Langkawi - Malaysia

Langkawi (or rock eagle - our guide’s translation) is an island off the Malaysian coast which is geared to tourists. We had a private tour arranged aboard an air conditioned 7 seater - a much appreciated haven to revive between very hot and humid stops.  

Langkawi seems to be all about man made tourist attractions. The Maha ('the almighty') tower took 10 years to build and was opened in 2022. At 138 metres tall I am sure it has a good view from the top but we passed the opportunity by as we had higher trips planned for later in the day. 

The crab-eating macaque (or long tailed macaque) flourishes in the area, as the numerous offspring we saw attests.

Our second point of call was a boat trip through the mangroves. The first highlight were white bellied eagles being tempted by a few chicken wings. They seem to be debating 'shall we compete?'

The brahimy kite or brown eagles by comparison were already up for the challenge.

and clearly found it worthwhile.

After a similar show feeding monkeys (peanuts rather than chicken wings) we ventured into more cavernous surrounds. All good provided the tide is low! We also hopped off for a quick interlude into a bat cave (no flash allowed....)

We had an enjoyable couple of hours on the water. Once back on shore we moved to the North West side of the island to take to the air. The ‘SkyCab’ is an extraordinary 2.2 kms long, 15 minute gondola ride. The longest free span is 950 metres which, at 42 degrees, is the steepest gondola in the world. At about 700 metres above sea level it is a similar altitude to Canberra (but a lot warmer!). 

Of course to get a good feel for the height you do need a glass bottomed gondola….

The cab has a midway station with attractions and ends up near the Sky Bridge. Unlike the gondolas which were German built this gravity defying piece of engineering was designed by Swiss engineers. The completed structure is awesome both aesthetically and engineering wise. 

How it was built is another question altogether. Most was apparently prefabricated and lifted in using a Russian Kamov twin rotor helicopter. However, that does not explain the sequence of erection which I suspect was from the middle outwards. In such an inhospitable piece of country it must have been a significant challenge.

The single pylon has 10 cables and the horizontal load from the curve of the bridge is balanced by the pylon’s lean towards the centre. At 125 metres it is the longest pedestrian curved bridge in the world. Quite a tourist attraction.

The bridge is at a slightly lower level (well some 300 steps) from the top of the cable car. Walk if you want or take the SkyGlide. This is also an unusual funicular as it travels along tight curves and accommodates dramatically different grades. The base of the car adjusts to accommodate the grade and uses a cogged tooth rail for traction. It is one vehicle unlike most funiculars which rely on a second cab to balance the load and a second track (at least for passing).

Notwithstanding the 34 °C and high humidity this was one of the most memorable days out I think we have ever encountered – so much variation in one day. Langkawi is definitely worth a visit.