Langkawi Tourism And Travel Guide

Langkawi, a paradise of the mountains and the sea, is the go-to destination for its pristine beaches, breath-taking landscapes and duty free shopping. A collection of 99 islands, Langkawi also doubles up as a destination for trekking and certain water sports. You can hike up the Telaga Tuju Waterfalls, shop duty free perfumes, chocolates and hoard good alcohol. This Malaysian island has some of the best views to offer from atop the Langkawi Sky Bridge and Gunung Raya while making you binge on Malay cuisine.

Being in the middle of the Andaman Sea, Langkawi can only be reached by air or water transport.

By Sea: Regular ferries to Langkawi ply from the mainland, as well as important ports like Kuala Kedah, Penang and Satun. 

By Air: Air is another route to get to Langkawi and daily flights ply from Kuala Lumpur, as well as London and Osaka to the airport in Langkawi (20 km away).

Dry season: The best time to be in Langkawi is its dry season from October to March. The temperatures are moderate (34°C), skies clear and mood cheerful. This is the tourist season and the rates may be much higher compared to other months.

Mid season: The April to August mid season is another option but is not recommended for first time travellers. Because the holy festival of Ramadan falls in one of these months and since majority of the populace is Muslim, you might find shops shut before time, people eager to pray and break fasts and go home. The temperatures are cooler (30°C) and rainfall mostly short-lived in the afternoons.

Low Season: September-October bring cooler climes to the islands (27°C) but the waters are choppy and rainfall heavy. This is the least favoured season as it restricts outdoor exploration sometimes.

There is no lack of adventure, luxurious exploration or shopping in Langkawi. Sightseeing is another great thing to do when on the island.

Langkawi Sky Bridge walk: Explore this 125 metre man-made bridge and soak in the stunning vistas of Telaja Tujuh waterfalls, green mountains and the islets of Langkawi. You can also picnic on the triangular platforms on this bridge to spend a quiet hour at sunset.

Sightseeing: The Eagle Square called Dataran Lang is the hub of a whole vibrant flock of tourists, come to see the statue of the big reddish brown eagle. To be a part of nature’s bounty in Langkawi, turn to Telaga Tuju waterfalls, a collection of seven pools fed by this waterfall. Take a dip in the pool or trek up, it's a perfect getaway.

Sunset Cruise: For the pampering experience, board the sunset cruise where you get to enjoy a mid-day trip across the water in a luxurious yacht. Sip on sodas and beers, assorted juices and wines as the sun sets in front of your eyes. The trip commences from Awana Porto Malai Jetty.

Shopping: This is the best part of Langkawi for it is a duty free island. Pick up cheap chocolates, perfumes, alcohol and souvenirs. The shopping is mostly done in malls because of its inexpensive nature everywhere. Try Teow Soon Huat, Jetty Point and Cenang Mall for sports wear, make-up and toys (all duty free). Also, the AC inside the malls is a welcome relief from the sultry weather outside.

Malaysian cuisine has heavy Indian as well as neighbouring Chinese influence. Try the staple Nasi campur, a rice mix; or Sambal which is a hot chilly sauce. Squid is a favourite among seafood lovers and do try the buffalo mozzarella (not a local speciality but made on the island).

For those familiar with the Indian gola, meet its Malaysian brother Ice Kacang on the streets; a big bowl of shaved ice with syrups, crunch and dry fruits. This is a real treat in the heat.