Langkawi et tourisme

The Langkawi archipelago in Malaysia consists of 99 tropical islands located off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, approximately 30 km from Kuala Perlis and 51 km from Kuala Kedah on the mainland. Pulau Langkawi (Langkawi Island) is the main and best known island. The islands are loaded with an extraordinary heritage made up of myths and legends featuring ogres and gigantic birds, warriors and princesses, battles and romances.

This natural paradise is probably unparalleled in all of Southeast Asia. Wonderful beaches offer days of total relaxation in the sun. The emerald green waters around the islands are fantastic playgrounds for aquatic activities and diving enthusiasts will discover an enchanting underwater world.

Its magnificent natural heritage made up of breathtaking landscapes, karsts, caves, rock arches, limestone pinnacles, pebbles from glaciers and fossils, has earned it the status of Geopark by Unesco. With a geological history that dates back some 500 million years, the islands have unique rock formations that amaze and defy imagination.

Langkawi is an ideal place to practice many activities or to do nothing at all. You can enjoy outdoor activities in the heart of nature or simply laze on the beach. The islands offer a multitude of unique places that nature lovers appreciate. The friendly smiles and warm hospitality will quickly seduce you. A holiday in Langkawi will be a unique memory for you.

Information in brief

THE CLIMATE The average annual temperature varies between 24°C and 33°C. The dry season is from November to March.

VEHICLE RENTAL You can rent a car for around RM80 per day depending on the type of vehicle. (Remember that we drive on the left in Malaysia). Motorcycles or bicycles are also good ways to discover the island. It takes about RM25 per day for the rental. Be alert to animals that may sometimes cross the road. An international driving license is compulsory for foreign tourists.

HOLIDAYS Administrations are closed on Fridays but open on Sundays.

BANKS AND EXCHANGE OFFICES They are located in the city center of Kuah. Banks open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday and from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday. You can change money in most hotels, at the bank and at the airport.

TELEPHONES Telekom card booths are available mainly at Kuah and Cenang Beach.

MEDICAL SERVICES Langkawi Hospital (04 966 3333) is open 24 hours a day and is a 10 minute drive from Kuah. Most clinics are in Kuah.

USEFUL ADDRESSES

Langkawi Kuah Tourist Office Tel: 04 966 7789 Fax: 04 966 7889 Website: tpblgk@tourism.gov.my

Langkawi Tourist Office Langkawi International Airport Tel: 04 955 7155

Kedah Malaysia Tourist OfficeTel: 04 731 2322 / 730 1322Fax: 04 734 0322 Mail: mtpbkdh@tourism.gov.my

Action Langkawi Tourism CouncilTel: 04 969 8080 / 82Fax: 04 969 8081Mail:ltac@tourismlangkawi.gov.my Mail: tourisml@tm.net.my

Kuah

Kuah is located on the south eastern tip of Langkawi. It is the most important city whose jetty is the starting point to the neighboring islands. Kuah's name is a Malay word meaning "sauce". It is associated with an ancient legend which tells that, while fighting, two giants overturned a huge pot of curry exactly at the location of the current city.

Once a rustic city with few streets, Kuah is now a bustling town with hotels and shopping malls, yet without experiencing the turbulence of modern settlements. Kuah offers a wide selection of untaxed goods such as tobacco, alcohol, cosmetics and electrical appliances at attractive prices.

THE EAGLE SQUARE or Dataran Lang is the first landmark for visitors arriving by sea. Located near Kuah Pier, the main attraction of this square is a magnificent statue of a reddish-brown eagle posing majestically before the flight. According to local folklore, the name of Langkawi finds its origins in the word "eagle" or helang. In old Malay, Kawi means reddish brown, which is why Langkawi means “reddish brown eagle”.

The square is beautifully landscaped with bodies of water, bridges, covered terraces, restaurants and arcades. The space is beautifully illuminated at night and makes the scene look spectacular as you approach from the sea.

