places to visit in kuching sarawak

Dive Into Malaysia

24 Top Places To Visit In Kuching, Sarawak

Going on a holiday in Kuching and want to know all the best places to visit in Kuching? We have you covered! Below, you will find our guide to all the best attractions in Kuching to plan your ultimate trip.

Kuching – the capital city of Sarawak state of Malaysia on the island of Borneo – is the most populous city located along the Sarawak River. Considered a significant gateway for tourists visiting Borneo, there’s a great range of attractions to entice you to stay longer both in the city and in the surrounds. It’s also quite pretty thanks to its riverfront location and is maybe my favourite city in Malaysia. It just offers so much.

Grab your Malaysia Kuching map, and let’s explore this modern city! Wondering where to visit in Kuching, well if it’s your first time we suggest starting at the waterfront. You’ll find a plethora of attractions in the vicinity, including some of the top 10 places to visit in Kuching including the Astana and Fort Margherita.  

First-timers to the city find it almost comical to see all the cat-related statues, artworks and carvings that are scattered throughout the city (Kuching literally means cat in Malay!), and the city is even home to the world’s first cat museum. It’s great for a laugh.

Being one of the most culturally diverse cities of Malaysia, the heritage trail covers museums focused on different cultures and religions and many highlight the region’s many indigenous groups.

There are so many interesting places in Kuching town that you need to plan appropriately to make sure you hit the ones that are most important to you. There are a lot of great things to do in Kuching, so it’s usually not possible to see them all in one stay.

No list of where to visit in Kuching, Sarawak, would be complete without mentioning the abundant nature on the doorstep of the city. Only an hour outside of Kuching city you have splendid national parks such as the Bako National Park, the best place in Kuching, Sarawak, to discover those cheeky proboscis monkeys.

And another of the places of interest in Kuching, Malaysia, is the awesome Gunung Gading National Park home to the world’s largest flower – the Rafflesia. 

It’s hard for us to pinpoint the best place in Kuching, Sarawak (and we haven’t even mentioned the orangutans yet!) as there are simply so many spectacular adventures to be enjoyed. You definitely need more than 1 day in Kuching!

Below, you will find our Kuching trip blog guide with everything you need to know about the best places of interest in Kuching, Sarawak, as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday in Kuching! There is also a handy Kuching attraction map of the interesting places in Kuching, Sarawak.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Top 24 Places To Visit In Kuching, Malaysia

Here are the best places to go in Kuching. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.

I have loosely ordered this list starting at the Kuching waterfront and working our way out to places to visit in Kuching surrounds. This means that many of the places in the first part of the list can be visited on a walking tour quite easily. You can see many places in a small area in Kuching.

It also means that this list isn’t in order of what you should prioritise visiting.

There are some absolutely fabulous attractions and day trip options from Kuching in the latter part of the list and you should definitely try to visit some (all!) of them.

Take A Walk Along Kuching’s Waterfront

You don’t need to check your Kuching map; tourists are always naturally drawn to the most iconic Kuching sightseeing spot – the Kuching Waterfront!

A picturesque location from where most of the promotional pictures of the city are taken, this 900-metre esplanade offers an excellent view of the Sarawak River, along with many historical sites such as The Astana and Fort Margherita.

While you are sightseeing here, do not miss the Darul Hana Bridge.  An unusual S-shaped pedestrian suspension bridge with two viewing platforms, this is the best place to admire the magnificent Floating Mosque. In fact, my photo below of the Floating Mosque was taken from this bridge. As was the photo of the Astana.

Time your visit well, as the sunset view is particularly captivating with beautiful sunbeams shimmering across the spectacular golden crown of the mosque. 

There’s a great energy along here especially in the evening as the weather cools down and the locals come out. I try to walk along here as much as I can when I’m in Kuching as I just love it.

The Kuching Waterfront is definitely one of the must-go places in Kuching. The next few Kuching attractions on this list can also be visited or sighted while walking along here.

Address: 37, Jalan Main Bazaar, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak

View The Amazing Floating Mosque

Located on the river itself, the Floating Mosque is a relatively new addition to the riverfront that opened in 2019. It’s big enough to fit 1,600 worshippers.

It was built to replace the 186 year old Masjid India. That mosque was built by Indian Muslim traders who work at India Street.

Its design is inspired by the Middle East. It looks quite spectacular on the river especially at the night when it’s lit up and during sunset when the golden sky accentuates the colours of the mosque.

Non-Muslims can visit outside prayer time if dressed appropriately to see the unique internal design.

Check Out The Astana

Astana – a name derived from the Malay word ”Istana” which means Palace – is an interesting Kuching place to visit. This majestic colonial building was constructed in 1870 by the second White Rajah – the dynastic monarchy of the British Brooke family who ruled the Raj of Sarawak from 1841 to 1946. A royal couple, Charles Brooke and Renee Margaret constructed the Astana and used it as their home until the Japanese occupation.

The Astana now serves as the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak. Therefore, it is not open to the public except during the annual Hari Raya celebration. However, visitors can appreciate this Kuching famous place from a distance. It’s perhaps best viewed from the Kuching waterfront.

Address: Astana, Kampung Istana, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

Visit Fort Margherita

There are plenty of interesting places in Sarawak Kuching to visit that have historical value, but Fort Margherita is perhaps the most famous one. This English-styled fort was built in 1879 by Charles Brooke during the White Rajah era and was said to protect Kuching from the attack of pirates.  

Named after the Rajah’s beloved wife Renee Margaret, visitors start their exploration of the site by admiring the exterior design of the fort from the waterfront before approaching it by a short sampan ride. 

The fort now serves as “Brooke Gallery” and is a really interesting place to spend an hour at, with heaps of memorabilia helping you understand the influence the family had on Kuching. This is one of the fun things to do in Kuching for history fans!

Address: Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

Experience A Traditional Wooden Boat Ride At The Sarawak River

In the old days, a traditional wooden boat was the primary mode of transportation in Kuching. Today, tourists may experience the same journey taking an hour-long boat ride along the Sarawak River.

The traditionally designed boat sails upriver from the Kuching Waterfront and offering you great views of the Astana, Fort Margherita, Sarawak Museum and all the major attractions in Kuching, Sarawak. On the return, sailing downstream will take you along a local stretch of the river, revealing a completely different side of Kuching.

If it fits with your schedule, we highly recommend you do this cruise during sunset. The late afternoon orange glow shimmers across the water and with the Kuching top attractions as the backdrop, you’re sure to grab a few Insta-fabulous pics!

Alternatively, you can also take a cruise in a bigger boat and enjoy a meal or sunset drinks while you enjoy the scenery.

Click here for a sunset cruise option.

