STORY TO BE TOLD

Langkawi,(Jawi:لانكاوي ) officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah (Malay: Langkawi Permata Kedah) is an archipelago of 99 islands (an extra 5 temporary islands are revealed at low tide) in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. The islands are a part of the state of Kedah, which is adjacent to the Thai border. On July 15, 2008, Sultan Abdul Halim of Kedah had consented to the change of name to Langkawi Permata Kedah in conjunction with his Golden Jubilee Celebration. By far the largest of the islands is the eponymous Pulau Langkawi with a population of some 64,792, the only other inhabited island being nearby Pulau Tuba. Langkawi is also an administrative district with the town of Kuah as the capital and largest town. Langkawi is a duty-free island.

Legends of broken pots and seeping gravy

Langkawi's most prominent mountains, Gunung Macinchang and Gunung Raya, and a whole series of towns and villages are said to named after a local legend. The story tells the tale of a wedding between two families of giants, with Mat Raya's son wanting to marry Mat Cincang's daughter. During the wedding feast, a fight broke out between the two wedding parties, reputedly because the son was caught flirting with another woman.

During the fight, pots and pans were thrown, and a large pot of gravy (kuah) was broken and the contents flowed onto the ground. The place where the gravy was spilled became known as Kuah (the largest town on Langkawi island) and where the crockery (belanga) was broken (pecah) was location of the village Kampung Belanga Pecah. The gravy seeped into (kisap) the earth at the village named Kisap.

Understand

The name "Langkawi" has two possible origins. First, it is believed to be related to the kingdom of Langkasuka, itself a version of the Malay negari alang-kah suka ("the land of all one's wishes"), centered in modern-day Kedah. The historical record is sparse, but a Chinese Liang Dynasty record (c. 500 AD) refers to the kingdom of "Langgasu" as being founded in the 1st century AD. Second, it could be a combination of the Malay words 'helang', meaning "eagle" and 'kawi', meaning "reddish-brown" or "strong", in old Malay.

Langkawi eventually came under the influence of the Sultanate of Kedah, but Kedah was conquered in 1821 by Siam and Langkawi along with it. The Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 transferred power to the British, which held the state until independence, except for a brief period of Thai rule under the Japanese occupation of Malaya during World War II. Thai influences remain visible in the culture and food of Langkawi.

Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism and improve the lives of the islanders. The following boom was spectacular and now Langkawi figures on most every European travel agency's radar.

This spectacular boom was also due to the fact that Mahsuri's curse was lifted with the birth of her 7th generation descendant.

Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi escapes the northeastern winter monsoon entirely and enjoys sunny skies in winter when the eastern provinces are flooded. Coupled with natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage and craggy mountain peaks - but hampered by inaccessibility - the island was at one time touted as "Malaysia's best-kept secret".

The 10,000 hectares of Langkawi and its 99 islands were declared a Geopark by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2007.

Eat

Practically all resorts have their own restaurants and most tourists choose to eat in, but there are a few other options as well. Be adventurous and strike out on your own to savour the numerous foods at the stalls and restaurants all over Langkawi. Try one of the many seafood restaurants. Having said that, beware of certain restaurants advertised in the brochures targeting tourists. An example of such restaurant is the 'Coco Beach Restaurant', close to the airport.

If you choose order seafood or fish, take note if the price is by weight or by a set price for the dish. The unwary can be hit with a much larger bill than expected. Also, beware of restaurants telling you that they only have the bigger size lobsters available, as that is what they tell everyone (a common practice at Coco Beach Restaurant and Palm View Restaurant, at Pantai Cenang). When your lobster or crab is served, you will discover that you will definitely be paying for 900g of shell instead of meat! To counter this, order fish, squid and prawns to be safe.

Budget

For a taste of simple Malay-style breakfast, just walk up to a small stall opposite the Underwater World in the mornings and feast on the famous freshly-prepared banana leaf-wrapped nasi lemak (steamed rice in coconut milk). The price is most affordable at less than RM 2 for a pack. Go local and enjoy this with a glass of hot teh tarik or really good local coffee. This very unassuming stall is just simple and great (clean too!) The nasi lemak comes with curried beef, squid in chili, friend salted fish or chicken.

