I chose to travel here by boat from Pennag. It takes around 3 hours and cost £12 GBP. I must admit, it wasn’t the most comfy ride and not a lot to see. You can pick up really cheap flights out here in Asia, some for less than £10GBP. I would fly next time, but you don’t know until you try things.
The island measures 184 square miles. Hiring a car or scooter is a must on the island unless you want to beach bum while you are here. Pantai Cenang is the main beach on the island which is very nice. There are plenty of trips you can book that will provide transport from your accommodation. However, there is no public transport apart from taxis which are limited.
First stop for me was the cable car and sky bridge. This is steepest cable car ride in the world and travels 708m above sea level to the islands second highest peak, Mt. Machinchang. There is also a 125m pedestrian sky bridge to enjoy the views which is impressive. For me, the view was much better from Gunung Raya, the highest point of Langawki at 881m, where you can get a 360 degree view of the island. I’m still glad I rode the cable car to see how steep it was – quite hairy with the wind that kindly blew on my ascent!
Back to Gunung or Mount Raya. From base to peak is 13kms. At a steady pace in a car, it takes around 30 minutes on the steep and windy road. There are a couple of stopping places, but the best place for the views is from the peak. Here there is a viewing tower which costs 10RM, less than £2 – the views are stunning. Pick a clear day to ascent, it took me 3 times to get to the top for a clear view. The cloud changes very quickly and by the time you get out the car, the view can be gone.
There can be much monkey activity on the road side here, so have the camera at the ready. I was also lucky enough to spot a troop of Dusky Leaf Monkeys.
There is plenty of water sport activity on the island. Jet skis, banana boat, parasailing etc. One good way to spend a morning or afternoon is to go on a jet ski safari out to several of the islands. Health & safety isn’t at the forefront of some of the companies minds from my personal experience and the equipment not up to scratch. However, I can recommend Naam Adventures who were top notch in every way.
Mahsuri’s Tomb is another visitor attraction on the island. In brief, according to folklore, Mahsuri was accused of adultery and stabbed to death. However, white blood flowed from her wound to signify her innocence. Mashuri then cursed the island for 7 generations. There are many differing versions of the tale. What was interesting to here are the old style Malay stilt houses made into a kampong (village).
There are numerous boat trips you can take around the islands, and many wildlife and mangroves tours. Dayang Bunting is the second largest island and here you can swim in a large fresh water lake. The name translates to ‘Island of Pregnant Maiden’. There is another famous local legend here if you wish to look it up.
I love a good sunset or rise, but sadly, the weather wasn’t so kind at the start and end of the days. I was rather pleased with these few shots though from Pantai Tengah. Pantai means beach in Malay.
For me, I just loved jumping in the car and exploring all the nooks and crannies of the island. The roads to Datai Bay and Tanjung Rhu were 2 of my favourites.
Langkawi is a duty free island and alcohol is very cheap compared to other areas of Malaysia. You can also find plenty of hawker stalls to eat or up market restaurants. Even then, you would only be paying max £15GBP for a main meal.
Langkawi didn’t lend itself to shooting with the Fuji X100T, so the Nikon has been on duty.
To sum up Langkawi, beautiful scenery and beaches, chilled atmosphere and great food!
