Your visit to Langkawi is whatever you make it – from white sandy beaches to thriving nightlife, this Malaysian archipelago is one of the most popular tourist destinations for a good reason. So if you’re looking for things to do in Langkawi that fit a sight-seeing mould, we’ve gathered some of our favourites for you to enjoy.
Langkawi Skybridge
If you want panoramic, surreal views over the archipelago and surrounding glittering oceans, the Langkawi Sky Bridge is one attraction you don’t want to miss.
One of the most popular places to visit in Langkawi, this 125-metre pedestrian bridge oversees the magnificent jungle and water that cover and surround Langkawi and provides stunning views over some other popular Langkawi attractions like the Telajuh Tujuh waterfalls.
Even if you’re afraid of heights, this is one thing to do in Langkawi that won’t disappoint. Take the Langkawi cable car up an incredible incline – just make sure you don’t sit facing the mountain’s base! Exit at the final station, then make your way up to the bridge for views you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
It may get windy, but don’t worry – the bridge is rated for up to 260 adults at one time, and with sturdy rails, wire mesh floor, and safety wires, you’re as safe as can be. So drink in the magnificent views, take some photos and get ready for the descent – it’s just as spectacular as the ride up.
Opening Hours: Monday & Tuesday 10:00 – 19:00, Wednesday 12:00 – 19:00, Thursday 10:00 – 19:00, Friday & Saturday 09:30 – 19:00
Address: Jalan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau, Langkawi
Tel: +604 959 4225
Dataran Lang (Eagle Square)
For those looking for classic things to do in Langkawi, a visit to Dataran Lang will definitely scratch the itch. Visible for miles from the Langkawi ferry, Dataran Lang’s massive 12-metre eagle statue is an immediate indicator to visitors that they’ve come to the right place.
Located in Pulau Langkawi, Dataran Lang is the centrepiece of a cluster of fountains, shops, and small artificial streams that carry to the ocean through canals and throughways.
Stay for the day, the afternoon, or even an hour and watch the ferries come to and from the mainland as you sip on fresh juices and delicious coffee from one of the surrounding cafes in the well-known square. With glittering Kuah Bay surrounding the Langkawi eagle, this is one thing to do in Langkawi you won’t want to miss.
Langkawi Cable Car
Stretching over 900m from base to summit, the cable car is one of the largest in the world and remains arguably the best thing to do in Langkawi for those wanting to take in the breathtaking sights all at once.
This striking cable car is always incredibly popular, but don’t let long lines put you off. The cars come regularly, and you’ll speed through to reach the summit in no time.
Disembark after the first 600m stretch to laze around the car station before your descent, or carry on up the final 300m to reach the summit. There’s a thick jungle stretch where you can cut through to the Sky Bridge and some of the best views in Malaysia.
Stretching across the top of Mount Mat Cinang, the Langkawi Sky Bridge makes every jolt and shimmy worth it. Drink in the jaw-dropping views of the entire island, from the northern ocean to the thick jungles covering the land.
Family-friendly at every point, each platform is full of stalls selling toys, souvenirs, and refreshments for thirsty tourists. Grab a bottle of water for your trip – although the breeze may seem cool off the ocean, Langkawi’s humidity and warm weather mean that dehydration can put a quick dampener on your sightseeing.
Opening Hours: 10:00 - 20:00 daily
Address: Jalan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau, Langkawi
Tel: (604) 959 4225
Gunung Raya
For those who want to steer clear of the towns and classic tourist traps, try hiking the largest mountain in Langkawi. Peaking at 881m, this lush landmark is believed to be the cursed form of an ancient giant named Mat Raya, who was turned to stone for his debaucherous behaviour.
Gunung Raya is covered in a dense rainforest that’s home to exotic species of monkeys, squirrels, and birds of prey – lookout for white-bellied sea eagles, macaque monkeys, and flying foxes.
The best time to visit this magnificent stone peak is between May and November when the weather is consistent, and rainfall is minimal. If you’re not one for a hike, there is a 30-minute scenic drive to the summit, with tours leaving multiple times a day. Stop at the many lookout points along the road to take in the fantastic views or simply venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in nature.
Once at the peak, you’ll see unparalleled views of the jungle, neighbouring islands, and the glittering Andaman Sea. However, suppose you’re after an escape from the hustle and bustle of the main lookouts. In that case, this Langkawi attraction is also home to D’Coconut Hill Resort Langkawi for a secluded, private weekend away.