Address: 1st Floor, Lot 42, Section 33, 124, Jalan Tabuan, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak

Learn More At The Chinese History Museum

Looking to understand Chinese history and culture in Sarawak? The Kuching best place to visit for this has to be The Chinese History Museum located at the waterfront, right across the river from Fort Margherita.

This educational landmark was formerly the base of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce but was opened to the public in 1993 to help visitors learn about the critical history of the Chinese community in Sarawak.

At the museum, you will find plenty of memorabilia and artifacts explaining the arrival of first-generation Chinese pioneers, early trading activities, the local political environment and today’s Malay-Chinese. There is a particularly interesting exhibit highlighting the various dialects from regions of China, perhaps particularly relatable to Chinese speakers! 

The Chinese Museum is amongst the most educational places to visit in Kuching, Malaysia.

Address: Chinese History Museum, Jalan Bazar, Sarawak, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak

Explore Chinatown

During the white Rajah era, an influx of Chinese migrated to Kuching and formed what has become today’s Chinatown. Considered one of the busiest and happening places to visit in Kuching town, the two most notable streets are the Main Bazaar and Carpenter Street.

Both are packed with charming Chinese shophouses, built with intricate architecture, and Chinese Temples that are decorated extravagantly during major Chinese festivals. This is the best place to visit in Kuching, Sarawak to experience the living cultural heritage of the Chinese.

Amongst and within some of the shophouses you will find all types of eateries, including several specialising in mouthwatering local dishes such as Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee (Sarawakian dry noodles). A total must-try! 

For all you shopaholics, be prepared to show off your bargaining skills and snatch up Chinese paintings, handicrafts or antiques at a bargain price.

It’s a great place to wander around and take it all in. It’s low level and the pretty shophouses, temples and street art make it one of my favourite places in the city to just soak in Kuching.

Chinatown is also a famous place in Kuching, Sarawak for bars/speakeasies. Picture yourself sipping on an ice-cold beer on an Asian-warm day… Chill, relax and watch the hustle and bustle of chaotic Chinatown!

Address: Padungan Road, Kuching, Sarawak

Check Out The Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple

Located at the centre of Chinatown on Carpenter Street, the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple is the best place to go in Kuching to discover the culture of the Teochew community.  Originally built on the Main Bazaar some 150 years ago, the Temple was moved to its present location in 1863 and underwent a major renovation in 1968.

This ancient temple is insignificant in size but architecturally picturesque, with strikingly colourful artworks and various gold-foil covered deity statues.

An annual celebration is held on the fourth day of the twelfth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, bringing the Temple to life.  Lion and dragon dance troupes parade, traditionally dressed singers and dancers perform, along with a wild battering of gongs and drums that heat up the city until midnight!  

Therefore, we feel that the best time to visit Kuching, Sarawak is perhaps to catch this exciting event at the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Temple.

Address: 22, Jalan Carpenter, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak

Visit The Textiles Museum

The Textile Museum is a surprisingly interesting place to visit in Kuching as it celebrates the unique textile-making techniques of the region. It also showcases the intricate designs woven by the Sarakan ethnic groups, taking visitors through the entire textile making process from raw materials to the finished product. 

Also on display are some costumes locally made by ethnic communities, and an exhibit featuring 30 historical garments – including a 100-year-old Kenyah jacket. It is one of the Kuching Malaysia points of interest that offers deep insights into the Sarakan ethnic group.

It’s also housed in a cool building! It was built in “colonial Baroque” style in 1909.

Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak

Discover Local Culture At The Borneo Cultures Museum

The Borneo Cultures Museum opened in 2021 and is quite the attraction. An awe inspiring building, it was built to reflect “Sarawak’s unique traditional crafts and rich cultural heritage”. But it’s not just the outside that’s worth seeing.

Inside, you’ll find five storeys of exhibits, auditoriums and more to enjoy and learn. The ground floor is home to an auditorium and function rooms for events as well as a restaurant and shop.

Level two has a great area for kids where they can learn about sustainability while studying the state’s rivers. There’s also an Arts and Crafts Gallery where you can learn about traditional crafts, dances and music.

Level three has a massive 2,188 square metres of exhibits about the relationship local communities have in Borneo with their environments. It’s told through a river journey through three different geographical regions.

Level four is home to the “Time Changes” exhibit which is about the history of Sarawak from prehistoric times to today. This includes archaeological discoveries from around Sarawak.

The top level displays Sarawak culture with many top artefacts of skilled craftsmen and more.

This Kuching points of interest is by far the best museum I have been to in Malaysia. Parts are quite immersive and interactive, and it’s done well. It definitely should be on your to-do list.

This is a big museum (the second largest in South East Asia), and you could easily spend the day here. But even if you only have a couple of hours, it’s worth coming here. The only downside is the price. It is expensive for foreigners at RM50 for adults and RM20 for kids up to 12 years old. 13-17 year olds and 61+ year olds are RM25. It is substantially cheaper for Malaysians.

Note that the old Sarawak Museum has closed.

Explore The Natural History Museum

Located basically across the road from the Borneo Cultures Museum is the Natural History Museum. It’s home to a collection of zoological exhibits such as hornbills, leopards, and those famous wild cats of Sarawak. 

You can see the skeletons of mammals, reptiles, birds, fish and more. There are also animals that are now extinct.

This museum is free and easy to visit.

Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Taman Budaya, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak

Visit The Sarawak Islamic Museum

Also located by the Borneo Cultures Museum, another Kuching interesting place to visit is the Sarawak Islamic Museum. It was originally built as a school offering teaching training to Malays so that in turn, they could provide a high level Malay education. It opened as a museum in 1992.

Aimed at presenting the honourable culture of Islam to the people of Sarawak, there are seven galleries displaying artifacts.

Themes range from Islamic history, architecture, science and literature influences, cultural collections, weaponry, arts and a special Quran collection. Each gallery is said to offer a valuable lesson to Islamic culture.

The Sarawak Islamic Museum is an informative, free and interesting place to visit in Kuching, Sarawak.

Address: Jalan P. Ramlee, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak

Leave The Big Smoke Behind At Kampung Boyan

Just across the river from all the action is Kampung Boyan, a Malay village with low level, colourful houses. It feels a world away from the riverfront area, but it does give you good views of it.

There’s also a hawker centre here and other Malay eateries.

The most fun way to get here is by wooden boat ride across the river for RM1 each way. It only takes a couple of minutes. It’s also right by Fort Margherita so you can visit at the same time if you wish.

Look For Cat Statues

Being called the ‘cat city of Malaysia’, cat statues are almost a must-have in the city! The most prominent, also considered the city’s icon, is the mega cat monument: the Family Cat installation.

Located at a roundabout in the city centre and beautifully lit in the evening, it makes for an unusual entry on our list of best places to visit in Kuching at night. 

