Summary of Top Attractions in Langkawi
- Ride the Cable Car
- Visit a Famous 3-D Gallery
- Go Island Hopping
- Eat in the Night Markets
- Learn About Rice Cultivation
- Snorkel at Payar Island
- Visit the Waterfalls
- Motorbike Around the Island
- Go Duty-Free Shopping
- Visit Underwater World
- Get Into the Canopy
- Explore the Mangroves
- Go Visit Thailand for a Day
- See Eagle Square
- Visit the Prime Minister’s Museum
- Soak in the Hot Springs
- See the Birds
- Learn About Agro-Tech
- Be Entertained at the Oriental Village
- Brave the Langkawi Sky Bridge
You would need weeks— and a lot of motivation— to explore all the top attractions in Langkawi, a stunning tourist island and premier destination in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s duty-free paradise on the west coast draws a steady stream of locals, weekend travelers from Kuala Lumpur, families, and budget backpackers. Activities in Langkawi range from lounging on beautiful beaches for free to thrilling excursions like the mountain cable car and everything in between. Consequently, the biggest challenge is determining what to prioritize in your itinerary.
Ride the Cable Car
Address: Langkawi Cable Car, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
The Langkawi cable car is the foremost attraction on the island. The extensive queues indicate that visitors are ready to wait for an exhilarating experience. This steep ride up Mount Mat Cincang pauses at a midpoint before continuing, with cafes and platforms at both stops offering breathtaking views of the island.
Gazing down on Pantai Cenang below is fascinating, but the real thrill lies in the ride itself!
Visit a Famous 3-D Gallery
Address: Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07100 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 13-509 1209
The three-dimensional artwork and optical illusions inside the Art in Paradise museum are both captivating and innovative. With over 100 interactive art pieces, the gallery is recognized as the second-largest 3-D museum globally. Moreover, you can experience the entire museum in roughly an hour unless you choose to linger in the air-conditioned comfort.
Although the primary enjoyment of the museum lies in capturing amusing photos of oneself in surreal scenarios, there are some impressive works of art. You’ll leave with an abundance of unique material perfect for your social media.
Go Island Hopping
Address: 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Langkawi reigns as the largest of the 104 islands in the archipelago, with only a few islands inhabited.
Island-hopping excursions are understandably among the most sought-after experiences in Langkawi. Nearby islands in the marine park are primarily uninhabited, featuring mangroves, caves, and enough lush rainforest to captivate birdwatchers.
Available excursions range from half-day to full-day, catering to various comfort levels. The best trips include a memorable visit to the Bat Cave (Gua Kelawar). Although you won’t discover a vigilante’s tech and rocket vehicle, you will encounter enormous fruit bats. Remember, don’t disturb them!
Eat in the Night Markets
Address: 2, Taman Wawasan Indah, Kampung Padang Gaong, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 12-408 7541
The night markets in Langkawi draw a lively blend of locals and tourists, all arriving around sunset for affordable, delectable food. Savory local delicacies can be sampled for as low as 25 cents.
Some of Penang’s renowned dishes can be tasted without the commitment of ordering during dinner service. While seating options are limited, you’ll enjoy excellent opportunities for people-watching.
The night market changes locations each evening, with markets in Kuah and Pantai Cenang being the largest and most frequented by tourists due to their convenient spots. Arrive slightly before sunset to avoid crowds during peak season.
Although certain dishes like nasi lemak are served in paper, others come in plastic or Styrofoam. These materials pose environmental concerns on the island. Therefore, consider bringing your own reusable cup or bowl to minimize waste, and respectfully decline the plastic bags offered with small purchases. The Kasbah traveler’s cafe near the Pantai Cenang night market provides reusable containers to borrow for night market visits.
Learn About Rice Cultivation
Address: Jalan Pantai Cenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 4-955 1118
The Laman Padi Rice Garden is accessible by walking north from Pantai Cenang. The small gallery (in English) is nestled amid serene rice terraces and resting spots. The tranquil landscaping enhances the learning experience. If you’ve ever wished to discover more about this labor-intensive staple food that nourishes much of the world’s population, this is the perfect opportunity. Stroll around at your leisure or engage in a planting workshop.
