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Pandaw visits Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival 

SINGAPORE, 25 June 2024: Nagaland is known as the land of festivals, and each December, the Hornbill Festival takes place in Kohima, uniting the various Naga tribes for a yearly celebration of the region’s culture and traditions.

Famed for its fierce and distinct Naga Warriors, Nagaland is a must-see for travellers in India’s North East and for the first time, Pandaw is offering a guided tour of this unique annual celebration that connects with a 10-night expedition along the mighty Brahmaputra River.

Join Pandaw for a special cruise and the festival land tour to witness one of the world’s most distinctive festivals. The Hornbill Festival in India’s Nagaland State brings together the various Naga tribes each year in December to celebrate their heritage and culture. Pandaw has curated a comprehensive six-night tour of the festival based in Kohima and combined it with a 10-night river expedition along the Brahmaputra for a truly once-in-a-lifetime trip. It delivers a distinctive 16-night expedition sailing and overland tour in December 2024, and the pick-up in bookings is brisk. 
Head to the website www.pandaw.com or email the Pandaw team at [email protected]

Nagaland Hornbill Festival 

The Nagaland Hornbill Festival is a week-long annual celebration from 1 to 10 December, highlighting Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage. A small hill state, Nagaland is one of eight states in Northeast India. It is one of the largest indigenous festivals organised by the state government of Nagaland to promote tourism. The festival pays tribute to the Hornbill, the Nagas’ most revered bird, famed for its alertness and grandeur.

The festival takes place at the Kisama Heritage Village, around 12 km from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. The nearest airport is Dimapur, served by flights from gateway cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. The Pandaw Nagaland Hornbill Festival overland tour begins with a train ride from Guwahati to Dimapur and returns to Guwahati to connect with the 10-night Pandaw cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

Strong, compelling reasons place the Nagaland Hornbill Festival high on the must-visit list. Here are some of them.

Culture: Under one roof, you witness a dazzling display of cultures from all 16 Naga tribes. Each tribe showcases its unique attire, dances, music, and traditions, offering a glimpse into a world unlike any other.

History: Then, there is the experience of learning about Nagaland’s fascinating history through exhibitions on headhunting traditions (now replaced by symbolic displays) and the architectural heritage reflected in the Morung competition.

Food adventure: You embark on a culinary journey by tasting mouthwatering Naga cuisine at the Saapee (community feast) and exploring the night market, filled with local delicacies and fresh ingredients.

Sports: Traditional archery competitions, Naga wrestling matches, and indigenous games will amaze you. These showcase the athleticism and skills honed by the Naga people.

Morung Competition: Explore the Morungs (dormitories) built by each tribe, representing their architectural heritage and craftsmanship. They are judged based on their design, construction, and cultural significance.

Hornbill Festival Fashion Extravaganza: Witness a unique display of modern and traditional Naga attire, showcasing the state’s textile heritage and contemporary fashion.

Agricultural Expo: Learn about Nagaland’s agricultural practices and see displays of local cash crops, fruits, and vegetables.

Games and Sports: Enjoy traditional archery competitions, wrestling matches, and other indigenous games that showcase Naga skills and traditions.

Music Concerts: Immerse yourself in evenings filled with energetic performances by local and national music artists.

Night Market: Explore the bustling night market with stalls selling Naga handicrafts, souvenirs, textiles, and local food.

Nagaland Hornbill Festival and Brahmaputra Expedition
DIMAPUR – GUWAHATI – DIBRUGARH
16 nights
FROM USD7,195

For more details.

Emirates flies smarter to cut fuel burn

DUBAI, 25 June 2024: Flying smarter and maintaining a strong focus on minimising fuel consumption and emissions starts in the cockpit. 

Emirates implemented ‘Green Operating Procedures’ (‘Green Ops’)* in 2016, taking a multi-pronged approach that looks for opportunities to reduce on-ground and in-flight fuel use. In addition, it provides pilots with the necessary education, awareness, data analytics, and technology to help them manage their flights as efficiently as possible.

