asia destinations

Lake of The Pregnant Maiden / Tasik Dayang Bunting

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:33:00 +0000

Nestled amidst lush forested hills on an island south of Pulau Langkawi is Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of The Pregnant Maide ), the largest lake in Langkawi. The outline of hills and rocky outcrops on one side of the lake resembles the shape of a pregnant maiden lying on her back. However, the name of both the island and the lake is attributed to the legend of a lovely fairy princess who married an earthly prince. Her first child died shortly after birth. She was so sad and depressed that she buried the child in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Before she returned to her celestial abode, she blessed the waters so that any childless maiden who bathed in the lake would conceive thereafter.

Seven Wells / Telaga Tujuh

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:32:00 +0000

Located in the north-western corner of Pulau Langkawi, Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) is a geological marvel. The waterfall is so named because its cascading waters is broken by a series of seven natural pools. The lush green forest that surrounds the waterfall adds a mystical touch to the natural splendour.

Legend has it that fairies used to come down to the waterfall to bathe and frolic.

Tanjung Rhu

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:29:00 +0000

Tanjung Rhu lies on the northern cape of Pulau Langkawi. Aptly named for its abundance of casuarinas, its enchanting beach affords magnificent views of nearby islands which can be reached at low tide on foot. An experience not to be missed.

A short journey by boat from Tanjung Rhu brings you to the doorstep of Gua Cherita (Cave of Legends). As its name implies, the cave is steeped in fabled tales of mystery and romace.

Summer Palace Langkawi

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:27:00 +0000

Summer Palace Langkawi is situated amidst lush tropical greenery at Pantai Kok, on the north western coastline. In 1999, 20th Century Fox commissioned the construction of this magnificent and expensive movie set for the making of the film 'Anna and the King'.

Built almost entirely of local timbers by local and foreign artisans, the Summer Palace resembles a traditional Thai Palace. The palace encompasses an area of 675 square metres and stands 16.6 metres high. Apart from the original movie set, a restaurant, souvenir shops and pavilion have been added.

Pulau Singa Besar

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:25:00 +0000

Pulau Singa Besar:Area: 636 ha, 6.5km long from north to south and 2.5km from east to west.
It consists mainly of steep hilly land covered by tropical forest. 75% of the land with gradient of 20° or more.
3 primary watersheds. The Sg. Botol and Sg. Pantai flowing down to the east of the island and the Sg. Sepai to the northen coast.
The top soil (kekura series), is thin layered. Towards the southern part of the island the land is rocky and devoid of soil.
Limestone outcrops are prominent on the north eastern part of the island.
The island geology is unique and has a formation called the Singa Formation.

Monkeys, deer, iguanas and peacocks roam about freely on Pulau Singa Besar, a wildlife sanctuary located southwest of Pulau Langkawi. Picnic on the pristine beaches and enjoy swimming in the surrounding waters. To preserve the island's natural surroundings, no hotels or chalets have been built. Instead, camping is encouraged. However, visitors will have to bring along their own tents and camping equipment if they wish to spend the night on the island.

Pulau Payar Marine Park

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:19:00 +0000

The Pulau Payar Marine Park is situated in the northern part of the Straits of Melaka, 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi and encompasses the islands of Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca which are surrounded by coral reefs. The marine park teems with a fascinating diversity of marine life and vegetation.

Many endangered species of fishes and marine organisms live within the sanctuary. Measuring 2km long and 1/4 km wide, Pulau Payar is the most popular of the islands as its sheltered waters are ideal are for snorkeling, diving and swimming. Among the enchanting dive spots is the "Coral Garden", an area covered with bright, multi-hued soft corals.

There are several sandy beaches on Pulau Payar island for picnics as well as hiking trails for those who wish to explore the island. Just off the beach, one can indulge in the thrilling experience of feeding baby sharks. Facilities include gazebos, picnic tables, barbecue pits and restrooms at selected areas. There is also a Visitors' Centre that provides information about the marine park

Visitors can get to Pulau Payar from the Kuah jetty point by catamaran or speed boat. The catamaran services operated by Langkawi Coral, takes about 45 minutes to get to Pulau Payar while the speed boat takes an hour. It is advisable to book the catamaran service a day before the trip. Enquiries can be made with any travel agent in Kuah or at the jetty point for those intending to travel by speed boat. Apart from the fare, a levy of RM5.00 for adults and RM2.50 for children is charged for entry to the marine park.