* AddaMaya Café, (Pantai Cenang (near Haji Ramli's; or opposite Nadia's Comfort Inn)). - small, cosy place for meals and coffee. The chef can whip up great meals - from local dishes to western fast food easily (and in that little cabin of his). Problem is, it can get a bit dusty as it is located fronting the main road. Locals like to come here for good food at reasonable prices. edit

* Rafi's Place, (sandwiched between Restoran Aliah's and Tomato Nasi Kandar on Pantai Cenang). Rustic shack. No visible signboard either but ask around and you will find Rafi's. Rafi is a Penangite but has been on the island since 1988 so he considers himself very much local. Ask him for recommendations and he'll happily tell you. Ample parking space in front of his 'shack'. Good ambiance especially early mornings. nasi lemak (RM3), local tea and coffee (RM1).

* Tomato Nasi Kandar, (Opposite Langkawi Boutique Hotel). Typical budget Indian food establishment with patrons all day (and night!) long. Very crowded even in the wee hours of the morning. They serve an enormous variety of dishes, from the flavoured roti varieties to naan, briyani and kebabs. The standard is quite high - to an extent where the meal is extremely value-for-money. The only problem is that their waiters are exceedingly bad at taking orders. RM1-3 for roti, RM 4-10 for main dishes. edit

* Restoran Fatimah, (Near the Kampung Tok Senik Resort on the road to Ulu Melaka). Try this for really authentic Malay food. Their lunch spread is amazing - so amazing that they attract bus loads of Malaysian visitors. Just enjoy the food and leave your cultural baggage and complaints behind as you will be in a totally different ambiance but friendly, nevertheless. edit

Mid-range

* Artisans Pizza Cafe, (Pantai Cenang). Offers freshly cooked pizzas with both traditional and Malaysian toppings. The satay pizza and sambal pizza are particularly good. You can dine in or takeaway and they also deliver to guesthouses and the beach. Their house specialties: Hungarian Gnoulash and Madam's Fishbake are particularly awesome. RM 15 for main courses. RM 30-38 for 11 inch pizzas. edit

* Babylon Mat Lounge & BBQ, (Right on Pantai Cenang). Mats are laid out on the sand for guests to sit on and there is a a low table with a candle. They also have a live band or playlist that is passed off as a DJ. Some travellers have expressed concern about the over-friendliness of staff toward female patrons and have complained about poor service. edit

* Breakfast Station, (A couple of minutes walk from Restoran Haji Ramli). Lunch starts/breakfast ends at 12PM. Great Balinese decor, rustic with cozy ambiance. Fantastic and fantastic Nasi Lemak. The Western spread is a pleasant surprise. Best omelette in town. Lavazza Coffee for RM4. edit

* Beach Garden Resort's Beer Garden, [23]. Happy hour from 15:00 - 19:00PM. Offers 1st class Western & Malay dishes in a stylish holiday - beach atmosphere. Superb wine selection, draft beer and German wheat beer (own import) as well as cocktails. edit

* Cenang Boat Quay, Pantai Cenang. Offers a variety of Pizza, German Sausages, Pasta, local dishes and fusion food. Opening in April 2009 is a Grill Fish hawker. The concept here is by individual hawker selling the different styles of food. Amazing Sunset view at the Quay. A Must TRY!! edit

* Champor Champur, Pantai Cenang. Moderately wacky fusion food in a fusion setting courtesy of a Dutch-Malaysian couple with an affinity for Africa. Great ambiance - feels like eating in an outdoor garden. edit

* Difiqa, (Pantai Cenang, close to Red Tomato). Great for tasting Roti Canai at breakfast with some very spicy dips as accompaniment, Less than RM5 for 2! Great tasting local coffee and fresh fish too. edit

* Fat Mum Restaurant, Pantai Tengah, ☎ 012-4707863. Just up the road from Awana Resort. Great authentic local Chinese seafood restaurant, good food for a reasonable price.

* Hole in the Wall Fishfarm & Restaurant, Kilim River, northeast part of the island (Call for free shuttle), ☎ 049675301, [24]. Floating on the river, part of the amazing scenery of the Kilim Mangrove Forest. They serve the freshest Malay style seafood you will be able to eat on Langkawi island. The traditional dishes of freshly caught fish, prawns, crab, lobster etc. are famous.Shuttle service from Kilim jetty to the fishfarm restaurant and return is free of charge for lunch and dinner guests. If you book a Mangrove Tour, you will most definitely end up having your lunch here. However, you may want to give their package buffet a pass and try their dishes. edit

* Restoran Haji Ramli, (Pantai Cenang). Open till 1AM. Your Nasi Campur haunt by day and run-of-the-mill Tom Yam shack by night. 'Ikan Bakar' - Grilled fish and other fresh seafood a'la carte after 3PM. Fresh terubuk (shad) which is unheard off in the mainland! Grab a couple of fist-sized prawns and cuttlefish (squid) cooked Tom Yam style for a gastronomical lesson in local seafood. Their seafood dishes average 4-4.5 RM per 100g, and they can be cooked in a myriad of different styles that will surely suit your tastes. Meat dishes vary from 6-12 RM. RM 10-20 for a complete meal. edit

