About Langkawi

Langkawi is about 478.5 sq.km. and close to 65% is covered by rainforest. For an island of this size it has much to offer in terms of biodiversity, for example the 221 species of birds. Langkawi is ideal for a bird watcher to do some birding for 2 or 3 days, while an orchid enthusiast would easily come across 20 exotic species of wild orchids by just a simple guided walk along the coast.

Langkawi has a lush Gerutu forest with big and beautiful 500 year old Meranti trees and a unique limestone coastal forest with Cycads clivicola growing to about 800 years and older.

There's also to be found about twice the amount of species of butterflies found in Japan. This is the main reason why entomologists or amateur butterfly enthusiasts consider Langkawi a haven for insect life especially insect endemism.

Langkawi Islands

Langkawi Beaches

Langkawi Caves

Langkawi Mangroves

Langkawi Rainforest

Langkawi Waterfalls

Langkawi Islands

Langkawi is located in the northern west coast of peninsular Malaysia, bordering the south of Thailand - off the coast of Kedah and is made up of 99 islands when the tide is high and 104 islands when the tide is low. The largest of the islands is Pulau Langkawi measuring about 478.5 sq.km., while some of the others appear to be mere dots in the emerald green ocean when viewed from the air.

The islands contain unique rock formations with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, limestone outcrops, lush forest, fascinating waterfalls and mysterious caves. The clear, emerald waters around the islands provide a host of water sports and recreation to the visitors as well as a magical world of marine life.

PULAU PAYAR

The Pulau Payar Marine Park, comprising four uninhabited islands of Payar, Lembu, Kaca and Segantang, makes up Malaysia's oldest Marine Park sanctuary.

These islands, famous for the varied and colourful marine life that they support, offer the best diving site on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast. Access is not a problem as speedboats and catamarans ply the route on a regular basis from Langkawi and Penang.

At Pulau Payar, the largest of the four, you will find the Marine Park Centre, which was set up and operated by the Fisheries Department. Here, useful information can be obtained on the do's and don'ts while visiting the island.

If you are not into water activities, do check out the two hiking trails that have been constructed to enable visitors to explore and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and beyond. Gazebos, picnic tables, BBQ pits and restroom facilities are also available for public use. Although picnics and camping are allowed, cutting of trees and open burning are strictly prohibited.

Nearby is a jetty, and just a short distance away is a pontoon, with facilities for easy access to the reef below. The waters of Pulau Payar have an additional attraction -- artificial reefs built from tyres, concrete blocks and old boats, which over the years developed into mature reefs that are teeming with marine life.

* All visitors are required to obtain a permit and pay a conservation charge that will be used towards the management and maintenance of the Marine Parks.

PULAU SINGA BESAR

Its name means "Island of the Big Lion" although physically there's no resemblance. Located 17km from Kuah, Pulau Singa Besar is nestled between the smaller island of Pulau Beras Basah to the west and Pulau Dayang Bunting to the east.

The sedimentary rocks on this island are reputed to be among the oldest in Malaysia going back 500 million years. The flora and fauna here differ greatly from that on the mainland, with lush abundance of the Diptherocarp, kelubi and cycas.

The island was a wildlife sanctuary where lizards, mouse deer, macaques, eagles and hornbills roam freely. Wooden walkways and paths have been delineated on the islands shores for nature lovers and a trek around the island takes about 8 hours. Currently the island has undergoing project of homing of fish.

At low tide, parts of the coral bed of Pulau Singa Besar are exposed. Although rich in coral beds, some of the reefs are dead due to muddy sediments brought by currents from the Straits of Malacca. However, there are also signs of coral regeneration in some places. Some 28 species belonging to 24 genera have been noted, with Pectinia and Mycedium species predominating.

PULAU DAYANG BUNTING

Pregnant Maiden Island Located 17.6km from Kuah, this island is the second largest island within the archipelago. Its name 'The Island of the Pregnant Maiden" is inspired by the legends which surround the lake (known as Lake Guillemard) or by the physical appearance of the island itself which resembles the belly of a pregnant woman. The legend that the lake bestows fertility, although not scientifically proven, only enhances the mystery that surrounds the island.