Mahsuri Mausoleum / Makam Mahsuri

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:17:00 +0000

With its fabled and historical past, Langkawi is a treasure trove for visitors. Among the significant sites on the island that have been preserved for posterity is Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri's Mausoleum) about 12 kilometres from Kuab. This shrine was erected in honour of Mahsuri, a fair maiden who was unjustly accused of adultery. According to legend, she bled white blood at her execution as a sign of her innocence. In her dying breath, she laid a curse on the island that it would remain barren for seven generations. Fact or fiction, seven generations have since passed and today, Langkawi is a flourishing tourist destination.

Royal Langkawi Yacht Club

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:14:00 +0000

Situated on the south-east corner of Langkawi island close to the island's main town, providing excellent access to duty-free shops and business facilities.

Royal Langkawi Yacht Club accommodate mega-yachts up to 60 m with a low tide depth of 3 meters. Pontoons have direct electricity, fuel and water supply and offer high-speed wi-fi internet. Immigration and Customs are conveniently situated just a few minutes walk from Royal Langkawi Yacht Club marina.

Royal Langkawi Yacht Club is the perfect place for your special events - we can provide meals in exclusive surroundings for up to 300 people.

Royal Langkawi Yacht Club luxury facilities include a swimming pool and large clubhouse incorporating the marina office, two great restaurants, a convenience store, internet cafe, yacht brokers and PADI dive shop, 205 modern berths accommodating up to 60 m mega-yachts, and diesel fuel station.

Royal Langkawi International Regatta is proud to be home of the world class annual Royal Langkawi International Regatta, sponsored this year by BMW.

One of Asia's premier sailing events, the regatta sails into its third chapter from 27 February to 5 March 2005 in Malaysia's legendary Pulau Langkawi. Seasoned sailors and cruising yachtsmen will battle in the high seas off the RLYC in four gruelling races over four days for the coveted prizes.

Langkawii Crystaal

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:11:00 +0000

Located along Jalan Kisap, 5 km north of Kuah town and 20 km from the airport, Langkawii Crystaal offers an attractive and exquisite range of glass products. Visitors will find a wide choice of skilfully crafted crystal items to suit every occasion. There are also special collections for those who demand exclusiveness.

At Langkawii Crystaal you will be mesmerised by the extraordinary glass blowing skills of craftsmen dedicated to producing glassware of the highest standards and quality. Take the opportunity to test your glass blowing skills here.

Langkawi Crocodile Farm/ Taman Buaya Langkawi

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:02:00 +0000

Taman Buaya Langkawi or Langkawi Crocodile Farm is situated at Teluk Datai, about 3Okm from Kuah Town.

The farm covers 20 acres that houses more than 1000 crocodiles. Registered with The Convention on International Trade and Endanger Species (CITES), the farm has many attractions for the tourist. Amongs them are:

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Feeding Pond.
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Species Pond. You would be able to see crocodiles and alligator species from all over the world.
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Breeding Pond. Crocodiles mate and nest here.
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Show Pond. Watch man and crocodile 'wrestle' with each other.
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Bridge-Over-Pond. Enables you to get a closer look at crocodiles.

At the exhibition centre you would also be able to watch an audio-visual presentation on the life-cycle of crocodiles. There are also specimens a photographs of crocodile eggs, crocodile skeletons, etc. on display.

The farm is equipped with a fast-food shop, toilets and a car park.