* Malay House, (Pantai Tengah). Offers good but not necessarily authentic Malay food in an atmospheric garden full of lush greenery, water features and exotic art. edit

* Mimi, (A few minutes walk from Underwater World, on the opposite side of the road.). Greatest 'Ikan Bakar' or grilled fish with tantalizing self-made sauce. . Also offers a variety of traditional Malay dishes like tomyam and 'ayam masak merah' (chicken cooked in non-spicy sauce). Snapper or grouper RM4 per 100 gram. edit

* Oasis, (Pantai Tengah/Cenang). A great beach hangout serving western meals and drinks. It comes alive in the evenings.

* Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant, Lot 1225 Jalan Pantai Cenang, ☎ +6049554128, [25]. 11am-3pm. Dinner: 6pm-11pm. Some tables having water views. They have fresh seafood displayed out front. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, including dishes prepared in Malay, Thai, Chinese, and Western styles. edit

* Rasa Restaurant, (Pantai Cenang). Good Malaysian food with reasonable prices. Seating available outdoor in courtyard overlooking main road or inside. edit

* Red Tomato Garden Cafe, (Pantai Cenang, in front of AB Motel), ☎ +60125136046. Saturday to Thursday from 9:00am to 10:30pm, Closed Friday.. Free WiFi. Look out for the owners red mini parked in front of the place. Has great western breakfast and lunch menus, and pasta and pizza for dinner. Home made bread, good choice of cheeses. Gluten free pasta is available. Free WI-FI! Owned by a German lady. edit

* Rose Tea 2, (Pantai Cenang). Outstanding Thai food. Great price and great service. Closed on Friday.

* Sun Cafe, (Pantai Tengah), [26]. A friendly and relaxing restaurant that offers a variety of Western food, Italian food, and Malaysian food. They also serve a range of hot and cold beverages - from cappuccino to milkshake, from fruit juice to mocktail. If you love fish, try their Fillet of Barracuda. It's light and healthy. They are also open for dinner too. It is a great place for a delightful meal or a casual conversation over a cup of coffee. edit

* Taj Mahal, Landcon Square (opposit Zon Shopping Mall). Huge open sided restaurant (also has an air-con room opposite for hot days). Specialises in Arabic and North Indian dishes all of which are very healthy, very tasty and very cheap. Very popular with locals and with Indian and Arabic holidaymakers. Great place to just sit around for a few hours occasionally ordering another batch of fresh flat breads and dips. edit

* T. Jay's Italian Bistro & Pizzeria, (Pantai Cenang, Opposite Underwater World), ☎ +6049553995. 8.00am to 11.00pm. Though this place looks a little sleepy, they make some great wood-fired pizzas. T Jay's Special pizza is recommended.

* Telaga Arabic Cafe and Restaurant, (Pantai Cenang). The same kitchen serves an indoor dining area and a large outdoor area across the street. Good good with reasonable prices. Stay and enjoy some of the best hookah/shisha (tobacco water pipe) smoking anywhere. edit

* Tulsi Garden, Pantai Tengah. Good Indian food (northern and southern). You may even get to talk to the owner, Palani on some nights. Quiet place to have dinner and chat with friends. Best part is you can ask the chef to tone down the chili or spiciness levels. edit

* USSR Restaurant, (Telaga Harbour Park). Russian fare. Waterside restaurant with tables overlooking the harbor. Managed by Russian expats who serve up the real deal. edit

Splurge

* Feast @ Sheraton, [27]. International buffet and ala carte menu. A varieties menu from unique local cuisine to western dishes. Choose to dine inside in air-conditioned environment or having your dine at terrace while enjoying the nature environment overlooking the Andaman Sea. edit

* La Sal at Casa del Mar, (Pantai Cenang, on the beach), [28]. As expected on holiday, dining is a relaxed, quality experience at your Home by the Sea. Food offers the best in Modern Asian and Western Cuisine with a focus high quality fresh produce and is served by attentive and friendly staff. The bar offers a wide variety of wine from the old and new worlds. The cocktail list is exciting and innovative with themed cocktails around our magical sunset, pool side relaxation and post dinner period. edit

* The Light House, (The edge of Pantai Tengah). Fantastic food on the beach wonderful views edit