Led by an internal cross-functional Operations Efficiency Steering Group, the airline aims to mitigate unnecessary fuel burn and emissions wherever possible while ensuring the highest safety standards embraced by Emirates are never compromised. In the last financial year, 2023-2024, ‘Green Ops’ and other operating initiatives helped Emirates reduce fuel burn by more than 48,000 tonnes and carbon emissions by over 151,000 tonnes.

Here are some of the key operational measures taken in the air and on the ground to reduce unnecessary fuel burn and emissions:

Discretionary Extra Fuel

The flight commander ensures that each flight uplifts enough fuel for safe operations. Depending on the assessment of prevailing operational circumstances, the Captain may choose to uplift extra fuel beyond the minimum stipulated by regulatory standards. This initiative encourages the Captain to uplift extra fuel based on well-founded judgment and legitimate operational needs. The goal is to furnish Captains with pertinent data and analysis, aiding them in making more informed and precise decisions regarding the uplift of extra fuel. With this initiative, the increase in discretionary extra fuel has been reduced significantly.

Flight speed optimisation

An aircraft’s speed directly impacts its fuel consumption and emissions. To accurately calculate the optimised speed for a flight, some considerations are made based on a thorough calculation that seeks to minimise total operating costs while maintaining adherence to departure and arrival schedules. Depending on prevailing operating conditions, pilots may have the opportunity to adjust speed to decrease fuel consumption without compromising the integrity of the flight schedule. 

Reduced flap landing

Aircraft have the flexibility to land using a variety of flap configurations. Emirates pilots carefully assess and select the flap setting that minimises aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel consumption as a result. This decision is made without compromising safety and is adapted to different runway conditions.

Idle reverse thrust

Pilots can use different levels of reverse thrust, providing backward thrust to decelerate the aircraft as soon as it is on the ground. Based on prevailing conditions and runway length, Emirates pilots will prioritise using idle reverse thrust to reduce fuel consumption.  

Reduced engine taxi-in (RETI)

Once they have landed, aircraft don’t require power from all engines during ground taxiing. Emirates pilots take advantage of every opportunity to engage in reduced engine taxiing by shutting down one or two engines (depending on the aircraft’s engine configuration) upon landing. This practice is implemented without compromising safety or operational efficiency. 

Optimised flight routings

Emirates has been using flexible flight routes since 2003 as a pioneer and early adopter of flight planning efficiencies. Working directly with air traffic control and other industry bodies across its network, the airline works hard to optimise each route flown between cities. Optimising routings enables Emirates to carry and use less fuel on flights, resulting in lower emissions. 

Technology and Innovation – Flight Pulse

Emirates introduced FlightPulse (collaboratively developed with GE Digital Aviation Services), an extensive self-service data analytics tool to all its pilots, incorporating crucial elements of operational data and analytics pertaining to each flight’s safety and fuel efficiency performance. This tool has significantly transformed the monitoring of flight operations data. The rollout of FlightPulse has fostered improved collaboration between Flight Operations management and the pilot community at Emirates, ultimately enhancing the safety and efficiency of flights. This initiative demonstrates the airline’s commitment to industry innovation through technology adoption to improve fuel efficiency.

Centre of Gravity Optimisation

The aircraft’s centre of gravity (CG) significantly influences the safety and efficiency of a flight. Loading the aircraft at the optimised Centre of Gravity ensures proper weight and balance, increases its aerodynamic efficiency, and ultimately saves fuel. Emirates has a rigorous policy of loading aircraft to come as close as possible to the ideal trim line to minimise fuel burn.

APU Usage

One way Emirates reduces fuel consumption on the ground is by minimising the use of the aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) and instead using the electrical ground power unit (GPU) to reduce emissions. APU use has been reduced by over 30% since the introduction of this initiative.

Adjusted potable water uplift

Emirates uses an exacting scientific method of calculating potable water required for a flight to reduce weight for more efficient fuel uplift. Each flight uploads the required amount of potable water without compromising passenger comfort.

