Langkawi Tourism

Langkawi is part of the archipelago in Malaysia, where nature predominantly rules the beauty of this serene island. The unique topography of the island, coupled with the root of its name, is derived from both Malay and Sanskrit vocabulary, roughly translated to a ‘reddish brown toned eagle’ reflecting the natural phenomena that make Langkawi tourism such a geographical anomaly in terms of tourism. 

Langkawi is a beautiful location to spend your vacation doing nothing and everything at the same time. You can relax in a spa or sauna, or go on a spiritual trip around the islands. You can shop for souvenirs, traditional clothing, and new age technology, or simply spend time by the beach, nestled under the palm trees highlighting the pearly white beaches. You can also go on adventures on land, in the air, or underwater for thrills on your Langkawi trip.

The island is home to several species of birds and animals, as well as distinguished flora. Aside from the landscape, a Langkawi tour can offer a tour through the natural wilderness providing a much-desired glimpse into the workings of mother nature. You may encounter species of both flora and fauna that you have never heard of before or seen. Local preservation committees in Langkawi are dedicated to keeping the natural habitat of these creatures untampered, which greatly contributes to the natural beauty of the island.

As a holiday destination, Langkawi is surrounded by a garland of beaches that are distinguishably white like pearls. To make this even more interesting, the marine life that lives around the island of Langkawi is nothing short of extraordinary. The climate around the island also favours the wildlife as well as marine life to thrive in this evolving environment despite global warming thrashing down on us. The island of Langkawi remains a haven protecting the locals and tourists from dry heat, which is common in most tropical regions.

The unique location and culture of Langkawi invite tourists for not only a heavenly tropical holiday but also duty-free shopping opportunities. As a part of the Kedah region, there are several designer products as well as local objects available to take home from your Langkawi holiday packages, duty-free. However, you must be aware of where to find these products, for not all stores and shopping destinations in Langkawi sell duty-free products. Designated areas that carry these items and are authorized to sell them free of customs taxes. You can speak to the shop owners and discuss if the products are duty-free. If you do procure items from these stores, make sure you hold on to the receipts for when you travel back from your trip to Langkawi.

Aside from the never-ending beaches, picturesque tropical sceneries, duty-free shopping for goods and technology, and the hidden gems that highlight the landscape of Langkawi, it is also a great place to spend time on a spiritual quest. Even though Islam is the primary religion of Langkawi, much like most of Malaysia, there are residents settled on the archipelago from India, China, Thailand, and other nearby East Asian regions. Therefore, a lot of religious practices are prevalent in Langkawi, and they all operate in harmony with each other.

You can find Buddhist temples thanks to the Chinese and Thai populations in Langkawi. There are also Hindu temples built by Indians following the age-old religion. There are even different types of churches mostly frequented by Chinese Christians practicing the different branches of the religion.

Interesting facts about Langkawi 

Langkawi is a hidden gem of Malaysia that you shouldn't miss during your Malaysia tour. As it is still being explored by geologists. There is so much to discover despite it being one of the top holiday destinations in the world. Here are some interesting facts about Langkawi that you might find entertaining: 

1. The peak season of Langkawi is not only enticing to tourists but also for migratory birds and animals. 
2. The natural, unadulterated beauty of Langkawi allows a perfect balance in the ecosystem which in turn invited some of the biggest birds, 19 raptors to be precise, to make this island their home. 
3. Speaking of the natural habitat of wildlife and aviary, there are over 500 species of insects, flowers, fruits, reptiles, birds, and wildlife that call Langkawi their home. 
4. You will also come across a large number of rare and beautiful marine life in the waters surrounding Langkawi. 
5. The number of islands that constitute the archipelago of Langkawi is still a mystery. Geologists are constantly discovering more islands, even if they are barren or filled with rocks. There is an ongoing debate about the number of islands in the area. 
6. During the safaris in Langkawi, you may be lucky enough to spot fossilised trilobite. 
7. Lemongrass is a popular herb used in Langkawi to prevent mosquitoes and other insects. 
8. The natural wilderness of Langkawi changes colour from season to season. The lush greenery of the wet season can turn brown naturally during the dry season and back to its lusciousness with rainfall. 

The natural beauty of Langkawi does not abide by the rules that govern most of the globe, which makes this island destination such a coveted vacation spot for tourists. 

