Last Update
May 16, 2025 11:30 PM

Langkawi

Langkawi

Quick Info

Langkawi
Langkawi, the crown jewel of Malaysia’s 99-island archipelago, is where tropical paradise meets myth, mystery, and modern comfort. Located in the Andaman Sea, just off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi is more than just white-sand beaches and warm turquoise waters. It’s an island steeped in folklore, alive with rainforests and rice paddies, rich in Malay hospitality, and blessed with a duty-free status that adds an extra sparkle to every sundown cocktail. From soaring above the jungle canopy on the Langkawi Sky Bridge, diving into the legend of Mahsuri, to kayaking through mangrove forests and indulging in spicy laksa by the beach, Langkawi effortlessly combines relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery. Whether you're a honeymooner, a thrill-seeker, or a slow traveler, Langkawi invites you to discover, unwind, and fall under its tropical spell.
Capital:
Main cities:
Kuah, Pantai Cenang, Padang Matsirat, Tanjung Rhu
International airport:
Langkawi International Airport (LGK)
Population:
100,000 residents
Area:
478.5 sq km
Dependency Status:
Part of Malaysia, in Kedah state
Language:
Malay (Bahasa Malaysia), English widely spoken; also Chinese, Tamil
Currency:
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR or RM)
Time zone:
GMT +8
Country Code:
+60
Driving:
Left-hand side
Electricity:
Type G (British), 240V
Emergency Number:
999
Tipping:
Not mandatory, but rounding up or 10% in restaurants is appreciated

Map

Best Time to Visit

Langkawi

The best time to visit Langkawi is between November and April, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny, humid, and ideal for beach-hopping, island-hopping, and jungle adventures. Temperatures average around 30°C (86°F) with occasional breezes and clear skies.

December through February are peak tourist months, so book accommodations in advance. March and April offer slightly lower prices and fewer crowds, making them ideal for travelers seeking balance.

Avoid the rainy season (May to October) if you're looking for sun-soaked days. However, if you don’t mind short tropical downpours, June and July still see bursts of sunshine — and lower prices. The island stays open year-round and still holds its charm during monsoon season for the more adventurous traveler.

Top 10 Attractions in

Langkawi

  • Langkawi Sky Bridge & Cable Car – Soar above jungle valleys and limestone peaks for the best views on the island.
  • Kilim Geoforest Park – Explore mangroves, caves, and hidden lagoons by boat or kayak.
  • Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh) – A natural wonder with plunge pools and legends of fairies.
  • Pantai Cenang – The island’s main beach strip, packed with restaurants, markets, and beach bars.
  • Eagle Square (Dataran Lang) – Langkawi’s iconic 28-meter-tall eagle statue, symbolizing the island’s name.
  • Mahsuri Tomb and Cultural Centre – Discover the tragic legend of Princess Mahsuri, a tale of betrayal and curses.
  • Langkawi Wildlife Park – Family-friendly and hands-on, with colorful birds, reptiles, and mammals.
  • Langkawi Underwater World – One of Southeast Asia’s largest aquariums, home to penguins, sharks, and rays.
  • Tanjung Rhu Beach – A secluded bay of silky white sand, perfect for luxury picnics or kayaking.
  • Langkawi Night Markets (Pasar Malam) – Held in different towns each night—try street food, crafts, and local snacks.

Local Tips -

Langkawi

  • Langkawi is duty-free — alcohol, chocolate, and perfumes are much cheaper than the mainland.
  • Negotiate prices at markets — haggling is normal but friendly.
  • Rent a car if staying more than a day or two — the island is bigger than it seems.
  • Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or rural villages — dress modestly to respect local customs.
  • Start early for the Sky Bridge to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Watch out for monkeys — cute, but clever thieves!
  • Take a mangrove tour with a local guide for the best hidden nature spots.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect Langkawi’s marine life.
  • Pack bug spray — evenings can bring mosquitos, especially near water.
  • Try a sunset cruise for a romantic or relaxing end to the day.

