LANGKAWI LATEST INFORMATION

Langkawi in Malaysia

Langkawi holds a special place in the hearts of many Malaysians and tourists from across the world. Since its initial development in the late 80s, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination. Since 2007, UNESCO declared the Langkawi archipelago a Global Geopark in recognition of its unique and significant geoheritage features. This recognition has make Langkawi as the first Geopark in South East Asia. Geopark status is conferred to promote the conservation of the planet’s geological and biological treasures.  Almost 99 geo-sites have been identified so far in Langkawi, with three dedicated parks, each with its own unique geological features namely Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park.

Anak Tikus Island, Langkawi

Langkawi affords some of the most dramatic rock formations on Earth, the result of a 550 billion years of ferment and cataclysm, from tectonic uplifting to the more mundane, but over millennia, equally destructive natural forces such as erosion and weathering.  The many karst landscapes found here also feature numerous caves and hanging gardens.  They comprise some of the oldest rock formations in South East Asia, and the only complete record of Malaysia’s Paleozoic history.

Cluster of Island in Langkawi

The island has delighted more than 2.7 millions of tourists from across the world with its natural beauty, its myths, its unique flora and fauna and the warm hospitality of its people. It is a truly island paradise with stunning beaches, secluded islands and nature sanctuaries known for exotic wildlife, tropical plants and rock formation as old as earth. The archipelago remains relatively pristine, with most of its 99 islands protected from major development. The focus of Langkawi beauty lies on the nature offers and Langkawi is the destination for those who seek for pleasure with nature as well as enjoying the benefit of travelling in luxuries. The balance development has enabled tourists from all over world to enjoy the nature at its best in Langkawi. The government has outline a 5-year development plan with the aim to position Langkawi as one of the premium eco-tourism destination in the world.

The Danna Hotel's Beachside

Langkawi new branding of ‘Naturally Langkawi’ has embodied all the element offers and well described the main essences of Langkawi itself. Naturally beautiful, warmth and the charm of its people and its Geosite;

Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park    

The Machinchang mountain range in the north-western corner of Langkawi that forms the centerpiece of this rugged 43  sq wilderness park, is renowned for its Cambrian (the first geological period of the Paleozoic Era) rock formations, forming a spectacular landscape that dominates the skyline. Machinchang is South East Asia’s oldest mountain range, and home to what is probably the planet’s oldest rainforest.

Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park

Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park       

Just south of Langkawi is the archipelago’s second largest island, PulauDayang Bunting (it means “Island of the Pregnant Maiden”, due to the suggestive shape of hillson this island) encompasses 44 sq km.  Famous for its fresh water lake nestled amongst hills of rugged forest and it is separated from the sea by a thin rock wall.

Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Situated on the island’s northeast, the 83 sq km park includes the Kilim River and estuary.  Its extensive mangrove eco-system and unique landscape of pinnacles, cliffs, caves and hills is a nature and adventure lover’s delight.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Other information

There are more than 30 tourism products to be discovered and experience by the visitors which cater the adrenaline crave, romantic holiday escape or nature’s lover. Langkawi is also home to 200 species of birds and more than 400 species of butterflies.

Langkawi is also a major international destination for corporate events such as conventions and exhibitions. An ideal venue for business functions in an unforgettable tropical island setting. Langkawi is also home to many international events. It hosts the prestigious Langkawi International Maritime Aerospace Exhibition, eco-sports related events such as Ironman Langkawi, Xterra, Le Tour de Langkawi and others.

From world-class luxury resorts and superb deluxe beach and jungle hotels, to clean, comfy and budget lodgings, Langkawi has a great selection to suit tourists’ taste and pocketbook.  They could even opt to 'go local' – literally!. A variety of hotel options can be found in or around the main beach areas. As listed on Trip advisor, there are 101 hotels, 136 budget accommodation, 91 special lodging and 25 holiday rental.  Some offer great dining options, health & wellness centres, and almost all with exquisite sunset views!

There are more than 100 restaurants offering different types of food available at different time of the day, be it Malays, Chinese, Indian or Thai. The mix is further enhanced by the international flavor to the mix with the establishment of international resorts and restaurants catering to the varied taste from Mexican, Japanese and Arabic to even Russian options.

The island’s tropical climate offers year-round temperatures within a fairly narrow and predictable range, with an annual average temperature range of 25-32 Celsius.  The point of entry by air is Langkawi International Airport and by sea is the passenger jetty in Kuah. There are 3 main marinas on the islands that caters the yachters.  Modern, 24-hour medical service is available at Langkawi Hospital on the outskirts of Kuah Town and Cenang.

Despite its being the preferred destination by the tourists, Langkawi still retains the charms and slower pace of an earlier time. You will still find many traditional ways and livelihoods here: padi farming, rubber-tapping, and fishing. Langkawi wanted to be known as the premier eco-tourism destination that offering the balance of holiday pleasure and nature at the same time.

In term of marketing, Langkawi has started to leverage its marketing campaign on digital platform since the implementation of Langkawi Tourism Blueprint starting in 2012. This is followed by the recognition such as the top 10 islands destination in Asia for 3 consecutive years since 2013 till 2015 by Tripadvisor, the top travel magazine such as Conde Nast, National Geographic and etc.

From the people of Langkawi.