* The Loaf, LOT NO. C9 Perdana Quay (Telaga Harbour Park), ☎ +6049594866, [29]. 8AM to 11PM; closed Thursday. Japanese style bakery & bistro owned by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, ex-Prime Minister of Malaysia. Quality breads and full meals. Amazing view of the harbour and the yachts especially if you have your breakfast al-fresco outside. Attentive staff. Try Tun's Favourite Breakfast set (2 softboiled eggs, a bowl of mutton curry and thick toasted bread) with coffee and orange juice. Good place to have a leisurely breakfast. Bread from RM4. edit

* Mare Blu, (Perdana Quay, Telaga Harbour Park), ☎ +6049593830, [30]. The only authentic Italian restaurant on Langkawi island. The restaurant offers typical Italian food, good wines and draft beer. The Mediterranean style surrounding is just beautiful and the tables are set up right on the waterfront. edit

* Papadam, (Pantai Cenang (Near Underwater World)). Indian restaurant that also serves Arabic food. edit

* Sunsutra, Jalan Teluk Baru (Pantai Tengah), [31]. Fine dining restaurant that serves great Western food too. If you're a big fan of lamb, you must try their lamb shank. Tender and full of flavours. Its portion is huge too! Good for someone who wants a hearty meal. edit

* Unkaizan, Lot395 Jalan Telok Baru Pantai (Near to Awana Porto Malai), ☎ +6049554118, [32]. 6pm-11pm. Japanese restaurant, with excellent food and wonderful service! edit

Drink

Because of Langkawi's tax-free status, alcohol is much cheaper than in the rest of Malaysia. Religious Muslims do not consume alcoholic drinks, and while they do tolerate non Muslims who do, try not to behave in a rowdy imbibed manner near them, their houses, mosques, and please respect local culture and communal sensitivities. For those living on a budget, you can obtain alcohol at cheap prices from the local duty free shops - the larger the outlets, the lower the prices. Expect to pay RM 25 for 1L Absolut, RM 45 for 1L Kahlua, RM 60 for 1L Bailey's RM 1.85 for 330ml can beer.

* Chime Nightclub @ Sheraton, [33]. Takes on a complete personality change and is Langkawi’s hottest night spot, starting with “sun-downers” on the terrace. Features night live entertainment with stunning performance from musician band while DJ spinning the music all night long. edit

* Little Lylias Langkawi, Beach Bar

* Sunba Retro Bar, Jalan Teluk Baru (Pantai Tengah), ☎ +6049531801, Until 3AM.

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Pantai Cenang Shopping

Where to Shop and What to Buy in Pantai Cenang

Pantai Cenang is a haven for tourist shopping at the entire beach road is lined with shops and stalls on both sides. These shops sell mostly souvenirs in the form of fashion accessories, beads, handicrafts and merchandise but there are also many convenience stores. On the other hand, you can visit the night market that takes place in nearby Temoyong on Thursdays or the Zon Duty-Free Shopping Complex in Underwater World Langkawi.

Temoyong Night Market

Another one of Pantai Cenang’s shopping highlight is the Temoyong Pasar Malam which takes place on Thursday nights. This local bazaar is a good place to get cheap and authentic Malay food as well as a wide variety of clothes, fresh produce and electronics from the make-shift stalls.
Opening Hours: Thursday, 17:00 – 20:00
Location: Kampung Temoyong, Mukim Kedawang, Pantai Cenang (located at the estuary of Sungai Temoyong)
Zone Shopping Paradise
Zone Shopping Paradise

This shopping centre is located beside Underwater World; but don’t get your hopes up as it resembles a mostly middle-class shopping store with discounted items placed in bins and stacked high to the ceiling. It stocks up on jewellery, souvenirs, watches, cosmetics, leather goods as well as selected designer labels; adjacent to it is a food court with fairly-average fare.
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 21:00

Location: Adjacent to Underwater World Langkawi
Address: Lot 970, 971, 973, Underwater World, Jalan Pantai Cenang
Tel: 604 955 5300
Aishah Bt. Husin

Located beside Langkah Tuah Enterprise, this store sells a variety of kitschy knick knacks, Pantai Cenang souvenirs and beautiful flowing batik prints. The shop girls are especially friendly and will chat with you about your trip so far while you shop for your required retail fix.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 24:00
Location: No. 10 Hadapan Langgura Baron, Pantai Cenang
Contact: 6012 430 8814
Amitabha Primitive Art

This store, located just down the road from Laman Padi, is an air-conditioned location with a nice array of merchandise; the flowing print dresses and hand-stitched pillow cases are more than worth your dollar. Adjacent to it is the Alun Laun Spa, and you can also pick up Alun Alun’s signature essential oils from this retailer.
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 23:00
Address: Lot 47, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang
Contact: 604 953 3838
Coco Valley

Located beside Underwater World, this store is a chocolate-lover’s paradise; with such a wide assortment of cocoa products that you’ll be spoilt for choice. The fact that Langkawi is a duty-free island makes chocolates a lot cheaper; you can get a bar of Cadbury’s for less than RM10 – now that’s value for money!

