Where is Tempting Fortune filmed? Discover Malaysia’s Langkawi
Discover where Tempting Fortune is filmed in Langkawi, Malaysia, from rainforest mountains and the SkyBridge to beaches, island scenery and local legends.
Tempting Fortune’s third series takes viewers to Langkawi, where Rob Beckett follows 12 contestants on a demanding tropical adventure. Its forested mountains provide the backdrop to the Channel 4 programme, but beyond the jungle lies an archipelago of beaches, coastal villages and local legends.
Where is Langkawi?
Langkawi is a group of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia and close to Thailand. It belongs to the state of Kedah, with the main island, Pulau Langkawi, home to the airport, principal towns and beach resorts.
Rice fields and villages sit between the coastline and wooded hills. The archipelago forms a UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised for its geological heritage, including ancient rock formations, caves and limestone cliffs.
The landscape behind Tempting Fortune
The series follows a 13-day trek through Langkawi’s tropical terrain, with contestants facing temptations that reduce their shared £300,000 prize fund. The island’s forested landscape is central to the challenge and its visual appeal.
One established way to see that landscape is the SkyCab cable car, which climbs Machinchang mountain to viewpoints more than 700 metres above sea level. The curved SkyBridge stretches above the wooded slopes, with views towards southern Thailand in clear weather. These are visitor attractions, rather than confirmed stops on the contestants’ route.
Beyond the jungle
On the eastern side of Langkawi, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park brings together mangrove waterways and limestone formations. South of the main island, Dayang Bunting is known for a freshwater lake enclosed by forest-covered hills.
The coast offers another side of the setting seen on television. Pantai Cenang has a busy beach strip of cafés, restaurants and accommodation, while Tanjung Rhu in the north looks out towards offshore limestone formations.
The stories behind the scenery
Local folklore is closely tied to Langkawi’s identity. Kota Mahsuri introduces the legend of a woman said to have cursed the island after being wrongfully accused and put to death.
Laman Padi explores rice cultivation and the farming traditions behind the island’s rural landscape.
Image credits: Visit Langkawi by Travelindex. For more information about the island, explore Visit Langkawi.
LGBT traveller information: Malaysia criminalises same-sex sexual activity under federal law, including in Langkawi. LGBT venues and events have also faced raids, and public displays of affection can attract negative reactions. Check current travel advice if considering visiting.
Watch Tempting Fortune streaming now on Channel 4.
