Making Memories in Langkawi With the Family

At that time, Langkawi wasn't a very popular tourist destination, but that has changed. We generally avoid crowded places, so we decided to visit during the shoulder season, just before the heavy rains began in Malaysia. We chose the middle of June for our trip, as summer school holidays in India and other parts of Southeast Asia would be over by then.

The lush greenery and panoramic views of Langkawi make it a paradise for nature lovers

Since our flight included a stop in Kuala Lumpur, we decided to spend two days in the capital before heading to Langkawi. This allowed us to enjoy Langkawi at a leisurely pace, as we prefer slow travel over rushing through tourist spots. Langkawi, with its unique landscape and one of the oldest rainforests in the world, is best explored by car, so we opted for self-drive rather than guided tours.

Despite Langkawi being a small island where you can reach the ocean within 45 minutes in any direction, we divided our week-long trip into two parts. Our first stay was in the southwestern part of the island in a secluded, scenic village at Halcyon Days @ Langkawi. While most tourists prefer to stay near the beach at Pantai Cenang, we found it too crowded, so for the second part of our trip, we stayed by the ocean at the northernmost tip of the island.

SkyCab Langkawi

When in Langkawi, the SkyCab is an experience you don't want to miss. Though it may be a bit touristy, the breathtaking views make the wait worthwhile. However, there are smart ways to enhance your experience and avoid the crowds, ensuring you get the most out of your Langkawi SkyCab adventure.

SkyCab Langkawi offers a stunning view of the lush rainforest and the sparkling Andaman Sea below

You must keep in mind, however, that the weather plays a major role, and many visitors miss out because they did not plan for it. The timing of your visit is also crucial; visiting at the wrong time of day can make your experience less enjoyable. Therefore, I would recommend that you visit SkyCab as soon as you arrive in Langkawi. Langkawi's weather is unpredictable and can change rapidly and dramatically. Within an hour, it can change from sunny to windy and cloudy. SkyCab doesn't operate in bad weather, so don't leave it for your last day, or you might miss out. Take advantage of the first opportunity with good weather and clear skies to visit SkyCab. Other attractions of Langkawi can wait.

Interesting Facts

The Langkawi SkyCab, operated by Panorama Langkawi, is located at Gunung Mat Chinchang in Burau Bay on the island's western side. From Pantai Cenang and Kuah, it takes about 30 minutes to get there. The Langkawi cable car ride begins at the Oriental Village, at the foot of Mount Machinchang, Langkawi's second tallest mountain. SkyCab has three stations: Base, Middle Station (2,100 feet above sea level), and Top Station (2,300 feet). Langkawi Cable Car was built in 2004 by the Austrian company Doppelmayr, and is the longest free span single-rope cable car in the world. It provides a magnificent panoramic view of the Andaman Sea.

The Middle Station

This first leg spans 1.7 kilometers to reach 2,100 feet altitude at the middle station. The breathtaking view unfolds gradually as you ascend, each 500 feet revealing a new awe-inspiring panorama. The circular viewing platform should be your first stop here. The crowded Gondola ride earlier may have obscured your view, but now you can make up for it. Enjoy the breathtaking sights of scattered islands surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.

Seeing Langkawi from the middle station is truly breathtaking

The Eagle's Nest

Eagle's Nest is accessible from the viewing platform at the middle station. Perched atop Mount Machinchang, Eagle's Nest is a magnificent viewing platform. A 38-meter cantilevered glass platform provides an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of Langkawi Island and its surrounding seascape. The view of the rainforest beneath you is breathtaking. It feels like you are walking on top of the canopy. During clear days, you can see the green landscape of the island, the azure waters of the Andaman Sea, and even the distant coastline of neighboring Thailand.

A panoramic view of Langkawi from Eagle's Nest

Eagle's Nest captures the heritage and beauty of Langkawi, paying homage to the island's symbolic eagle. At 2,200 feet altitude, the platform can accommodate up to 300 people at a time, giving you a unique perspective of the rainforest canopy.