TAMAN LAGENDA is a landscaped park consisting of beautiful gardens with real flowering trees, plants and fruit trees typical of the region. This 50 ares park was designed and laid out with elements from the myths and legends of the island. It houses 50 monuments, each telling an incredible story. 9am-7pm daily Free entry - 04 966 4223.

Beaches and Cruises

PANTAI KOK, CENANG, DATAI AND BURAU BAY are among the idyllic islands of Langkawi that offer utterly relaxing sun-filled days and peaceful evening strolls. There are modern first-class hotels and comfortable chalets. A wide range of exciting water sports will bring fun and thrills to the more energetic. Hotels and restaurants serve appetizing and varied cuisine in a joyful musical atmosphere.

ISLAND CRUISES are a great way to relax and take in Langkawi's breathtakingly beautiful scenery. As your boat weaves between the islands, enjoy the breeze and the rays of the sun. A circuit around Dayang Bunting and Beras Basah islands takes about 4 hours. You can also rent a boat and enjoy a fantastic sunset cruise while sipping a cocktail. Many other possibilities are available to you such as personalized itineraries including a barbecue, snorkeling or visiting other islands.

TANJUNG RHU is located at the North Cape of Langkawi. Aptly named for the abundance of casuarinas, its enchanting beaches present magnificent views of nearby islands that can be reached on foot at low tide.

Langkawi, a Mecca of Nature

PULAU PAYAR MARINE PARK is located in the northern part of the Strait of Malacca, 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi and includes the islands of Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca. The park has a fascinating variety of underwater flora and fauna. Pulau Payar is the busiest of the islands as its sheltered and calm waters are ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming. Among the most enchanting dive sites is the "Coral Garden", an underwater space covered in multicolored corals. Near the beach, you can have an exciting time feeding the baby sharks. Visitors can reach Pulau Payar from Kuah Jetty by catamaran or motorboat. The catamaran takes about 45 minutes to reach Pulau Payar while the speedboat takes an hour. It is advisable to book the catamaran the day before the trip. In addition to the cost of the ride, a tax of RM5 per adult and RM2.50 per child will be required for entry to the water park. For more information on catamaran rental, please contact Langkawi Coral on 049667318 or Coral Island on 049661368.

WITH THIS SINGULAR NAME, THE LAKE OF THE YOUNG PREGNANT WOMAN, or Tasik Dayang Bunting, will fascinate you with the beauty of its surrounding landscapes and its mysterious past. The name of this freshwater lake, the largest in Langkawi, is associated with the legend of a fairy princess who married a local man. Her first child died shortly after birth. She was so sad and so depressed, that she put the child down in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Before returning to her celestial kingdom, she blesses the waters so that any childless young woman bathing in this lake can become a mother. To access the lake, you must first reach the island of the Young Pregnant Woman and then walk a little through the forest reserve.

THE FIRST GEOPARK IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Langkawi, which stands out as the first geopark in Malaysia and the region, has 99 geological sites that offer visitors extraordinary landscapes. There are 3 forest reserves in Langkawi - the Machinchang Cambrian is reputed to be the oldest geological formation in the country. At Kilim Karst, one can admire the magnificent landscapes formed by the almost vertical karst walls and rounded hills, as well as pinnacles of various shapes and sizes. The Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park is proud to have marble of great finesse.

SUNGAI KILIM offers unforgettable views and experiences for adventurous Langkawi travelers. The boat cruise to the Kilim natural park, an escapade into a whole other world, rich in thrills. Kilim Nature Park which covers an area of ​​100m2 features a marvelous mix of well-protected green mangroves, secluded white sand beaches and blue lagoons. On the trail that runs along the calm and winding river, you can admire the wonders of the marine park's ecosystem, its fauna and flora such as tree ferns, red-brown eagles, hermit crabs, iguanas and macaques. . Contemplate the spectacular and picturesque landscape of limestone formations rising from the swampy mangroves and the sea. These geological wonders have been named Borobudur Temple, Stone Elephant and Hanging Gardens. Feeding the eagles is an experience you can take part in. These predators silently wait for the right moment to catch the food thrown into the water by fishermen.

