10 Exhilarating things to do in Langkawi for first-timers

10 Exhilarating things to do in Langkawi for first-timers to the island

Sarah Khan

04 Jan 2017

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Langkawi Sky Bridge
The Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125 metre-long curved pedestrian bridge, set 700 metres above sea level, that offers an exhilarating (and at times unnerving) view of Gunung Mat Cincang, Telaja Tujuh waterfalls, and several of the islets surrounding Langkawi. The Sky Bridge is accessible only via the final station of the Langkawi SkyCab. As you might expect, the views here are absolutely stunning and truly picture-worthy.
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The Langkawi SkyCab
Take a ride on Langkawi's popular cable car ride, known as the Langkawi SkyCab, and marvel at the scenic panoramic views of the island, as you make your way to the top of Mount Mat Cincang. The SkyCab has one of the steepest cable car ropes in the world, which will delight the adventurous but unnerve the faint-hearted. Rest assured, however - it's completely safe.
Upon reaching the peak of the Mat Cincang mountain, you'll get to enjoy a stunning and unobstructed 360 degree view of the islands in the archipelago, which will absolutely blow you away. If you're keen on giving the SkyCab a go, we suggest avoiding the weekend crowd and heading down on a weekday instead. Also - bring a jacket as it may get slightly chilly!
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Island hop on a jetski
Without doubt, this is the best and most exhilarating way to explore the archipelago. Hop on a jetski for a half-day tour that will span 4 hours, and marvel at the stunning bizarre rock formations and white beaches in your sight. You'll get to make stops along the way to explore the islands, trek in the jungle, and swim in the freshwater lake. The jetski island hopping tour is slightly on the pricey side (at MYR500), but it is most definitely a ride you won't regret.
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Visit the Telagah Tujuh Waterfalls
Telaga Tujuh (translates to 'Seven Wells') Waterfall is named for the seven natural pools it falls into, and is often billed as Langkawi's best natural attraction. Locals claim that the waterfalls are home to fairies, and even we have to admit that the lush flora in the area does make it seem slightly magical.
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Parasailing at Tanjung Rhu
If you're in Langkawi, we strongly recommend parasailing at Tanjung Rhu, one of Langkawi's best beaches. You'll get to enjoy a stunning eagle's eye view of the beach and its beautiful bizarre limestone formations from high above.
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The glorious beaches
The beaches in Langkawi are definitely a great place for a spot of beach bumming or to catch the sunset. We recommend the Tanjong Rhu beach (at the northern tip of Langkawi); surrounded by bizarre limestone formations, it is definitely the most picturesque one on the island. Pantai Cenang, the most popular beach spot in the touristy area of Langkawi, is also worth a visit.
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Kilim Karst Geoforest Park
The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is ranked as the top attraction in Langkawi on Tripadvisor, so you know that you can't leave the island without checking it out! Hop on a boat and explore the natural park, an area spanning over 100km² featuring a stunning landscape of limestone formations, mangroves, caves and beaches.
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Explore the rice paddy fields
If you've never visited a rice paddy field before, we recommend doing so in Langkawi. The rice paddy fields are incredibly picturesque, and offers a great insight into the livelihood of Langkawi's local communities. There is a rice museum at the paddies too, with free admission; it's a great place to learn about rice cultivation on the island.
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Try street food at the night markets
You can't visit Langkawi and not give the street food at the night markets a go. Dishing out scrumptious local fare and delights at cheap prices, the night markets are a great way to try local food without hurting your budget.
You can find finger food like grilled chicken, seafood, fresh fruit juices, satay, samosas and more. The bazaar opens daily in evenings from 7pm to 10pm, but at different locations every night of the week. If you're keen on heading down, be sure to check with a local or your hotel staff where the location is for that given day!
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Skytrex Adventure
Skytrex is a newly opened outdoor adventure park, where you can climb, swing and zipline through the dense jungles of Langkawi. This is definitely the perfect activity for the adventure-hungry and adrenaline junkie.

Headed to Langkawi? Check out our top 10 things to do on the stunning island!

Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi Permata Kedah (translates to ‘Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah’) since 2008, is an archipelago on Malaysia’s west coast consisting of 99 islands. Surrounded by clear turquoise waters, pristine white beaches, lush rainforests and bizarre rock formations, it’s not hard to see why its official title is befitting.

Whether you’re a water sports or nature enthusiast, or are partial to lounging extensively sunbathing by the beach, the island has plenty to offer for everyone. Hop on the Langkawi SkyCab to get a breathtaking eagle’s eye view of the archipelago; try parasailing at Tanjung Rhu Beach over bizarre limestone formations; indulge in local street food at the night markets or visit the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, believed by locals to be home to fairies. Despite being a popular tourist destination drawing large crowds yearly, the island has managed to not be completely engulfed by commercialisation. Veer off the main tourist traps and you’ll get a glimpse of its idyllic rural side and traditional kampungs (villages).

Without doubt, Langkawi is an exciting locale perfect for the beach bummer or adventure junkie. Still not convinced? Head up to our gallery above to check out 10 fun things you can do if you’re headed to the island for the first time!

Sarah Khan

Photos: Getty Images

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