Langkawi Overview

Langkawi comprises a group of 104 tropical islands lying off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, about 30 km from Kuala Perlis and 51 km from Kuala Kedah.

The main islands are richly blessed with a heritage of fabulous myths and legends: of ogres and gigantic birds, warriors and fairy princesses, battles and romance.

With a geological history dating back 500 million odd years, the islands contain unique rock formations that stir the imagination and baffle the mind. Numerous caves, with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites, taunt the adventurous and unravel their ancient secrets.

Fine beaches offer sun-filled days of complete relaxation. The clear, emerald waters around the islands provide a host of water sports and recreation and a magical world of marine life. Nestling amidst the mist-covered hills, limestone outcrops and lush forest are fascinating waterfalls that are host to other interesting fauna ad flora.

For those with a yen for adventure, jungle trekking and a boat trips up rivers and around the islands are most rewarding. The rustic beauty of the islands is in itself a compelling attraction.

Hotels and resorts complexes are mainly based along the islands west coast with a few dotted around Khua town and on the more northern coasts. The beaches also offer bungalow style accommodation and although there are no official camping grounds, camping on a plot of open ground is not uncommon.

Kuah

Kuah, the main town, is located on the southeastern side of Pulau Langkawi. It is the take off point to the neighbouring islands by ferry. The name "Kuah" is a Malay word meaning "gravy" and involves an old legend of two battling giants who overturned a gigantic pot of curry at the spot where the town now stands.

Once a rustic town with a few streets, Kuah today is a thriving centre of modern hotels and shopping-cum-business complexes but without the over-crowding and bustle of modern cities. It is a duty free shopping haven with a wide variety of goods sold at attractive prices. The multi-racial population produces excellent culinary delights, especially fresh seafood.

Climate

The wet season in Langkawi is around April to October. The rest of the year is the dry season which tends to be much dryer than other parts of Malaysia and temperatures on the whole average around 32 deg.C. in all seasons.