With pristine white sandy beaches meeting a crystal clear ocean, Langkawi is perhaps best known for its breathtaking beaches and the plethora of beach and water activities available. However, there’s so much more to this tropical paradise than the sand and the sea. With a spectacular landscape of majestic mountains and lush rainforest, unrivalled duty-free shopping, and unique, award-winning attractions, Langkawi offers no shortage of amazing experiences both in and out of the water. Here are five of the best non-aquatic Langkawi experiences.
1. Sky Bridge and the Cable Car
Without a doubt, Sky Bridge is one of the best attractions in the whole of Malaysia, offering lucky visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Langkawi and the turquoise Andaman Sea, stretching as far as the mainland and Thailand. The steel bridge is suspended from a single pylon and is located close to the top of Mount Machinchang, Langkawi’s second-highest peak. It can be reached by trekking through the dense jungle that covers the mountain or taking the iconic cable car ride.
2. Shopping
Langkawi may be paradise for beach lovers; however, it is also heaven for shoppers, with many tourists flocking here for the sole reason of indulging in some duty-free retail therapy. Langkawi achieved duty-free status back in the 1980s, allowing an abundance of bustling malls to sell alcohol, confectionary, perfume, cosmetics, and many other goods at a fraction of the usual retail price. Whilst Kuah Town is the main hub of duty-free shopping, shopping centres can be found at various locations on the main island.
3. Wildlife experiences
With several incredible wildlife experiences on offer, it’s difficult to choose just one. Visit more than 500 species of sea creatures at Underwater World, or interact with a wide range of birds, reptiles, and mammals at Langkawi Wildlife Park and Bird Paradise. Learn all about crocodiles at Crocodile Adventureland, or meet some snakes at the Snake Sanctuary. Alternatively, meet some Langkawi’s true locals in their natural habitat with a trek through the dense rainforest.
4. Relax and rejuvenate
Whilst Langkawi has a range of adventurous outdoor activities on offer, it is also a place of deep relaxation. The beaches and nature experiences may make you feel relaxed from the moment that you arrive, however for an even more blissful experience, indulge in a spa day. Plenty of day spas and wellness centres are dotted around the main island, offering traditional Malay massages, invigorating scrubs, rejuvenating facials, and more. The stresses of your daily life will feel worlds away.
5. Eagle Square
Langkawi gets its name from the Malay words ‘helang’ and ‘kawi’, which translate to ‘eagle’ and ‘marble’. Eagle Square in Kuah Town is a celebration of this name, best known for its 12-metre tall red-backed eagle statue. Visit the iconic statue and spend some time wandering across the footbridges, soaking up the beautiful ponds, fountains, shops, and cafes in the square. Take in the natural beauty surrounding Eagle Square, with a mountainous backdrop and a sensational view of the bay.
