With turquoise surf, golden beaches, and soaring mountains, the laidback island of Langkawi is filled with unparalleled, gorgeous landscapes. This idyllic destination is actually an archipelago of 99 islands off the coast of Malaysia, and there is an incredible amount to see and explore. Ascend Cincang Mountain in the renowned cable car and marvel as lush rainforests sweep towards sandy beaches or cruise among the coral reefs in Pulau Payar Marine Park. Explore rugged sea caves hidden among verdant mangrove forests in Kilim Geopark, then hike to Durian Pernangin and discover magnificent waterfalls. Visit well-known attractions like Pantai Cenang Beach, but make sure to add these amazing, non-touristy experiences to your itinerary as well! From fascinating museums to fantastic spas, Langkawi is filled with unbeatable experiences. Read the list of the best non-touristy things to do in Langkawi, and start planning your trip!
1. Cruise through mangrove forests along the Kilim River (from USD 51.0)
Surround yourself with the beauty of nature on this tour of the Kilim River. Over the course of three hours, an experienced guide will lead you through spectacular twists and turns of mangrove forests and past remarkable limestone rock formations. As you cruise along the river to visit a hidden cave filled with bats, you will see great eagles skim the water’s surface, and monkeys clamber over rugged rocks. The tour culminates at the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park where you will learn about a floating fish farm!
Langkawi Mangrove Kilim UNESCO Geopark and Cave Exploring Tour
Duration: 5 hours
2. Take a ferry to Eagle Square
Cruise the gentle waters of the bay in a ferry to visit a landmark of the city, Eagle Square, which is known as Dataran Lang in Malay. Located next to the jetty in Kuah Town, this star-shaped platform is home to a massive statue of an eagle posed as if to take flight. The beautiful, reddish-brown bird is a symbol of Langkawi, as the city’s name derives from the old Malay words for eagle, and the sculpture is especially impressive at night when it stands illuminated in front of its mountainous backdrop. In addition to this magnificent statue, Eagle Square is filled with picturesque fountains and bridges, as well as lovely restaurants and eateries.
Eagle Square
Address: Persiaran Putera Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
3. Learn Thai boxing at Cenang Muay Thai Gym
Posted by Cenang Muay Thai Gym on Thursday, 20 December 2018
Work up a sweat at the Cenang Muay Thai Gym. At this fantastic establishment, you can learn the art of Thai boxing, a unique combat sport which is known as the “art of eight limbs,” because of fighter’s use of their fists, elbows, knees, and shins. The fantastic coaches at the gym can help with techniques and training, and create an intense workout.
Cenang Muay Thai Gym
Address: Jalan Surau Pantai Cenang . Mukim Kedawang, Langkawi 07000
Website: Cenang Muay Thai Gym
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 7:30pm (closed on Sun)
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4. Eat Malaysian delicacies at Temonyong Night Market
If you are in town on a Thursday night, this vibrant market should definitely be added to your to-do list. Popular with tourists and locals alike, this market is filled with cheap, delicious food options. Sample sweet treats like crunchy fried bananas, or fill up on grilled skewers of chicken and beef, hot pancakes of fresh fish, and so much more. After feasting on traditional dishes, wash everything down with a mouthwatering fresh fruit juice. Whatever flavor you fancy, you’re sure to find something tasty down the many colorful stalls.
Temonyong Night Market
Address: Kampung Lubok Buaya, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Website: Temonyong Night Markets
Opening hours: Thu: 5pm - 10pm (closed from Fri - Wed)
5. Check out Formula One racing cars and other unique objects at the Galeria Perdana
The Galeria Perdana is a brilliant institution that is filled with all kinds of unique surprises. This extraordinary museum features the amazing collection that Dr. Mahatir Mohamad received, as well as the many awards and souvenirs he collected, during his time as the longest-serving prime minister of Malaysia. While only 2,000 objects are on display at once, the museum actually has over 9,000 exhibits on rotation! In this fantastic museum, you can find everything from Formula One racing cars to massive sculptures and fine art paintings!
Galeria Perdana
Address: Kampung Kilim, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Website: Galeria Perdana
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
6. Ride a motorbike to the Telaga Harbor Park & Marina
Rent a motorbike and travel to some of the beautiful marinas around the island. A popular site for both tourists and locals alike, Telaga Harbor Park & Marina is a picturesque harbor where shiny yachts bob against the swells and elegant sailboats skim the surf of the bay. Admire the beauty of the scenery as you zoom along the promenade before you stop for a bite at one of the many restaurants and bars that line the waterfront. This area is also a popular place for sightseeing boat tours and excursions.
Telaga Harbor Park & Marina
Address: Lot 1 Telaga Harbour Park, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Website: Telaga Harbor Park & Marina
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm
Price: Free
7. Take a fishing safari on the waters of Langkawi (from USD 102.0)
One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Langkawi is out on the water. This private, six-hour exploration highlights the brilliant aquatic life around the archipelago and is a must for any fishing aficionado. Your guide will provide all the equipment, and show you the best fishing spots around the islands, including Pekan Rabu, Teluk Baru, and Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.
Private Langkawi Fishing Safari
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
8. Head to the Mahsuri Tomb and Cultural Center
One of the most famous local legends is that of a young woman named Mahsuri. According to local folklore, Mahsuri was so beautiful the whole island became jealous of her, and she was sentenced to death after being falsely accused of a crime. At her tomb and cultural center, visitors can learn about Mahsuri’s dying curse upon the island, as well as traditional Malay culture and history.
Mahsuri Tomb and Cultural Center
Address: Kampung Mawar, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
9. Explore Air Hangat Village
Posted by Ayer Hangat Village Langkawi on Sunday, 14 April 2019
After a busy day of sightseeing, unwind at the Air Hangat Village. This peaceful spa complex has fantastic saltwater hot tubs, as well as a natural hot spring that has been converted into a lovely three-tiered well, and offers services like foot soaks and massages. On-site there are also beautifully landscaped gardens with wonderful ponds and fountains, a restaurant, and cultural shows. This beautiful facility is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
Air Hangat Village
Address: 16, Jalan Air Hangat, Ayer Hangat, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Website: Air Hangat Village
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
10. Go jet skiing at Pantai Cenang
Pantai Cenang Beach is a popular spot renowned for its stretch of soft sands and for the allure of the crystal clear waters. The stunning surf is popular for water sports, and you can hire jet skis to skim the frothy waves and explore the area. Cruise along the waterfront and enjoy the spectacular panoramas of forest and beach, then head back to land and stop at one of the many fantastic restaurants that line shorefront.
Mega Water Sports Sdn Bhd
Address: Pantai Cenang, Jalan Pantai Cenang, 07000 Mukim Kedawang, Kedah, Malaysia
Website: Mega Water Sports Sdn Bhd
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Fall in love with Langkawi
There is so much to discover in the beautiful islands of Langkawi. With its plethora of beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities, this archipelago astounds with its endless entertainment options. From new ways to experience renowned landmarks to areas off the beaten path, these activities need to your bucket list. Start planning your getaway today and add these non-touristy things to do to your itinerary!
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