THE FISH FARM is a 10 minute boat ride from the Kilim River jetty. Try to feed the stingrays in this farm. Located in the Kilim mangrove which covers approximately 1309 hectares, the rays eat ½ kilo of fish there per day.

THE WATERFALLS OF DURIAN PERANGIN are pleasant places for picnics, quiet swimming and games. This cascade of 14 fountains north of Kuah is really to be seen; it is accessible after a short walk through the rainforest.

SEVEN WELLS or Telagah Tujuh, located in the North West corner of Langkawi is a geological wonder. The waterfall is so called because the waters of the torrent break over a series of seven natural basins. The lush green forest that surrounds the waterfall adds a mystical touch to the natural splendor of the site. Legend has it that fairies came to bathe and frolic in the waterfall.

Among the CAVES of Langkawi that are worth visiting, there is Gua Cerita, easily accessible and 30 minutes by boat from Tanjung Rhu. The rock formations found there are steeped in mystery and romance. Look for ancient inscriptions on the walls. Gua Kelawar is another cave nestled in the heart of the mangroves. A wooden walkway makes it easier for visitors to pass through the cave. About 45 minutes by boat from Kuah, Gua Pasir Dagang is crossed by a shallow stream. The boat trip to reach the cave is an adventure in itself. Guides can be hired for cave expeditions.

An Island Rich in Culture

THE CRAFTS CULTURAL CENTER is located on the north coast of Langkawi near Teluk Yu about 30 minutes drive from the airport or 45 minutes from the center of Kuah. Nestled on the hillside overlooking the sea, this beautiful resort showcases a wide array of Malaysian crafts like handmade batik and expertly crafted silverware. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily Free entry - 04 959 1913.

THE IBRAHIM HUSSEIN CULTURAL FOUNDATION AND MUSEUM focuses on promoting the development and promotion of art and culture. This museum has a collection of works by Datuk Ibrahim Hussein, a renowned Malaysian artist. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily - 04 959 4669.

THE VILLAGE OF AYER HANGAT covers 4 acres of land about 14 km northwest of Kuah. This modern complex is built around a fountain of three basins from which spring jets of hot water supposed to be curative, near a wall of pebbles illustrating the legends which surround this place. Browse the souvenir shop and enjoy the cultural performances held there. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Free admission - 04 959 1357.

ATMA ALAM is the village of traditional batik art. It is located in Padang Matsirat and highlights Malaysian culture and art. The batik workshop welcomes both groups and individual visitors. Traditional batik and oil paintings are on sale and can be special ordered. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Free admission - 049552615.

Things to Do, Things to See

Besides sun, sea and sailing, many activities await you in Langkawi. These range from simple walks in the jungle, to guided outings for bird watching, canoeing through the mangroves and hiking in the mountains. The more adventurous will find their happiness at Langkawi Canopy Adventures. Thrill seekers will experience the epic of their lives as they glide along steel cables connected to tall trees in the rainforest. The view from the top of these canopies is simply stunning. You can also ride a horse in the middle of the rainforest through rubber plantations, golf courses and villages. Discover interesting flora and fauna along the way or rest by a stream. Horseback riding on the beach is also possible.

CRYSTAL VILLAGE (CRISTAL VILLAGE) is located on Cenang Beach Road (Jalan Pantai Cenang) about 15 minutes from the airport. It presents a wide variety of beautiful and delicate crystal objects. Visitors will be able to find a large selection of handcrafted crystal pieces, suitable for all occasions. You will be hypnotized by the extraordinary skill of the glassblowers. 10am-10pm daily Free entry - 04 955 8188.

LANGKAWI WATERFALL is the tallest man-made waterfall in the country, with a height of 67 meters. The waters of the three-pool waterfall create a pleasantly refreshing ambience. Located along Datai Street, the waterfall is unique and flows 50 meters in a road tunnel. As you drive through the tunnel, you can also see fascinating little waterfalls that complement the natural floral backdrop.

