Langkawi may be small in size, but diversity in the island's natural landscape is enormous.
The UNESCO-protected island boasts pristine beaches with soft white sand; lush rainforests with over 500 species of butterflies and rare birds; defensive mangrove forests; and mountains formed by nature's forces over 550 million years.
Down these ancient peaks flow a series of natural waterfalls, secluded in the jungle with cooling rock pools for swimmers to relax under the shady canopy.
The most famous waterfall, Seven Wells, as well as Langkawi's highest waterfall, Temurun, flow down the second-tallest mountain, Gunung Machinchang. A 3rd waterfall, Durian Perangin is located on the northern slope of Gunung Raya, the tallest peak. The mountains' differing rock formations (setul vs granite) provide contrasting landscapes surrounding the falls, meaning each is completely unique.
Due to Langkawi's monsoonal climate, the waterfalls wither to a mere trickle during the dry season months of December to March, meaning smart visitors flock to the falls during the wet season in June to October. The highest levels of rain usually fall between September and October, but that doesn't mean your waterfall excursion will be rained out. It typically buckets down in the afternoons leaving mornings sunny and free for chasing waterfalls.
So, if you're looking for a change of scenery from sunning on the sandy shores of Pantai Cenang or Tanjung Rhu (it could happen!), why not head over to one of the 3 best waterfalls in Langkawi.
Let's get your splash on!
Seven Wells Waterfall (Telaga Tujuh)
Mukim, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Price: Free Time spent: 1.5-4 hours
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Undoubtedly the most popular waterfall in Langkawi, perhaps due to its proximity to the Langkawi SkyCab and SkyBridge. Seven Wells is split into 2 sections of rock pools separated by a striking vertical waterfall cascading down a 91-meter high cliff. The lower pools can be reached by climbing 200 steps to a natural plunge pool and the best view of the vertical stream. The upper pools are reserved for the more adventurous, requiring 638 steps to be conquered to swim in the namesake 'seven wells', 7 natural pools connected by a trickling river.
Parking: car: RM2 (USD$0.43), motorbike: RM1 ($0.21)
Tip: The climb to the upper falls should take 45-60 minutes depending on your fitness level. Swimming in the natural infinity pool on the upper level is very dangerous due to the lack of railings.
Temurun Waterfall (Air Terjun Temurun)
161, Jalan Datai, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Price: Free Time spent: 30-90 minutes
Hours: 7am-7pm, 7 days
The tallest waterfall on the island flowing down 200 meters. The falls' 3 tiers spill into clear rockpools where visitors can swim and relax in the shade. Quite far away from Langkawi's other attractions and restaurants, visitors to Temurun tend to bring picnics or snacks. Just make sure to hide your feast from macaque monkeys waiting to swing down from tree branches to snatch anything in a plastic bag. What makes Temurun one of the best waterfalls in Langkawi, is the short, 5-minute walk down a shady path to the main waterfall and rock pools. If your fitness level isn't up to hiking the Seven Wells, this is the waterfall for you.
Parking: Free
Tip: The natural rock steps between the middle and upper tiers have no hand railing so be very careful when climbing up. Make use of the toilets near the entrance as no others are available.
Durian Perangin Waterfall (Sona Waterfall)
Jalan Durian Perangin, 162, Langkawi 07000, Kedah, Malaysia
Price: RM2 (USD$0.43) Time spent: 1-3 hours
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
The main waterfall at Durian Perangin can be reached after climbing a 200-meter long rocky staircase. The light effort pays off with your first glimpse of the breathtaking stream flowing down a granite cliff, lined with leafy green rainforest foliage. Those not up to the climb don't have to miss out. Lower levels of the falls contain multiple rock pools and rivers where families can play and swim. There are several gazebos, coal barbeques, and picnic benches connected by pathways and footbridges making it easy to explore the jungle-wrapped complex.
Parking: Free
Tip: Many hotels in Langkawi are able to pack a picnic lunch for guests to take on day trips if given a day's notice. Ask the front desk to arrange this for your trip to Durian Perangin.
- 22 Best Natural Attractions in MalaysiaMalaysiaIf you're looking to immerse yourself in Southeast Asia's diverse natural wonders, epitomized by enthralling sunsets, jungle-lined hiking trails, and tropical beaches, our hand-picked list of the best natural attractions in Malaysia proves when it comes to raw beauty, this country is a strong contender. Borneo is one of the few locations endangered orangutans can still be seen in their natural habitat while Peninsular Malaysia offers gushing waterfalls, mountains begging to be climbed, and idyllic tropical islands just off its borders.
