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.
Located just off the northwestern coast of Malaysia, near the Thai border, Langkawi offers a captivating mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back charm. The main island, Pulau Langkawi, stretches over 32,000 hectares, where forest-covered mountains meet rice fields and limestone cliffs give way to powder-soft beaches.
While most visitors stay on Pulau Langkawi, the archipelago also includes a few inhabited sister islands such as Pulau Tuba and Pulau Dayang Bunting. Around 90% of the population is Malay, adding strong local character to the destination, complemented by Chinese, Indian, and Thai influences.
Langkawi caters to all styles of travel. The southern islands boast luxurious beachfront resorts, lively beach bars, and exciting water sports, while the northeastern islands offer a more peaceful, nature-focused retreat.
No visit is complete without taking the Langkawi Cable Car up to Gunung Mat Chinchang, where you’ll find the thrilling Sky Bridge with sweeping panoramic views. In recognition of its geological and ecological importance, Langkawi was awarded UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2007 – a true testament to its extraordinary landscapes and biodiversity.