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:30
Location: Zon Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang (beside Underwater World)
Tel: 604 955 6100
Exodus Zone

This store has a variety of knick knacks including handmade slippers that are a bargain. The shop girl here is incredibly friendly and will most assuredly point you in the right direction if you’re ever lost; also you can get the usual assortment of souvenirs and handicrafts at this outlet.
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 23:00
Location: No. 3, Baron Walk, Jalan Pantai Cenang
Tel: 604 955 7511

Lang Gemuk Enterprise

This store sells a hodgepodge of souvenirs, batik prints, handicrafts and cheesy knick knacks. Standing almost at the end of the Pantai Cenang stretch, it’s a good place to bargain for a few items such as magnets and key chains but in all honesty you could probably find a wider variety of merchandise at Langkapuri Inc.

Opening Hours: 11:00 – 23:00
Address: No 59, Jalan Pantai Cenang
Tel: 6012 474 9659
Langkah Tuah Enterprise

With a budget motel located above, this store has more than a few surprises; firstly it may not look like much but it’s actually one of the best places to get Malay-style batik shirts. The store also sells traditional Malay medicine that’s supposedly great for many ailments from achy joints to tummy cramps.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 24:00
Address: No 10, Hadapan Bessta Resort, Pantai Cenang, Kedawang
Tel: 6012 430 8814

Total Shoppe

This store has the customary array of souvenirs, handicrafts and knick knacks that are all par for the course along the Pantai Cenang strip. However, if you’ve forgotten to bring along your bathers you can get a decent two-piece swimsuit for only RM49 – RM59 – which is a real bargain considering other places will charge you almost an arm and a leg for a decent pair.

Opening Hours: 11:00 – 23:00
Address: 19 & 20, Baron Walk, Langgura Baron Resort, Pantai Cenang
Tel: +6019 479 0282

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Pantai Tengah Shopping

Where to Shop and What to Buy in Pantai Tengah

Shopping in Pantai Tengah

Langkawi – a duty-free zone – may have cheap chocolates and liquor but souvenirs, knick knacks and handicrafts are still pretty pricey. Pantai Tengah does not boast many shopping opportunities – retail stores are as scarce as hen's teeth but there is one strip mall and a cute chocolate store along the stretch.

To be honest Pantai Cenang has a more vibrant shopping scene – so if you’ve been bitten by the retail bug, then head on over there. On the other hand Pantai Tengah is a deserted two-lane road with more restaurants, clubs and resorts than shopping venues. The night market in nearby Temoyong on Thursdays is the best place to shop for cheap authentic Malaysian goods especially since it carries such a wide array of merchandise from produce, local delights, handicrafts, kitschy knick knacks and pretty batik clothes.
Sunflower Handicrafts Shop
Sunflower Handicrafts Shop

Located beside Sun Cafe, this bold and bright red uber-modern store sells a stunning collection of handicrafts, knick knacks and artwork. This Southeast Asian-style store features masks, figurines and flatware in clean designs as well as classy silver, glass and shell sculptures.
Opening Hours: Daily, 3pm - 12 midnight
Location: Sunmall, Jalan Pantai Tengah

Address: Jalan Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi Malaysia
Tel: (604) 955 1234
Sunday Home Décor
Sunday Home Décor

This place sells, you guessed it, home furniture. Boasting over 3000 exquisitely crafted items, this store is sure to bite you with the home décor bug. Featuring posh, upscale and earth-friendly pieces, Sunday’s collection comes from Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. Even if you’re not here to shop for merchandise, you’re sure to leave with a handcrafted gift or two.

Opening Hours: 12:00 – 24:00
Location: Casik Anak Besar, Pantai Tengah, Mukim Kedawang
Tel: +604 9552 322 or +6012 476 8508

T-Shoppe

If you’ve been walking the Pantai Tengah stretch, browsing through stores and savouring the fare at the local eateries along this stretch, then you might come across this little out-of-the-way store. It may not look like much from the outside but it rents out cars and motorbikes and it’s a good place to get some of those incredibly kitschy knick knacks that you’ve just got to have before you head on home.