To access the Eagle's Nest, you must purchase a separate ticket or customize your SkyCab ticket combo.

The Top Station

From the middle station to the top station, the final stretch of your Langkawi Cable Car ride is just under a kilometer. This leg features the steepest gradient of the entire ride (42 degrees). As you glide over the world's longest unsupported cable, you'll cover 950 meters in approximately 5 minutes. On the way up, the incline might not seem steep, but on the way back, it's an adrenaline-pumping experience. Brace yourself - it's not for the faint-hearted. Enjoy a mesmerizing view of the Skybridge on your right.

The distant view from Langkawi SkyCab top station offers spectacular panorama of rainforests

A Walk on the Skybridge

The Skybridge is undoubtedly the highlight of your visit to the top station. Among the longest suspension bridges in the world, this one spans 400 feet. The construction of the pylon presented significant engineering challenges, including structural balancing at the top, weight management, and load distribution. Taking a stroll on the Sky Bridge blends awe-inspiring engineering with breathtaking natural beauty. Suspended 100 meters above the lush, tropical rainforest of Mount Machinchang, it offers an unparalleled panoramic experience.

The curved suspension Skybridge provides a unique vantage point

3D Art Langkawi

With your SkyCab ticket, you will have access to three complimentary attractions at the Oriental Village: the SkyDome, SkyRex, and 3D Art Langkawi. 3D Art Langkawi, also known as Art in Paradise, should not be missed. A total of 200 vibrant 3D paintings create fascinating optical illusions. Interacting with each artwork offers endless opportunities for creative and playful photos. The scenes are meticulously crafted to captivate and astonish viewers, whether they are standing on the edge of a waterfall or diving into an underwater world.

It's fun to click yourself with an optical illusion created by the 3D paintings at Art Paradise Langkawi

Gunung Raya

The scenic drives around Langkawi are among the least popular features of the island. For those who enjoy nature, Gunung Raya is a must-see. Langkawi's highest peak, Gunung Raya, stands at 2,900 feet and offers some of the island's most breathtaking panoramic views. Gunung, which means 'great' or 'large' in Malay, is one of the most north-westerly mountains. This lush, forested mountain is steeped in local legend, believed to be the cursed form of a giant named Mat Raya who once roamed the land. Located within the Gunung Raya Forest Reserve, this mountain is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including great hornbills and dusky leaf monkeys. The ideal time for this drive is early morning when the peak is often shrouded in clouds. We found ourselves surrounded by clouds at the top, with intermittent clearings revealing the breathtaking landscape below.

Gunung Raya peak provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape

Kuah

Kuah, a small town located in the southeastern part of Langkawi Island, was once the sole accommodation option during the 1980s, a time when Langkawi was relatively unknown to tourists. Since Langkawi was designated a duty-free zone, Kuah has flourished significantly. As the main port town, Kuah handles all boat traffic to and from the mainland, Penang, and even Thailand (Koh Lipe). While the town center still features some charming, old-fashioned shops, it lacks a beach. However, there are plenty of things to do in Kuah.

Beautiful view of Kuah jetty with boats gently swaying in the calm waters

Dataran Lang (Eagle's Square)

Dataran Lang, commonly known as Eagle Square, is one of Langkawi's most iconic landmarks, located in the town of Kuah. This magnificent square contains a 12-meter high statue of Brahminy Kite, a reddish-brown eagle, symbolizing the name of the island. The word "Langkawi" is derived from the Malay words "Helang" (eagle) and "Kawi" (reddish-brown), reflecting the island's deep connection with these majestic birds. The statue overlooks the Andaman Sea and serves as a welcoming figure for visitors arriving by ferry. The best time to visit Dataran Lang is during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is ideal for photography, and the temperatures are cooler. At sunset, the square becomes particularly enchanting, with the golden hues of the sky complementing the eagle's silhouette.