*“Green Operations” (‘Green Ops’) is a term used internally by Emirates’ flight operations personnel and pilots to describe a programme that incorporates several measures to reduce fuel burn and carbon emissions.

For flight information and to make bookings, head to the website www.emirates.com.

Costa Serena returns to Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, 25 June 2024: Costa Cruise Line’s Costa Serena will homeport in Malaysia for a series of five sailings in December organised and sold by Hwajing Travel and Tours. 

The Italian cruise ship will sail from Port Klang and offer three itineraries: A three-day, two-night trip to Penang, a four-day, three-night trip to Phuket and a six-day, five-night sailing to Vietnam and Hong Kong.

The starting price for the three-day, two-night cruise to Penang is MYR599 per person. Seniors get a 10% discount off the listed cruise prices.

Sailings from Port Klang

4 December, 2024 – 4D3N Port Klang-Phuket-Port Klang (Wed)
7 December, 2024 – 4D3N Port Klang-Phuket-Port Klang (Sat)
10 December, 2024 – 4D3N Port Klang-Phuket-Port Klang (Tue)
13 December, 2024 – 3D2N Port Klang-Penang-Port Klang (Fri)
15 December, 2024 – 6D5N Port Klang-Vietnam-Hong Kong (Sun) *One-Way Cruise

Commenting on Costa Serena’s seasonal homeporting Hwajing Travel and Tours managing director Kenny Cheong said: “Following our inaugural season in March this year, we are delighted to bring back the beautiful Costa Serena to homeport in Port Klang. We are proud to play a significant role in boosting cruise tourism in Malaysia and supporting local businesses in the Port Klang area while offering Malaysian and regional travellers an affordable, convenient and relaxing way to travel around the region.”

Special early bird prices are on offer until 31 July by contacting the team at Hwajing Travel & Tours.
For more information head to the website: https://sites.google.com/view/costaserena-hwajing/home. 

(Source: Hwajing Travel & Tours).

Last two days to book bargain fares

BANGKOK, 25 June 2024: Just two days remain to unlock Thai Vietjet’s mid-year travel deals, with fares starting at THB550 (inclusive of taxes and fees) for domestic flights and from THB1,650 (inclusive of taxes and fees) on international routes.

The booking window closes at midnight on 26 June, while the travel period runs from 16 July 2024 to 28 February 2025 (excluding public holidays) at www.vietjetair.com.  

The special promotional tickets apply to Vietjet Thailand’s entire domestic flight network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai, Surat Thani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Ubon Ratchathani and cross-country routes connecting Phuket to Chiang Mai. The THB1,650 fare applies to Vietjet Thailand’s international network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Vietnam, China, Fukuoka, Phnom Penh, Singapore, Taipei, and Chiang Mai to Osaka. 

The promotional fares are also available on all other distribution channels, such as www.vietjetair.com, mobile app “Vietjet Air”, via Facebook at www.facebook.com/VietJetThailand by clicking the “Booking” tab. Payment can be made with ‘True Money Wallet’ and international debit/credit cards.

Currently, Vietjet Thailand operates flights on 11 domestic routes from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Udon Thani, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, and Surat Thani, cross-regional flights including from Phuket to Chiang Mai. 

Hong Kongers use all their vacation days

SINGAPORE, 25 June 2024: Hong Kong residents are most likely to use up all their vacation days and even take more time off than they are allocated, according to the latest Expedia Expedia’s Vacation Deprivation Report released last week.

Hong Kong was the only market where respondents didn’t leave vacation days unused. Instead, they took a few extra days during the year for good measure.

Photo credit: Expedia.

The annual report has been analysing time-off trends worldwide for 24 years.

The 2024 report found that Japanese workers take an average of 12 days off, and surprisingly, Japan boasts the lowest vacation deprivation levels in the world (53%). France and Hong Kong take nearly a month off annually, while Americans struggle to use up just 12 days. 

Expedia Group head of brands public relations Melanie Fish noted: “In Japan, people take time off every month instead of just twice a year. For the French, a full month of vacation still doesn’t feel like enough time.” 