Highlights: Jalan Pantai Tengah (opposite Holiday Villa)

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 21:30
Tel: +604 955 5551 or +604 955 5552 or +604 955 5553
Chocoffee

Selling a wide variety of chocolates, the best thing about this place is the fact that you can go in and sample free chocolate. The cool interior is a welcome respite from the blistering sun outside and the chocolates are reasonably priced.
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Address: 734, Tasek Anak, Jalan Pantai Tengah
Tel: +604 953 2486

Sunvillage Handicrafts

Offering a wonderfully expansive selection of arts and crafts from around the Southeast Asian region, Sunvillage Handicrafts looks almost identical to its sister store – Sunflower Handicrafts. The only difference is that Sunvillage has traditional wood carvings, bamboo artwork and a stunning collection of intricate batik designs.

Opening Hours: 15:00 – 24:00
Location: Sunmall, Jalan Pantai Tengah
Tel: 604 955 1234

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Kuah Shopping

Where to Shop and What to Buy in Kuah

Kuah Shopping

Langkawi is a shopping haven for duty-free goods from around the world and Kuah happens to be Langkawi’s main location for shopping outlets. Perfume stores, cigar shops, confectionary outlets, wine boutiques and other retail venues are a dime a dozen in this quarter of Langkawi Island.

From the jetty near Eagle Square to the town’s axis, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding your retail-fix. Choose from the finest brands of wines to high-quality hard liquor. Trendy spa supplies and the latest European perfumes are also readily available; you can even shop for Nike and Adidas sports shoes at discounted prices. The crème de la crème of this retail paradise are the plethora of shops selling cheap chocolates – be sure to make a quick pit stop at any of the duty-free outlets selling confectionary.

Jetty Point Duty Free Complex

Part of the jetty complex itself, this shopping complex has a variety of stores selling handicrafts, perfume, chocolates, liquor and apparel. This makes it a frequent last-minute shopping stopover for visitors before they board the ferry back to the mainland. Housed within are shop lots that stock various duty-free goods as well as cafés, bakeries and fast food outlets such as KFC and Starbucks.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 22:00 everyday
Address: Lot 15, Kompleks Perniagaan Kelibang, Kuah
Tel: +604 966 7560 or +604 969 9500

Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall

Home to fast food outlets, a food court, money changers and an information counter for tourists, this outlet has a collection of over 100 shops and an adjoining supermarket. You can get a variety of items here including electronic items; there’s usually cheesy Malay music blaring from the speakers. This mall looks quite run-down and mostly only locals patronise it.
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Address: Lot FF8, Jalan Persiaran Putra, Langkawi Malaysia 07000
Tel: +604 969 8100

Saga Shopping Center

This shopping complex is one of the major duty-free outlets on the island, offering reasonably priced household items, clothing, decorative ceramics and crystal. If truth be told it carries the same type of merchandise as the other major shopping venues in Langkawi; the smaller stores are more likely to peddle one-of-a-kind goods.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Location:
Address: Jln Penarak, 07000 Kuah, Kedah
Tel: +604 969 8009

Al Ikhsan

This is probably the best store on Langkawi Island. Selling sporting apparel and footwear, Al Ikhsan has some pretty awesome bargains. Nike, Adidas and Reeboks items are reasonably priced; the only downside is the fact that they’re not really the latest designs but really at these prices who’s complaining?

Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm
Address: 94 Persiaran Putra, Kuah.
Tel: 604 966 7437
Cote De Perfume

This perfume store has the latest designer scents – like DKNY and Dior – at duty-free prices. The shop girls are not exactly friendly but its easy to shop around by yourself. You’ll have a hard time selecting the right scent for as the choice is wide. The store also carries a selection of locally-made fragrances at cheap prices.

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 21:30
Address: 16, Jalan Pandak Mayah 6, Pusat Bandar Kuah
Tel: 604 969 8286
16 Degree Wine Shop

This wine store carries a wide variety of wine selections organized by regions; from Taylor’s to Penfold’s Bin series to St. Andrews’ collections this venue is just brimming with good wine selections. The Coohawarra, Wolf Blass and Meursault bottles are especially reasonably priced.

Opening Hours: 11:00 – 21:30
Address: No 6, Jalan Pandak Mayah, Pusat Bandar Kuah
Tel: +604 969 8285

Perniagaan Haji Ismail Group Sdn. Bhd

There are not many people who can resist the temptation chocolate offers so while you’re here you might as well stock up on your favourite cocoa-indulgences. This store sells a wide assortment of confectionary products and chocolates like Cadbury’s, Ritter Sports and Toblerone, are sold at reasonable prices that you’re not likely to get on the mainland.
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Address: No. 802, 803 & 804, Jalan Pandak Mayah 2, Pusat Bandar Kuah
Tel: 6019 477 2205

Zeno Duty Free Shopping Centre

This is another store that sells the standard duty-free items; however its confectionary collection tends to contain more than a few hidden treasures. You can even find After Eight chocolate thin mints here at dirt cheap prices; promotions on Cadbury’s chocolates are also simply sinful.