Carnivals and Festivals in

Langkawi

  • Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) – One of Asia’s biggest air and sea shows, held biennially.
  • Langkawi International Laksa Festival – A spicy celebration of noodle soup from across Malaysia and beyond.
  • Langkawi Geopark Carnival – A fun blend of eco-tourism, music, and local heritage.
  • Ramadan Bazaars (various locations) – A must-experience if visiting during fasting month, offering sweet and savory evening treats.
  • Langkawi Ironman Malaysia – An international triathlon race attracting top athletes and adventure spectators.
  • National Day (August 31) – Join in with fireworks, music, and parades celebrating Malaysian independence.

Cool Facts About

Langkawi

  • The name Langkawi means “Island of the reddish-brown eagle.”
  • Langkawi is made up of 99 islands, plus 5 more at low tide.
  • The Sky Bridge is curved, not straight, to enhance views and reduce wind pressure.
  • It’s a duty-free island since 1987 to boost tourism.
  • Langkawi was declared Malaysia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark in 2007.
  • The island’s beaches are naturally shark-free and great for swimmers.
  • The local legend of Mahsuri claims the island was cursed for 7 generations.
  • Langkawi is one of the few places in the world where you can find “flying lemurs” (colugos) gliding through trees.
  • The waters around Langkawi are rich in coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass meadows.
  • You can spot hornbills, sea eagles, and dusky langurs all in one day.

FAQ

What is the island known for?
Langkawi is known for its beaches, geoparks, duty-free shopping, and rich Malay legends. It’s Malaysia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, home to limestone cliffs, caves, waterfalls, and mangroves. It also boasts the Langkawi Sky Bridge, and tales of the legendary Mahsuri.

Is the island a good destination for families?
Yes! Langkawi is very family-friendly, with activities like aquariums, cable car rides, wildlife parks, and beach resorts with kid-friendly amenities. Calm waters at Pantai Cenang and Tanjung Rhu are perfect for kids to swim and play.

Is the island safe for tourists?
Langkawi is one of Malaysia’s safest destinations. Crime is rare, people are welcoming, and the island has a relaxed, respectful atmosphere. Common sense applies—keep valuables secure and drink responsibly.

Do you need a visa to visit the island?
Langkawi follows Malaysia’s visa rules. Citizens from the EU, UK, US, Australia, and most ASEAN countries can visit visa-free for 30–90 days, depending on nationality. Always check the latest guidelines before traveling.

What’s the best way to get to Langkawi?
Fly directly to Langkawi International Airport (LGK) from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, or Penang. Ferries also connect Langkawi to Penang and Kuala Perlis. Flights are cheap and frequent from Malaysia’s major cities.

Should I rent a car or scooter on the island?
Yes! Langkawi is easy and safe to explore by car, scooter, or bicycle. Public transport is limited, and taxis can be pricey. Driving yourself is the best way to explore waterfalls, remote beaches, and mountain trails.

Is the island wheelchair accessible?
Major resorts, tourist attractions, and the airport are wheelchair accessible, but some older shops and smaller guesthouses may not be. Many beaches have gentle slopes and ramps, especially near Pantai Cenang.

What are the island’s most famous landmarks?
The Langkawi Sky Bridge, Langkawi Cable Car, Eagle Square (Dataran Lang), and the Kilim Geoforest Park are iconic. Don’t miss the Mahsuri Tomb, Seven Wells Waterfall, and Tanjung Rhu Beach.

What are the best beaches on the island?

  • Pantai Cenang – lively, tourist-friendly, watersports
  • Tanjung Rhu – quiet, pristine, luxury escapes
  • Pantai Tengah – quieter cousin to Cenang
  • Datai Bay – exclusive and scenic
  • Black Sand Beach – unique volcanic sand with local legends

What’s unique about Langkawi’s wildlife?
Langkawi is home to dusky leaf monkeys, hornbills, monitor lizards, flying lemurs, and more. Its mangrove forests and rainforests host rare birds, snakes, and sea eagles. Dolphins and flying fish can be spotted during boat tours.

