Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)

The Basics

In addition to the legend-laden lake, Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting) is home to Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park, where you can admire limestone formations and caves, and explore a mangrove forest via a man-made path. The majority of Langkawi island-hopping tours cover the island, and tend to include snorkeling at Beras Basah Island and Singa Besar Island, home to a population of golden eagles.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Home to more than 90 different species of bird, Dayang Bunting Island—also known as Pregnant Maiden Island—is a great place for bird-watching.

• The famous freshwater lake is a 15-minute hike from the jetty where most arrive, so wear sturdy shoes and plenty of insect repellant.

• Lifejackets are recommended for novice swimmers as the average lake depth is 32 feet (10 meters).

How to Get There

Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting) is located 12 miles (20 kilometers) off mainland Langkawi; you can board a water taxi from either Kuah Jetty or Pantai Cenang, which takes around 20 minutes, or visit as part of a stress-free island hopping tour.

When to Get There

Visiting Langkawi in January, February, and March means you’re least likely to encounter any of the rainfall that makes the island so green. In order to beat the peak season crowds, visit between April and August.

Enjoying Beras Basah Island

Located 15 miles (25 kilometers) southwest of Kudah, Beras Basah Island is a poster child for paradise. The undeveloped island is a staple of island-hopping tours thanks to its white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and iridescent waters, which are generally calm and ideal for swimming. Be aware of the wild monkeys that roam the island—they have a tendency to rummage for food.

What are the main attractions on Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)?

The main attractions on the uninhabited Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting) are its huge freshwater lake and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park, famous for soaring limestone formations and mangrove forests. Its name translates from Malay as Pregnant Maiden Island, because from afar its silhouette resembles a pregnant woman.

Can you swim in the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden (Tasik Dayang Bunting)?

Yes, you can go swimming in the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden (Tasik Dayang Bunting). Life jackets and pedal boats are available to rent. According to local legend, the waters allegedly can help increase fertility, as they were blessed by a princess who lost her child.

What activities are available on Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)?

The activities available on Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting) are jet-skiing (rentals available), snorkeling and swimming, kayaking through mangrove forests, and hiking through the jungle for opportunities to see wildlife such as monkeys and birds. The island is included on most island-hopping tours of Langkawi.

What facilities are there on Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)?

There are some facilities on Dayang Bunting Island but no hotels, as the island is uninhabited. You’ll find restrooms, stalls selling fresh fruit juice and snacks, and places to rent items such as life jackets, kayaks, and snorkels. Cash is preferred, so bring some small bills and change with you.

What is the best time to visit Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)?

If you want to feel like you’ve got Dayang Bunting Island to yourself, charter a private boat and visit in early morning before the day trippers arrive. The best time to visit Langkawi, in general, is January–March when there’s less of the rainfall that makes the island so gloriously green.

How do I get to Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)?

Dayang Bunting Island (Pulau Dayang Bunting)—the second largest island in the archipelago—is 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Langkawi. Get to the island by taking a 15-minute boat ride from Kuah Jetty (look for the giant eagle statue) on the southeast section of Langkawi.