Sometimes you have to just take a step back to truly appreciate what’s in front of you. Perspective makes all the difference and when you are soaring above the ground with nothing but the beauty of Mother Nature spread as far as the eye can see, you realise that our world is something truly special. Such are the thoughts that may across your mind as you make your way to the summit on the famous Langkawi Cable Car Ride. Also known as Langkawi SkyCab, this thrilling journey to the top of Machincang Mountain is as breathtaking as it is exhilarating.
The “journey” begins at Oriental Village in Langkawi’s Burau Bay. Remember this is a popular attraction so you will have to face the prospect of standing in a queue. Ideally look to get there early and staying at nearby Langkawi resorts certainly helps in this regard. Located only around a 3 minute ride away, Berjaya Langkawi Resort makes an ideal starting point to your adventures. The SkyCab generally operates from 9.20 in the morning to 7 at night. Do remember though, the bridge walk at the summit is closed after 6 in the evening so do plan on getting there ahead if you want to experience that attraction. However, that comes at the end and there is plenty to see in-between!
The base station is where it all begins and don’t be put off by any queues you might see when you arrive. One of the great things here is that you even have things to do while you wait; part of the fun is a totally free 3D movie viewing experience which will help pass the time, while you can even get your picture taken and printed with a special frame (though it does cost extra).
Once you do reach your turn in the line, it’s time for you and your family or friends to head on up. Do keep in mind that no food or beverages are allowed inside the gondola and you do get special storage areas at the base for you to keep any food and drinks you may have. Once the doors close, the real 4400 metre adventure to the top begins!
The ascent from the base of Machincang Mountain offers some stunning views. The higher you go the larger your perspective and panoramas become, with awe-inspiring views aplenty. Soak up the vistas that unfold beneath and around you before stopping at the Middle Station. Remember this is not the summit and while you can alight from the gondola be mindful that it continues on its way to the top; if you do get down you will have to wait for the next gondola to come in order to reach the summit. That being said, the Middle Station also has some pretty dramatic views. However it’s the final leg of the journey that is truly worth experiencing.
A little over 700 metres above sea level, the Top Station is all about the views. The 360 degree panoramas are something special and the mix of emerald forest cover and brilliant blue is likely to give you goose-bumps with a backdrop that also includes Langkawi’s islands. As an added bonus the summit also offers access to a unique bridge that is suspended above the ground at a height of around 100 metres. A walk along this bridge is another part of the thrilling summit experience; take it all in and even though the journey will soon come to an end, the memories are bound to last a lifetime.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
