Langkawi

Langkawi’s beaches are simply some of Malaysia’s best. From the sandy bays to the sweeping coastlines,

the island’s beaches are renowned among locals, beach-bummers and revellers from across the world. Here are some of the more popular ones.Langkawi, officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah is an archipelago of 99 islands, 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.Sheltered by the mountainous backbone of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi escapes the northeastern winter monsoon entirely and enjoys sunny skies when the eastern provinces are flooded.

Langkawi remained a sleepy backwater until 1987, when the island was granted tax-free status with the intention of promoting tourism. Subsequently the island's airport was upgraded and ferry links were increased.

Beginning 1990s, Langkawi competes with nearby Penang for the title of Malaysia's largest tourist draw. Resorts and 5-star hotels line the beaches and in the winter high season, direct flights land from as far as Europe and Japan.

Besides being tax-free, the beach and eagle, another attraction in Langkawi is the Cable Car to the tops of Gunung Mat Cincang at 705 m above sea level. Galeria Perdana a collection of over 2500 gift to the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia, Mahathir Mohamad.

Langkawi is affected by the milder western monsoon (May-September), and while diving is possible at Pulau Payar, water clarity tends to be poor. Pulau Payar is beautiful island by itself near Langkawi. To reach Pulau Payar one needs to take a hour drive on water. Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, Swimming are the activities to do in Pulau Payar.

Another tourist spot in Langkawi is the Mangrove forest. The entire Mangrove forest can be covered on a boat ride for about one hour. There is an eagle feeding spot amdist the backwaters where people used to feed the eagles. Thailand can be seen from these backwaters.

Langkawi used to be the starting point of the annual international cycling race Tour de Langkawi cycling event, however after 2000, Langkawi was omitted from the race itinerary. Langkawi also hosts the biennial Langkawi International Maritime and Air Show