The location of the family cat statue makes it iconic and hard to miss, but it’s not the only one.

In the south of the city sits a white waving cat built in the 90’s. As the very first cat statue installed in the city, it holds a special place in the heart of the local people and would be the very best place to go in Kuching, Sarawak if you are considering writing a Kuching attractions blog post of your time in the city.

There are many more cat statues all over the city, some strikingly cute and easily spotted around tourist places in Kuching town such as the bronze cats at the waterfront. Others are hard to find, in unusual places such a lamp post or a manhole!  

It’s quite the game trying to spot these pesky cats – keep looking and see how many you can find by the end of your trip!

Address: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak

See Sarawak’s State Flower At The Orchid Garden

Sarawak’s state flower is Normah Orchid and thus it makes sense to find an Orchid Garden in the centre of the city! One of the top things to do in Kuching, the garden is located near the Astana and Fort Margherita, meaning you can easily combine all three within a day’s exploration.

Housing over 75,000 plants, botanists will find this an interesting place at Kuching. In fact, most are dazzled by the 82 genres of orchids on display in the gardens.

Some of the infamous Borneo native species can be found here, including Bulbophyllum Beccarii – rotten meat stinky orchids – and the rare Lady Slippers that were once thought to have gone extinct.

We highly recommend a visit here to anyone who loves orchids or botany, making the orchid garden among the must-visit places in Kuching.

Address: Kampung Istana, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

Have A Laugh At The Cat Museum

The name “Kuching” literally means cats, and the Cat Museum is an attraction place in Kuching that amusingly presents the city’s love of cats. It’s the world’s first museum dedicated to our feline friends!

Located only 15 minutes from the Kuching waterfront, there are over 4,000 exhibits. From the conventional display of history between cats and Kuching city, and the introduction of various cat species to the region, to the lighthearted exhibition of all things cat: Maneki-Neko (The Japanese Beckoning Cats), Garfield The Cat, and even Hello Kitty! 

While it is called a museum, I found it more a kitschy collection of cat related memorabilia. Like someone started collecting cat items, and it got out of hand. However, this isn’t to say it isn’t worth visiting. It’s actually one of my favourite things to do in Kuching because it’s just so funny.

In fact, I consider it a must do in Kuching. You only need about half an hour here to have a good look.

Address: Bangunan DBKU, Jalan Semariang, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

See Orangutans Up Close At Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Visiting endangered orangutans is perhaps the most popular activity when travelling to Borneo. Semmenggoh Nature Reserve in Kuching offers a fantastic opportunity to view these playful and intelligent primates up close.

Here, you’ll find the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre which is just 40 minutes outside of the city, making it a perfect half day trip in Kuching. 

The Reserve is home to semi-wild orangutans that were orphaned, injured or illegally caged as pets. After they are rescued, they live in this environment, roaming freely within the jungle reserve. 

However, there are too many orangutans in too small a space for the orangutans to be able to completely fend for themselves, so they often return for meals at fixed feeding times (currently 9 am and 3 pm). This makes for a great opportunity for you to see orangutans up close.

The Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is open from 8am-10am and 2-4pm so you can visit these feedings and watch the orangutans. Since these are wild animals, there are no guarantees that they will show up. However, outside the fruiting season, you would be unlucky not to spot some orangutans at this time.

I visited in the fruiting season and there were two orangutans that hang out for awhile. It was amazing. They loved posing for us and were awesome to watch.

While you are here, you can also learn about these amazing creatures at the on-site Semenggoh Orangutan Gallery, and there’s also a Botanical Research Centre within the reserve for flora enthusiasts.  

Overall, the Semenggoh Nature Reserve is an excellent Kuching place to go for an interactive and educational encounter with some of nature’s cutest creations! Visits only take a couple of hours and you won’t regret it.

Address: KM 20, Jalan Puncak Borneo, 93250 Siburan, Sarawak

Click here for discounted tickets or click here here to read my full guide to visiting here.

Learn Local Culture At Sarawak Cultural Village

Looking for one of the best activities in Kuching to learn about Sarawak culture? Head to the Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum that offers guests an opportunity to experience all the cultures of Sarawak squeezed into just half a day!

On your visit, you’ll find authentic replica houses from each of the major ethnic groups in Sarawak such as Bidayuh, Iban, Orang Ulu, Malay, Penan and Chinese. A representative from each group – dressed in traditional clothing – welcomes you to their respective home and showcases their tribe’s culture through demonstrations of unique cultural activities.

After, be sure to catch the multicultural dance performance – presented twice a day – which highlights the harmonious and peaceful style of living that can be found amongst these Sarawakian groups. 

Finally, end your visit by sampling the different foods on offer at the onsite restaurant. We suggest ordering their ethnic set menu which combines signature dishes from each group, giving you a chance to taste them all! 

Just 45 minutes drive from the city centre at Damai Beach, the Sarawak Cultural Village is one of the most interesting locations for day trips from Kuching.

Click here for discounted half-day tour tickets .

Address: Pantai Damai Santubong, Kampung Budaya Sarawak, 93752 Kuching, Sarawak

Splash, Relax Or Hike At Damai Beach

Looking for a great beach near Kuching or somewhere to go on a jungle hike while enjoying a swim? Or visiting Sarawak Cultural Village and wondering what else is in the area? Visit Damai Beach!

Located 45 minutes drive north of Kuching, Damai Beach is the place to head for some beach time. It’s home to the Sarawak Cultural Village as well as a great golf course and some nice jungle trekking at Mount Santubong National Park where there is a range of trails from easy to challenging.

The beach itself is lovely, especially at sunset.

You can get a shuttle bus here from Grand Margherita Hotel or take local bus K15 from Saujana Bus Station. Otherwise, you can take a Grab taxi, but note that getting one back again can sometimes be difficult.

Click here to read our full guide to Damai Beach and everything there is to do there.

Take A Santubong Wildlife Cruise

For something quite different, go and experience Sarawak’s wildlife from a special cruise. These wildlife cruises sail along the Santubong River to the rivers and mangroves of the Santubong Peninsula (where Damai Beach is located), the mouth of the Salek Estuary and the Kuching Wetlands National Park to the north and northwest of Kuching.

As you cruise along, your guide will look out for Irrawaddy dolphins, proboscis monkeys, silver-leaf monkeys, crocodiles, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards and a variety of birds. As the day darkens, there are fireflies to spot as well.

It’s a great opportunity to explore the natural side of this area some more. Some cruises also include dinner and will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in Kuching. These cruises depart late afternoon making it easy to fit into your itinerary.

When I did this cruise, it was simply amazing. Not just the animal spotting, but how beautiful the whole area is as the sun sets. I watched Irrawaddy dolphins glide by for about 30 minutes, saw proboscis monkeys play in a tree, macaques and some great scenery. The fireflies at night are also a highlight.