Things to know before you visit Langkawi

Langkawi tourism packages are some of the most popular holiday packages these days due to the overly serene location and natural beauty. However, when planning your Langkawi trip, you need to keep in mind the following points and prepare yourself for the lovely trip: 

1. There are designated streets in Langkawi that are filled with stores that sell duty-free products. These may range from cosmetics to accessories, liquors, electronics, clothing, confectioneries, types of tobacco, wine, and a lot more. However, not all stores in Langkawi are duty-free, so make sure to discuss that with the store manager before you make your purchases. 
2. Langkawi is not big on public transportation. There aren't very many options to take a bus down to one of the main destinations in Langkawi during your trip. You need to opt for a cab service or rent motorbikes or bicycles or even a car and try to reach there yourself. In a way, it is a wonderful technique to indulge in the local Langkawi experience. You can learn to get around the city easily while learning the rich history of Langkawi. 
3. Being a tropical island comes with its challenges, and Langkawi is no exception. Carry some bug spray with you, or purchase one at a local store. The facilitators in the area will assist in keeping away the mosquitoes and fruitflies that hover around. It is not dangerous, just a little annoying.
4. Follow the directions along the coastline that indicates where the jellyfish are mostly found in the waters around Langkawi, or consult with a coast guard to avoid such areas. When going swimming or underwater diving, make sure to equip yourself with the proper gear in order to avoid these marine creatures. If you do get bitten, don't panic and seek immediate medical attention. The sting of most jellyfishes are not dangerous, but they do burn a little. They can be easily treated with home remedies, and sometimes you may not even feel them. But it is best to avoid them. 
5. Make sure to carry cash with you when visiting on your Langkawi tourism packages. Most parts of the island still run on cash, and even if you're debit or credit card is equipped with international transactions, there aren't many ATMs around, which results in the existing ones running out of cash incredibly quickly. It is also best to exchange your cash with the help of Thomas Cook before you start your travel or in the mainland of Malaysia as the exchange rates offered at the archipelago of Langkawi are relatively higher, and you may find yourself at a loss. 
6. The main religion of Langkawi is Islam which is why during Ramadan season, most of the shops and institutions may be closed for business. It is best to plan your trip around the end of Ramadan if you wish to partake in the festivities or before and after the month-long religious practices. 
7. Given the predominant practices of Islam, be considerate of your clothing when packing for your Langkawi trip. Avoid provocative clothing, and when visiting religious institutions, make sure to cover yourself up appropriately so as not to offend the sentiments of the locals and religious believers. 
8. Apart from Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism are also largely practised in Langkawi. So, if you wish for an inclusive religious tour, this is the perfect place to not only partake in these diverse religious practices and festivities but also celebrate mother nature in her utmost glory. 
9. As a tourist on your Langkawi travel packages, be a little cautious and adorn yourself with confidence when navigating through the towns. When visiting tourist places to visit in Langkawi, opt for an official tour guide with credentials if you absolutely need one and stick to populated areas most of the time.  

Langkawi Location

Langkawi is located on the northwestern side of the Malaysian coast. It is basically an archipelago consisting of several islands that covers an area of approximately 26 square kilometres. Not only is it a long stretch of white sandy beaches but also dense forest lands, including the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, filled with mangroves and a series of caves and waterfalls, including the seven wells waterfall. 

Langkawi is the primary island in the archipelago in the Malaysian Pulau peninsula as a part of the Strait of Malacca. Tarutao, an island part of Thailand, lies to the north of Langkawi. The archipelago is governed by the Kedah Malay but is home to residents hailing from China, Thailand, India, and other nearby countries.

Best time to visit Langkawi 

Due to the tropical location of Langkawi, the island experience is pretty moderate temperature with the sway towards warm climatic conditions. Summers in Langkawi can be extremely and brutally hot with high levels of humidity, which thankfully invites a lot of precipitation as well. 

If you are planning your Langkawi tourism packages, the best time for a Langkawi trip is before, during, and just after winter. This would be the months of November through February when the climate is relatively cooler with a light breeze. The sun is welcome for beachside fun. The autumnal beauty of Langkawi is best experienced at the beginning of November in the dense forest lands just after the monsoon and the springtime is absolutely divine. 

Summertime is not the worst time to visit Langkawi since the rates of travel, accommodation, and activities are relatively lower. With a little sunscreen and beach umbrellas, you can also plan your Langkawi tour from the months of March to august when the weather is pleasant, albeit with fluctuating rainfalls and summer heat as the climate shifts from day to night. It is still a good time to explore the islands with a little planning ahead. 

If you wish to experience the pinnacle of Langkawi experience, then the best time to visit Langkawi is from November to the beginning of March when the tropical climate is better suited for tourism. You can partake in a lot of land, water and aerial activities during this time to make your Langkawi trip memorable. 

How to get to Langkawi? 

