Rising to a height of 881 meters, Gunung Raya is the tallest natural feature on Langkawi. The mountain is believed to be the cursed form of a giant, known as Mat Raya, who once lived on the island. Untouched and covered with dense jungle, it has become the favorite destination for the adventurous. Trekking from a recreational site such as Lubuk Sembilang to the peak is simply magnificent but taking a guide along is advisable. A telecommunications station is accessible via a small road leading to the top.
A brainchild of Malaysia's Prime Minister and his wife, this gallery displays various awards and gifts received from world leaders during his tenure. Officially opened on 3 December 1995, the gallery is in a two-storey 5,333 square metre building in the tranquil village of Kilim, 15 kilometres from Kuah. The exhibits range from crystals to musical instruments, Islamic arts, honorary awards/decorations and even automobiles. Each display comes with an explanation. Another striking feature is the ceiling, which is hand painted with intricate designs. Bring a jacket or sweater, as the rooms are quite cold.
All three museums are located within the grounds of the Craft Cultural Complex. The Islamic Museum contains a number of galleries depicting various subjects on Islam; the Royal Museum exhibits artefacts and instruments related to royalty while the Heritage Museum showcases crafts associated with the Malaysian culture. Shop at the Museum Shoppe or explore the rest of the complex and discover the unique local cultures and crafts from all over Malaysia. Look out too for special activities held such as demonstrations, cultural shows, exhibitions and traditional games.
Found on the superbly landscaped beachfront of Pantai Cenang, Underwater World is one of the largest marine and freshwater aquaria in Asia. It features over 5,000 varieties of fish and other exhibits from 500 species displayed in over 100 tanks. Highlights include the gigantic hexagonal tank and walk—through tunnel tank containing six million liters of seawater. Here you can observe sharks, stingrays, huge turtles and other sea creatures swim by, separated from you only by the laminated clear glass walls of the tunnel.
One of the most popular beach destinations among tourists and locals alike, Pantai Cenang is known not only for its delightful sunsets but also for its long and sandy beach. Located about 18 kilometres from Kuah town and only three kilometres from the airport, it is fringed by coconut trees and Casuarinas. The beach is home to a number of resorts, luxury class hotels, chalets and restaurants. While you are here, enjoy yourself with all kinds of water sports or go "island hopping" to the nearby islands such as Pulau Rebak Kecil and Pulau Rebak Besar.
This is a private, non-profit foundation set up in 1991 by Malaysia's prominent artist Dato' Ibrahim Hussein. It is dedicated to the promotion, development and advancement of art and culture of international stature. The open gallery currently exhibits mostly Dato' Ibrahim's work but in future will also feature collections of other prominent artists from around the world. A place of rugged beauty, it is situated on gentle slopes within the untouched Mat Cincang Forest Reserve in Datai, overlooking the spectacular Pasir Tengkorak alcove below.
The Cable Car on Langkawi offers great views since it is an aerial cable car that connect Oriental Village to the top of Gunung Mat Chinchang. The length of the trip is 2.2 km (1.4 miles) and drops you off by the Langkawi Sky Bridge. While on the Cable Car you'll be able to see panoramic view of the island and see the forest up close.
Located around 45 kilometers (27 miles) from Kuah is this geological marvel. Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells Waterfall) is a spot where a freshwater stream cascades down about 90 meters (295 feet) via a series of seven natural pools. The climb from the lower falls becomes increasingly scenic the higher you go. The rocks can be extremely slippery, so care is needed. Legend has it that fairies used to come down to frolic and bathe in these ponds thus giving it healing properties.
The marine park comprises four islands, namely Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca. A ferry trip from Kuah takes around 45 minutes. The islands are surrounded by well-protected coral reefs that are home to numerous species of underwater creatures. Attracting divers from all over the world, the park offers a variety of diving conditions, from flat terrain to more challenging steep slopes. There is insufficient freshwater at the park, so bringing your own supply is advisable. The necessary permits to visit Langkawi Coral can be obtained from Kuah Fisheries Office.