Langkawi is an archipelago made up of 99 islands on Malaysia’s west coast. Surrounded by turquoise sea, the interior of the main island is a mixture of picturesque paddy fields and jungle-clad hills. If you’re intent on carting off duty-free alcohol, cigarettes and chocolate, then this is the place to be. Still, nature lovers will find the island just as agreeable as the shoreline is fringed by powder-fine sand and swaying coconut trees.
1. Laman Padi
This is a complex area with many rice fields, herb gardens; the museum displays the history and development of rice paddy cultivation in Malaysia, Restaurant, and Spa. The complex is administered by LADA (Lembaga Pembangunan Langkawi). A guided tour of the complex and admission to the museum is free.
2. Langkawi Craft Complex
Langkawi Craft Complex houses three museums at the Heritage, Culture and marriage practices of the 13 states in Malaysia. All of the exhibits are interesting and very informative. There are also crafters displaying their various skill such as glass blowing, weaving, carving, local paper making and batik (which you are encouraged to participate in). It is one of the best locations to shop for traditional crafts and art. No admission fee.
3. Mahsuri’s Tomb
Mahsuri’s Tomb is the tomb of a young woman who was accused of adultery when her husband went to war with Siam. On her dying breath, she cursed Langkawi with seven generations of bad luck. This happened about 200 years ago so the curse is now officially over and the next Langkawi prosperous after being a small and drowsy island . There are some additions to the marble tomb , including a museum exhibiting jewelry , lifestyles back then and the knife that was used to kill her.
4. Al-Hana Mosque
Masjid Al-Hana is one of the largest and most famous landmarks in Langkawi. Built in 1959, its opening was celebrated by Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. Its Islamic architecture is from combinations of motifs and sculptures from Uzbekistan and Malaysia. Visitors from different races and beliefs are welcome. No shoes allowed inside the carpeted prayer hall and women should dress modestly. Respect should be shown for those in prayer.
5. Atma Alam Batik Art Village
Atma Alam Batik Art Village is a beautiful place which exhibited the fine art of batik. Owner Aza Osman, a painter, and Roshadah Yusof, a batik artist commercializing her own batik brand, not only exhibits their own works of art but also the works of art of other talented local artists. They also have various amazing fabrics for sale as well and batik making classes are also provided.