Mangrove swamps dominate the perimeter of the island, while rainforests reign supreme inland. The bird and insect population are high, width over 90 species of birds including the hornbill, kingfisher, drongo, woodpecker and kite.

PULAU REBAK KECIL

Midway between Pantai Cenang and Pulau Rebak Besar, this island is popular with day trippers. The forested beach is sandy for the most part and gets more rocky towards the northern end. There are chalets for those who want to stay overnight.

PULAU REBAK BESAR

Apparently named because it resembles a traditional Malay drum or 'rebak', this island is resplendent with natural beauty. Developed as a marina with full facilities and a marine park, it is still in its pristine natural state with beautiful beaches cooled by leafy foliage and refreshingly cool turquoise waters.

PULAU BERAS BASAH

Wet Rice Island with crystal clear waters and pure white sandy beaches, this is an ideal place to get way from it all.

PULAU TUBA

The only inhabited island besides the main island of Langkawi itself, Pulau Tuba allows visitors to experience traditional fishing village life with fishermen returning home in the evenings in their quaint fishing boats. It also offers a homestay program organized by fisheries development Authority of Malaysia as an innovative tourism products. There are 30 houses registered under this program and all of the household heads work as fishermen. Apart from fishing they do some farming, raring animals like chicken/cows/water buffalo/goats and mend their orchard. Occasionally the islanders goes to the jungle to collect forest product including herbs, medicinal roots, honey bees and wild fruits. The woman folks weave pandan mat and make other handicraft products to supplement their family income.

PULAU INTAN BESAR

This is an island modern-day Robinson Crusoes would love to disappear to. Forest-clad and uninhabited, there are massive ancient trees covering the central part of the island, while coconut palms line the beaches. It is ideal as a quiet retreat for bird-loving naturalists.

PULAU TILOI

More recently known as Pulau Bunga (Island of Flowers), this island brings the beauty of tropical flowers through a project managed by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), transforming the island into a floral paradise. There are gardens shaded by lofty trees displaying their scents and kaleidoscope of colors.

PULAU INTAN KECIL

Like its 'big sister' island, this island is also uninhabited, with a pristine white sandy beach and translucent waters to lure visitors. Great to spend a day at, it is only about 50 minutes by boat from Kuah Jetty.

Langkawi Beaches

Langkawi's beaches are one of the main attraction on these islands. It is not glittering gold sands that you see but perpetually stretches after stretches of soft white beaches, which is most alluring.

PANTAI BATU HAMPIR

Fronting the Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort, this little stretch of beach is bounded by rocky outcrops on both ends. Coconut and mangrove trees preserve the beach's natural environment, providing welcome shade.

PANTAI TELUK BURAU - BURAU BAY BEACH

Once the haunt of the Piped Hornbill, the rugged coastline here is broken by lush tropical vegetation. On the west coast of Langkawi Island, this stretch of coastline features the Kuala Teriang fishing village, Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and Padang Matsirat. Facing the beach is Burau Island, a roosting place for migratory birds. So bring your binoculars and do a bit of bird watching as well as it is also a haven for the hornbills.

PANTAI KOK - KOK BEACH

This stretch of beach 24.8 km away from Kuah boasts white sand and swaying palms, ideal for lazing about while you view the yachts and sailboats drifting gently against the azure backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Resorts are dotted along the shore, offering the most pleasant accommodation. This beach was the Summer Palace location of the movie "Anna and the King".

PANTAI PASIR HITAM - BLACK SAND BEACH

During the wet season, the sands here are more black than white, due to the tin and mineral ore deposits which wash up on the shore. An ancient fishing jetty lends it a sense of history, making a very picturesque scene that's popular among locals conscious tourist. The black coloration comes from ilmenite, tourmaline, zircon deposits. However, the waters here are not conducive for swimming.