Japanese respondents are almost seven times more likely to vacation monthly. Their strategy takes advantage of federal holidays or office and school closures to schedule frequent, short getaways that allow for a break from the routine and a quick refresh between longer trips.

No one vacations quite like the French, taking the most days off of any country globally. French respondents tend to shy away from the “big trip,” with nearly a third (30%) opting to spread their days out evenly throughout the year.

Coming in as the most vacation-deprived nation this year (84%), German travellers are motivated to make a change and are more determined than ever to use all their time off in 2024.

“No one means to leave vacation days behind, but life gets busy, and it’s the research, planning and booking part that slows us down,” says Fish. “The good news is, in 2024, there’s tech that makes it easier. If flight prices keep you up at night, Price Tracking in the app helps members book without the stress and get to the fun part of a vacation.” 

Through 14 July, vacation-deprived Expedia members can save 25% or more on thousands of hotels with Expedia’s Summer Sale. With deals valid for travel through the end of October. 

About the Vacation Deprivation Report

Expedia first commissioned Vacation Deprivation in  2000 to examine people’s work-life balance worldwide. The annual study is currently in its 24th year and was conducted online among 11,580 respondents across the US, UK, Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore. 

Harris Research Partners, a global strategic research firm, commissioned the survey from 26 March to 3 April 2024 on behalf of Expedia. 

(SOURCE Expedia)

Wellness rolls out at Wafaifo Resort

HOI AN Vietnam, 25 June 2024: The new Wafaifo Resort Hoi An, which opens on 1 September, has announced an ambitious three-stage health and spa rollout to enhance wellness, spa, and medical options for tourists visiting central Vietnam.

The latest health technology and international partnerships will give visitors to Hoi An and the greater Danang area access to a range of wellness and spa services not found elsewhere in the entire central region of the country.

Epigenetic testing

From 1 September, guests at the new 134-room and suite lifestyle resort can use the Wellness at Wafaifo facility to receive a detailed health diagnostic report using epigenetic testing. In the process, hair follicles are analysed by an S-drive computer that connects to a laboratory in Germany. Within minutes, guests receive a detailed 30-plus-page report that assesses 800 personal markers.

Hyperbaric chambers

Beyond epigenetic testing, the new wellness centre in the resort will help guests and patients slow the ageing process, improve concentration, increase energy and stamina and assist recovery from jet lag and stress by offering sessions in AirPod hyperbaric chambers. Exposure in the chambers to heightened levels of oxygen and hydrogen nurtures every healing process in the body.

Infrared saunas will help lower blood pressure and help detoxification and weight loss. Hygienic, electronically controlled ice baths will also reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, flush toxins and reduce inflammation and swelling.

Sleep technology

Guests can also benefit from a Nu Calm sleep and restoration experience in their room by using a headset, eye mask and specially-designed ‘anti-gravity’ chair to induce a meditative state of well-being and deep relaxation.

When it opens in September, Wellness at Wafaifo will have the most advanced gym in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An. Personal fitness consultants trained on the Precor gym equipment used in the centre will help guests achieve maximum benefits.

International partnerships

In addition to world-class gym equipment and technology-led health diagnostics and interventions, Wafaifo Resort has announced partnerships with Kerstin Florian for body treatments and facials and Margaret Dabbs of London for luxury manicures and pedicures.

Wafaifo Resort will announce phase II of its new, transformative, technology-led health and wellness services in August and phase III early in 2025.

Air Japan confirms BKK and SIN timetable

SINGAPORE, 25 June 2024: AirJapan (NQ), a member of the ANA All Nippon Airways group, has confirmed it will fly daily between Narita Tokyo and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport effective 27 October.

The airline’s flight notice confirmed details of its Winter 2024/2025 timetable this week, effective from 27 October 2024 to 29 March 2025.

The revised timetable shows the airline will offer daily flights from Tokyo (NRT) and Bangkok (BKK). The airline uses a Boeing Dreamliner 787-8 aircraft on the route with a single economy class configuration (324 seats).

