Off the coast of Kedah is a cluster of 99 islands offering
the best of many worlds: beautiful beaches, world- class infrastructure,
mangroves rich in flora and fauna, ultra- cheap duty-free shopping and
fascinating legends.
Langkawi has a lingering legend woven into its history. Ask
anyone on the island about the tragic story of a beautiful young lady named
Mahsuri, and you'll hear a tale of love, jealousy and a curse that was placed
upon the island by her for seven generations.
Today, the seventh generation of Langkawi's inhabitants has
long come and gone, but people here still believe that the prosperity and
blessings the islands enjoy today and the passing of the curse is no mere
coincidence. The mysticism of this legend can be felt in many parts of this
island, especially at Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri's Mausoleum), where Mahsuri is
said to be buried.
Despite what looks like a slant towards tourism, many of the
islanders are actually farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs. Experience the
beautiful countryside and peaceful landscape of paddy fields by renting a car
and taking a leisurely drive around the island. Some of Langkawi's most rustic
and memorable views are along the road that circles the island.
You'll pass small villages with wooden houses framed by palm
trees, and children pedalling their old bicycles on errands. Aside from
experiencing the local lifestyle, there is no shortage of things to do in
Langkawi. Head up the thrilling new cable car to the summit of Mount Mat
Cincang - Langkawi's second highest mountain - for an unrivalled view of the
entire main island and beyond.
Other popular destinations are the Field of Burnt Rice, Hot
Springs, Telaga Tujuh (The Seven Wells) and the Beach of Black Sand. Boat tours
are organised to Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), Gua Cerita
(Cave of Stories) and Gua Langsir (Curtain Cave).
For a more intimate time with nature, go trekking through
the pristine rainforest that covers most of Langkawi, or go on a boat tour of
the mangroves. There are also opportunities to go for a dive, or play a round
of golf at some of the 5-star resorts. Langkawi also has an underwater world,
with an underground tunnel that runs through a giant aquarium, that has
received rave reviews.
Getting Here
By Ferry: Ferries usually leave the port of Kuala Kedah on
the mainland on the hour from 7am to 6pm. The ride lasts 1.5 hours. There are
also ferry services from the mainland port of Kuala Perlis and the Thai port of
Satun, both 45 minutes from Langkawi.
By Air: Both Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia have twice daily
flights to Langkawi from Kuala Lumpur which land at Langkawi International
Airport. There are also direct flights from Penang and Singapore.
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