PANTAI CENANG - CENANG BEACH

About 18.4 km from Kuah, this beach is the liveliest stretch on the island, with restaurants and bars offering a range of local, Western and fusion cuisine to those who prefer a more lively pace of beach life. There are also many quaint resorts with chalets that cater to the more budget-conscious tourist.

PANTAI DATAI - DATAI BEACH

Characterized by boulders at both ends of the beach and dense forest in the background, Pantai Datai slopes gently into clear blue waters. Facing the beach directly is the delightful little island of Pulau Anak Datai.

PANTAI TELUK YU - SHARK BAY BEACH

Its name literally means "Bay of Sharks" but the waters are completely tranquil. Its wide, sandy beach is actually a continuation of Pantai Pasir Hitam but is free of the black pigmentation. On this beach is also the Teluk Ewa Jetty which serves large ships.

PANTAI TANJUNG RHU- CASUARINA CAPE BEACH

Located on the northernmost tip of Langkawi island, this wide sloping beach is fringed by the casuarina trees from which Pantai Tanjung Rhu gets its name - Tanjung means cape while rhu is casuarina. During low tide, it is possible to walk across a sandy stretch to the rocky outcrop of Pulau Chabang. Nearby are a number of caves as well as mangrove swamps.

PANTAI TELUK BARU - NEW BAY BEACH

The small bay of this stretch of beach forms a natural shelter for fishing boats, and you may even persuade a fishing boat to let you accompany them on a trip.

PANTAI TENGAH - MIDDLE BEACH

Located just next to Pantai Cenang, it offers calmer and quieter tourist spots than Pantai Cenang.

PANTAI PASIR TENGKORAK - SANDY SKULL BEACH

Literally translated as Sandy Skull Beach, it is suggested that once upon a time there was a bloody battle between the local and the invaders (Thais) for the possession of this part of Langkawi. The waters here just like at Pantai Datai can be crystal clear but this really depends on the calmness of the sea.

PANTAI BERINGIN - BANYAN BEACH

Situated near the town of Kuah, one will notice mangrove stumps at one end that tell story of bygone days and at the other end, a calm and serene beach, fringed by swaying coconut palms.

Langkawi Caves

Caves in Langkawi

GUA KELAWAR

Named after its inhabitants,the Malaysian fruit bats, this cave is located along the Kilim River. Accessible only by boat, you can then walk along a wooden platform through a mangrove swamp, leading directly to the cave. The stalactites and stalagmites are of gigantic proportions, forming weird figures reminiscent of other-worldly creatures.

GUA DANGLI

Entered from the sea at low tide, the cave reveals a fabulous array of stalactites. Giant limestone curtains, umbrellas and mushrooms also spring out of the sculptured walls.The chamber tunnels up to a small hole, exiting into a bamboo forest where a second cave is located about 30 metres up a slope.

GUA BUAYA

This cave is unique in that the Kilim River actually flows right through it, navigable by a small boat at low tide.View the limestone formations and colonies of bats, although the "buaya" or terrifying man-eating creatures of swamp no longer lurk.

GUA CERITA

Easily accessible by boat from Tanjung Rhu, the cave can be reached with a climb up a wooden ladder.Legend has Gua Cerita or "Cave of Legends" is linked with the mystical Battle of the Big Birds. It was here apparently that the Princess of China was kidnapped and held captive.

GUA PASIR DAGANG

Nestled on the coast of Pulau Dayang Bunting,this cave is very accessible with the boat ride passing by some very enchanting island. This is one of the most intriguing caves, with the stalagmites forming bizarre figures.

GUA BALAI

round the cave is an abundance of trees, creepers, ferns and palms, providing a pleasant and serene environment. Stalactites and not stalagmites are predominant, with a huge serpent-like one hanging down from the roof.

GUA LAYANG

Accessible from Kuah by land, the cave is dome-shaped and lined with oddly-shaped white and grey limestone, with a huge serpent-like stalactites hanging down as if guarding the cave's secrets.