This is definitely a tour worth doing.

Click here to join this wildlife cruise now or click here to read my full review of this cruise.

Spot Wildlife At Bako National Park

Established in 1957, Bako National Park is the oldest national park in the region and is among the best places to visit in Sarawak, Kuching. Located at the northern tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula, the park is accessed via a 15 minutes boat ride from Kampung Bako, approximately 35 minutes drive from Kuching.

Arrange your boat transfer to go past Bako’s most pictured attraction, the Sea Stacks. These oddly shaped but handsome sea stacks are natural art, formed by waves eroding cliffs and rocks across centuries. The edges can be seen from the beaches at the park, but for a closer (and much better) look join a dedicated boat ride.

The National Park is particularly famous for its diverse range of ecosystems with seven different types including rainforest, mangroves, swamps, dipterocarp forests and cliff vegetations. All attract a diverse amount of wildlife. 

The star of the show is usually the proboscis monkey, endemic to Borneo, but there is much more wildlife such as wild boar (bearded pig), monitor lizards, macaque monkeys, flying lemurs and more!  Visitors can choose from many track options through the extensive jungle trail-system, the shortest taking only 30 minutes through to serious multi-day treks.  

Trails can be hard work with many lacking shade and involving climbing around tree roots. However, I did it with a bad ankle so you can too!

The more adventurous can even spend a night in one of the modest jungle lodges, giving time to tick off more wildlife viewings especially at night. A visit to Bako National Park is definitely one of the best things to do in Kuching!

You can visit independently, but a tour makes it all so much easier. You won’t have any dramas getting there and back and you’ll have a guide for the best chance of spotting wildlife.

Click here for discounted full-day tour tickets.

Address: Muara Tebas peninsula, Kuching, Sarawak

Click here for our full guide to visiting Bako National Park. It has absolutely everything you need to know about visiting here from how to get here to what trails you can hike.

Experience The Annah Rais Longhouse

Longhouses are traditional homes for most native Sarawakian tribal groups. These are long, narrow houses built from timber and bamboo, mostly elevated off the ground on stilts. 

Many of the traditional longhouses can only be found in remote areas in Sarawak, which can involve lengthy travel. Yet here in Kuching you can easily reach one: the Annah Rias Longhouse. Only an hour’s drive from the city centre, this is a truly exceptional and very popular tourist attraction in Kuching, Malaysia.

The Bidayuh Tribe, who make up 8% of Sarawak’s population, are the key residents at the Annah Rias Longhouse. Believed to be over 100 years old, the Longhouse has been greatly expanded with interconnected walkways forming a proper community village. It is one of the most intriguing places to see in Kuching, Sarawak.

Visitors may roam freely around the area and can see the Biyudah people going about their daily lives. To be fair, the area is relatively developed for tourists, but you can still witness the fascinating Biyudah history and culture through items such as a cylinder made of human skulls – believed to be from caught invaders, wall murals and an old wooden house that is miraculously still standing, and home to families today.

Shops sell local produce and handicrafts with one of the unique products to test being Tuak. This is a local rice wine that’s used in rituals and festivals as an offering to the worshipped spirits. This charming village is unique and pretty making it one of the most attractive places in Kuching, Sarawak.

Address: No. 9, Kupo Saba, Kampung Annah Rais Longhouse, Jln Borneo Height, 93250, Kuching, Sarawak

See The Famous Rafflesia Flower At Gunung Gading National Park

The world’s largest flower Rafflesia can, when in full bloom, grow as large as a coffee table! It is famed just as much for its smell as its size – emitting an awful smell that it uses to attract insects. Gunung Gading National Park is one of the very few natural habitats for this rarely found flower. Let’s hope that you’re lucky enough to catch one in full bloom, one of the most incredible things to see in Kuching. 

Carefully built raised walkways take you to the area where Rafflesia buds are most commonly found. With only a short flowering time – of only a few days – to avoid disappointment, we encourage you to check with the park ranger before making your trip. 

In addition to Rafflesia, Gunung Gading National Park also offers various trekking trails taking you to numerous picturesque spots including a short trek through seven waterfalls, and a serious summit trail across a large dipterocarp forest to a former British Army Camp. Hiking enthusiasts will note this as one of the top 10 things to do in Kuching.

The easiest way to visit is on a guided tour. Click here to book one now.

Address: 94500 Lundu, Sarawak

Eat Kek Lapis

The last thing to do in this list is also the most delicious – trying Sarawak kek lapis! This is basically layer cake. We couldn’t help but try some after admiring how good it looks.

It tastes just as good as it looks too!

It’s easy to find it in stalls along the waterfront in the evening. Or drop into Kek Lapis Mama Su. This shop opposite the river has many options you can try and buy. It’s the perfect way to top off a great day in Kuching.

Kuching Tourist Attraction Map

The following map shows you where all the attractions listed above are in Kuching. It also has our recommended hotel choices (coming up!).

Best Place To Stay In Kuching, Sarawak

Similar to the wide choice of places to go in Kuching, Sarawak, hotel options are equally vast both in and out of Kuching. 

We have handpicked four properties at different price points and locations from a luxury resort by the coast to a convenient Inn located in the city. This way, we have provided our best recommendations for all types of travellers.

You can find our full guide to the best hotels in Kuching here. If you are looking for a Kuching Airport hotel, read our review of the Raia Hotel here. It’s directly opposite the airport.

BEST RESORT – Cove 55 Hotel Kuching Review

Cove 55 is a luxury boutique resort located at the foot of Mount Santubong, 35 minutes drive from Kuching city not far from Damai Beach. Upon arrival, visitors are dazzled by the 30-metre exquisite turquoise infinity pool that offers a panoramic view of the South China Sea. 

Rooms are aesthetically contemporary with a hint of tribal elements to highlight the hotel’s roots as an Iban family holiday home. All rooms feature either a private garden or a balcony that overlooks the pool and/or the sea. Basic room types are perfect for couples and their two bedroom suite accommodates up to two adults and two children, making an excellent choice for family travellers.

There’s a bar and restaurant on-site which features fresh local produce and Sarawakian cuisine, with the option of indoor or outdoor dining. You’ll find a great pool and gym to work away the kilograms at after!

Winner of Unique Luxury Hotel of the Year Malaysia and Luxury Boutique Retreat for the continent of Asia, Cove 55 offers a wonderful stay and is best suited for people who want a natural and luxurious resort while they are in Kuching.

Click here for the latest prices.

BEST IN KUCHING – The Waterfront Hotel Kuching Sarawak Review

This 5-star hotel in Kuching is a great place to stay to be close to Kuching’s heart and attractions. Located on top of a shopping centre, a short walk from the riverfront, at the entance to Chinatown and close to the Borneo Cultures Museum, this hotel is a very convenient place to stay.

