The best attractions in Langkawi make
the most of the natural landscapes, expansive parks, and iconic structures that
no first-time visitor should skip on their travel itinerary. As one of
Malaysia’s best-known and most popular beach destinations, the massive island
is home to historical attractions, great fare, excellent diving opportunities, exciting
nightlife and dirt-cheap shopping. Langkawi’s pristine beaches – namely Datai
Bay, Pantai Cenang, and Tanjung Rhu – are also rated among the best in the
world while vast roads provide easy access to its vibrant beach towns. Due to
the size of the island, Langkawi’s best attractions are best explored by rented
vehicle. There are a few sights that you definitely need to check out before
leaving this island, so check out our comprehensive list of the most popular
Langkawi attractions.
Dataran Lang, also known as Eagle
Square, is a striking 12 metre-tall sculpture of an eagle poised to take flight
is displayed atop an elevated platform. Set in Kuah, this prominent landmark is
just a five-minute walk from Kuah Jetty, Jetty Point Mall, Taman Lagenda Dalam
Langkawi, as well as numerous restaurants and duty-free shops. Dataran Lang
also houses beautiful miniature fountains, terraces and bridges, while its
close proximity to the sea makes it a popular spot for watching ferries ply
across the harbour in the evening.
The entrance for the Langkawi Cable
Car, which takes visitors all the way up to Mount Mat Cincang, Langkawi’s
second highest peak, is located in The Oriental Village in the upper northwest
of Langkawi Island, near Pantai Kok. Entering the village and passing through
the pleasant oriental garden and souvenir shops, visitors make their payment at
a counter before stepping onto an escalator which brings them to the cable-car
pedestal. Once in, Langkawi Cable Car ascends; you’ll begin to notice the
temperature dropping and a windy breeze begin flowing into the cabin through
ventilation slits at the top.
With an altitude of 881 metres,
Gunung Raya is hailed as the highest peak in Langkawi. According to local
beliefs, the mountain is the cursed form of a giant called Mat Raya, who had
once lived on the island. The dense rainforest is home to numerous wildlife
such as leaf monkeys, flying foxes, macaque monkeys, squirrels, mountain hawk
eagles, white bellied sea eagles, and great hornbills. Gunung Raya is also a
popular destination for hiking but bringing a guide along is highly advisable
as the trail can be quite challenging.