LAMAN PADI LANGKAWI (LAMAN PADI OF LANGKAWI) highlights the history and development of rice cultivation as Malaysia's oldest agricultural industry. Among the attractions is the Rice Museum which features artifacts, charts and photographs showing the importance of rice cultivation in the country. The uninitiated can try planting rice in both ancient and modern cultivation methods. There is also a restaurant that serves traditional Malay dishes and delicacies prepared with rice as the main ingredient. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Free admission - 04 955 4312.

With its legendary and historic past, KOTA MAHSURI is a high place of the island preserved for posterity. Located 12 km north of Kuah, this mausoleum was erected in honor of Mahsuri, a pretty young girl who was wrongly accused of adultery. According to legend, white blood flowed during his execution thus proving his innocence. With her dying breath, she cast a curse on the island so that it would not prosper for seven generations. Fact or fiction, seven generations have passed and Langkawi is now a thriving tourist destination. There is also a museum where tourists can view a recorded rendition of the Mahsuri legend. 8 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. every day - 04 955 6055.

ORIENTAL VILLAGE overlooking beautiful Burau Bay is a unique destination for shopping, culture and culinary arts in the region. Specially designed to create a new concept of duty-free shopping, the Oriental Village hosts themed restaurants with refined cuisine reflecting the culinary delights of Asia. Located in Burau Bay, it is 15 minutes by road from Langkawi International Airport. 10am-10pm daily Free entry - 04 959 1606.

THE PERDANA GALLERY, about 11 km from Kuah, has an impressive collection of over 2500 gifts and awards given to the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr Mahatir Mohamad and his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasma bt Mohd Ali. Exhibits at the gallery feature crystal objects and gifts fashioned in wood, leather, silver, copper, pewter, earthenware and glass. There are also musical instruments, Islamic crafts, fabrics and weapons. You will be amazed by the Islamic-style architectural designs that cover the ceiling of the gallery. 9am-5pm - every day - 04 959 1498.

THE LANGKAWI CABLE CAR Let yourself be carried away by a trip by cable car which will transport you to the top of Mount Machincang from where you can admire the splendid panoramas of the Andaman Sea and the islands of the Langkawi archipelago as well as the views of breathtaking beauty like the cliffs overhanging the sea and the pinnacles rising here and there. With a length of 919.5 m, the Langkawi cable car is listed in the Malaysian Book of Records as the longest cable car in the country. Its 42° inclination is also unique in the world. From the stations located in the middle and at the top of the route, you can take hiking trails and panoramic platforms allow you to discover fabulous landscapes. The suspension bridge, 125 m long, is another attraction not to be missed. It's a real feat of engineering; the curved bridge connects the funicular station to the Machincang mountain range. Langkawi cable car is located at Oriental Village in Burau Bay, about 30 minutes from Kuah town. After the trip, pass by the Oriental village to pick up some souvenirs. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday to Thursday) - From 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday to Sunday).

LANGKAWI UNDERWATER WORLD showcases the island's multitude of treasures of underwater life. Located on the famous Cenang Beach, this aquarium exhibits more than 5000 aquatic species in tanks of different sizes. The most spectacular is a giant tank containing large species such as sharks, stingrays, groupers and green turtles with a 15-meter long tunnel allowing visitors to walk around and enjoy the amazing spectacle of the meals of these magnificent underwater creatures. In the new space, New Wing, visitors have the chance to see the latest Underwater World acquisitions such as penguins and seals! Penguins include rockhoppers from the sub-Antarctic continent as well as blackfooted penguins from Africa. The former are fed at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. while the latter are fed at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Harbor seals are fed at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Try to be there at these times to live a great experience! This new resort also has a 3D theater that shows informative documentaries about the island's marine life. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

LANGKAWI ANIMAL PARK is home to birds, monkeys, squirrels, crocodiles and other animals. Stroll along the body of water or visit the gallery of crystals, pearls and stones. Visitors can enjoy the souvenir shop located there. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

THE CROCODILES FARM or Taman Buaya, located in Kubang Badak about 32 km from Kuah, hosts more than 1000 crocodiles of different species. You can admire and photograph crocodiles and alligators playing or eating in a protected environment that resembles their natural habitat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily - 04 959 2559.

