PLACES OF INTEREST
Nature and Adventure |
|
Mahsuri Tomb
The Mahsuri Mausoleum is located about 12 km north west of the main
town of Kuah. A trip to Langkawi would not be completed without
visiting the tomb Mahsuri the island's most famous legendary
figure. Mahsuri was a beautiful lady who was unjustly accused of
adultery. The story goes that she proved her innocence when white
blood streamed from her.body at her execution. As she lay dying
cried out in anguish and placed a curse on Langkawi that the island
would barren for seven generations.
Seven generations have passes, and today, Langkawi blossoms with
development projects. The Mahsuri Mausoleum Complex marks the spot
where Mahsuri lies buried. Within the ground of mausoleum are
souvenir shops and stalls. There are also displays of the life
styles of 'old Langkawi ' such as method of milling of rice,
lulling baby to sleep and traditional music. |
|
Padang Mahsirat
Padang Masirat (The field of burnt rice) or Mat Sirat as it is
called was once the site of Kampung Raja, the ancient capital of
Langkawi. It is believed that the village used to be the residence
of Datuk Kerma Jaya, the headman who sentenced Mahsuri to death.
During Langkawi's heyday, the rice's granary was located in this
village.
It was here that hot surplus rice stock and those that were
deducted as taxes were kept. When the Siamese invaded Langkawi in
1821, Datuk Kerma Jaya, upon defeat, ordered the burning of the
granary to starve the enemy. The burnt rice is said to have buried
below ground and that till today, signs of their existence can
still be seen after a downpour. The spot where the rice is found is
called Beras Terbakar (Burnt Rice) and many have claimed to have
come across these burnt rice. |
|
Sangkar Ikan
Langkawi
Located in a sheltered beach at penarak, 3km from kuah town, the
Sangkar Ikan Langkawi (Langkawi fish farm) is a novel attraction
for tourists as they can view first hand how fish are bred in their
natural environment. Popular table fish such as seabass, seabrem,
garoupa, red snapper as well as shellfish and squid are bred
commercially. The farm offers visitors the opportunity to try their
hand at fishing for a small fee. Visitors can have their catch
cooked by the restaurant located at the farm if they wish or sample
its wide range of seafood delights. |
|
Tanjung Rhu
About 20 km from Kuah, the beautiful beach of Pantai Rhu has a
coastline rich with coral and marine life. Named after the shady
casuarina trees which was found in abundance in the area, one can
walk across the sandy spread that joins the beach to the
neighbouring island at low tide. This is a favourite picnic
spot. |
|
Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of
Pregnant Maiden)
The Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden) is situated
on Langkawi's second largest island, Pulau Dayang Bunting.
Measuring 800 by 350 m, the fresh water lake is protected from all
sides by steep forested cliffs and is separated from the sea by a
narrow wall of limestones. It derived its name from a legend that
tells of a couple married for 19 years but remained childless.
Subsequently the wife became pregnant after having drunk from the
lake. Thereafter, this plave has been frequented by many childless
couple. |
|
Telaga Air Hangat (Hot
Springs)
Telaga Air Hangat has its own fascinating legend. The Hot Springs
is said to be the result of a bitter quarrel between two families
because of a rejected offer of marriage. A battle ensued between
them and everything was shattered including all the pots, plates
and saucers. A jugful of hot water was flung to the ground and
where it spilt, is the Hot Springs. |