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 21:30
Address: 20, 22 & 24, Jalan Pandak Mayah 6, Pusat Bandar Kuah
Tel: 604 969 8289
The Spa Shop

This store sells a plethora of spa supplies that are actually pretty good bargains. It really depends what you’re looking for, as is the story with any of the stores in Kuah. The rice milk loofah soap is especially worth a try. Rather than shelling out big bucks for professional spa treatments, get some supplies from here and bring the spa back home with you.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 21:00
Address: 52, Jalan Pandak Mayah 5, Pusat Bandar Kuah
Tel: 604 966 8078
Cuban Attitude

The sweet musty smell of cigars permeates throughout this store; this store stocks up on a plethora of cigars and even cigarettes. The cashier will let you browse through the store uninterrupted so you’ll feel quite at ease as you make your selections.

Opening Hours: 09:30 – 22:00
Address: 14, Jalan Pandak Mayah 6, Pusat Bandar Kuah
Tel: +604 969 8282

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Langkawi’s beaches and islands are some of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia. Picture this; white sand glistening in the light of the tropical sun, calmed by the gentle sea breeze as gulls and eagles soar in the sky. For sand or surf, you won’t be disappointed with what Langkawi has to offer.

Pantai Cenang Attractions

What to See in Pantai Cenang

The ripple of excitement you’re supposed to feel when you step onto the Pantai Cenang strip may not come. After all, even though these shores are purportedly the most stimulating stratum of Langkawi, that’s still not saying much.

Pantai Cenang doesn’t have many sightseeing attractions; the Langkawi Underwater World dominates the scene with its mammoth structure – but kids are most assuredly entertained here. Pantai Cenang’s beach is itself a popular attraction due to its beautiful sandy shores which face the crystalline waters and expansive horizon.

Nevertheless if truth be told Pantai Cenang’s claim to fame are the eateries lining the strip; easily the best fare in Langkawi where the food isn’t cheap but the menu selections are extensive. Most backpackers and package holidaymakers tend to stick to these shores because of their relative convenience.

Laman Padi

At the northern end of Pantai Cenang – opposite the Casa del Mar hotel – is Laman Padi; you can watch buffaloes grazing in the paddy field from the bridge at the entrance. As you walk through the compound you can read about the stages of Padi Cultivation; this ‘ecotourism’ complex also encompasses the Padi Cuisine and Café, the Nawa Sari Spa and the Heritage Gallery.

Opening Hours: 07:00 – 24:00 everyday
Address: Laman Padi, Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang, 07000, Langkawi.

Tel: (604) 955 4312
Price Range: Entrance: free
Rice Garden Museum

This museum is dedicated to rice cultivation and comprises a Heritage Gallery – which displays the sequence of activities pertaining to rice planting – a Paddy Gallery – which has breathtaking views of a multi-tiered rooftop rice garden, a Herb Garden and a Garden of Variety where you can actually try your hand at rice farming.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 everyday
Location: Laman Padi, Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang
Tel: 604 955 4312

Underwater World

Underwater World – Malaysia’s largest aquarium – features 200 different species of marine and freshwater creatures. Some of these exhibits – like the Rainforest Walk – are quite thrilling while others look like giant tropical aquariums that need a good cleaning. The Sub-Antarctic Ecosystem Display houses a ‘penguin-arium’ – an underwater tunnel with penguins.
Opening Hours: 09:30 – 18:30 Monday – Friday; 09:30 – 22:30 Friday – Sunday
Address: Zon Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah.
Tel: (604) 955 6100

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Pantai Tengah Attractions
What to See in Pantai Tengah
Pantai Tengah Attractions

On the southernmost tip of Langkawi, lies Pantai Tengah – meaning 'Middle Beach' in Malay – a popular haven for family holidaymakers. Linked to the ever-popular Pantai Cenang just after the Lighthouse Restaurant, this one kilometre-long beach is the longest stretch of beach in Langkawi. It is a pleasant enough strip, albeit relatively quiet; sea activities such as boating are especially popular here.

