langkawi island

Langkawi is an archipelago that consists of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, south of Thailand, 30km off the mainland coast of northwestern Peninsular Malaysia. The islands are a part of Malaysia's Kedah state, but are adjacent to the Thai border. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi (Langkawi Island) with a population of some 100,000, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba.

Tourists flock here for the delightful beaches, superb resorts and refreshing nature-based activities. The best beaches include Pantai Cenang, Burau Bay, Pantai Kok, Pantai Pasir Tengkorak and Pantai Datai.

The name "Langkawi" is believed to be related to the kingdom of Langkasuka, itself a version of the Malay negari alang-kah suka ("the land of all one's wishes"), centered in modern-day Kedah. The historical record is sparse, but a Chinese Liang Dynasty record (c. 500 AD) refers to the kingdom of "Langgasu" as being founded in the 1st century AD.

Langkawi eventually came under the influence of the Sultanate of Kedah, but Kedah was conquered in 1821 by Siam and Langkawi along with it. The Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 transferred power to the British, which held the state until independence, except for a brief period of Thai rule under the Japanese occupation of Malaya during World War II. Thai influences remain visible in the culture and food of Langkawi.

Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism and improve the lives of the islanders. The following boom was spectacular and now Langkawi figures on most every European travel agency's radar.

Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi escapes the northeastern winter monsoon entirely and enjoys sunny skies in winter when the eastern provinces are flooded. Coupled with natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage and craggy mountain peaks - but hampered by inaccessibility - the island was at one time touted as "Malaysia's best-kept secret".

The 10,000 hectares of Langkawi and its 99 islands were declared a Geopark by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2007.

my experience at langkawi island

We started the day early on the second day as there were many places to be visited. We first went to Telaga Tujuh but just stopped just for a short while.
A more exciting stop would be the Langkawi Cable Car, for me at least. This time I managed to go up the hill or rather known as Gunung Machinchang. I went here twice before but was not allowed entry for certain technical reasons. The best thing about the ride was the spectacular view that you could see from the gondola or either from the observation deck or the bridge. And we managed to pet the rabbits in the park before we went out from that place. We just bought a small packet of sliced carrots (which cost RM1) to lure the cute furry animals.
hen we went to Padang Matsirat to see whether we can find any burned rice on the ground before stopping for lunch. Right after that, we moved to Galeri Perdana, where the presents received by Tun Dr Mahathir were put on display for the public. I definitely need more time if I have to really feast my eyes on the large collection of things you could never imagine could be presented as gifts.
The trip to Langkawi would not be complete if photo was not taken in front of the eagle monument in Dataran Lang. Then only we went for a shopping spree in Kuah town.

Langkawi Beach

While the eponymous Pulau Langkawi is the largest and most densely populated, Langkawi consists of no less than 99 islands (or 104 at low tide), each with exquisite beaches which must be seen to be believed.
Beaches like Tanjung Rhu have gained reputations as some of the most picturesque in the world. Kept free from waves and wind by a bay, Tanjung Rhu is an oasis of calm. Boating trips to some of Langkawi's smaller islands can be made from Tanjung Rhu, or you can even walk across the snow white sand to some of them at low tide!
For a more lively escape, Pantai Cenang is the beach for you. With a wide range of resort hotels and shopping destinations, Pantai Cenang is the liveliest spot in all of Langkawi. Play on the beaches by day (all manner of water and beach sports are always on the go), and experience the best in Malaysian nightlife by evening.
If it's peace and quiet you're after, then Langkawi has the ideal secluded paradise in Pantai Kok. Nestled beneath a forested mountain range and miles away from the cares and hubbub of the city, the soothing sands of Pantai Kok are ideal for a romantic getaway or just a break from the hassles of life.
Or, for the best of both worlds, visit Pantai Tengah. With a pleasant mix of the activity of Pantai Cenang and the serenity of Pantai Kok, Pantai Tengah has become quite popular with families looking for a vacation spot with something for everyone. Take in live music at one of the beach front bars, or sample local cuisine at the many restaurants, such as the Lighthouse, which offers weekly Malay cooking classes designed for tourists.
No trip to Langkawi would be complete without a brief trip away from the beaches, and up the mountain of Gunung Mat Chincang to take in the majestic Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) waterfalls. Take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain, catching a majestic birds-eye view of the beaches of Pulau Langkawi along the way. Then, watch as seven freshwater pools flow into a single, breathtaking torrent of water down a rock face. Other waterfalls, like Temerun, Durian Perangin and Lubuk Sembiland can also be found in the lush jungles of Palau Langkawi's mountains.