As an island destination, there are two major ways to reach Langkawi. Here are the best means of transportation that you can opt for when travelling from India for your Langkawi travel packages: 

By Air 

In order to avoid wasting time travelling, the most popular means to reach Langkawi is by flight. International airports in major cities of India, such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, offer flights from top airlines. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to Langkawi from India. However, you can opt for flights that are headed to Thailand or Malaysia, which further connect you to Langkawi. 

The Langkawi international airport is located approximately 13 kilometres away from the main centre of the city. You can take a cab or opt for tour bus services from Langkawi international airport to your accommodation within the city. You can speak to your travel advisor at Thomas Cook to arrange for transportation from the airport to your hotel. The cost of this travel as well as Langkawi sightseeing, can be added to your Langkawi trip packages at additional costs based on the type of package you choose. Some of the popular Langkawi tourism packages offer these services included in your Langkawi package plan. 

By Water 

One of the lesser popular means of transportation to Langkawi is by means of waterways, cruises to be exact. If you are looking for a luxurious vacation, when there are multiple cruises available from India over international waters headed either directly to Malaysia or through Thailand. The travel could take a while, but these luxury cruises are adept at keeping you entertained and well taken care of during your journey. 

You can also opt for ships headed to Langkawi or ferries from the main islands of Malaysia if you have a trip planned for a tour of the entire country. This is a faster means of travel; however, unless your trip involves travelling through Malaysia and then heading to Langkawi, it can prove to be a bit expensive. 

The history of Langkawi

Despite the beauty of the island, Langkawi is steeped in folklore history. 

The locals believe that the execution of a young woman by the name of Mahsuri was the reason for their isolated existence for centuries. It was said that the young girl was accused of committing adultery and persecuted for the same. She claimed and tried to prove her innocence but remained unheard and ignored. The villagers went on to execute her. That is when Mahsuri decided to bestow her wrath on the island in a fit of scorned rage. 

Mahsuri claimed that the island would remain forlorn, devastated, and devoid of cultivation so her executioners could suffer the fate of punishing an innocent soul. The locals strongly believe in this folklore and blame it for the years of misfortune they had to endure. 

Not only was Langkawi gruesomely pointless to cultivate, but the land of the locals was constantly under siege by neighbouring empires. This went on for centuries till the last invasion by Thailand in the early 1800s. It is believed that her curse was finally lifted after 200 years of suffering, and the land bore beautiful vegetation and forestry. 

Her curse on the land that lasted through seven generations for 200 years is part of the reason why Langkawi is unadulterated and isolated, making it the perfect holiday destination to relax and escape the dreariness of city life. The residents of the island also learn to be more tolerant and less judgmental towards fellow residents as well as tourists.  

Folklore or not, it makes for an interesting island getaway, thanks to Mahsuri.

The culinary charms of Langkawi

The beaches of Langkawi are lined with cafes and restaurants with scenic views of the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. The culinary charms of Langkawi are just as appealing, and here are some of the dishes that you simply must try during your Langkawi tour: 

1. Assam Pedas - Don't be fooled by the name; this dish has nothing to do with the state of Assam in India. In fact, this delicacy hails from Spain. It is a spicy stew made of shrimp paste, chilli, tamarind, and spices before the mackerel is dropped into this lip-smacking gravy. 
2. Ayam Masak Merah - Craving chicken on this island dominated by seafood? This exquisite chicken dish prepared in a tomato sauce and garnished with peas, chilli, corn, carrot slices, and herbs we'll hit the right spot every time. 
3. Beef Rendang - A simple traditional food very bowl of ghee rice or a dumpling made primarily of rice is served alongside curried beef cubes that are slow-cooked with various herbs, spices, and roasted coconut shavings. It also constitutes a unique element found in the rainforest called Asam Keping. 
4. Gulai Ikan Talang Masin - If you are fond of seafood, then the simple recipe of fish curry made from queenfish from salted waters, various vegetables, chopped pieces of pineapple, and a lemongrass and coconut gravy will leave your mouthwatering. 
5. Ikan Bakar - As a tropical island, seafood is one of the primary constituents in most recipes in Langkawi. Ikan Bakar is a form of grilled fish that is marinated with fermented shrimp paste, turmeric, sambal, chilli, and herbs and then grilled on charcoal. 
6. Nasi Goreng Kampung – An incredible comfort food you simply must try on your vacation, especially if the weather gets dreary, is Nasi Goreng Kampung. It is basically fried rice that is served with a side of crunchy beans, onions, water, spinach, and eggs. You can also request a side of chicken or anchovies as per your preference and some chilli sauce for the authentic Langkawi spicy meal. 
7. Nasi Lemak - If you are looking for a full-blown Malaysian meal, then nasi lemak is just the way to go. A bed of rice with coconut essence is served alongside fried peanuts, boiled eggs, anchovies (if you like), and a spicy sauce made of shrimp paste. 
8. Nasi Tomato - The Tamil culture has a great influence on Malaysia which also reflects in the food. One of the most famous dishes prepared in Tamil Nadu is tomato rice which is also available in Langkawi as Nasi Tomato. It is rice cooked in a paste of tomatoes and coconut milk before adding simmered onions and garlic coupled with sugar and locally grown spices. 
9. Pajeri Nenas - With the abundance of tropical fruits, why wouldn't the locals come up with a unique delicacy that involves pineapples? This unusually sweet and sour gravy is made of pineapples dropped in a curry made from coconut paste, herbs and spices. 
10. Satay - The famously skewered meat chunks from Thailand have a special rendition when served in Langkawi. The marinated meat is placed on long skewers and marinated all night. Charcoal BBQ is then used to roast the meat before serving it with peanut sauce and slices of cucumber. 