D’Coconut Hill Resort boasts an enviable day spa, award-winning restaurants, and a private viewing tower for guests. Visit the incredible Champor-Champor Restaurant & Bar for some world-class Asian fusion to replenish your energy levels amidst breathtaking views.
Underwater World
For marine animal enthusiasts, Underwater World is one of the most incredible places to visit in Langkawi. Spreading across more than five acres, this massive aquarium contains more than 200 species of marine and freshwater species that inhabit the waters around Langkawi.
This Langkawi attraction is divided into three sections, with tropical rainforest, temperate and sub-Antarctic species housed comfortably in the confines. Visit the rockhopper penguins and harbour seals, or watch the mesmerising colours of tropical fish and the Amazonian arapaima as they glide through warmer waters.
Once you’ve finished with the fish, move on to the Underwater Education Centre to learn about prehistoric fish, marine fossils, and just how closely related they are to modern species. The gift shop is full of souvenirs and educational resources for friends and family, and the 3D theatre shows fantastic short films 15 times a day.
The highlight of this Langkawi attraction? Finish your visit with a stroll through the six-million-litre tank housing massive stingrays, reef sharks and even green sea turtles.
Opening Hours:
09:30 – 18:30 Monday – Thursday
09:30 – 22:30 Friday – Sunday
Address: Zon Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang
Tel: +604 955 6100
Pulau Payar Marine Park
Wondering what to do in Langkawi? Pulau Payar Marine Park is one of the most popular sites in Malaysia for watersports, so it may be time to get wet! 31km southwest of the main island of Langkawi, the crystal clear waters and abundant marine life make it perfect for snorkelling and diving.
Make your way to this protected conservation park from the Kuah Jetty – the journey will take around 45 minutes via catamaran or 35 via speedboat. This beautiful marine park encompasses four islands and has strict regulations for visitation to protect the local species of marine life. Before you decide to visit, make sure that you’ve obtained permission from the authorities – fishing is strictly prohibited within the bounds of the park.
If you’re a keen diver, make sure to visit the Coral Garden, located on the island of Pulau Payar. Sheltered from the elements, this unique and colourful coral bed has been able to grow unfettered by fishing boats and other disruptions. Swim amongst unique and beautiful fish species and bright coral formations – some of which you’ll only see here in the world.
Don’t feel like you’ve got to stay in the water all day. The islands in the park are designed to cater to all-day adventures, with restrooms, picnic tables and barbecues littered around the secluded beaches. So pack a picnic basket, bring a towel and relax under the thickets of trees for a peaceful afternoon getaway.
Location: 31km south of Langkawi
Tel: +604 966 7308
Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls
A regular feature in lists of Malaysia’s most beautiful natural features, Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfalls is easily Langkawi’s most stunning natural attraction. Small streams and rivulets connect this network of natural pools, and each is fed by its own waterfall flowing down the side of Mount Mat Cincang.
Once a spectacular cascade of natural water, development, and management of the Telaga Tujuh waterfalls has reduced the flow to a mere trickle during the dry season. Visit between June and October for the best views of these natural wonders. Don’t be concerned about dangerous torrents – during the wet season, it typically buckets down during the morning, with the afternoons being sunny, clear, and perfect for appreciating these beautiful water features.
Typical of Langkawi, the incredibly fertile soils surrounding the waterfalls are the perfect environment for local flora like lime plants, vines, and flowering trees unique to the island. In addition, the 45-minute clamber to the top of these falls will put you in the habitat of macaque monkeys, hornbills, and other animals native to Langkawi.
Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman
One for the families and mythology fans, Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman, is a spectacular fantasy garden park for all ages. Located near the Kuah Jetty, this open-air theme park details the waterfront and tourist strips with unique and glorious sculptures of some of the greatest legends in Malaysian folklore.
Not something to be tackled in one day, Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman encompasses over 50-hectares of statues, carvings, and signposts (in English!) detailing the legends attached to the art. See visual representations of beautiful princesses, terrifying ogres, giant birds of myth, and many more as you stroll through these gardens.
Whether you’re familiar with the stories or not, the scenic gardens and meticulously curated garden scapes are worth exploring. Made from vibrant local flowers, tropical fruit trees, and thick, green succulent plants, it’s easy to lose yourself for hours in this horticultural masterpiece. There are plenty of spots to set up for a picnic, or if you want to see more of the park in one go, hire a scooter or cart to get around.
Opening Hours: Every day, 09:00 – 19:00
Address: Kuah Jetty, 07000 Kuah, Malaysia
Have you visited the Langkawi beaches, or sampled the amazing Langkawi nightlife?
Check out similar local tours we have for you here!
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