Langkawi Cable Car

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:00:00 +0000

Also located inside the Oriental Village, the clear bubble shaped cable car takes the 2.2km ride up the mountainside on a 42 degree incline. Gunung Macincang at 708 metres offers a spectacular view. Starting from about sea level, the Cable Car rises from about sea level to an altitude of over 700 metres. Along the near vertical lift, tourists are presented with the towering clif

To fully appreciate the stunning views, a lot has to do with the prevailing weather conditions, so if it is overcast or raining, it may be best to wait for a clearer day. There are two viewing stations and it is possible to get off and rejoin the cable car at station one. A walking trek from Station one, uphill to Station two has been carved through the vegetation allowing a refreshing walk through the forest

Langkawi Bird Paradise / Taman Burung Langkawi

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:55:00 +0000

Discover The Fascination Of Langkawi Bird Paradise.

Come discover the exciting world of birds and nature......At Langkawi Bird Paradise. With hundreds of the world's rarest and most beautiful birds greeting you as you stroll through tropical gardens. The Macaw's Courtyard, Flamingo Pond, and the clever impersonation of Cockatoo and Myna are just a few marvelous sights you will experience.

Laman Padi Langkawi

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:54:00 +0000

Laman Padi Langkawi is Langkawi's latest attraction and one that should not be missed for agro-tourism lovers. Located at Pantai Cenang, in the vicinity of the island's popular beach resorts and just 10 minutes from the airport, Laman Padi Langkawi showcases the history, heritage and development of the nation's rice growing industry.

Among the attractions here is a rice museum displaying artifacts, charts and photographs showing the significance of padi cultivation to the country. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a bird's eye view of the fields from a roof-top garden. For the uninitiated, try your hand at -padi planting using both traditional as well as modern methods of cultivation. There is also a restaurant offering popular traditional Malay recipies and local delicacies which are prepared using rice as the main ingredient.

Lagenda Park / Taman Lagenda

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:52:00 +0000

Langkawi's "Legend On The Park" is more than just a scenic park with beautiful gardens of vivid local blooms, plants and fruit trees. It is a 50-acre park with 17 story-telling monuments, 4 artifical lakes and a man-made beach which provide a picturesque and fitting backdrop for buildings showcasing Malaysia's rich cultural heritage.

Within the park, there are also some fine examples of traditional Malaysian handicraft and cultural objects.

Malaysia Book Village / Kampung Buku Malaysia

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:50:00 +0000

Kampung Buku Malaysia in Langkawi is the first and only book village in Southeast Asia. It is part of the International Book Villages and Book Towns Movement.

It is located just 10 minutes from the Langkawi International Airport and 15 minutes from the Ferry Terminal. Situated amidst a lush green forest at the foot of Gunung Raya, the highest peak on the island, the book village provides book lovers a tranquil setting to indulge in their hobby.

The various houses in the village are stocked with a great variety of new books on numerous topics and languages as well as second-hand, rare and antiquarian books.

Gua Cherita

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:48:00 +0000

A short journey by boat from Tanjung Rhu brings you to the doorstep of Gua Cherita (Cave of Legends). As its name implies, the cave is steeped in fabled tales of mystery and romance.
On the walls of the cave can be seen ancient writing which has yet to be deciphered.

The cave found here has a legend of a giant Vishnu eagle that used this cave to shelter and protect a royal princess from China in the legendary tale of Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa. For those who dare venture into the cave you will have the oppurtunity to see a rock formation that resembles a sleeping princesss.

The beach fronting the cave will give an angler hours of superb fishing.

Galeria Perdana

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:46:00 +0000

The Galeria Perdana at Kilim, about 11 km from Kuah, houses an impressive collection of over 2,500 state gifts and awards presented to the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and his wife, YBhg. Datin Seri Dr. Siti Hasmah bt. Mohd. Ali. The exhibits include fine crystal ware and gifts fashioned out of wood, leather, silver, copper, pewter, ceramics and glass. There are also musical instruments, Islamic art and craft, textiles and weapons. A part of the display includes various prototype cars and 4~wheel drive vehicles.
The Galeria Perdana comprises of 2 double storey buildings set within a beautifully landscaped garden.
Photography is not allowed inside the gallery. Pictures of exhibits are available for sale at the souvenir shop

Eagle Square / Dataran Lang

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:43:00 +0000

Eagle Square is Langkawi's most prominent landmark for visitors arriving by sea.