Flight NQ001 will depart Tokyo (NRT) at 1735 and arrive in Bangkok (BKK) at 2300.
Flight NQ002 will depart Bangkok (BKK) at  0015 and arrive in Tokyo (NRT) at 0810. 

The airline will serve the Tokyo (NRT)—Singapore (SIN) route with five flights weekly on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It will deploy a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with a single economy class configuration.

Flight NQ003 will depart Tokyo (NRT) Narita at 1705 and arrive in Singapore 2340.
Flight NQ004 will depart Singapore (SIN) at 0050 and arrive in Tokyo (NRT) at 0840.

AirAsia MOVE partners with Air Mauritius

KUALA LUMPUR, 25 June 2024: AirAsia MOVE, a leading online travel agency, continues to expand its airline partners by onboarding Air Mauritius, the national airline of the island of Mauritius, as its latest direct airline partner. 

The partnership between AirAsia MOVE and Air Mauritius was formalised at a signing ceremony between Yeoh Sai Ho, Head of Flights OTA at AirAsia MOVE and Heavin Robert Lourdasamy, Manager, Malaysia & Singapore of Air Mauritius at AirAsia MOVE’s headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. 

Air Mauritius Chief Commercial Officer Ziyaad Parthasee and AirAsia MOVE Chief Business Officer Dabraj Sing.

The partnership will offer travellers a wide array of services on the AirAsia MOVE app, including booking flights to destinations served by Air Mauritius across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indian Ocean region. 

AirAsia MOVE Chief Business Officer Dabraj Sing commented: “We are delighted to have Air Mauritius as one of the notable global carriers on our direct airline partners list. Thank you for giving AirAsia MOVE the trust to market your extensive route network spanning many continents to our platform’s over 15 million monthly active users. 

“Airlines that partner directly with AirAsia MOVE can leverage our extensive marketing initiatives and reach a much wider audience without any extra costs, aside from providing their guests with convenience as our AirAsia MOVE platform enables virtual interlining where travellers can book multiple carriers in one itinerary. For example, an Air Mauritius guest travelling from Mauritius to Kuala Lumpur and then connecting to Chiang Rai on AirAsia can easily make the booking in one itinerary.” 

Air Mauritius Chief Commercial Officer Ziyaad Parthasee stated: “We are delighted to partner with AirAsia MOVE, enabling our passengers to enjoy a seamless experience with their user-friendly interface, making it easy to find and book the perfect flights while simplifying the booking process. This interlines agreement enhances convenience for Air Mauritius passengers and will elevate our travellers’ experience.’’

To mark the partnership, AirAsia MOVE app users can apply the promo code AAMAURITIUS at the checkout page to receive an exclusive discount of MYR100 on any Air Mauritius flight (code: MK) from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Mauritius (MRU) and other destinations. The promo is valid for a limited period only and ends on 30 June 2024. 

Centara wins four T+L awards

BANGKOK, 24 June 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is proud to announce that four of its distinguished properties were honoured at this year’s Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific, reaffirming the group’s status as a leader in the luxury hospitality sector.

Now in its third year of operation, Centara Reserve Samui, continues to enhance its reputation, rising two spots in the rankings this year to secure seventh place in the highly sought-after best “Beach + Island Resorts” category for Thailand. As the world’s first Centara Reserve property, this luxurious beachfront escape offers sophisticated, story-driven hospitality amidst tropical splendour, quickly making it one of Thailand’s most desirable destinations for personalised travel, indulgent comfort and curated stays. The resort’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from its elegantly designed accommodations to its impeccable service, further solidifying its position within the luxury segment.

Roukh Kiri Khao Yai made a significant leap this year, rising four places to claim fourth in the top “Upcountry Hotels” category for Thailand. With 12 contemporary barn-style villas set within organic gardens in the verdant hills of Khao Yai, this recognition underscores the resort’s commitment to providing a uniquely serene getaway. As part of Centara’s exclusive Boutique Collection, Roukh Kiri Khao Yai offers a luxury farmhouse experience that celebrates both nature and Thai culture, positioning itself among Asia’s top rural properties. Guests are treated to a culinary journey with farm-to-table dining, where fresh, organic ingredients are transformed into exquisite dishes. This seamless blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, combined with personalised service and verdant landscapes, makes Roukh Kiri Khao Yai an unparalleled destination for discerning travellers seeking tranquillity and elegance.

Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives has earned a distinguished fifth place in the best “House Reefs” category for the Maldives, showcasing the exceptional allure of its underwater world. Situated in the picturesque South Ari Atoll, this resort is celebrated by visitors of all ages for the vibrancy and health of its coral reef and the diversity of sea life. Guests staying in the luxurious overwater villas have direct access to this stunning ecosystem, making it a perfect destination for marine enthusiasts. Additionally, the resort offers comprehensive diving and snorkelling programmes, tailored to divers of all levels, ensuring an unforgettable underwater adventure during one’s stay.

Celebrating its first anniversary on 1 July 2024, Centara Grand Hotel Osaka has swiftly become a leading destination in the heart of the city, setting a new standard for sophisticated comfort. Guests are treated to a fusion of modern elegance and the rich traditions of Japanese culture, evident in every aspect of this breathtaking hotel’s design and offerings. Renowned for its warm Thai hospitality and world-class service, Centara Grand Hotel Osaka and its General Manager, Shigeki Nakagawa, were honoured with the top award in the highly-competitive “Hotel General Managers” category for Japan, exemplifying Centara’s dedication to creating unforgettable guests experiences.

“These four accolades are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are honoured to see our properties recognised by such a prestigious publication, which reflects the exceptional experiences we strive to offer our guests. Our commitment to Thai-inspired hospitality ensures that every stay at Centara is warm, welcoming, and unforgettable, and we extend our deepest gratitude to our guests and the readers of Travel + Leisure for their unwavering support,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat.

The Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific celebrate the region’s finest hotels, resorts, and travel experiences. Each nominee was meticulously selected by Travel + Leisure’s editors and expert contributors, with winners determined by the votes of the publication’s readers. For the complete list of winners, please visit Travel + Leisure.

For more information about Centara, head to the website www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

Time to rediscover Langkawi

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LANGKAWI, 24 June 2024: It’s time to say ‘Destination Langkawi ON’ for the weekend by checking out what you can explore during a three-day and two-night in stay in Langkawi. 

Whether you fly, drive, or ferry your way to this popular island destination, start packing your bags and essentials because Langkawi will take your breath away.

Langkawi effortlessly maintains its allure as a premier tourist and holiday haven, creating an undeniable chemistry that consistently captivates the hearts of all who venture here.

Before we delve into the details, it’s noteworthy that Langkawi is renowned for its UNESCO Global Geopark status. This distinction is attributed to its ancient mountain formations, crafted over 550 million years ago in the Cambrian period. The geological tapestry of this destination serves as a testament to its rich history, fostering an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Within Langkawi lies one of the planet’s oldest rainforests, adding timeless beauty to the landscape.

Let yourself be spellbound again, just like the first time you set foot in Langkawi – many years ago or just a year ago. Allow yourself to journey into the forgotten love that has mesmerised countless souls before you, and let Langkawi weave its enchanting spell over you once more. And if you haven’t experienced the magic of Langkawi yet, there’s no better time than now to do so.

Day 1: Experience Geoforest Parks and Geosites from Ground to Summit

Start your adventure at sunrise with thrilling activities at Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park. As the sun sets, head to Gunung Raya Granite Geosite and step into the mystical Dream Forest, where the night reveals a captivating wonderland.

Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park
Head to the Oriental Village, where you can start your ascent. For adrenaline junkies, take the SkyATV and ride through rugged terrain, passing under the cable car line, and then cool down at a small waterfall.

Quick ascent, glide through the skies on the SkyCab, traverse the iconic SkyBridge, or wander amidst the treetops on the 38-meter-long Eagle’s Nest SkyWalk, offering a spellbinding 360° panoramic view.

