Payar Marine Park

The Pulau Payar Marine Park is situated in the northern part of the Straits of Melaka, 19 nautical miles south of Langkawi and encompasses the islands of Pulau Payar, Pulau Lembu, Pulau Segantang and Pulau Kaca which are surrounded by coral reefs. The marine park teems with a fascinating diversity of marine life and vegetation.

Many endangered species of fishes and marine organisms live within the sanctuary. Measuring 2km long and 1/4km wide, Pulau Payar is the most popular of the islands as its sheltered waters are ideal are for snorkelling, diving and swimming. Among the enchanting dive spots is the "Coral Garden", an area covered with bright, multi-hued soft corals.

There are several sandy beaches on Pulau Payar island for picnics as well as hiking trails for those who wish to explore the island. Just off the beach, one can indulge in the thrilling experience of feeding baby sharks. Facilities include gazebos, picnic tables, barbeque pits and restrooms at selected areas. There is also a Visitors' Centre that provides information about the marine park.

Pulau Dayang Bunting

Nestled amidst lush forested hills on an island south of Pulau Langkawi is Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of The Pregnant Maiden), the largest lake in Langkawi. The outline of hills and rocky outcrops on one side of the lake resembles the shape of a pregnant maiden lying on her back. This picture  shows thefreshwater lake separated from the sea only by a thin wall of limestone.

The name of both the island and the lake is attributed to the legend of a lovely fairy princess who married an earthly prince. Her first child died shortly after birth. She was so sad and depressed that she buried the child in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Before she returned to her celestial abode, she blessed the waters so that any childless maiden who bathed in the lake would conceive thereafter.

Gua Langsir
Gua Langsir is the cave that locals believe is haunted by a banshee. There are thousands of bats that make their home in the cave and that, according to some, is the reason behind the 'haunting'. However, the locals cannot be faulted for believing as they do, for the cave is very heavily forested. It is also atop a limestone hill that towers 91 metres above sea level, on the island's western coast.

Tasik Dayang
Bunting Tasik Dayang Bunting is the freshwater lake the island is named for. It is a large lake, with tranquil surroundings and is suitable for swimming. Its waters are also said to possess magical powers that will enable barren women to bear children if they drink water from the lake.

Read brief story of Tasik Dayang Bunting

This island has an awe-inspiring view. It has limestone hills and most of the island is still covered by dense forests. A jetty has been constructed near the lake to enable the boat to drop its visitors off and tourists normally alight here before heading off to the cave, which is about eight kilometres to the north.

Pulau Singa Besar
Monkeys, deer, iguanas and peacocks roam about freely on Pulau Singa Besar, a wildlife sanctuary located southwest of Pulau Langkawi. Picnic on the pristine beaches and enjoy swimming in the surrounding waters.