Langkawi Travel Guide

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, 30 km off the mainland coast of Kedah. It is a popular destination due to its natural white sand beaches, lush jungle foliage, craggy mountain peaks and duty-free status, where alcohol is affordable.

To get to the public ferries overland, if you are coming fromAlor Setar,Penangor anywhere further south inMalaysia,Kuala Kedahis less than 10 kilometers fromAlor Setarand it's railway station. If you are coming fromThailandby train (also it's the most convenient budget-friendly route from/toHat Yai), you can take the Malaysian Komuter train fromPadang Besarborder station, where Thai trains arrive, toArau(two stops, 20 minutes, RM3.20, ticket can be paid by credit card at the station), then trave

Speedboats can often bounce off the waves at very high speeds and passengers can get quite strong jolts into the non-sprung seats, so persons with back or neck problems should not travel on the speedboats, but on the ferry. There have been reports of serious back injuries happening on the speedboats. They are also known as 'vomit comets' due to the number of people succumbing to sea sickness. Bring lots of water and be prepared for a bumpy ride! Also be very careful while swimming. At times, tid

Both luxury and eccentric hostels are common on Langkawi. If you are looking for budget accommodation, your best bet would be to walk along the beach and adjacent road at Pantai Cenang. It is hard to find budget accommodation in other beaches in Langkawi, except Pantai Cenang and Kuah town. Prices there normally range from RM50 to RM150 per room per night, on or next to the beach.