There are many different room options at this hotel which offer different views (try to get a river view room), sizes and extras. Suites come with spacious living areas and club rooms offer access to their private lounge. 

All rooms have free WiFi, flatscreen TVs, tea and coffee facilities, air-conditioning, minifridge, bathrobe and slippers, desk area and a lounge chair so you can’t go wrong. They are all clean and modern. Rooms come in twin, double and family options (with two queen beds).

There’s a great range of facilities including a restaurant that offers stunning river views. It also features an undercover pool with great views, a bar by the pool and a gym. Of course, there is also the shopping centre downstairs for super easy access to shops and more eating options.

I love staying at The Waterfront Kuching and I recommend it for you too.

Click here for the latest prices or click here to read our full review.

Pullman Kuching Hotel Review

The Pullman Kuching Hotel is a beautiful property located right above a shopping mall and only 5 minutes walk from the Kuching Waterfront.

Reasonably priced for a 4.5 star hotel, this international branded hotel offers everything you would expect including a well-appointed fitness centre, spa and swimming pool.  And guests of the hotel have access to three restaurants and cafes that offer a wide array of Asian and international food. There’s also a bar by the pool and a lounge bar.

All rooms are spacious and well equipped with everything you need, even fitness gear!

Whilst superior rooms offer vibrant city views, deluxe rooms come with a spectacular waterfront view totally worth the additional cost  And for families, a family room comes equipped with one king and one single bed. There are also suites with separate living areas. 

BUDGET – Tune Hotel Waterfront Kuching Review

Strategically located, Tunes Hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the Waterfront and is surrounded by major attractions such as both the Chinese and Sarawak Museums. Even though there is no on-site restaurant, you will find some great local Kuching cafes and eateries in the near vicinity.

The rooms are small, but they do have air-conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities and private bathrooms with some toiletries. You can choose between single, twin, double and family rooms which have a bunk bed and bedding for three.

Some rooms do not have windows which can help you save money.

There is a lack of facilities, and rooms are not cleaned during your stay. Otherwise, this is a great option for people looking for a budget hotel in Kuching.

How To Get To Kuching

It’s easy to get to Kuching by flight, bus or car (if you are already in Malaysian Borneo).

If you are coming from peninsular Malaysia, your only choice is to fly here.

To see all the latest flights and prices, click here .

If you need to take a bus from elsewhere in Sarawak, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices .

You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here .

You can also read our guide to getting to Kuching from Kota Kinabalu (in Sabah) here or our guide to getting to Kuching from Sibu here.

Kuching With Kids

There are so many interesting places in Kuching, Malaysia that are excellent to go with kids. Within the city, hunting for cat statues and visiting the Cat Museum are both sure to get your youngsters excited. 

Children also love the experience of taking boats across the river to different places of interest in Kuching city. Be sure to include the various museums, especially the Natural History Museum for its animal exhibits.

Outside of the city, Kuching is surrounded by natural jungle and the nature that Borneo is famous for. Young and old have fun exploring the region’s national parks and trying to spot the vast amount of wildlife and especially seeing the jaw-dropping Rafflesia flower. 

And then there’s the feeding of orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve and all the fun at the Sarawak Cultural Village with the locals dressed in traditional clothing and their old-style, unusual, homes to be discovered. My kids loved the opportunity to get up on stage at the cultural village during the dance performance.

You will not regret bringing your children for a holiday in Kuching, Malaysia.

Final Words

Kuching has the perfect combination of being vibrantly modern with a twist of rich cultural vibe. This is a city where you may casually stroll aimlessly around the streets, taking in the artistic surroundings and admire the diverse cultural harmony. It’s a beautiful place both at its centre and in its surrounds.

Being the capital of Sarawak, it’s a busy city but just drive for half an hour and you’re in a primeval jungle, full of natural wonders. Truly an amazing city, it makes for a perfect starting point to your Borneo journey.

You can check out all the best Kuching day trips here. Find our full travel guide to Kuching here and our full guide to the best places to stay in Kuching here .

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Kuching (Malaysia)

25 Best Things to Do in Kuching (Malaysia)

Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak which is part of East Malaysia and is located on the wider island of Borneo. Anyone who has been to Peninsular Malaysia will find that Sarawak has a very different feel, and Kuching in particular, thanks to its strategic location on the snake-like Sarawak River, is one of the prettiest spots in the region.

The city is known for being the home of a number of indigenous groups such as the Iban and the Dayaks, and people flock here to learn more about the unique culture found in this part of Malaysia. For many visitors, the highlight of a visit to Borneo is the chance to visit a traditional longhouse and see how people would have lived here in the days of old. History buffs can also spend time checking out the wide range of museums in town as well as the elegant buildings, many of which date from the colonial period.

You may also be surprised to find that Kuching is covered in statues of cats, and the reason for this is said to come from a miscommunication during the colonial period when the local people were asked the name of the city and thought that James Brooke, the first British Rajah of Sarawak, was pointing to a cat. As such they replied ‘kucing’, the Malay word for cat, and the rest is history. Whether or not the story is true, anyone who loves felines should make sure not to miss a trip to all the cat statues that adorn the city as well as the peerless Cat Museum.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Kuching :

1. Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village

Just a 35 minute drive outside of Kuching will take you to the Sarawak Cultural Village where you can learn all about the different indigenous groups that live in this part of Malaysia, as well as take in a range of local crafts and buildings.

There are live demonstrations which will teach you ancient techniques such as weaving, bamboo carving, and bead making and you can also tour this model village and check out all the architecture.

Just some of the sights on offer include a traditional Chinese farmhouse as well as a Penan hut, Iban longhouses, and a Malanau Tall House and the site sprawls over 17 acres so there is a huge amount to see and do here if you fancy an easy day trip out of the center of Kuching.

2. Stroll along the Kuching Waterfront

The most iconic part of Kuching, without a doubt, is its scenic waterfront which is where all the main action happens.

This part of town would have been used by warehouses in the days of old, but now you will find a pretty walking path that flanks the water and offers you amazing views over the main sights in town such as the Astana and the majestic Fort Margherita.

At night this is the place to see and be seen, and many young couples from Kuching choose this spot for a leisurely romantic stroll.

You will also find a selection of small cafes here and although the prices are a little higher than in other spots, the views more than make up for it.

3. Explore the Astana

Astana is the Malay word for Palace and this iconic building dates from 1870 during the time of Charles Brooke who was also known as the Second White Rajah of Sarawak.

The Astana is now the official home of the Governor of Sarawak but it was originally built as a wedding gift for Ranee Margaret, the wife of Charles Brooke.

