Langkawi, the island of the reddish-brown eagle, gets its name from a Brahminy kite, known as “helang” in Malay. The colloquial abbreviation “lang” is combined with “kawi,” a red stone used as chalk for marking goods. Beyond the surface of travel reports, Langkawi’s name reveals various dimensions.

In Sanskrit, “Langka” translates to beautiful, and “wi” means many, suggesting that Langkawi could mean “many beautiful islands.” (hinting to Langkawi’s 99 islands) Historical maps from the 16th century often referred to Langkawi as “Langa,” “Lanka,” “Lansura,” or “Langapura,” underscoring its undeniable beauty. The Kedah chronicles, specifically the “Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa,” even mentioned “Langkapuri” as the abode of Garuda, Lord Vishnu’s mythical bird.

Lagnkawi’s Legend: Mahsuri

• Learn about  the tale of Mahsuri as narrated by Pak Ku Ahmad, the storykeeper at Kota Mahsuri in Langkawi. This is a timeless legend from 1819, that continues to echo through the ages.
• For a visual journey, watch the video: https://walkabout.asia/v2/arts-culture/mahsuri-2/

Explore the map  below to discover a curated list of accommodation, activities, dining spots, shopping destinations, and spa experiences. Uncover the charm of Langkawi through distinct night markets happening throughout the week, offering a taste of local cuisine that won’t break the bank. The map is conveniently divided, tagging locations after the key beaches (Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah) and the bustling Kuah town centre on the island.

Langkawi Geopark

• Irshad Mobarak of junglewalla.com for mangrove tours (Kilim nature park)
• The Habitat Langkawi – https://thehabitat.my/langkawi-skytrail/
• Reading: rock formations in Langkawi https://langkawigeopark.com.my/rock-formation/

Langkawi Night Markets

• List of night markets (food and local produce) – https://www.theislanddrum.com/langkawi-things-to-see-places-to-eat/langkawi-places-to-eat/langkawi-night-market-schedule/ 
• Night market food – https://www.theislanddrum.com/night-market-food-langkawi-malaysia/

Rohingya children in Langkawi

• A grassroots initiative to educate Rohingya refugee children in Langkawi Island.
  • Updates on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/childrenofrohingya
  • Updates on Instagram –  https://www.instagram.com/children.of.rohingya

Embun-embun

• Craft shop where i bought my bag, made by the indigenous community of Malaysia
• By appointment – Mobile: +60196191007
• www.instagram.com/embunembunlgk/