Langkawi Geopark has the best-exposed of oldest rock in Malaysia and most complete Palaeozoic sedimentary sequence originating from the beginning of the Cambrian to the Permian period. Later, during the Mesozoic era, the islands underwent a major tectonic even that resulted in the emplacement of its numerous granitic igneous bodies. This incredible power generated by nature from deep beneath the earth's mantle had pushed up huge blocks of older rocks and placed them above a very much younger terrain.

In Langkawi geological history, much of the development is linked to events that occurred during the time of the prehistoric supercontinent of Pangaea and the southern hemispheric Gondwanaland more than 550 million years ago. It probably began with the deposition of the Machinchang sandstone in a lacustrine environment during much of the Cambrian time. This was followed by the submergence of the land during the late Cambrian period (~500m.y.), which saw the invasion of shallow marine fauna into the seas around Langkawi. The continuous subsidence of the sea floor resulted in the formation of thick limestone of what is known as the Setul Formation during the Ordovician period ( `440m.y.), at the end of which the sea became too deep, causing the limestone deposition to cease.

THE MACHINCHANG CAMBRIAN GEOFOREST PARK

The Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park hosts the oldest geological formation in Malaysia known as the Machinchang Formation.

" The island's geological make up forms the basis of the flora of the islands. Most of the outer islands are limestone and marble while the main island comprises ancient sandstone formations and granite intrusions. Gunung Machinchang The mountain is one of the oldest rock formations in Southeast Asia. To experience it, take an exhilirating ride on the Langkawi Cable Car over the forest canopy and up the mountain's escarpment to the summit at 713m. Observe the 550 million year old sandstone outcrops, the mountain flora and birdlife. Look out for the world's smallest orchid as well as pitcher plants. There are several walks between stations to allow a closer look at the rocks and vegeration. Gunung Raya Langkawi's highest peak at 880m is reached via a winding 13km toll road (50 sen) that passes through fascinating forests supporting a wide variety of fauna. Hornbills and birds of prey are common sights. Make a stop at several points and observe the forest from the canopy level. Look, listen and be one with the denizens of this environ. The mountain is a gigantic batholith formed about 230 million years ago, deep beneath the surface of the earth.Plate tectonic movements have pushed it to the surface. Limestone Coast The north, northeast coast and islands as far down as Pulau Tuba are predominantly limestone, approximately 400 million years old. Many endemic plants are found here and tall 'palm-like' plants called cycads grow from within cracks in the limestone. The outer islands are the best for seeing both the rocks and limestone vegetation. Rocky outcrops form an amazing sight especially along the uninhabited northern and eastern coastlines. Visitors need to hire a boat from Tanjung Rhu, Kilim or Kuah to explore these areas. The legendary Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden) is a beautiful freshwater lake located on limestone within the rainforest. It is Langkawi's largest lake and is separated from the sea by a thin rock wall. Walk through the forests and paddle or swim in the lake."

Also located within the park are some natural wonders that had resulted from recent geological processes such as the Temurun and Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, remnant islands of Anak Burau and Anak Datai and the beautiful beaches in Teluk Datai and Pantai Kok. The Machinchang peak exhibits peculiarly chopped sandstone that has often been associated with the colourful folk myth of the brawl between the two giants, Mat Chinchang and Mat Raya . The Machinchang ridges can be classified as one of the most beautiful landscapes in the area. " The two most prominent mountains in Langkawi Gunong Machinchang (Mat Cincang) and Gunong Raya (Mat Raya) tell the tale of the fight between families of giants. The story tells the tale of a wedding - with Mat Raya's son wanting to marry Mat Cincang's daughter. During the wedding feast, a fight broke out between the two wedding parties. Pots and pans were flung at each other. " ...

DAYANG BUNTING GEOFOREST PARK

The Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park mainly comprises the Permian overthrusted by the older Setul Formation limestones. These finest marbles resulted from the baking of Chuping Limestone by small granite intrusion underneath. There are a number of caves within the park. One of the most unique features of the park is the Tasik Dayang Bunting, a fresh water lake. A large mangrove forest flourish along the Selat Dayang Bunting ( Dayang Bunting Straits) . The combination of landscapes from marble and granite bedrocks formed a figure resembling a pregnant woman on her back, hence, the name Tasik Dayang Bunting or Lake of the Pregnant Maiden. "Pulau Dayang Bunting (Isle of Pregnant Maiden) is an island just south of the main Langkawi island. A small island encapsulates a freshwater lake (tasik). The romantic tragedy of Pulau Dayang Bunting tells the tale of a beautiful fairy princess or genie called Mambang Sari and a Prince, Mat Teja. One day while she was swimming in the pool, the prince chanced upon her and soon fell in love with her. It was said that she was tricked into marrying him and they soon had a child from the union. Unfortunately, their child died soon after birth and is believed to be buried in the lake. Before she left, the celestial princess blessed the water so that any childless woman who bathed in the lake, Tasik Dayang Bunting would conceive. Locals certainly believe that the lake has magical powers and that women who drink the waters of the lake can improve their fertitity. " and another version of story "One version has it that Dayang Bunting was a giant guardian spirit that kept watch over the islands. The lady's defenses include her pet lion and poison from the tuba root, potent weapons for her protection. Hence, the two islands closest to Pulau Dayang Bunting. As you approaching the island, the silhoutte resembles that of a reclined pregnant giant, are named Pulau Singa Besar (Great Lion Island) and Pulau Tuba (Poisonous Root Island).

The story goes that, a group of rude merchants failed to pay the obligatory respects to Dayang Bunting as they passed by the islands. Rudely awakened by the intrusion, she summoned her pet lion to despatch the trespassers. She roused the spirits of wind and water, stirring up a tropical storm that unleashed its fury on the incoming fleet of sailors."