 Kedah
Islands and Beaches
 The
Langkawi archipelago is a cluster of 99 islands just off the
coast of Kedah, close to Perlis and just south of Thailand.
Pulau Langkawi, noted for its legends and beautiful views,
is the most developed in the group. It has good beaches, abundant
marine life and offers an idyllic retreat from the urban jungle.
A duty-free port, this island of scenic, tranquil landscapes,
has become a favorite destination for local and international
visitors alike.
Langkawi is accessible by ferry from either Kuala Kedah (75
minutes) or Kuala Perlis (45 minutes).
Pantai Merdeka
Kedah's favourite beach on the mainland, Pantai Merdeka is
in the Kuala Muda district about 30 km from Sungai Petani
or 40 km from Penang-Butterworth. Its long, white, sandy beaches
attract a heavy weekend crowd. Island-hopping trips to the
neighbouring islands of Pulau Bidan, Pulau Telur and Pulau
Songsong are available on hired boats.
Kuala Kedah
Located 15 km west of Alor Setar, on the coast, Kuala Kedah
is a busy fishing village where there is a large jetty for
ferries to Pulau Langkawi. Kuala Kedah is also noted for its
good seafood restaurants, and a local delicacy made of thick
rice vermicelli with spicy fish gravy called Laksa Kuala Kedah.
Pulau Dayang Bunting
 This
jungle-clad island, lying just south of Langkawi, makes an
interesting island-hopping stop. Marble is quarried on the
island and shipped to the mainland for processing.
In the interior is a small freshwater crater lake known as
Tasik Dayang Bunting or the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.
A tranquil spot, the water is excellent for a cool swim.
Legend has it that a childless couple drank the fresh waters
of the lake and had a baby girl. The story is also told of
a white crocodile or its spirit that is reputed to live in
the lake.
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