The complex is made up of three different bungalow areas which are joined by walkways and the Astana enjoys panoramic views over the waterfront of Kuching.

As this is an official state residence however, visitors are not permitted to enter the Astana grounds and you will have to make do with admiring this historical gem from afar.

4. Check out the Cat Museum

Kuching means cat in Malay, and as you will soon discover on a trip here, this is a city obsessed with cats.

To that end, make your way to the Cat Museum where you will learn all about the historical and cultural significance of these felines with over 2,000 cat-related exhibits on show.

Some of the highlights include a cat in mummified form that hails from Egypt and is said to date back 5,000 years as well as a mounted example of a Bay Cat which is a kind of wild feline that is indigenous to the island of Borneo.

As if all of that wasn’t enough, there are even sections dedicated to the story of Hello Kitty as well as the Broadway show Cats.

Certainly if you are looking for a quirky attraction to visit on a rainy day in Kuching then this is hard to beat.

5. Visit Kuching Mosque

Kuching Mosque used to be known as the State Mosque of Sarawak so you may still hear it referred to by this name occasionally.

The original building would have been constructed as far back as 1847 and was made of wood, although it has since been upgraded and the building that stands now was completed in 1965. The mosque is decorated in pretty pink and white designs and is topped with a large gold dome that glints under the fierce Malaysian sun.

6. Learn some history at the Sarawak Museum

If you only have time to visit one museum in Kuching then the Sarawak Museum is an excellent pick.

The museum also has the claim to fame of being the oldest in Borneo and was founded in 1891 under Charles Brooke.

The museum is housed in a huge building that dates from the Victorian period and is, somewhat surprisingly, modeled on a traditional Normandy townhouse.

If you are interested in the culture of Sarawak, then the museum is a treasure trove of antiquities that include tribal weapons, models of longhouses, and a plethora of stuffed animals.

Another highlight is a model of the Niah Caves which are thought to be the source of the first human settlement in Borneo.

7. Shop at the Main Bazaar

The Main Bazaar is actually something of a misleading name as this actually refers to a row of traditional shop houses that line the main street in Kuching.

The shop houses face the water and this is the place to come if you are looking for souvenirs or traditional arts and crafts.

Some of the items you are likely to find here include beautiful beads and jewelry as well as textiles that show off the intricate weaving techniques of the indigenous groups here.

8. Visit Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple

In additional to the many tribal communities here, Kuching also has a sizeable Chinese population and to that end you will find a number of Chinese buildings in the city including the Tau Pek Kong Chinese Temple which is an important place of worship for the Chinese community.

The temple is said to date from 1770 which makes it the oldest of its kind in Kuching and you can expect to find a riot of color here as well as intricate carvings that tell the stories of the various Chinese deities.

9. Travel to Bako National Park

Bako National Park has the claim to fame of being the oldest national park in Sarawak and sprawls across almost 3,000 hectares of land.

This however actually makes it one of the smallest parks in Borneo in terms of its area which means that it is easy to visit as part of a day trip from Kuching and you can still manage to see a lot of the park in a short space of time.

The park lies on the Sarawak and Bako rivers and has an impressive seven different eco-systems within its boundaries including towering cliff sides and mangrove swamps.

You will also find scrubby grasslands here and animals abound including proboscis monkeys, macaques, and bearded pigs.

10. Visit the Old Courthouse

The Old Courthouse is now actually the building that houses the official Sarawak Tourism Complex and dates from 1871. The complex is a great spot for history buffs to visit as it includes a wealth of interesting buildings such as a clock tower built during the colonial period in the Baroque style as well as a Renaissance Pavilion which is now used as the Textile Museum.

You can also explore the Round Tower which was constructed in 1886 and would have been a fort before becoming a dispensary as well as a memorial in honor of Charles Brooke.

The complex is conveniently located next to the main promenade in Kuching so it makes a good place to go for a stroll and take in the views over the water at the same time.

11. Admire the flowers at Gunung Gading National Park

Many people on a visit to Kuching travel to the nature reserves in the hope of seeing orang utans and other forms of indigenous wildlife.

At Gunung Gading National Park however, the big draw is the flora rather than the fauna as this is one of the spots where the famous and rare rafflesia flower grows.

Rafflesia are known for being the largest flowers in the world and they bloom at the park throughout the year, so there is a good chance that you will be able to spot some no matter which time of year you visit.

As well as admiring the flowers you can also spend time in the park checking out the lush jungle trails and taking in the pretty waterfalls and tinkling streams.

If you are feeling energetic then you can even scale the peak of Gunung Gading Mountain.

The park is around 2 hours away from Kuching so it is possible to visit it as part of a day trip.

12. Shop at the Sunday Market

The Sunday Market in Kuching is also often called Satok Market as it is located at Medan Niaga Satok and actually begins on Saturday and lasts until Sunday.

The market sprawls for several blocks and you will find a huge array of produce here including local delicacies such as salted fish and exotic fruits and vegetables.

There are also other treats on offer such as local honey and you can pick up other items like clothes, textiles, and toys.

13. Visit the Cat Statue

Kuching is covered in references to cats, but perhaps the most famous is the Cat Statue that sits at the entrance of the city.

The statue was built in the 1990s and soars to a height of 5 meters and resembles a large white feline with its paw raised.

If you happen to be here during holiday periods such as Christmas, the cat can also be found wearing a range of seasonal outfits.

14. Meet the turtles at Satang Turtle Island National Park

Satang Turtle Island National Park is made up of two islands in the form of Pulau Satang Besar and Pulau Satang Kecil which lie off the west coast of Sarawak.

You can visit the national park as part of a day trip from Kuching and the big draw here is the turtle conservation area and hatchery which is dedicated to the preservation of turtle eggs and their eventual release into the sea when they hatch.

You can also swim or snorkel off the islands and you will find a gorgeous underwater world here which is filled with pretty coral and an abundance of colorful fish.

15. Explore Fort Margherita

Fort Margherita was built in 1879 and is one of the most iconic structures in Kuching.

It would have been constructed in order to protect the city from an imminent attack and nowadays you will find the Police Museum housed here which has an fascinating collection of ancient weaponry that includes cannons, swords, pistols, and cannon balls.

The fort and museum are located across the river from the main Kuching Promenade and you will need to take a scenic boat ride to get to it which is half the fun.

16. Have something to eat at Kubah Ria Complex

Kubah Ria Complex is one of the newest shopping areas in Kuching and lies on the Sarawak River close to Satok Bridge.

The main reason to come here is to check out the food scene, as you will find some 45 different cafes and eateries dotted around the building where you can try a feast of local delicacies.

Some of these to look out for include Sarawak Laksa which is a kind of delicious soothing soup as well as Mee Sapi or noodles with beef.