Unfortunately Pantai Tengah doesn’t boast any sightseeing attractions – most holidaymakers tend to visit the nearby islands and tour Langkawi’s outlying attractions. Its sister beach, Pantai Cenang – hardly a five-minute walk away – boasts few sightseeing attractions – the biggest being Underwater World – if you’re craving a spot of excitement.

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Kuah Attractions

What to See in Kuah

Kuah is more of a commercial centre and shopping zone than a tourist-attraction laden quarter of Langkawi Island. The manmade waterfront is muddy and murky and the concrete buildings surrounding the town are stark and unlovely.

Nonetheless Kuah does have its charms and features a few landmark attractions. Without a doubt Dataran Lang – also known as Eagle Square – is Langkawi’s most well-known attraction. You’ll actually be surprised at the beauty of the colossal eagle in flight statue. On the other hand if you’re not keen on spending the afternoon walking around Dataran Lang take a trip to the nearby Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman to cool off. Take in the sights of the statues depicting Langkawi’s myths and legends or spend an afternoon admiring the Moorish architecture of the Al-Hana Mosque.

Dataran Lang

Dataran Lang – also known as ‘Eagle Square’ – is a massive 12-metre monument in the shape of a sea eagle perched on some rocks. Greeting visitors as they arrive on the jetty, this tourist attraction has landscaped ponds, terraces and bridges. You’ll be surprised at how beautiful it is. Try to visit in the early morning or the late evening when the sun’s at its least brutal.
Location: Kuah Jetty (near the Jetty Point Mall, adjacent to the CHOGM Park and Taman Lagenda).

Opening Hours: All Day, 24 hours
Address: Kuah Jetty, 07000 Kuah, Malaysia
Contact: 604 966 7789 (Langkawi Tourist Information Centre)
Price Range: Free

Taman Lagenda

Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman

Located beside the Kuah jetty this 50-hectare ‘folklore’-themed park is a skilfully landscaped recreational strip along the Kuah waterfront. 17 multihued statues depicting Langkawi’s myths and fables are scattered along with the four manmade lakes and there’s also a narrow strip of beach; this area is a popular spot for joggers.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 7pm
Location: Next to Eagle Square and Jetty Point
Address: Kuah Jetty, 07000 Kuah, Malaysia
Tel: 603 966 4223
Price Range: Free
CHOGM Park
CHOGM Park

Adjacent to the Al-Hana Mosque is the CHOGM Park; built to commemorate the 1989 Commonwealth meeting in Malaysia, this garden features tall lush trees that provide shade. Also the site of the first-ever international coconut-tree climbing championship in 1987, the beach next to the park is the only beach in Kuah Town.
Opening Hours: All Day
Location: Jalan Persiaran Putra (beside Al-Hana Mosque)
Tel: +604 966 7789 (Langkawi Tourist Information Centre)
Price Range: Free

Al-Hana Mosque

To the west of the picturesque Lagenda Langkawi Dalam Taman is the Moorish-style Masjid Al-Hana. Incorporating motifs and carvings from Uzbekistan along with traditional Malay elements, it is the largest and most popular mosque on the island; its golden dome is unobstructed by the palm trees of the CHOGM Park.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Location: Lencongan Putra 2 (located beside the Kuah Tourism Information office)
Price Range: Free

Gunung Raya

The highest peak in Langkawi, this mountain is believed to be the cursed form of a giant, known as Mat Raya, who once lived on the island. Covered with thick tropical rainforest, this untouched mountain has become a much-loved destination for the adventurous. The trekking here is simply magnificent and taking a guide along is highly advisable and sometimes the government may restrict access to the park so its advisable to call ahead to arrange a trip.
Opening Hours: 24 hours

Location: Jalan Air Hangat
Tel: 604 966 7789
Langkawi Crystal

Just south of the Gunung Raya Golf Resort is Langkawi Crystaal – established in 1996 - Malaysia’s only glass-blowing works. Once a simple glass-blowing house, Langkawi Crystal is now an extremely reputable crystal ware production company; that shuns the mass-production moulds of most major European producers. You can visit this factory and see how the individual crystal ware are produced and handcrafted to make it truly unique.
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 18:00

Location: Lot 1804, Plot No. 55, Jalan Kisap, Kuah
Tel: 603 966 1555

Ibrahim Hussein Museum & Cultural Foundation

Featuring the works of Malaysian artist, Datuk Ibrahim Hussein, this private non-profit museum is dedicated to the promotion, development and advancement of art and culture of international stature. The open gallery currently exhibits mostly Ibrahim's works. In the grounds of the gallery there is also a nature walk that leads into the Machincang Forest Reserve.

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Location: Pantai Pasir Tengkorak, Jalan Datai
Contact: 604 959 4669

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