Waterfall enthusiasts, a refreshing dip at the Telaga 7 waterfall is a must. It’s only a 15-minute hike to the base and another 30 minutes to reach the seven natural pools.

Experienced mountain climbers, explore the 5.8-km Gunung Machinchang trail. This challenging hike, popular for birding, camping, and hiking, takes three hours and 17 minutes to complete. The trail features stairs, flat paths, roots, and rocks leading to the beautiful Seven Wells waterfall. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the dense rainforest, home to giant trees, strangler figs, and wildlife such as macaques, dusky leaf monkeys, and hornbills. The hike includes campgrounds like Kem Saintis and Tokayah Camp, with steep climbs and helpful ropes for the final ascent to the observation deck at the peak, offering panoramic views. A permit is required and can be obtained online at iforest.kedah.gov.my.

Dream Forest at Gunung Raya Granite Geosite

After dinner, your adventure continues as we invite you to step into the enchanted trails of Dream Forest and leave reality behind. This magical journey beckons local dreamers and travellers to explore its mystical landscapes, where reality melds with fantasy.

Nestled at the base of Gunung Raya Granite Geosite, Dream Forest Langkawi is illuminated with whimsical theatrical lights and enhanced by cutting-edge multi-sensory technology. This sanctuary within Langkawi’s rainforest offers a breathtaking wonderland.

As you wander deeper, tropical vistas come alive with captivating lighting, projection mapping, and enchanting soundscapes. Each step along the 1.2 km path unveils new wonders, guided by the enchanting music and narrative of Datin Seri Tiara Jacquelina.

For more information:

Oriental Village
Address: Panorama Langkawi Sdn Bhd Cable Car Station, Oriental Village, Burau Bay, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Contact: +604-9612000
Operational Hours: 0930 – 1800
Website: https://panoramalangkawi.com/skycab/

SkyATV by Langkawi Adventure Xtreme Park
Contact: +60177756460
Operational Hours : 1000 – 1600
Website: https://langkawiadventurepark.com/langkawi-sky-atv-ride-at-cable-car-45-60-min

Dream Forest
Address: Lubuk Semilang, Mukim, Jalan Padang Gaong, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Contact: +0134873277
Operational Hours : 1900 – 2300 
Website: https://dreamforest.com.my/

Day 2: Discover Geoforest Parks by Boat Tour

No visit to Langkawi is considered complete without delving into the wonders of its geoforest parks. Include this in your itinerary.

Kilim Geoforest Park: Explore Malaysia’s first UNESCO-endorsed geosite, Kilim Geoforest Park, where ancient formations and diverse ecosystems await. Glide through rivers, visit intriguing caves, and marvel at coastal karst and mangrove ecosystems. Encounter the oldest carbonate rock in the region, dating back 490-370 million years, and witness a harmonious blend of geological wonders and natural beauty.

Exploring Langkawi’s Mangroves at Kubang Badak: Embark on a captivating journey through Langkawi’s mangrove forests, where boat tours unveil Brahminy kites and sea eagles in their natural habitat. Walk among mangrove trees on elevated platforms, uncovering pristine landscapes and diving into Kampung Kubang Badak’s tidal river estuary. Experience its geological diversity while supporting sustainable tourism efforts.

Dayang Bunting Geoforest Park: Discover the enchanting beauty of Dayang Bunting Geoforest Park, just a short boat ride away. Be mesmerised by Dayang Bunting Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and steeped in local folklore. Marvel at marble formations dating back millions of years, while legends of a mystical lake add allure. Engage in kayaking and paddle boating adventures, concluding with a delightful dining experience at Kerisik or Ketam Village Restaurant.

Now that you have explored the Geoforest by boat, we recommend you stay wet and dive into thrilling water activities at Paradise 101. Enjoy a variety of sea adventures including paragliding, jetskiing around stunning rock formations, and sunbathing on the private beach. At Paradise 101, engage in banana boat rides, parasailing, kayaking, and ziplining over the Andaman Sea. Experience laughter and fun at the Aqua Park, and unwind at the OMG! Bar & Restaurant with refreshing cocktails against ocean views. Spanning 2 acres of beachfront, Paradise 101 offers white sands, greenery, and clear waters with a dedicated crew ensuring a clean, safe environment. Enjoy bespoke service and access to jet skiing, ziplining, and more. Complete your day with a sunset yacht view and BBQ dinner for a relaxing conclusion to your adventure-filled day.

