10. Nature's Best in Langkawi

Nature’s Best in Langkawi

PULAU PAYAR MARINE PARK is situated in the northern part of the Straits of Malacca, 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi and encompasses the islands of Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca. The marine park teems with a fascinating diversity of marine life and vegetation. Pulau Payar is the most ­popular of the islands as its sheltered waters are ideal for snorkelling, diving and ­swimming. Among the enchanting dive spots is the Coral Garden, an area ­covered with bright, ­­ multi-hued soft corals.

Visitors can get to Pulau Payar from Kuah Jetty by catamaran or ­speedboat. The catamaran takes about 1 hour to get to Pulau Payar while the speedboat takes about 30 minutes. It is advisable to book the ­catamaran service a day before the trip. An entry fee to the marine park is chargeable. For further information on the Pulau Payar Marine Park, kindly contact Unit Taman Laut Negeri Kedah (Kedah State Marine Park Unit) at +604 733 9086.

SOUTHEAST ASIA’S FIRST GEOPARK

Langkawi, which has the distinction of being the first geopark in Malaysia and in the region, has many geosites with outstanding sights for visitors. There are three geoforest parks in Langkawi – the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park is reputed to be the oldest geological formation in the country. At the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, one can view magnificently-formed landscapes from nearly vertical to subrounded karstic hills as well as pinnacles of various shapes and sizes. The Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park boasts fine marbles.

LAKE  OF THE PREGNANT MAIDEN or Tasik Dayang Bunting, with its uniquely coined name, is sure to enthrall you with its beautiful sur­roundings and mysterious past. The name of Langkawi’s largest freshwater lake is ­attributed to the legend of a lovely fairy princess who married an earthly prince. Her first child died shortly after birth. She was so sad and depressed that she buried the child in the ­crystal clear waters of the lake.

Before she returned to her celestial abode, she blessed the waters so that any childless maiden who bathed in the lake would ­conceive ­thereafter. To reach the lake one has to get to the Island of the Pregnant Maiden first and then take a short walk through the ­forest reserve.

Admission Fee: √
Tel: +604 959 3099

SUNGAI KILIM offers some truly unforgettable sights and experiences for ­adventurous travellers to Langkawi.  A tour that is bound to provide ­plenty of thrills is the boat cruise to Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, an escapade to another world. Spread over an area of 100 square kilometres, Kilim Nature Park ­features a beautiful mix of well-protected green ­mangrove forests, isolated white beaches and blue lagoons

On the trail, along the calm winding river, you will be exposed to the ­wonders of the park’s marine ecosystem and flora and fauna like the overhanging Bogak Trees, Brown Eagles, Tree Crabs, iguanas and macaques. Enjoy the scenic and spectacular view of unique limestone rock ­formations emerging from the floor of the mangrove swamps and the sea.

These fascinating geological wonders have been dubbed the Temple of Borobodur, the Elephant Stone and the Hanging Gardens.

TEMURUN WATERFALL Located within the Machinchang Geoforest Park near Datai Bay, the Temurun Waterfall is Langkawi’s tallest waterfall. This seasonal waterfall is best visited during May to October as the water would be reduced to a mere trickle during the dry season. A refreshing respite from the hot and humid weather, this waterfall is clearly visible from the road.

SEVEN WELLS or Telaga Tujuh, located in the northwestern corner of Langkawi, is a geological ­marvel. The waterfall is so named because the ­cascading waters are broken by a series of seven natural pools. The lush green forest that ­surrounds the waterfall adds a mystical touch to the ­natural splendour. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to the waterfall to bathe and frolic. Waterfall Abseiling is available at the above waterfalls

CAVES in Langkawi worth exploring include Gua Cherita which is easily accessible and situated only 30 minutes by boat from Tanjung Rhu. Inside are  interesting rock formations steeped in fabled tales of mystery and romance. Look out for ancient inscriptions onthe walls.

Another interesting cave is Gua Kelawar nestled in the heart of a mangrove forest. A wooden platform allows visitors easy access through the cave.  Gua Pasir Dagang, about 45 minutes by boat from Kuah, has a shallow stream running right through the cave. The boat journey to the cave itself is an adventure of sorts. Guides can be engaged for cave expeditions.

LANGKAWI NATURE PARK Langkawi Nature Park (LNP) is strategically located within the enclave of Kilim Geoforest Park. It is part of the larger Langkawi Geopark and one of the biggest hotspots of ecotourism in the entire region.  Visitors can enjoy boat rides to see Kilim Geoforest Park and have the incredible experience of walking through the thick natural mangrove jungle via the 800 meter-long boardwalk.

Opening hours: 9am – 7pm
(Ticket counter closes at 5.45pm)
Tel: 019 709 4769

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Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

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