What traditional foods should I try on the island?

  • Laksa Kedah – spicy fish broth with rice noodles
  • Nasi Campur – a mixed rice plate with Malay sides
  • Grilled seafood – especially tiger prawns and squid
  • Roti Canai – crispy flatbread with curry
  • Kuih – colorful sweet snacks at night markets

Can you drink tap water on the island?
Tap water is treated but not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which is affordable and widely available.

What is the nightlife like on the island?
Langkawi offers a relaxed beach bar scene, especially around Pantai Cenang. Think sunset cocktails, live music, fire shows, and quiet resort lounges. There are no major clubs, keeping the vibe chill and tropical.

How can I stay connected to the internet on the island?
Langkawi has solid mobile and Wi-Fi coverage. Most cafes and hotels offer free Wi-Fi. Local SIM cards (Digi, Maxis, Celcom) are cheap and fast.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home?

  • Duty-free alcohol or chocolate
  • Batik fabric and sarongs
  • Handmade soaps and coconut oil
  • Langkawi sea salt and spices
  • Wood carvings, handmade bags, or shell jewelry

20 Essential Words

  • Sawasdee / Selamat datang – Welcome
  • Terima kasih – Thank you
  • Ya / Tidak – Yes / No
  • Pantai – Beach
  • Pulau – Island
  • Air – Water
  • Nasi – Rice
  • Ikan – Fish
  • Laksa – Spicy noodle soup
  • Hutan – Forest
  • Jalan – Road / Walk
  • Bagus – Good
  • Sangat sedap – Very delicious
  • Roti – Bread
  • Minuman – Drink
  • Kereta – Car
  • Pasar malam – Night market
  • Hujan – Rain
  • Pantang larang – Taboo / Tradition
  • Jumpa lagi – See you again

Famous figures connected to

Langkawi

  • Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad – Malaysia’s longest-serving Prime Minister, who developed Langkawi into a major destination.
  • Mahsuri binti Pandak Maya – A legendary island figure whose innocent blood and dying curse shaped Langkawi folklore.
  • Che Det – The nickname for Mahathir, who frequently vacations in Langkawi and championed its UNESCO status.
  • Latiff Mohidin – Renowned Malaysian artist inspired by Langkawi’s landscapes and myths.
  • Yuna (Yunalis Zarai) – Malaysian singer-songwriter who has performed in Langkawi festivals.
  • Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza – Malaysian pop star who’s filmed music videos in Langkawi’s mangroves and beaches.
  • Usmar Ismail – A film director who shot parts of Malay historical films here in the 80s.
  • Jack Neo – Singaporean filmmaker who chose Langkawi for a comedy-adventure series.
  • Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor – Malaysia’s astronaut, who promoted Langkawi’s planetarium and science events.
  • Farid Kamil – Malaysian actor and Langkawi native, known for advocating for local arts.

Films and TV Shows Shot on the Island

  • “The Malay Chronicles: Bloodlines” – Epic scenes filmed in Langkawi’s lush jungles and beaches.
  • “Ombak Rindu” – A hit Malaysian romance partially shot in Langkawi’s seaside villages.
  • “Wira” (2019) – Action-packed Malaysian film using Langkawi’s coastal roads and forests.
  • “The Island” (TV3 drama) – Local series highlighting Langkawi’s natural charm.
  • “Amazing Race Asia” – Featured Langkawi’s Sky Bridge and rainforest zip lines as challenge locations.
  • “Island Life” (NatGeo) – Documentary on Langkawi’s Geopark and wildlife.
  • “Langkawi: Jewel of Kedah” – Travel documentary series by RTM.
  • YouTube vloggers galore – Langkawi is a favorite among slow travelers and drone pilots.
  • “Jungle Diaries” (Animal Planet) – Documented Langkawi’s unique species and natural habitats.
  • Tourism Malaysia Campaigns – Dozens of international ads filmed in Langkawi’s blue lagoons and rice fields.

Videos