Situated near the Kuah jetty, the main attraction of the square is the magnificent statue of the reddish brown eagle majestically poised for flight. According to local folklore, Langkawi derived its name from- the eagle or "helang". In old Malay, "kawi" denotes reddish brown - hence, Langkawi means reddish brown eagle!

The square is beautifully landscaped and features scenic ponds, bridges, covered terraces, restaurants and barrel vaults made of bricks. Its close proximity to the sea and the soft breezes make it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and a tranquil setting for dining in the cool evenings.

The square is beautifully illuminated at night and presents a dramatic scene as you approach the island by sea. Indeed, the majestic eagle is strategically positioned to welcome visitors to Langkawi.

Craft Cultural Complex

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:41:00 +0000

The Craft Cultural Complex is located on the northern coastline of Langkawi Island in the vicinity of Teluk Yu, about 30 minutes drive from the airport or 45 minutes from Kuah town. Nestled on a hillside overlooking the sea, this magnificent complex offers a wide range of Malaysian handicraft such as delicate hand drawn batik and intricately carved silverware and an assortment of handmade and exquisitely crafted Langkawii Crystaal. Other attractive items on display include basketry, ceramics, wood and rattan-based products as well as costume jewellery.

Black Sand Beach

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:39:00 +0000

Black Sand Beach Some believe that the remains from the great battle between Garuda and Jentayu still existed, and can be seen as Skull Beach, Cape of Bones (Tanjung Tulang) and Black Sand Beach, where remains of skulls, broken bones and ship wrecks can be found. Others claim that these remains belong to the traders who sank together with their ships, because of the whirlpools that existed in the Northern part of Langkawi island.

Batik Art Village (Atma Alam)

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:37:00 +0000

Atma Alam, Langkawi's original Art Village in Padang Mat Sirat was made possible by a young couple set out to realize a long-time dream. Aza Osman, an oil painter and Roshadah Yusof, a batik artist, have created a wonderful heaven of art and culture, showcasing the creative energy of a generation.

Atma Alam welcomes the individual and group to take part in the village atmosphere and choose from a wide selection of regional mementos. Original oil and batik paintings are on sale and can be specially requested.

Air Hangat Village

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:35:00 +0000

Air Hangat Village is a new tourism concept that sees the redevelopment of the former tourist spot known as Telaga Air Hangat (Hot Springs). The entertainment complex covers some four acres. Attractions include a 3-tier hot-spring fountain, 18 meters hand-carved riverstone mural depicting the legends of Air Hangat, day-long outdoor entertainment programme featuring Malaysian/ ASEAN cultural dances and traditional sports and games, live displays of Malaysian/ASEAN customs, Malay folk and classical dances are performed at the Park, alongside other traditional Malay art and craft activities like batik-painting, congkat playing and foot massage.
Food and beverage facilities include a cafe, a lounge and a theatre restaurant. Duty free shopping is available at the pavilions. The village complex is only about 14 km from Kuah Town.

Duty Free Shopping

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:30:00 +0000

Langkawi is a duty-free shopping haven offering an attractive range of local and imported goods for those with a yen for shopping.
Most of the island's shopping establishments can be found in and around Kuah. A good Place to start one's shopping spree is the modern Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall, consisting of 100 retail lots housed in a 2-storey building. Its anchor tenant, the Samudra Duty Free Department Store, stocks a wide selection of items such as perfumes and fragrances, cosmetics, leather wear, sports gear, ladies' accessories, confectionary, liquor and cigarettes.

The other shopping outlets to check out in Kuah is the Langkawi Duty Free (M) Sdn. Bhd and the Saga Shopping Centre. The former sells a range of duty free items and the latter a variety of imported kitchenware and household appliances, clothing, luggage, confectionary and assorted goods. There are also other shops where shoppers can browse for bargains and perhaps pick up some local items. The Teow Soon Huat Departmental Store in Pokok Assam just outside the town is another shopping outlet which is worthwhile exploring. Visitors to the Langkawi Underwater World at Pantai Cenang should not miss the Zone Shopping Paradise Duty Free Centre housed within the same complex. The wide range of items on sale include cigarettes, liquor, cosmetics, watches, fashion wear, jewellery, confectionary and batik.