An eagle statue stands tall at Dataran Lang as a majestic symbol of Langkawi

Taman Lagenda

Taman Legenda, located next to the Dataran Lang in Kuah, is a 20-hectare landscaped park that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Also known as the Legend Park, it was opened in 1996 on a reclaimed waterfront. Featuring an impressive collection of flowers, plants, trees, and fruits, this park is a paradise for horticulture enthusiasts.

Entering Taman Legenda through two boulders (Mat Cincang and Mat Raya) creates a dramatic gateaway

A living museum, the park features sculptures depicting scenes from local folklore and prehistoric times, giving visitors a glimpse into Langkawi's mythological heritage. Each sculpture tells a unique story, making a stroll through Taman Legenda both an educational and visually captivating experience.

Mat Cincang and Mat Raya were once best friends, as represented by the sculpture of clasped giant hands

The Taman Legenda is an ideal place for birdwatching. There are numerous hornbills and Dusky Leaf Langurs in the park, making it a must-see for those interested in the island's fauna. Early morning is the best time to explore Taman Legenda, especially if you are interested in seeing wildlife.

Wildlife at Legend Park - Oriental Pied Hornbill and Dusky Leaf Langur

The park also hosts various types of lizards, including monitor lizards and the fascinating butterfly lizard, which I personally spotted during my visit. The park's serene atmosphere and cooler temperatures in the morning also make it an ideal time for a leisurely walk among the lush greenery.

There are often monitor lizards crawling through Legend Park Langkawi

Maha Tower

The Maha Tower in Kuah is a striking, 138-meter-tall structure that opened in 2023 after almost ten years of construction. The tower, which resembles the Eiffel Tower, was initially officiated by former Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. Its name, "Maha," comes from the Malay word meaning "the almighty." The tower's design is inspired by the legend of Mahsuri, with its silhouette reminiscent of a bridal gown. Hibiscus flower motifs scattered throughout the sunshade symbolize national pride, blending traditional architecture with modern aesthetics.

The Maha Tower, as seen from the shoreline on the way to Kuah Jetty, stands majestically against a clear blue sky

Maha Tower has five distinct levels, each offering a unique experience. The ground level hosts retail stores and restaurants, making it a bustling hub for visitors. Located on Level 18, the Sky Lounge offers a luxurious space for relaxation while enjoying panoramic views of Langkawi. The entertainment space spans from Level 22 to 28, providing various activities for tourists. The Skydeck on Level 33 offers breathtaking views of the island. Level 40 is reserved for telecom installations. During the day, Maha Tower reflects the golden rays of the sun, and at night, it transforms into a dazzling beacon that lights up Kuah.

A breathtaking view of the Anadamn Sea from the ground level of Maha Tower

The best time to visit Maha Tower is in the evening, just before sunset. By purchasing a ticket to the Skydeck, you can witness the stunning transition from day to night as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the island. As night falls, the tower's lights come to life, changing colors and creating a spectacle that mimics the sparkle of a thousand stars. It's a truly mesmerizing sight and a perfect way to cap off your day in Kuah.

Maha Tower casts a mesmerizing glow when it is beautifully illuminated in the evening

Pulau Tuba - the hidden gem of Langkawi

If you are in Kuah, you should not miss Tuba Island, a hidden gem of Langkawi. Among the 99 islands within the Langkawi Archipelago, Pulau Tuba is one of four inhabited islands. A small island surrounded by the Strait of Malacca, Pulau Tuba thrives on traditional farming and lives a modest lifestyle. On the island, most facilities are basic, and electricity was only introduced in 1995.

It is possible to explore Pulau Tuba on a day trip or opt for a longer stay, which I highly recommend. An overnight stay on Pulau Tuba is the best way to see the island. Alternatively, you can take the early morning boat from Kuah at 9 am and return by 5 pm or 7 pm. It's essential to double-check the boat schedule timings to plan your visit effectively. A one-way ferry ride to the island takes about 15 minutes from Kuah jetty. There are smaller boats that leave every two hours.