If you are looking for a quick way to try a range of local dishes under one roof then this is an excellent pick.

17. Get out on the river

Kuching is bisected by the Sarawak River and one of the best things about this city is the river views.

With that in mind, you can hire a traditional wooden boat and driver and go for a leisurely trip along the river that will let you enjoy the views over Kuching from the water.

Trips are negotiable and can range from a quick 10 minute jaunt to a longer journey that will take you to the outskirts of the city.

18. Discover Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh Nature Reserve is around 40 minutes outside of Kuching so it is easy enough to visit as part of a day trip.

The reason that visitors flock here is to see the orang utans and the center had a rehabilitation program that lasted for some 30 years.

The center sits of 2.6 square miles of land and as well as the graceful orang utans you will also find birds, mammals, and reptiles roaming all over the forests.

The orang utans in the center have been released and are considered to be wild, but there are several feeding sessions a day when the animals may come to one of the main feeding platforms and this is your best chance of seeing them on a trip here.

19. Visit St. Thomas’ Cathedral

You might not imagine that you would find a cathedral in Kuching but there is a sizeable Christian population here, hence the presence of St. Thomas’ Cathedral.

The building looks out over Padang Merdeka which means Independence Square and is easily spotted than to the ancient kapok tree than stands in front of it.

This is an Anglican cathedral which was built in 1954 and notable parts of the building to look out for include the barrel-vaulted ceiling which is painted bright crimson.

If you continue up the hill from the cathedral you will find the Bishop’s House that would have been the home of the first Anglican bishop in Kuching and is also one of the oldest buildings in town having been built in 1849.

20. Eat at the Open Air Market

Conveniently located on Jalan Market or Market Street is the Open Air Market which is something of a misnomer as it is actually made up of a covered area.

This is the place to come if you want to try traditional Malay and Chinese food and most of the market is made up of little stalls that focus on serving only one dish.

Some of the highlights here include traditional beef noodles and sio bi which are juicy pork dumplings.

21. Go kayaking on the Sarawak River

The Sarawak River runs through Kuching and if you are looking for an adventure then one of the best ways to explore it is to take to a kayak.

There are several companies such as Kuching Kayaking that will rent you a kayak and you can either paddle along the river or choose to go out into the open sea where you may even find pods of dolphins

22. Visit Annah Rais

Annah Rais is some 100 kilometers outside of Kuching and is made up of a traditional Bidayuh longhouse which lies at the base of the majestic Borneo Highlands.

There are 500 local residents that live here and you can visit the longhouse and see how people have lived and worked here for centuries.

There are actually three different longhouses that you can explore here called Kupo Terekan, Kupo Saba, and Kupo Sijo and you can go on a tour where you will learn about some of the history and traditions of these ancient buildings.

23. Enjoy the Sarawak Timber Museum

The Sarawak Timber Museum is an unusual venue that tells the story of the timber industry in this part of Borneo.

To this end you will find displays dedicated to explaining the history of the timber business as well as displays of traditional wooden objects and an explanation of forestry across the region.

If you want to know more about one of the economic backbones of Sarawak then this makes a fascinating visit.

24. Visit the Sarawak Islamic Museum

The Sarawak Islamic Museum lies close to the Tun Abdul Razak Hall and has some seven different galleries that are dedicated to different periods of Islamic art.

All the galleries face a leafy courtyard and you will find a huge range of artifacts such as a replica of the sword that is said to have belonged to the Prophet Muhammad.

If you like religious history then this is not to be missed on a visit to Kuching.

25. Explore the Indian Mosque

Some people may be surprised to know that there is a sizeable Tamil community in Kuching and the Indian Mosque is certainly one of the most unusual attractions here.

The building is located on the aptly named India Street (Jalan India) and you will find small emporiums here selling a wealth of heady spices.

On the same road lies the mosque which was built out of ironwood in 1836 by Tamil traders who settled in Kuching.

25 Best Things to Do in Kuching (Malaysia):

• Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village
• Stroll along the Kuching Waterfront
• Explore the Astana
• Check out the Cat Museum
• Visit Kuching Mosque
• Learn some history at the Sarawak Museum
• Shop at the Main Bazaar
• Visit Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple
• Travel to Bako National Park
• Visit the Old Courthouse
• Admire the flowers at Gunung Gading National Park
• Shop at the Sunday Market
• Visit the Cat Statue
• Meet the turtles at Satang Turtle Island National Park
• Explore Fort Margherita
• Have something to eat at Kubah Ria Complex
• Get out on the river
• Discover Semenggoh Nature Reserve
• Visit St. Thomas’ Cathedral
• Eat at the Open Air Market
• Go kayaking on the Sarawak River
• Visit Annah Rais
• Enjoy the Sarawak Timber Museum
• Visit the Sarawak Islamic Museum
• Explore the Indian Mosque

35 BEST Things to do in Kuching Sarawak in 2024

After two trips to Kuching, including two weeks volunteering with Orangutan Project at the MonkeeBar, I got many opportunities to travel in Kuching, like a local. Since I was staying in a volunteer house in the city, it was easy to just get a Grab or Uber to all attractions in Kuching city. This gave me ample chances to explore this lovely cat city and create this amazing list of things to do in Kuching Sarawak , heart of Malaysia.

From cute cafes to national parks, stunning sunsets to museums, there are plenty of interesting places in Kuching for a first-time wanderer.

Guide to Booking a Last Minute Trip to Kuching

Are you on a short trip to Kuching or have just a few days left before you fly? Well, worry not, with this handpicked list of tours and hotels, you are covered.

Must Try Kuching Tours

Bako National Park Tour  – Absolute must visit , read my post about Bako here.

Semenggoh Orangutan Centre 

Sarawak Cultural Village Tour 

Top Hotels in Kuching

Hornbill’s Nest  – Best budget stay with cozy rooms

Citadines Uplands Kuching  – Superb fully serviced apartments. Read my full review here .

Merdeka Palace  – Good location and fancy stay in heart of Kuching

In this Kuching blog, I will cover the best places to visit in Kuching, alongside some great activities in Kuching – the pretty cat city of Sarawak.

So, join me and experience some popular Kuching attractions, through my eyes.

30 Things to do in Kuching Sarawak For All Sorts of Travelers

Kuching – the cat city , is a no brainer stop if you are in Borneo and wondering what to do in Sarawak.  With so much to do for foodies, nature lovers, adventurers and the likes, Kuching will surely not disappoint.

If you are a true blue nature lover and prefer jungles over big city madness, Kuching is the perfect getaway. Think – orangutans, national parks, sea turtles, beaches and much more.