latest reviews from visitor about langkawi hotel

I enjoyed my stay in Awana although I think they need to do some upgrading, eg. to provide free wifi to the guests living in the hotel. Not just limiting it to the lobby area or the bar. There is a tour desk but for some reason, I didn't see anyone there most of the times. Perhaps it was because of the bad weather.
Generally, this is a nice hotel. Scenic location. Ideal for honeymooners and families. Location is pretty good. Very close to Pantai Cenang.

visit langkawi

Langkawi is an eastern Carribean-like delight. Located North of Malaysia, it's 2 hours away by plane from Singapore, you'll arrive at one of Malaysia's finest beach destinations, a place to relax, refresh and rejuvenate overlooking the vast Andaman ocean.
It can also be easily reached from Georgetown where speedboats depart every day for Langkawi, a short 2 hour ride.
The island is a duty-free zone, nestled between beaches and mountains. Vehicle rental is cheap and accessible, and the best way to roam around and explore the island.
Waterfalls greet you across the landscape, the local people are friendly and peaceful jungle walks could help you pass a peaceful day.
In the evenings, enjoy live reggae by the beaches, or lie on the beach watching the romantic sunsets.
Langkawi Island has recently been re-branded as"LANGKAWI GEOPARK" to better reflect the island's recogition by UNESCO as a World Geopark (on June 1, 2007). Three of its main Geopark components are Mt. Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park, Kilim Geoforest Park and Pulau Tasik Dayang Bunting (Island of the Pregnant Maiden Lake).
Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi escapes the northeastern winter monsoon entirely and enjoys sunny skies when the eastern provinces are flooded. Coupled with natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage and craggy mountain peaks – but hampered by inaccessibility – the island was at one time touted as "Malaysia's best-kept secret".
The most popular beach on Langkawi has to be Cenang.

Langkawi Fishing Competiton

Twenty teams from Thailand, Singapore, India and Malaysia have confirmed their participation in this year’s Langkawi International Fishing Tournament, which will be held for three days in Tukun Perak Island, starting Nov 12.

Langkawi Tourism Action Council facilities and services manager Suziana Wan Othman said Thailand would send four teams, Singapore (two), India (one) while the rest of some 120 anglers were from Malaysia.

Tukun Perak island, about 96 nautical miles of Langkawi, has been identified as the venue for the competition as the water there is home to many types of huge fish species.

The best team stands to win RM10,000 in cash while the first and second runners-up will receive RM7,000 and RM5,000 respectively.

The cash prize for the individual category is RM5,000 for the winner and RM3,000 and RM2,000 respectively for the first and second runners-up.

Further information can be obtained from the council at telephone number 04-9698080 or fax at 04-9698081.

– edited from BERNAMA

Langkawi Island travel tips

Language

Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood.

Currency

Ringgit is the official currency, but some resorts and establishments do accept other notes or offer foreign exchange (check with them for the service). The current exchange rate is around RM3.70 to USD 1.00 – but, consult banks for the latest exchange rates prior to your trip. Kuah town and the airport is where you will find most of the banks and money-changers. Banks open daily from 09:30 to 15:30. On Thursdays, they are open from 09:30 to 12:00 and are closed on Saturdays.

Holidays

Langkawi follows the Kedah state holidays. Weekends fall on Thursdays and Fridays but most businesses will continue operating normal business hours on Thursdays too. The official start of the week is on Saturday.

Medical Services

There is a hospital and various private clinics in Kuah town.

Police

The police headquarters is in Kuah, but there are police stations in all the districts. Langkawi is relatively safe compared to the bigger cities, but do take precautions such as travelling in groups and avoiding quiet places.

Tipping

Tipping is not necessary unless you’ve had good service.

Electricity

Malaysia’s electricity follows the 240 volt 50-cycle system.

Immigration

Citizens of North Korea, Cuba, Vietnam and China need visas to enter Malaysia. Other foreigners may enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month. Please consult your nearest Malaysian Embassy or consular office to confirm this arrangement, as regulations may change over time.

Water

Tap water is safe for drinking in Malaysia, but some hotels install filtration systems or provide bottled water for guests as an added precaution.

Duty-free Goods

Foreign nationals visiting Malaysia for 48 hours or less receive a duty exemption for the purchase of souvenirs, gifts and items intended for personal use up to a limit of RM500. There is a duty-free limit for certain types of items: booze (up to one litre), tobacco (up to 225g, or 200 cigarettes), one pair of leather footwear, new clothing (up to three pieces), as well as cosmetics and personal hygiene items (not including powder or hair products).

