Located in the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is blissfully blessed with sandy white beaches and greeneries. To explore and absorb every inch of this beautiful island is what responsible travel is all about. With all the pollution going on, can you be sure that all these greenery will last for even another generation? Here, you are welcome to embrace yourself with what Mother Nature has to offer in Langkawi’s National Geopark. Home to innumerable wildlife, it is the true eco-getaway from marine life to rock formations. As you would have guessed, being a Geopark would mean that it is a nationally protected area due to its unique geological heritage. Thus be sure not to remove any objects, plants or animal products from nature. Even if it is the smallest piece of object, not only can it affect fragile ecosystems, it is also illegal to do so. Within this mystical Geopark, lies Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, spreading over an area of 100 square kilometres. As you cruise along the calm winding river, get ready to be awed by the 5 unknown magic of the Kilim River. However, be aware to maintain distances away from wildlife and not move too close to them even if it is for a better picture.
Brahminy Kite Eagle and Other Wildlife
Did you know the name “Langkawi” came from the Brahminy Kite Eagle which nests there? These gorgeously elegant predators are mainly found along the coast and in inland wetlands where they can easily feed on dead fish and other preys. Known for their reddish brown plumage and a contrasting white head and breast makes them easily spotted along the Kilim River. Besides the Brahminy Kite Eagle, you might also spot one or two large monitor lizards lazing in the sun or a family of long tailed macaques among the lush green, peeping back at you. As you glide through the quiet water, you will be mesmerized by the unknown beauty these wildlife are able to present to you as you had not set upon the Kilim River.
The Hole in the Wall
How did it get its name? The name was given because of the narrow opening between impressive rock formations of limestone cliffs, connecting the Kilim River and the Andaman Sea. As you float on top of the deep emerald green water towards “the hole in the wall”, you will need to do a bit do ducking from the overhanging Bogak Trees. As you are between the gaps of the limestone cliffs, you will notice a multitude of marine life swimming below you. After the rocks, you will be greeted upon by a picturesque bay which you thought could only exist in the famous children’s book, Peter Pan’s Neverland.
Mysterious world of the Primordial Mangrove Forest
After a delighting and pleasant journey from “the hole in the wall”, you will find yourself drifting into another world, the mysterious world of the primordial mangrove forest. Dark with the few sunrays that were able to find its way into this primordial realm, you hear from a distance a bird taking flight. Suddenly, you sense that everything around you is untouched by time and you are the only “present” that is slowly moving deeper into this unspoken land.
Where bats lives: Gua Kelawar
After you have passed “the hole in the wall” as well as the mangrove forest, you are just a few paddles away from famous Bat Cave. You will first enter into a smaller cave, slowly going into the eternal darkness. However, your eyes will slowly get used to the darkness and you will be able to notice the walls covered with prehistoric oyster shells. After some time following a wooden platform, you will come to a second cave with giant stalactites and stalagmites. Up on the cave’s ceiling, creatures of the night that are anticipating for twilight peer down with their devilish eyes on you.
Inner Peace Remedy
The best part of being in an environmentally responsible travel would be discovering the best remedy for your soul through Nature. Minutes of the fresh air and the serene atmosphere will definitely satisfy your souls’ thirst compared to the years in the hustle and bustle of city life. The wildlife’s song shall feel your ears better than any sweet serenade; the air you breathe tastes sweeter that any fine wine; the nature around you will balance your soul and your mind. What more can you ask from such a magical place?
So what are you waiting for now? Go green and be a responsible traveller. Appreciate nature and what it has to offer before it is too late: say NO to “man-made attractions”.
Check out on community projects organized to promote environment conservation.
Responsible Travel 生态旅游 
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