Floating accommodation in Pulau Tuba offers a stunning panorama of tranquil waters

You should park your vehicle in Kuah and rent a scooter upon arriving in Pulau Tuba, as cars are scarce on the island. Additionally, some areas, particularly the bridge linking to Pulau Dayang Bunting, are only accessible by scooter. For a detailed guide on what to do on Pulau Tuba, check out my comprehensive blog about the island.

This is me on a scooter exploring the island of Pulau Tuba

Langkawi Night Markets

Langkawi Night Markets are among the island's top attractions. Langkawi features different night markets every evening, unlike Cambodia and Vietnam, which have stationary or weekly markets. Since the island is relatively small, you can visit all of these bustling markets during your visit. A guided tour of Langkawi night markets is also available if you would like a more personalized experience.

A stall at Langkawi Night Market proudly showcases "Made in Langkawi" delicacies

Food is the main focus of Langkawi's night markets. Imagine a food festival happening every day. While these markets draw many tourists, they serve primarily as social hubs for locals, continuing a long-held tradition. A number of the delicious recipes you will find on this site have been passed down from generation to generation. We spent almost all our evenings at these night markets for dinner. You can read my detailed food lover's guide to Langkawi Night Market, which will answer all your questions and give you a lot of information.

Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri's Tomb)

Not many tourists are aware of Makam Mahsuri, also known as Mahsuri's Tomb. During our visit, there were only a handful of tourists, with most visitors being locals paying their respects.

The legend of Mahsuri is one of Langkawi's most famous and tragic tales, deeply woven into the island's history. Mahsuri was a beautiful young woman who lived in Langkawi over 200 years ago. According to the legend, she was falsely accused of adultery by jealous villagers, particularly the wife of a village chief. Despite her pleas of innocence, Mahsuri was sentenced to death.

The garden at Mahsuri Tomb is a place of reflection and serenity

As she was being executed with a knife, it is said that white blood flowed from her wound, signifying her innocence. With her dying breath, Mahsuri cursed Langkawi, declaring that the island would suffer seven generations of misfortune. Many locals believe that Langkawi's subsequent hardships, including invasions and failed crops, were a result of this curse. The curse is believed to have lifted in a few decades ago, leading to the island's prosperity and transformation. Mahsuri's story remains an essential part of Langkawi's cultural identity, with her tomb, Makam Mahsuri, now a revered historical site on the island.

An example of traditional Malay architecture at Mahsuri Tomb

Here's a little secret that might just give you an extra nudge to visit: adjacent to Makam Mahsuri, there's a small market with a few stalls. It offers many of the items you'd find at the Pantai Cenang market, but at significantly lower prices. This is also an excellent spot to pick up Langkawi souvenirs and batik.

A small market in the Mahsuri Tomb is a great place to shop

Wat Tham Kisap

Wat Tham Kisap is an intriguing Buddhist temple nestled at the foot of a limestone cliff along Jalan Air Hangat in Langkawi. Adjacent to it is the Muneshwara Swamy Temple, a Hindu temple that adds to the spiritual diversity of this offbeat place in Langkawi. The temple is guarded by a striking statue of Hanuman at the entrance, the revered Hindu god. As you explore, you'll encounter fascinating sculptures of animals, legendary beings, and monks, including giant cobras, cows, elephants, and an eagle, all adding to the temple's mystical atmosphere.

The golden Buddha statue at Wat Tham Kisap

One of the highlights of Wat Tham Kisap is the large golden seated Buddha statue, which draws visitors with its serene presence. Behind this statue lies a small, hidden flat cave embedded in the marble rock, adding an element of mystery to the site. The temple is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. However, a word of caution: park your vehicle close to the temple, as the area is home to aggressive street dogs, and minimizing your walk can help avoid any unwanted encounters.

