Langkawi in Kedah

Langkawi, which has been nicknamed as the “Caribbean of The East”, is a cluster of isles basking languidly in glistening waters. Not many island resorts in the region can boast of such pearls of exotic beauty but Langkawi is all enchantingly white stretches of palm-fringed beaches.

It had often been said that many locations within the group of 104 islands make idle settings for a romance novel or swashbuckling movie. It is hard to imagine that only a decade ago Langkawi was just a cluster of fishing villages surrounded by coconut trees, so this talked about location is something the visitors must see for themselves.

To sum it all, Langkawi is a reclusive retreat for the tired and beaten down corporate executive, an island resort for the entire family, a romantic escapade for honeymooners, a haven for water sports enthusiasts and a sanctuary for sun worshippers. In other words - a haven for all.

o        Pulau Payar Marine Park

The main attraction of Langkawi lies in its undersea treasure of marine life. Pulau Payar Marine Park (Payar Island) which is an hour speedboat ride from Pulau Langkawi is regarded as Malaysia’s best marine park with an abundance of underwater life.

Snorkelling and diving are the most popular pursuits whereby you can appreciate the colourful and spectacular sea life and corals. For those who do not want to get wet can view the kaleidoscope of colour and shapes of the magnificent fishes from an underwater observation chamber.

o        Underwater World Langkawi

Visitors can also view other species of aquatic life at the Underwater World Langkawi, which is one of the largest oceanariums in Asia. Located at Pantai Cenang, it features more than 5000 marine and freshwater fish such as the exotic Jacks, Seaturtles, Triggers and Damsel Fish. You can also walk through a tunnel tank which contains sharks, snappers, moray eels, giant groupers, etc.

o        Mahsuri Mausoleum

A popular tourist spot is the Mahsuri Mausoleum. Located about 12 km from Kuah the Mausoleum marks the spot where Mahsuri was buried. According to legend when Mahsuri lay dying after being executed over a false accusation of adultery, she laid a curse on the island that it would not prosper for seven generations. Whatever the reason, economic or legend, Langkawi’s meteoric success only came around recently.

o        Field of Burnt Rice

The Field of Burnt Rice at Padang Matsirat is another popular tourist venue. According to legend, Langkawi’s supply of rice was buried in order to thwart the invading Thai’s and cause them to starve. Today burnt rice grains still appear whenever there’s a heavy downpour.

o        Lake of the Pregnant Maiden

Another intriguing legend is the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden which is located in the heart of the Pulau Dayang Bunting (Island of Pregnant Maiden), the second largest island after Pulau Langkawi. The lake is a popular place where barren women would come to drink the waters so much so that some people attribute subsequent pregnancy to its mystical powers.

o        Book Village

There are also newly created tourist destinations. One of which is the Book Village Malaysia. Located about 15 minutes drive away from Kuah, it is set amidst the tranquil and lush rainforest at the foot of Gunung Raya. The numerous traditional houses dotting the village are stocked with a great variety of books in various languages.

o        Laman Padi

At Laman Padi or Rice Garden visitors can update their knowledge in all aspects of rice farming.

o        Ibrahim Hussein Museum and Cultural Foundation

Langkawi is not only a major leisure destination but also boasts an artistic museum of world class status, i.e the Ibrahim Hussein Museum and Cultural Foundation. Set in the heart of the lush rainforest atop a cliff overlooking the Datai Bay, the gallery displays fine works of Ibrahim Hussein, Malaysia’s most famous contemporary artist.

o        Langkawi Craft Cultural Complex

The Langkawi Craft Cultural Complex at Teluk Yu, showcases the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will be enthralled by the intricate workmanship on display which includes wood carving, basketry, embroidery as well as ceramics and crystalwares.

o        Air Hangat Village

The Air Hangat Village (Hot Spring Village) a cultural centre, based around natural hot springs is another favourite stopover. Legend or not, the hot spring water is believed to have healing power and can cure ailments such as rheumatism, arthritis as well as rejuvenate the mind and soul.

o        Galeria Perdana

At Galeria Perdana visitors can browse through the display of gifts and souvenirs given to Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad by other world leaders. There are gifts of woodwork, leather, musical instruments, weaponry, Islamic Arts, special awards and a lot more.

o        Langkawi Crystaal

Visitors will be fascinated by the art of crystal making at Langkawi Crystaal. Here you can witness craftsmen create unique designs of crystalware using the traditional glass blowing techniques.

o        Other Langkawi’s tourist venues are the Eagle Square, Legend Park, Crocodile Farm and Kedah Marble. “Island-Hopping” among the 104 isles is another favourite pursuit among tourists. You can explore this maze of islands and be rewarded with secret channels, secluded breathtaking bays and inlets, eerie caves, coves and intriguing legends.

o        Pulau Singa Besar

At Pulau Singa Besar (Singa Besar Island) there’s a wild life sanctuary and the sedimentary rocks, reputed to be amongst the oldest in Malaysia goes back 500 million years.

o        Pulau Rebak

Pulau Rebak is a popular docking place for yachts.

o        Other islands of interest include Pulau Tuba and Pulau Bumbon which are favourite spots for snorkelling, scuba-diving and fishing.