For more information:

Kilim Geoforest Park
Address: Jeti Pelancongan Sungai Kilim, Mukim Air Hangat, Kampung Kelubi, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Contact:  ++604 959 2324
Website: https://naturallylangkawi.my/portfolio/kilim-geoforest-park/

Kubang Badak BioGeo Trail
Address: Kampung Kelubi, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Contact:  +6012-573 6453
Website: https://naturallylangkawi.my/portfolio/kubang-badak-biogeo-trail/

Tasik Dayang Bunting
Address: 07000, Langkawi, Kedah
Contact: +6013-302 3099
Website: https://langsura.com.my/tasik-dayang-bunting/

Day 3 of your Langkawi adventure is all about embracing the thrill of the outdoors.

After a hearty breakfast featuring local delights like nasi lemak or a satisfying American breakfast, kick off your day at Skytrex Adventure. Tucked within the breathtaking Machincang Cambrian Geoforest Park, Skytrex Adventure beckons with its exhilarating aerial challenges amidst the verdant rainforest canopy.

Imagine swinging from tree to tree like Tarzan, navigating over 30 adrenaline-pumping obstacles that include rope ladders, flying foxes, and ziplines. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, Skytrex offers three distinct courses tailored to your skill level. The Little Legend course, just above the forest floor, provides a gentle introduction, while Eagle Thrill takes you higher with games reaching up to 10 meters. For the ultimate test, conquer Island Extreme with its 33 heart-pounding challenges set among the tallest treetops, offering panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

Safety is paramount at Skytrex Adventure, with thorough briefings, top-notch gear, and friendly instructors ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone. Each course promises not just a physical challenge, but a memorable journey through Malaysia’s lush rainforest, providing a unique perspective on nature and adventure.

After your high-flying escapades, keep the adrenaline flowing with a visit to Morac Adventure Park. Just minutes from Langkawi International Airport, this state-of-the-art go-kart circuit promises thrilling speeds and competitive racing. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first-timer, Morac Adventure Park caters to all, offering a safe and exhilarating environment to test your skills against friends or family.

As your Langkawi adventure draws to a close, take a moment to savour the unforgettable moments of excitement and exploration this paradise has offered. From conquering the heights of Machincang and Gunung Raya in the Geoforest Park, to cruising through the mangroves of Kilim and Kubang Badak, and exploring the mystical Dayang Bunting Lake, every corner of Langkawi has been a canvas for adventure. Whether you’ve indulged in water sports at Paradise 101, challenged yourself at Skytrex Adventure amidst the rainforest canopy, or felt the rush of speed at Morac Adventure Park, each experience has added a new layer to your Langkawi journey. These thrilling escapades against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty ensure that Langkawi’s allure will linger in your memories long after you’ve bid farewell to its shores.

For more information:

Skytrex Adventure Langkawi
Address: Jalan Teluk Yu, Kampung Kok, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Contact: +6019 280 5679 (strictly for calls only from call 0900 – 1700. Email: [email protected]
Operational Hours: Park operation hours: 0830 – 1800. First departure: 0900, Last departure: 1500
*Open on most public holidays.
Website: https://www.skytrex-adventure.org/langkawi

AMPREX CIRCUIT SDN BHD
Address: Lot 67, Jalan Pantai Cenang, Mukim Kedawang, Kedah, 07000 Pulau Langkawi, Kedah
Contact: +60-4-955 2727/+60 12 957 3327
Email: [email protected]
Operational Hours: Monday to Friday 1500 – 1900 Day Time and 2100 – 2400 Night Time
Website: https://moracadventurepark.com/

For more information on LADA, visit https://www.lada.gov.my/en/ and www.naturallylangkawi.my