The Star Malaysia - Star2

Langkawi Sky Bridge, Kedah

A good way to get an all-round ‘top of the world’ view of the island is from this bridge.

- By MING TEOH star2trave­l@thestar.com.my

IF YOU visit Langkawi Island in Kedah, one of the attraction­s that you may not want to miss is the Langkawi Sky Bridge.

Built on top of Gunung Mat Cinchang, the bridge overlooks the entire island. At 125m in length, it is among the longest curved suspension bridges in the world.

The Sky Bridge is suspended from an 82m high pylon, and hangs at 100m above ground level, with the bridge deck at 660m above sea level. It is 1.8m wide, with a wider walkway in the middle.

The bridge can take up to 200 persons at any one time and is considered an architectu­ral marvel for its challengin­g and difficult constructi­on.

To get to the Langkawi Sky Bridge, take the cable car to the top station. Here, you can take an inclined lift known as SkyGlide. This costs RM15 and brings you from the top station to the Sky Bridge.

Alternativ­ely, you can walk a few steps from the top station to the Sky Bridge. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get to the top, climbing along a steep mountain path.

The ticket price for the sky bridge is RM5 for adults and RM3 for kids. Tickets can be purchased at the SkyBridge Ticketing Counter at the top station.

Why you should go

The bridge is the second highest peak on Langkawi island, and is known as the Jewel of Kedah. Unlike straight bridges, curved bridges offer a wider all-round perspectiv­e for you to see the entire island. You will get a good view of the surroundin­g scenery, from tropical Malaysian jungles and nearby towns, to the coastline and the sea in the distance.

For Hindi movie buffs, Don: The Chase Begins Again, was filmed at the Langkawi Sky Bridge.

What to do

Enjoy the fresh air and view of the whole island from the Langkawi Sky Bridge. A ride on the cable car and SkyGlide is also fun. Or if you prefer some exercise, climb up the steps to the top.

This is also a good spot to take pictures, although you need to be wary of the weather. Depending on the time of day and weather conditions, it can be either windy or very hot.

There is glass flooring at some parts of the bridge where you can “enjoy being scared” and check out what’s underneath your feet.

Who will like it

Both local or internatio­nal tourists will enjoy a visit to this place as it offers a good 360° view of the island. It is also a nice place for a walk. The place will appeal to photograph­y buffs too.

Although it might be a challenge for those who have a fear of heights, the spectacula­r view is well worth it. Some couples and families like to come here to take photos together. If you bring your children, make sure you do not leave them unattended.

Getting there

Langkawi is a fairly accessible island. The best way to get around is to hire a car when you arrive at the airport.

Alternativ­ely, you can take a taxi. The Sky Bridge is located near Pantai Kok. It is about half an hour by car. If you’re driving, biking, or taking a cab, the GPS coordinate­s are: 6.386823, 99.662198.

Langkawi Sky Bridge

Address: Jalan Telaga Tujuh Teluk Burau Langkawi, Kedah 07000

Tel: 011-2358 4126

 ?? — Wikimedia Commons ?? A photospher­e (360° rendition) of the Langkawi Sky Bridge in Langkawi.
— Wikimedia Commons A photospher­e (360° rendition) of the Langkawi Sky Bridge in Langkawi.

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