As you arrive at Wat Tham Kisap, a statue of Lord Hanuman greets you

Langkawi Beaches

How could one visit Langkawi without dedicating a day or two to exploring its stunning white sand beaches? Most of the island's breathtaking beaches are situated in the northern region, so we reserved the latter part of our trip for this area. We chose to stay at De Balqis Chalet, an oceanfront boutique property located at the northern tip of Langkawi in Tanjung Rhu. The chalet features a private beach and offers a serene, secluded experience at an affordable price.

From our chalet in Langkawi, we had a stunning view of the ocean

While Pantai Cenang often comes up in online searches for Langkawi beaches, it's a heavily commercialized and crowded spot. However, if you're open to discovering less frequented, more pristine beaches, you're in for a treat. Several lesser-known beaches, such as Black Sand Beach, Wild Beach, Shark Bay, and Tanjung Rhu Beach, are located on Jalan Teluk Yu (Route 113). Though they may be slightly more challenging to reach, especially without a vehicle, they are well worth the effort. Our hotel's strategic location on this route made it easy for us to explore these beautiful, tranquil beaches at our own pace. You might be interested in reading my fairly detailed blog on secret beaches of Langkawi.

The Wild Beach of Langkawi is a great place for a family photo

Tean Hou Temple

On our drive from Kuah to Tanjung Rhu, we came across a stunning Chinese Buddhist Temple that resembled the Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur. Its beauty caught our attention, so we decided to stop and explore this hidden gem in Langkawi.

Tean Hou Temple is an ornate Chinese Buddhist temple dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea. Intricate carvings and vibrant red pillars dominate the temple's architecture, which is topped by a grand staircase with ornate roof decorations. Inside, there are statues of various deities, with Mazu taking center stage, reflecting the deep reverence the local Chinese community has for her. The temple is not just a place of worship but also a cultural hub, often hosting festivals and events that celebrate Chinese traditions.

A vibrantly decorated interior of Tean Hou Temple

Kubang Badak Geopark

During our road trip along Jalan Teluk Yu, we stumbled upon Kubang Badak Geopark. Curious about what this scenic spot in Langkawi had to offer, we decided to stop and explore it.

This hidden gem of Langkawi showcases the island's rich geological and ecological diversity. Located on the northern coast, this geopark is part of the larger Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark, offering a unique combination of ancient mangroves, limestone formations, and diverse wildlife. The Kubang Badak area is particularly known for its serene river, where you can embark on mangrove boat tours to explore the dense mangrove forests, spot wildlife like kingfishers, monitor lizards, and otters, and witness the impressive karst landscapes that date back over 500 million years. The geopark is home to remnants of a centuries-old settlement and the tomb of a legendary warrior, which adds a layer of mystique to the natural beauty.

A river surrounded by mangroves at Kubang Badak Geopark offers stunning views

Shopping in Langkawi

Shopping is always a priority when we travel. Many people set aside an extra day just for this purpose, and my family is no exception. Shopping in Langkawi is a delightful experience, especially given the island's duty-free status, which means you can find items at significantly lower prices compared to other parts of Malaysia. One of the highlights for shoppers is the vast variety of international chocolate brands available at dirt-cheap rates. Whether you have a sweet tooth or you're looking for gifts, the options are endless, and you'll be spoiled for choice with popular brands at unbeatable prices. Alongside chocolates and liquor, Langkawi is also known for its affordable shopping options in souvenirs and clothing, where you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to trendy apparel.

In Langkawi, you will find a chocolate shop selling almost every brand of chocolate you can imagine

Langkawi: A Love That Will Last a Lifetime

As our family adventure in Langkawi came to an end, it was evident that the island had captured a special place in our hearts. We will always cherish the memories we made exploring its stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and scenic roads. Langkawi offered more than just a beautiful getaway; it strengthened family bonds and gave us an experience we will cherish for a lifetime. The enchanting island promised to be a destination we would return to time and again.