Drugs

All drugs are prohibited in Malaysia and laws are strictly enforced. There is a death penalty for anyone caught carrying a certain amount for trafficking, and even possession of the smallest amount can land one in very serious trouble

浮罗交怡地质公园

1。浮罗交怡地质公园位于吉打州北部，是在它是在99个共同构成了传说中的浮罗交怡群岛的岛屿组成的独特的感觉。浮罗交怡地质公园的土地总面积约四七八平方公里。
2。在浮罗交怡的地质历史，它的地质发展做了许多有点联系发生了什么事5.50亿年前。它开始在Machinchang在latchstring环境寒武纪期间的大部分时间砂岩沉积，由土地淹没在随后的时间晚寒武世（ - 500米。y的）允许进入原始的浅海动物入侵兰卡威海。
3。在海底不断沉降造成的Setul形成厚厚的石灰岩形成的，在奥陶系。在奥陶系时间（ -四百四十〇米结束。y的），海变得过深，最终停止的石灰岩沉积暂时的。
4。我们今天在浮罗交怡是这些不同的过程共同作用的结果，以及长期风化过程中发生的土地自浮罗交怡的地方都被带到了大约220万年前的表面。
5。因此，我们有一个Machinchang在浮罗交怡岛，锥形石碑，古农芝中心和东部的浮罗交怡的Setul一个坚固的石灰岩岩溶地形西北角砂岩美丽的山区范围。在浮罗交怡岛西南，辛加形成为主，而储平石灰石主宰大洋鹀岛的西部。对景观的一些真正优秀的，特别是那些对Machinchang和在浮罗交怡东部岩溶石灰岩。

Experience at Island

Here’s a story of langkawi visitors recently

When we looked out from the deck this place looked lovely with lots of trees and rocks all around the harbour.  The ship puts on shuttle buses in some ports but we have to pay for them, which we have done in a couple of places because the distance is too far for our old legs.  So we got the shuttle bus into town which is a main street lined with markets, shops and quite a few motel type accommodation places. We walked through to the beach and it looked quite nice over the water with a few riding jet skis but the further we walked along the dirtier it got with a lot of building rubbish and other bits and pieces along the sand and in the water. We decided to head back to the main road and walked along it on both sides.  Langkawi is a duty free port and there were 2 big duty free shops but we didn't need to buy anything from there so we didn't. Did buy a few trinkets in town and then decided to have a meal at a Chinese restaurant. Only because it looked inviting. We both had Singapore noodles and they were delicious.  The local Tiger beer went down very well also.  There was a huge downpour while we were eating but it was over as quickly as it started. We headed back to the shuttle bus and didn't get very wet. By the time we got back to the boat and I did some laundry it was time to head to the Oasis bar and watch the sail out.  We had dinner at the Pizzeria.
You might be wondering why you get some entries all at the same time and that is because I do them at the same time and put the correct dates on when we visited so they are in order. I am having a lot of trouble with the internet connection. The satellite must be out of range or something because the computers really slow down and all the typing that is done can't be saved. This is the second attempt at this one. 

Places to visit in langkawi

Places to visit in langkawi

This is the biggest town in langkawi. Visitors are usually attracted to this place in the first place because it is considered to be the capital of Langkawi. The airport and jetty are near to this town, and this is perhaps why it is also an immediate attraction to visitors. Having a convenient view of other places from the jetty, it is no wonder that people choose to come here immediately. Certainly, being a town, it is most attractive with its small sites and sounds for visitors to experience. The local way of living can be observed as well here.

Tourism Langkawi

Popular places in Langkawi

On June 1, 2007, Langkawi Island has been given a World Geopark status by UNESCO.[3] Three of its main conservation area in Langkawi Geopark;Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest park.(Island of the Pregnant Maiden Lake). These three parks are the most popular tourism area within Langkawi Geopark.

The Langkawi Cable Car takes visitors up to the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang, where the Langkawi Sky Bridge is located.

Langkawi Malaysia

Here's some fact about Langkawi:

Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah (Malay: Langkawi Permata Kedah is an archipelago of 99 islands (an extra 5 temporary islands are revealed at low tide in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah, which is adjacent to the Thai border. On July 15, 2008, Sultan Abdul Halim of Kedah had consented to the change of name to Langkawi Permata Kedah in conjunction with his Golden Jubilee Celebration. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 45,000, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. Langkawi is a duty-free island.