Nature

The island of Langkawi is home to a lush rainforest that brims with nature and wildlife, having survived both commercialism and tourism. Pulau Langkawi is still covered with much of its original landscape, which provides fascinating discoveries and explorations for tourists and visitors. Some of the treasures of nature found here include towering waterfalls, misty mountain peaks, peaceful mangroves and geological formations. Recently, in 2007, Langkawi Island was awarded Geopark status by UNESCO, making it a world heritage site for its unique limestone outcrops and ancient peaks.

Langkawi was accorded Geopark status in 2007 by UNESCO, in recognition of the island's unique geological formations and landscapes. This makes Pulau Langkawi one of the world's most important geological wonders and sights. Three main areas have been identified as the cornerstone of this Geopark status; the Mat Cincang mountain range, Kilim karst forest and Dayang Bunting Island.

The backbone of Langkawi, the Mat Cincang mountain range in the north is believed to be the oldest geological formation in Malaysia. This series of peaks has unique limestone outcrops, lush rainforest and a magnificent waterfall. Wildlife abounds in this area, with several endemic species of flora and fauna. The Kilim karst forest, which is the most recognised of the three, is located in the eastern region of the island. The Kilim area revolves around geological formations such as shafts, tunnels, caves and sinkholes formed around the Kilim river and mangroves, as well as the adjoining sea area. Brahimy Kites, a type of eagle, are the main residents of this area. The most popular feature for tours are the numerous caves in Kilim. The caves can be explored via boat from the river, passing by mangroves and other rocky outcrops along the way. Some of the caves are quite famous, such as Gua Cerita, which means 'Cave of Legends', having ancient Arabic inscriptions on its walls. Finally, the Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest is located on an island. The shape of the island is said to resemble a pregnant maiden from which it gets its name. On this island, a huge limestone cave provides for its geological wonder.

The Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, which means 'Seven Wells', is located in the north of Pulau Langkawi, near Pantai Kok. This magnificent waterfall flows first into seven pools before cascading down a steep 90 meter drop. The entire waterfall flows on a solid but smooth rock surface, with concave and protruding formations along the edges. The top of this waterfall can be reached after a strenuous uphill walk on some stairs, not to be missed by visitors.

The Gunung Mat Cincang mountain range is one of of Langkawi's Geopark heritage sites and most popular tourist destinations. Dramatic limestone peaks form a magnificent landscape that can be seen from across the island. Situated in the north, a cable car ride runs from the base of the mountain range to the peak. The cable car ride can be taken from the Oriental Village.

At the peak, visitors can explore and admire the surrounding geological formations and vegetation that dot the peaks. You can also see across the entire island and surrounding seas. The mountain range is also covered with lush rainforest that provides fantastic jungle trekking activities. Finally, the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls run down the slopes of this very mountain.