Diana Lewis
As one of Malaysia's hidden gems Langkawi Island is no ordinary beach holiday hub in Asia. From scenic waterfalls to breathtaking geoforests here are the area's finest natural attractions.
Tipped to be one of the most intriguing natural wonders in Langkawi Island the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is a must-visit highlights for all visitors touring the holiday island. Easily reachable via a boat ride off the jetty close to Tanjung Rhu a tour of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park includes travelling along its vast mangrove forests and breathtaking limestone structures. Located along the north-eastern shores of the island the area is one of the most visually stunning landscapes one comes across in Langkawi. Visitors based in The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa or other beach resorts Langkawi counts among its favoured choices of lodging can book a tour of the park through the hotel.
When it comes to scenic public beaches in Langkawi there's no better venue than Pantai Pasir Tengkorak to enjoy a day in the water. Blessed with white, powdery sands, calm waters and a pristine stretch of sand fringed by a forest with shady trees the area is a hotbed of activity during weekends when local families head down to the secluded beachfront. Tourists can avoid the crowds and have the beach all to themselves during weekdays when Pantai Pasir Tengkorak is largely free of local beachgoers.
Often regarded the best place to cool off after a day of sightseeing Telaga Tujuh is a network of natural rock pools. The freshwater swimming holes are located at the summit of a waterfall situated inland from the area known as Pantai Kok. A preferred alternative to a dip in the ocean the freshwater pools provide hours of engaging relaxation for visitors.
As one of the more popular beach hubs in Langkawi Island Pantai Cenang is a beach hotspot cum recreational heartland in the area. As a fully developed leisure base the 2km long beachfront is one of the most stunning natural attractions on the island. Surrounded by swaying palms the teal hued waters and the golden sands of the beach make it a hot favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Occupying pride of place along the northern shores of the island Tanjung Rhu is another picturesque beach in Langkawi. As a wider and more tranquil alternative to the island's more frequented public beaches what sets Tanjung Rhu apart from other beachscapes are the limestone formations that create an idyllic bay in the area.
Revered as Langkawi's 'Black Sand Beach' Pantai Pasir Hitam is identifiable from the unique colours visible on its beachfront thanks to the mineral oxides in the sand. Located to the west from nearby Tanjung Rhu the beach is one of the most photographed sites on the island.
West of Tanjung Rhu is Langkawi's much touted but ultimately disappointing 'It isn't technically a black-sand beach, but mineral oxides have added their colour scheme to the coast...
Towering above the surrounding landscape at a height of 881m Gunung Raya holds the distinct honour of being Langkawi's highest mountain. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts and forest trekkers the summit of the mountain can be reached both by foot and through paved paths accessible by vehicle.
The tallest mountain on the island (881m) can be reached by a snaking, paved road through the jungle...
Perfect for those who wish to take a refreshing dip in forest surroundings the swimming pools collectively known as Durian Perangin is one of the most picturesquely located forest bathing areas in Langkawi.
