, she was wrongly accused of adultery by a jealous wife, and was sentenced to death. Stabbed with a sacred sword, she is said to have bled white blood, proof of her innocence that alas came too late. With her dying breath, she cursed the island, proclaiming "...Langkawi shall not prosper for seven generations to come."

After a stop at Eagle’s Park, a monumental sculpture embracing the seafront of Kuah, enjoy some free time at the Handicraft Studio. Take the opportunity to shop for some souvenirs of Langkawi such as baskets, Batik paintings, pottery, pewter products and more.

Altogether, there are 99 islands scattered around the main island Langkawi. Get away from it all and board your boat for a cruise to 2 of these islands.

Stop off at Pregnant Maiden Island where a large fresh water lake nestles in the centre. This lake is a fascinating geological feature, separated from the sea by a border of natural rock and limestone, and surrounded by ancient rainforest. According to legend, any childless woman who drinks from it will be able to conceive. A climb up some steep steps (820 feet high) will bring you to the beautiful lake where you can enjoy a swim or simply admire the serene scenery around you.

Enjoy further rest and relaxation at Pulau Beras Basah, literally translated as Wet Rice Island. The island is blessed with stunning white sandy beaches set below lush rainforest and looming mountains. Sit back and relax or take a swim, but look out for the monkeys on the beach.

The pristine waters of Payar Island display one of the region’s most spectacular coral gardens. Board a boat at Porto Malai Jetty and cruise to the island. Despite its size, this un-inhabited island has everything that a nature lover seeks, including secluded white beaches, unspoiled coral reef and a vast array of magnificent marine life.

On arrival, your boat will anchor off the coast. The more adventurous can snorkel from the boat and discover the fabulous corals, abundant tropical reef and rainbow-hued fishes. Alternatively, you may wish to swim to the shore or non swimmers can be transported to the island by means of a smaller boat to enjoy the beach. The rest of the day is at your leisure to laze at the beach on this perfect island getaway.

After an hour-long transfer to Port Kilim, board your boat and glide into the mangrove forest to start your adventure. Visit a Fish Farm where you can walk along the platforms to see a variety of marine life separated by nets in the sea, including Moray eels, Horse Shoe Crabs, Mantis Prawns and Sting Rays.

Enjoy a moment of eagle spotting as you watch the airborne predators hover over the mangrove trees, and swoop to catch their prey. The eagle population in Kilim has grown from an estimated 15 pairs to over 400 in 30 years.

At the Bat Cave, witness hundreds of bats clinging upside down from the ceiling. The cave was formed millions of years ago and you can marvel at the formation of stalagmites and stalactites inside. Take a walk on the wooden boardwalk which runs right through the 196 foot-long cave.

The tropical rainforest of Langkawi was formed thousands of years ago and is slightly different to the rainforests in most other parts of Malaysia. This is due to a distinct dry season, which usually starts the beginning of November. This dry season is very stressful for a rainforest as it does not received enough rain for the flowers to grow.

Eagles, birds, species of butterflies, bees and beetles can be found in the rainforest. An experienced nature guide will talk you through the sights whilst walking you through the forest.

Feel and smell the natural tropical wood scent whilst enjoying the natural surroundings, as you make your journey back to nature.

The Langkawi Cultural Craft Complex is dedicated to Malaysia’s cultural heritage and showcases a variety of Malaysian handicrafts. It’s a great place to browse and shop for local hand-made authentic items which include ceramics, colourful batik clothing and costume jewellery. The modern complex also houses several workshops and a heritage museum to explore.

A short photo stop at Eagle’s Square will show you the monumental sculpture embracing the seafront of Kuah. This huge monument costing over 2 million Ringgit is a tribute to this island, which is named after the Brown Eagle.

Continue to Underwater World, showcasing colourful marine life and over 5000 tropical fish that are held in more than 100 specially designed tanks. The most impressive and unique interior architectural concept of this magnificent aquarium is the gigantic hexagonal tank and walk through tunnel tank. View the shoals of exotic fish and see sharks, turtles, and stingrays to name but a few. The sub-Antarctic ecosystem display includes a spectacular penguinarium with an underwater tunnel for visitors to view swimming penguins.