GUA LANDAK

A few minutes' drive from Kuah, this is the most accessible cave on the island. Its fairly large chamber contains an exquisite variety of stalactites and stalagmites with fascinating formations.

GUA TOK SABUNG

This cave has some of the most impressive stalactites and stalagmites in all of Langkawi, many of which are as attractive as quality marble.Thousands of bats roost within, shrieking through without hitting anything.

GUA SIAM

Located at Sungai Batu Gajah in the heart of a mangrove swamp, the cave rests in a limestone hill. Skeletal remains of humans, animals and primitive tools have been discovered here, although the age of the bones has yet to be ascertained.

GUA LANGSIAR

On the western coast of Pulau Dayang Bunting, this "Cave of the Banshee" is recommended only to serious cavers with mountain climbing experience as the ascent to the cave demands great climbing skill and absolute physical fitness. Surprisingly, there is an absence of stalactites and stalagmites. Instead, the huge gloomy chambers are permeated with lurking shadows, reinforcing the superstition that the cave is haunted by the spirit of a woman who, like Dracula, lives on the blood of humans.

GUA PINANG

Located off a tributary at Kuala Kubang Badak, this cave is situated in an area which was under the sea thousands of years ago, as indicated by the abundance of ancient seashells embedded in the cave walls.

Langkawi Mangroves

One of the biggest attractions in Langkawi are the mangroves. Mangrove forest is a tidal forest; a forest growing in the inter-tidal zone between average sea level and the high tide mark.

Mangrove trees are capable of tolerating a salty environment, until the next low tide expose them to fresh water. Each mangrove tree specie has its specific location. So trees with a low tolerance to saltwater are close to the rainforest, while trees with a big tolerance are closer to the sea and have developed stilt roots.

Mangrove trees grow directly at the water’s edge. Seeds shaped like javelines hang at the end of branches. When mature they drop during low tide into the mud where they develop roots to prevent from being washed away by water currents. Certain species create roots in just a few hours.

The mangrove forest was an important buffer during the devastating tsunami. It is also an important nursery for fish species that survive along the coastline.

Langkawi Rainforest

Langkawi's climate is very different from the mainland of Malaysia. There is a dry period from December to April and a wet season between July and October.

Once again Langkawi shows that it is a unique place with its semi-dry rainforest, while the rest of Malaysia enjoys a evergreen rainforest.

It's quite difficult to see the differences between a semi-dry and evergreen rainforest. Even when in semi-dry rainforest the trees sheed their leaves once a year, we are not able to see the differences as the trees sheed at different times during the year.
One distinctive criteria is that the semi-dry rainforests have a lower canopy than the evergreen rainforests.

In the month of April Langkawi's rainforest offers a picture, which can't be found anywhere else in tropical / subtropical areas. Many trees and bushes start flowering like springtime in cooler countries.

A visit at this time of the year would be a reward for anyone interested in plants and trees.

Langkawi Waterfalls

SEVEN WELLS

Locally known as Telaga Tujuh - Seven Wells, this is a geological marvel. It is a spot where a freshwater stream cascades about 90 meters down via a series of seven pools, hence its name. Visiting the pools, especially the top one, will definitely bring excitement besides seeing greenery and enjoying cooling surroundings. Adding a mystical touch to the natural splendor is the lush green forest that surrounds it. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to frolic and bathe.

DURIAN PERANGIN

Located in Raya Mountain Nature Park area, this waterfall has 12 levels of water cascade. There is a 5-km-jungle track to the top of Raya Mountain with another 5-km-jungle track from there to Lubuk Sembilang.

TEMERUN

This 30-meter-high waterfall is located in Mat Cincang Nature Park, connected by the road to Datai Bay. Meranti varieties are the most common plantation found in this area.

LUBUK SEMILANG

It is a nature park located in Raya Mountain Nature Park area consisting a 2-km-riverstream with a moderate waterfall suitable for swimming and jungle-tracking activities. There is a 5-km-jungle track to to the top of Raya Mountain and another 5-km-jungle track from there to Durian Perangin.