Another popular shopping stop, especially for visitors departing Langkawi by ferry, is the Jetty Point Duty Free Complex, a 5-minute taxi ride from Kuah town. Here, There is also an attractive range of duty free items available including ladies and men's apparel and bric-a-brac.
Among the many choices for shoppers include souvenir items such as pewter, handicraft, batik, crystals and glassware. Others include confectionary, liquor, silk fabrics, perfumes and fragrances, cosmetics, shoes and seafood items.
Visitors are allowed to bring back to the mainland one bottle of liquor and one carton of cigarettes after staying at least 48 hours on the island.

Shopping Centres

* Langkawi Mall
Pokok Asam Arcade, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Langkawi Fair Shopping Complex
Persiaran Putra, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Jetty Point Duty Free Complex
Jetty Point, Kuah Jetty 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Saga Shopping Centre
Plot 12-21, (Lot 1861), Kuah, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Teow Soon Huat
Supermarket & Departmental Store, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Langkawi Duty Free (M) Sdn. Bhd.
1078 Persiaran Putra, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Zone Shopping Paradise
The Underwater World, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah.
* Kamdar
Langkawi Mall, Persiaran Bunga Raya, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.
* Idaman Suri
Langkawi Mall, No. 120 & 122, Persiaran Bunga Raya, 07000 Kuah, Langkawi, Kedah.

Langkawi Island - Getting There

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:26:00 +0000

By Road
Visitors travelling by road have to drive to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis on the north-western coast of Peninsular Malaysia, the main take-off points by ferry to Langkawi. The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah takes about 6 hours while Kuala Perlis is another one hour away. Car parking facilities are available at both points.

By Air
The Langkawi International Airport at Padang Mat Sirat is about 20 km from Kuah and 8 km from the beach resorts in Pantai Cenang. Direct air services from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi are provided by .Malaysia Airlines on a daily basis and Air Asia five times weekly. Silk Air also flies regularly from Singapore to the island. There are also direct international flights to Langkawi from Osaka and Taipei.

By Rail
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) or Malayan Railway provides comfortable and economical rail services from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar and Arau. From Alor Setar or Arau, you can take a taxi or bus to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis respectively and then proceed by ferry to Langkawi.

By Ferry
There are 4 ports of embarkation from where one can take a ferry to Langkawi Islands.Three are in Malaysia and one in southern Thailand. The ports are:-

1. Kuala Perlis in Perlis
Kuala Perlis is about 30.5 Km from Langkawi Island.It provides the shortest route to the island.This fishing village at the mouth of Perlis River is becoming increasingly important as the transit point to Langkawi.Its ferry terminal has been upgraded recently to upgrade the passenger facilities. Kuala Perlis can be reached via road and rail.Keretapi Tanah Melayu or KTM (Malayan Railways) provides comfortable train service (Langkawi Express) from Kuala Lumpur to Arau,from where one can take a taxi to Kuala Perlis.

2. Kuala Kedah in Kedah
Kuala Kedah also provides ferry services to Langkawi Islands.One can travel to Kuala Kedah by road or rail.Train travellers have to proceed to Kuala Kedah in a taxi from Alor Star.A new jetty terminal has been constructed here to cater for the increase in the passenger flow to Langkawi Island.

3. Georgetown in Penang Island
There is also a ferry service from Penang Island to Langkawi.

4. Satun in South Thailand
There are 3 ferry services daily to Lagkawi from Satun.

By Cruise
A novel way to take a holiday to Langkawi is by cruise ship. Cruises are of varying duration depending on the ports of call en-route to Langkawi. Embarkation points are at Port Klang and Singapore.

Langkawi Island - Location Map

noreply@blogger.com (abangM) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:25:00 +0000