Sailing Langkawi

THE ROYAL LANGKAWI YACHT CLUB (RLYC) within walking distance of Kuah Pier is an exclusive property with a very nice club. There is also a very well equipped marina with 51 berths which can accommodate different types of boats like keel sailboats, deep bilge boats and even giant yachts of 60 meters in length. The club has impressive facilities like beachfront swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna, big game fishing, sailing, snorkeling, jet ski and speedboats as well as yacht charter service. It is possible for you to charter the club's luxury yacht, Putri Maimunah, to discover and sail around the beautiful islands of Lankgawi at sunset. For dinners, the RLYC is the perfect place to sip a long refreshing drink and enjoy a great meal in a relaxing environment. From the seaside restaurant called Charlie's place or from the "Captain deck", a refined restaurant, one can admire breathtaking views of the islands of Langkawi and the sunsets. All these facilities are open to the public. RLYC also organizes the Langkawi International Royal Regatta every year. 04 966 4078.

REBAK ISLAND RESORT is the only amenity on a small private island located close to Cenang Beach, Langkawi's main beach. This set includes a well-protected and secure marina, a luxurious hotel and equipment for boat maintenance. 04 966 5566.

THE PORT TELAGA PARK has a range of facilities such as the Petronas and Perdana wharf, the customs office, the harbor master's office and the observation tower. There is also a bank and a business center with internet access. A basin of 27 ares has been created and planned for the mooring of boats of different sizes. Some mooring points are allocated in the form of a lease or rental. 04 959 2202.

AWANA PORTO MALAI LANGKAWI noted for its Mediterranean architecture and its terminal for deep-sea cruise ships, has a hotel, restaurants and shops lined up along the seafront as well as a small marina. Several sailboat and boat services operate out of the marina and sunset cruises around nearby islands are particularly popular. 04 955 5111.

Langkawi Live Events

Langkawi has an excellent reputation for hosting first-class international sporting events. Be one of the thousands of participants and spectators who come every year to attend these events live.

The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) takes place every two years. The main attractions of this event are the presentations of military equipment and high-tech equipment. The exhibition is usually held in December and lasts for a week. For more information, visit www.limamaritime.com.my.

The Royal Langkawi International Regatta is a prestigious sailing event which attracted some 60 yachts and 400 participants to the inaugural regatta in 2003. This annual event marks the end of the coastal racing season. western Malaysia and Thailand. For more information, visit www.langkawiregatta.com.

The Raja Muda International Regatta is Malaysia's oldest yacht regatta. Everything is done to make this race entertaining. The fleet competes for seven days from Port Klang near Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi, calling at Pangkor and Penang en route. It takes place under the auspices of the Malaysian Yachting Association (MYA-Malaysian Yachting Association). For more information, visit www.rmir.com.

The Langkawi “IRONMAN” International Triathlon (Ironman Langkawi International Triathlon) is a formidable test of physical endurance and real courage. Come take part in the most prestigious triathlon in the world including a 3.8 km swim, 180.2 km bike and 42.2 km run. For more information, visit www.ironmanlangkawi.com.my.

The Tour of Langkawi, one of the most stimulating cycling events in the region, allows you to admire the intensity of the competition between the greatest cyclists in the world. Cultural dances, parades, performances and a variety of shows accompany this prestigious event. For more information, visit www.tdl.com.my.

