The Langkawi Mangrove Forest, also known as Kilim Karst Geoforest Park Langkawi, is noteworthy for mangrove swamps, pristine beaches, and vertical karstic hills jutting out towards the Andaman Sea.
Set along the northeast tip of Langkawi Island, the park is accessible within a five-minute drive from Tanjung Rhu Beach. Spanning almost 100 square kilometres, there’s a good variety of wildlife found here, from otters and monitor lizards to macaques and tree crabs hiding amongst the thick mangroves. During the migratory seasons (September to March), you can spot birdlife of varying species, including kingfishers, white-bellied fish eagles and kite eagles.
Langkawi Mangrove Forest Highlights
There are plenty of limestone formations that are over 500 million years old, with unique names such as Temple of Borobudur, the Elephant Stone and the Hanging Gardens. You should make time to explore the numerous caves filled with fossils as well as gigantic stalagmite and stalactites.
The most popular caves include Crocodile Cave, Cave of Legends, and Bat Cave and the best way to explore the Langkawi Mangrove Forest is by joining the KML Island Cruise riverboat cruise along Kilim River. Aside from a leisurely experience with an experienced nature guide, visitors are also chartered to the limestone caves and a floating fish farm where they can hand-feed stingrays and archer fishes.
The most highly recommended is the Langkawi Mangrove Forest and Eagle Watching Tour as you can also witness an eagle-feeding session and explore several limestone caves within the park. Lunch, round trip transport to and from your hotel, as well as an English-speaking guide are also included in this day trip.
If you prefer to explore this expansive mangrove park at your own pace, there are private boats, kayaks and jet-ski rentals available with most tour operators in Langkawi. Be sure to wear sunscreen and comfortable clothing as it can get rather sunny throughout the day in Langkawi Mangrove Forest.