Absolute Asia/Malaysia/Discover Langkawi Island
Discover Langkawi Island
Explore Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark in Malaysia, with stunning beaches, tropical forests, cable car rides, and peaceful island life.
Quick Overview: Explore Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark in Malaysia, with stunning beaches, tropical forests, cable car rides, and peaceful island life.
| Archipelago | 99 islands, plus five visible only at low tide |
|---|---|
| Location | about 30 km off northwestern Malaysia, near the Thai border |
| District | Kedah; largest town Kuah |
| Tourism | developed as a destination in the 1980s |
| Beach | Pantai Cenang is the most popular |
Discover Langkawi Island: Jewel of Kedah on Your Malaysia Vacation
Looking for the perfect beach escape on your Malaysia vacation? Discover Langkawi Island, known as the Jewel of Kedah, a breathtaking archipelago of 99 islands (plus five more revealed at low tide) set in the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea.
Langkawi, positioned just off Malaysia’s northwestern coast, near the Thai border, has an enticing mixture of scenic beauty, cultural diversity and easy-going atmosphere. The main island, Pulau Langkawi is over 32,00 hectares of untamed land. Forest-covered mountains, rice fields, limestone cliffs and powder-soft beaches.
While most visitors spend time on Pulau Langkawi, there are few other inhabited sister islands, such as Pulau Tuba and Pulau Dayang Bunting, that add to the area’s charm; we’re over 90% of the population are Malays adds to the distinct character of the area,especially with a mix of Chinese, Indian, and Thai influences.
Langkawi has a little something for everyone. The southern islands have lavish beach resorts, happening beach bars, and thrilling water sports, while the northeastern islands have a more tranquil, nature retreat atmosphere.
It’s impossible to visit Langkawi and not take a ride on the Langkawi Cable Car to the top of Gunung Mat Chinchang and cross the exciting Sky Bridge to panoramic views across Langkawi and Tarutao National Park. Langkawi has been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2007 in recognition of its geological features and ecological importance – a true testament to its spectacular landscapes and biodiversity.
About Langkawi
English Wikipedia describes Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah, as a duty-free island and archipelago of 99 islands about 30 kilometers off the coast of northwestern Malaysia, adjacent to the Thai border, developed as a tourist destination in the 1980s. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach. The tour page gives the main island’s area as over 32,000 hectares; we have not verified that figure. We have not verified tour prices, schedules, stops or inclusions, so confirm them with Absolute Asia Tours before booking.
Sources (read in English, English Wikipedia): Langkawi. Last checked November 2026.
Discover Langkawi Island: FAQ
How many islands make up Langkawi?
99, plus five visible at low tide.
Is Langkawi duty-free?
Yes.
What is the largest town?
Kuah.
Which beach is the most popular?
Pantai Cenang.
How many days do you need?
Three to four days.
The southern islands have lavish beach resorts, happening beach bars, and thrilling water sports, while the northeastern islands have a more tranquil, nature retreat atmosphere.
Further Reading
Journeys That Go There