Things to do in Langkawi

As a beachside destination with mountains just within arm’s reach, Langkawi is a cornucopia of activities. Here are some of the top things to do on your Langkawi trip: 

1. Walk across the Langkawi Skybridge for a panoramic view of the island. 
2. Explore the marine life around Langkawi with underwater adventures. 
3. Visit the Pulau Payar Marine Park with friends and family for a fun-filled afternoon. 
4. Stroll along the seaside while letting your feet sink into the white sandy beaches. 
5. Go hiking through the cliff sides and explore the caves and waterfalls of Langkawi. 
6. Trek through the Skytrail jungle and catch a glimpse of the indigenous wildlife as well as the unique flora that grows in the region. 
7. Experience the life of Tarzan on the Skytrex adventure while you swing, fly, or glide through the forest lands. 
8. Get up close and personal at the crocodile adventure land to catch a glimpse of the glorious creatures in their natural habitat. Don't worry; as long as you stay on the other side of the fence, you're perfectly safe. 
9. Check out the Langkawi wildlife park and bird paradise to witness the wild creatures where they really belong. 
10. Go clubbing at Antero or enjoy a wonderful seaside meal at Charlie’s bar and kitchen. 
11. Take a ferry ride and check out the various islands that are part of the Langkawi archipelago. 
12. Zip through the skies on the Langkawi supplying adventure and catch a bird's eye view of the dense forest beneath. 
13. Another excellent way to catch a bird's eye view is the Langkawi cable car, wherein you can sort through the skies in a metal box from one end to the other of the Langkawi hills. 
14. Take a tour of eagle square, also known as Dataran Lang, where you can find a sculpture of the largest eagle you will ever see. 
15. Hike up to Gunung Raya and bask in the serenity of the scenic view of the valley. 
16. Go on a unique adventure at the Langkawi Arts and paradise 3D Museum with its realistic display of the past and present aspects of evolution through art. 
17. Learn about the folklore and mythical history of Langkawi through the 17 renowned sculptures at the Taman Lagenda Museum. 
18. Take part in the regatta at Langkawi held by the yacht club. 
19. Go for a safari through the mangroves at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. 
20. Explore the local villages and learn the mysteries of the land. 
21. Shop at the night market for souvenirs and unique handcrafted products to commemorate your Langkawi tourism packages. 

Visa applications for Langkawi

Travelling from India to Langkawi is an exciting adventure, especially for Indians. You can apply for a visa that allows you to enter the Malay island of Langkawi on multiple occasions for a whole year. Each time you enter the country, you can only stay for 30 days but cannot extend your stay beyond that time. You must exit the country and come back. This is invaluable for tourists who wish to visit different parts of Malaysia over a period of a year during different climatic conditions. 

You can also opt for a single entry visa that is valid for three months. Being a tourist visa, this type of single entry visa is only available from the day of issuance up to 90 days without an option to extend your stay. 

Regardless of the type of visa you choose for your Langkawi tourism packages from India, you must furnish the LKG council with a filled-out application form, your travel itinerary, your reason for travel, and bank statements proving that you can support yourself monetarily during your Langkawi trip packages. 

Foreign currency exchange for Langkawi

It is always best to convert your money into the local currency of the country to which you travel for contingency. Luckily, Thomas Cook offers a wide array of services in foreign currency exchange to help travellers experience a hassle-free trip to Langkawi. You can speak to your travel advisor about converting your Indian rupees to Malaysian ringgits before your travel or choose to exchange your money at one of the many forex facilities available throughout Malaysia, including the archipelago of Langkawi.