Snorkel at Payar Island
Address: Pulau Payar, Malaysia
The surrounding area of Payar Island has been designated as a marine park since 1985, ensuring the preservation of its coral reefs. Visitors can rest assured that those shipwrecks you see on the seabed weren’t filled with tourists but are part of an artificial reef consisting of sunk vessels, tires, and other materials thriving with marine life.
Snorkeling day trips provide a fantastic way to encounter marine wildlife. Choosing to sail to the island via catamaran is a delightful experience. For family members not comfortable with snorkeling, there is an underwater observation chamber and shaded deck available. The park includes simple picnic areas, including restrooms. Since the four uninhabited islands attract many visitors on weekends, consider visiting during the week for a more peaceful experience.
Visit the Waterfalls
Address: Mukim, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 12-570 0104
The Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls (Seven Wells) is located in the northwest region of the island.
While the falls may be inconveniently distant for those staying at Pantai Cenang or Kuah, other nearby attractions make the trip worthwhile. If you’re not too worn out after visiting the falls, the cable car and Oriental Village are within a 15-minute walk, should you wish to continue your adventure.
The waterfalls feature two viewing areas. A quick 10-minute hike from the parking lot leads to the lower viewing area, where you can cool off beneath the falls. Keep in mind, however, that the falls can often be quite minimal during the dry season.
For those fit enough, climbing the steep stairs to the seven pools is a refreshing option. Swimming at the top is safer than it sounds, provided you stay away from the edges, but may not be appropriate for small children. Locals often use a smooth rock as a natural water slide.
Motorbike Around the Island
As is common with many sizable Southeast Asian islands featuring paved roads, renting a scooter to explore can offer an extraordinarily satisfying experience. Once you navigate away from the bustle of Kuah (the main town) and Pantai Cenang (the most visited beach), the island’s interior boasts largely well-kept roads complemented by splendid scenery.
Langkawi is an expansive island, and one could easily spend several days scootering around to uncover all the top attractions available. Renting a bicycle is also an option; however, some of the interior roads present challenges for cyclists.
Local authorities on Langkawi strictly enforce helmet laws and might request an international driving permit at occasional roadblocks.
Go Duty-Free Shopping
Address: Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 4-641 3200
Similar to Tioman Island further south, Langkawi boasts duty-free status. This tax exemption encompasses shopping purchases as well, extending beyond just cocktails at sunset.
While you may not find the idea of lugging heavy kitchenware (a common sale item) back home appealing, many foreign visitors leave with new luggage sets, often filled with duty-free chocolate, clothing, cosmetics, and various other items.
You’ll discover numerous duty-free shops (ZON is the most famous), ranging from small convenience stores to expansive shopping malls. Airport stores tend to be the most expensive, while department stores in Kuah frequently offer the best deals.
Visit Underwater World
Address: Underwater World Langkawi, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Among the largest indoor tourist attractions in the region, Underwater World is positioned at the southern end of Pantai Cenang. For those unable to dive beneath the surface, this venue represents the best opportunity to witness marine life. The expansive aquarium serves as an ideal indoor option for families seeking respite from the oppressive sun.
Get Into the Canopy
Address: Jalan Teluk Yu, Kampung Kok, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +60 19-280 5679
The SkyTrex adventure features an exhilarating obstacle course consisting of bridges, ropes, swings, and zip lines that elevate participants high above the tree line. Not only does an afternoon at SkyTrex offer a unique view of the rainforest canopy, but it also guarantees an invigorating workout! Safety is a priority, as long as you’re willing to embrace the adventure. There’s even a scaled-down course available for younger family members and “chicken exits” if you decide to opt-out midway through. Tickets must be reserved online in advance.
