Jointly Published by The Department of Irrigation and Drainage,
Ministry of Agriculture, Malaysia and Design Dimension Sdn Bhd

First Edition 1994
21.5 cm x 28.5 cm; 124 pages;
ISBN 983-872-006-2

The Langkawi islands are renowned for their clear turquoise waters blessed with an abundance of tropical marine life, sun-kissed beaches of fine white sand, mist-covered mountains with lush green forests, superior marble and a heritage of enchanting folktales and legends.

Beyond these, little is known of the mysterious caves nestling in gigantic limestone outcrops in hills and mangrove throughout the island that make up the jewel that Langkawi is. These caves are geological masterpieces of nature created over millions of years. The diversity and magnificence of their stalactites and stalagmites astound the senses.

Regardless of the preconception down the ages of caves being “dark, gloomy holes” shrouded in superstition and supernatural, the experience of being actually in one is beyond description. The world of caves is a world of prehistory, and a miracle of evolution.

This book, the first of its kind to be published on the Langkawi caves, is the result of numerous trips, spread out over several months, to locate and photographically explore as many of the caves as possible. This book attempts to capture the spectacular essence of the caves through a selection of excellent photographs and lively non-scientific text, and to create an awareness of the natural beauty and mystery of caves and the need to conserve them.

There are numerous caves, excluding arches, notches and smaller sea-caves which, according to this book do not qualify as genuine caves. Of these, twenty-four caves have been identified, located and photographed. These include Gua Landak, Gua Kelawar, Gua Tanjung Dendang, Gua Cerita, Gua Bukit Putih, Gua Tok Jangkit, Gua Buaya, Gua Dangli, Gua Dukung Adik and Gua Pulau Lima.

The heaviest concentration of caves is on the northern region of the main island, and they are most interesting. Others are scattered over much smaller islands north, south and east of the main island. Hardly any cave has been located in the western region.

The caves represented in this book are by no means the total number of caves to be found in the islands of Langkawi. Many more, perhaps, lie lurking in the depths of limestone outcrops, forests and mangrove, awaiting discovery and exploration. Some will require professional skills and equipments to scale the treacherous limestone cliffs. Others will remain undiscovered for a long time to come, challenging those who dare to reveal their secrets and mystery.

This book boldly captures in excellent pictures and words the mystery and magnificence of caves and their stunning limestone formations.

Highly recommended reading for nature and caving enthusiasts, Mysterious Caves of Langkawi, Malaysia is available at all major bookstore.