Shops and Restaurants

Langkawi is an ideal place for shopping which thanks to its free zone status offers a wide variety of products at unbeatable prices. Most of the businesses are gathered in Kuah and its surroundings. Langkawi Mall, Langkawi Fair Shopping Complex and Jetty Point Duty Free Complexes are great places to find a wide range of items like perfumes, cosmetics, leather garments, sportswear, women's accessories, confectionery, liquor and cigarettes. LIFZ or Langkawi International Fashion Zone (international fashion zone in Langkawi) located in Oriental Village offers an exceptional experience for lovers of designer clothes. Come and discover a wide range of clothing and accessories, creations by big names in design.

Those who wish to experience local fashion shopping can head to the city's bazaars and near Cenang and Black Sand beaches. Visitors will be able to mingle with the crowds and the excitement of haggling. Choose a beautiful batik garment or handicraft for your dear ones. Don't leave without trying the delicious local produce.

Visitors to Langkawi Underwater World and Langkawi Cable Car can also shop for good things like pewter, crystal and glassware in the stores located around. Visitors have the right to bring a bottle of alcohol and a carton of cigarettes back to the mainland after a 48-hour stay on the island. Credit cards are accepted in most businesses in Kuah.

The island is famous for its fresh seafood served in the succulent local or Chinese, Indian, Thai, Japanese, European, Middle Eastern and other culinary preparations. Lankgkawi offers you everything from spicy to sweet and sour. Dine by the sea in an open-air restaurant surrounded by coconut palms swaying in the breeze. For a unique dining experience, take a dimly lit wooden walkway through the mangroves to a delicious restaurant.

How to get to Langkawi

By Road Visitors traveling by road should travel to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis on the northwest coast of Malaysia, the main departure points for ferries to Langkawi. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah takes around 6 hours and it takes an extra hour to reach Kuala Perlis. Parking lots are available near both piers.

By Air Langkawi International Airport (04 955 1311) at Padang Mat Sirat is 20 km from Kuah and 14 km from the resorts of Pantai Cenang. MAS, the Malaysian airline offers direct daily flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi and the "low cost" company Air Asia 5 flights per week. Malaysia Airlines also has direct flights from Penang to Langkawi. Silk Air operates 4 weekly flights from Singapore to the island. For reservations, contact: Malaysia Airlines 03 7843 3000 Air Asia 03 7884 9000 Silk Air 03 2692 3122.

By Train The Malaysian Railway Company (Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad - KTMB) offers an economical and comfortable service from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Star and Arau. From Alor Star or Arau you can take a taxi or bus to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis and from there you board a ferry to Langkawi. For your reservations contact KTMB 03 2267 1200

By Sea An express ferry service offers regular crossings from Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis; the journey from Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis takes 1 hour and 15 minutes and 45 minutes respectively. The ferry crossing from Penang to Langkawi takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

Kuala Kedah/Kuala Perlis - Langkawi United Ventures Ferry Sdn Bhd 28 Pekan Baru Kuah Jalan Penarak 07000 Langkawi - Langkawi 04 966 3988/8988/5889 - Kuala Kedah 04 762 6295/6295/6296 - Kuala Perlis 04 985 1899/2690

Seraya Bayu Ferry Sdn. Bhd Lot 411, Taman Seri Langkawi Jalan Klebang, Mukim Kuah 07000 Langkawi - Langkawi 04 966 2219 3219 - Kuala Kedah 04 762 6219 - Kuala Perlins 04 985 3219

Penang - Langkawi Fast Ferry Ventures Sdn Bhd Ground Floor, PPC Building Persiaran King Edward 10300 Penang - Penang 04 966 3779

Satun (Thailand) - Langkawi Langkawi Ferry Services Sdn Bhd 37 & 39 Jalan Pandak Mayah 5 07000 Langkawi - Langkawi 04 966 6272/6316

Cruises Boat cruises are a new way to vacation in Langkawi. The duration of the cruise varies depending on the port of departure to Langkawi. Boarding points are Port Klang and Singapore. Pour tout renseignement concernant les croisières organisées, contactez votre agence de voyage ou les différents opérateurs de croisières. Star Cruise 03 3101 1313.