Explore the Mangroves
The mangroves play a crucial role in Langkawi’s ecosystem, serving as a habitat for diverse species. For nature lovers, the mangroves represent a busy playground filled with eagles, different birds, fish, snakes, monkeys, and much more. The use of water is advantageous for approaching wildlife more discreetly than on foot, although jet ski safaris are also available and can be exciting.
Kayaking through the mangroves is undoubtedly the most rewarding experience, yet it involves more physical effort. Jet ski safaris are noisy and exuberant, providing a vastly different experience but feeling like something from a James Bond film!
Go Visit Thailand for a Day
Address: Ko Lipe, Satun, Thailand
Accessible via a 90-minute ferry ride from Langkawi, Koh Lipe is one of Thailand’s charming outlying islands. A designated immigration point exists on this tiny island.
Thailand provides most nationalities with a 30-day visa-free exemption. Theoretically, you could visit, snorkel, or even spend a night, then return to Malaysia at your convenience.
However, Koh Lipe has recently become busier due to its charm and walkable nature. The tiny island, easily navigated by foot, draws many visitors. The primary reasons to explore the area are diving and snorkeling from accessible beaches.
Consider adding Koh Lipe to your itinerary if your time allows, aiming for an exciting addition of a second country. Alternatively, you may just want to brag about visiting an island in Thailand during your Malaysian journey — which is a perfectly valid reason by itself!
See Eagle Square
One of Langkawi’s most recognized landmarks, Eagle Square is located in Kuah, the largest town. Dominating the area is a striking 12-meter high statue of an eagle with outstretched wings. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque star-shaped promenade lining the water and enjoy meals at nearby restaurants and cafes.
Visit the Prime Minister’s Museum
One of the more fascinating museums in Langkawi is the Galeria Perdana, showcasing gifts and awards presented to Dr. Mahatir Mohamad, a former prime minister of Malaysia, during his time in office.
Visitors will be astonished by the fascinating collection, featuring everything from Formula One racing cars and musical instruments to vases adorned with the prime minister’s likeness, all housed within a beautifully crafted museum adorned with hand-painted ceilings.
Soak in the Hot Springs
At Air Hangat (hot water) Village, located 14 kilometers north of Kuah Town, you will find a modern facility boasting three tiers of natural saltwater hot springs believed to possess healing properties. Visitors can enjoy the rejuvenating hot springs in various public areas or opt for a private outdoor Jacuzzi. The village’s on-site restaurant serves a delightful range of Malaysian, Thai, and Indonesian cuisine. Massages and spa therapies complete this relaxing experience.
See the Birds
Spanning 5.5 acres, Langkawi Wildlife Park and Bird Paradise is home to over 150 species of vividly colored birds, including toucans and flamingos, situated in a natural environment. Visitors can explore beautifully landscaped gardens and waterfalls while encountering raccoons and crocodiles, even seizing the opportunity to feed some of the birds and animals.
Learn About Agro-Tech
The MARDI Langkawi Agro Technology Park highlights innovative and sustainable methods of farming fruits and vegetables. Visitors can sample exotic tropical fruits like mangosteen, durian, and dragon fruit while learning about local produce cultivation.
The tropical park features a technology information center, fruit orchards, and hi-tech vegetable farms, as well as recreational areas for the public to enjoy.
Be Entertained at the Oriental Village
Nestled at the base of the Sky Cab cable car and Sky Bridge, Oriental Village is an Asian-themed park hosting traditional entertainment, cultural performances, and replicas of typical Asian architecture. Throughout the complex, visitors can find shops and souvenir stalls.
During your visit, you will be entertained by jugglers, martial artists, and musicians. Additionally, interactive experiences include learning to navigate a traditional kite or having your palm read.
Brave the Langkawi Sky Bridge
For those unafraid of heights, the iconic 125-meter-long Langkawi Sky Bridge is among the island’s top attractions. It holds the title for the longest free-span curved pedestrian bridge globally. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside, nearby islands, Mat Cincang Mountain, and the Seven Pools Waterfalls. To access the bridge, which operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., take the Langkawi Cable Car to the summit.