Here’s a quick video run through of some of the best things to do in Kuching city –

Hike in Bako national park

Bako national park happens to be one of my top spots for hiking in Kuching . It’s a lovely park for nature and wildlife enthusiasts and has the highest density of Proboscis monkeys, which are endemic to Borneo. You can also see the adorable Bornean bearded pigs here and enjoy a multitude of jungle hikes.

Since the weather is hot and humid, Bako requires a fair bit of planning and packing essentials . Be sure to check out the guided night hike for a chance of one on one encounters with nocturnal animals in Bako.

In short, this park offers an amazing array of adventures and activities and tops my list of Kuching things to do.

Read my full post about Bako National Park here  

Look for Sea Turtles in Satang Island

Satang island can be a once in a lifetime experience if you visit during the turtle hatching season from April – September. If lucky, you can actually see turtles coming to the beach and laying eggs or the hatch-lings fleeing away to the big blue seas.

This can be an incredible experience and I documented my entire experience of watching this natural phenomenon in another blogpost.

Click here for my pictures and travel stories from Satang Island

Hop on the Irrawady dolphin tour

One of the best attractions in Kuching is a lovely mangrove tour to find the Irrawady dolphins. This starts from Damai beach and usually lasts 2-3 hours.

We were fortunate enough to see a bunch of playful dolphins up close (Even though I didn’t consider Kuching as a dolphin watching destination ) , Proboscis monkeys, few water birds, neon blue tiny crabs as well as a crocodile on this tour.

The tour also covers a visit to the local fishing village, which offers a peek inside traditional village culture.

Click here to check out pictures from my Irrawady dolphin tour in Kuching

Orangutan Feeding at Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Semenggoh is a primate rehabilitation center which offers best chances of seeing Orangutans in ‘Semi-wild’, as they call it. Orangutans here are left free to roam in the reserve and the rangers call them out at fixed feeding time everyday to ensure they never run short of food in the wild. Hence, they are ‘semi-wild’ as sometimes during fruiting season, they might not come looking for fruits at feeding hour.

Early morning is the best time to visit Semenggoh so you can walk around a bit on your own and do some birding and hiking before feeding time at 0900 hours. The noon feeding time is at 1500 hrs but it gets very hot and it’s not a great time for bird watching either.

Rangers in Semenggoh are friendly and helpful. They would happily tell you about all Organutans in the park, their names and awesome facts about the park and these primates.

A visit to Semenggoh is a must-d0 family activity in Kuching Sarawak Malaysia.

Click here to book a hassle free tour to Semenggoh from Kuching. 

Bird Watching in Kuching Malaysia

As an avid birder, my sole mission was to find the best birding spots in Kuching and so, I did. In no particular order, these are the top 3 birding spots in Kuching –

Kubah National Park –  The trails inside Kubah have ample fruiting trees which draw hoards of bird species. A quick early morning 3-4 hour birding session in Kubah is said to be extremely fruitful. Be sure to take an experienced guide along with. While in Kubah, also pay a visit to animal rescue center at Matang to understand what Project Orangutan stands for an how you can help.

Borneo Highlands Resort – This is a eco-wellness resort, around 45 mins from Kuching city center. The resort lies 1000 mtrs over sea level is nestled amidst dense forestation, making it ideal for highland birds. I could not check it out personally but all avid naturalists I met would swear by this place. The only criteria is you will have to start extra early around 0430 hrs to make it there on time for early morning birding.

Bako National Park – Bako was undoubtedly my favorite. Since the park rangers and guides don’t have immense birding knowledge (well, they know their kingfishers and sunbirds), its best to spend a few nights and zero in on best spots each morning. I had great luck around the restaurant area, which is also an excellent spot for Proboscis monkeys. During one of my morning birding sprees, I was lucky enough to spot a Proboscis without the usual tourist rush, well, i was the only one there at that time. I spotted a White bellied woodpecker and the Asian fairy bluebird, which were both lifers for me.

Tip – There is dearth of good birding guides in Kuching. Mr Yeo is the most popular (And expensive) guide but he s booked for months in advance and worth every cent he charges. However, if you are on a budget (like us), simply spend more time and look for fruiting trees, open areas near resorts and wake up early. It can be hard to find birds in the dense rainforests but keep your eyes open and binoculars handy, you can get lucky anytime!

Enter the world of Cats at the Cat Museum

Are you a cat lover? If so, I would highly recommend visiting the cat city of Kuching and definitely take a look inside this adorable cat museum. Surely one of the best indoor activities in Kuching to enjoy on a hot humid day.

Entry is free and it takes around an hour to go through all displays.

The cat museum in Kuching has some cute cat statues, many cat posters, cat adverts and cat figurines. However, the best part are the cat souvenirs which you can buy for just RM 10 for 3-10 pieces (Depending on what you buy). This amounts to $2.3 total, and you can choose from fridge magnets and keyrings.

Cat museum is surely among the top free things to do in Kuching .

Tip – Cat museum is open till 1700 daily, so I would recommend starting from Kuching city around 1500 (max) as the museum is located on the outskirts and can take a while to reach. 

Smell the Flowers at Orchid garden

Our third free entry spot in Kuching is the lovely Orchid garden . It is close to the cat museum so I would recommend visiting both together.

This greenhouse nursery boasts of over 82 species of Orchids including the Normah Orchid which is the state flower of Sarawak.

However, avoid an afternoon visit as it can get very hot and you lose half the fun in a rush to get out of the scorching sun. Not many Uber/Grab drivers and locals know this garden yet so search and save it beforehand on your phone GPS.

Volunteer at the Monkee bar

Follow my footsteps and do your bit by traveling responsibly. Help out where you can and since I am not too great at teaching, I choose to opt for animal welfare. MonkeeBar is in affiliation with Project Orangutan , which means 50% proceeds from the bar profits go towards orangutan conservation in Matang wildlife center.

There are two ways to volunteer with the Project Orangutan – paid and free. Paid volunteers stay in close proximity to the animals and help out by cleaning their enclosures, feeding (in rare cases), building enclosures or any odd jobs required around Matang. As a free volunteer, you cannot work directly with Orangutans but you can help out at the bar by doing usual bar work – cleaning, serving drinks, informing guests about the project and more.

You can read all about Project Orangutan  and how you can help by clicking here .

Get a tan at Damai Beach

This is surely one of the best beach resort destination in Borneo. With stunning coastline, dotted with Damai resort properties, this beach is popular with guests staying in these resorts, as well as locals/travelers who visit just to enjoy some beach time. If you are looking for laid back outdoor activities in Kuching, Damai has a few options plus a free tan.

Several water activities and the mangrove tour are also organized by the resorts at Damai. Plus, this is one of the best spots in town for some great beach side dining options.

High Five the Cat Statues

Well, you are in cat city! You most certainly cannot ignore the multitude of amazing cat statues at important intersections in Kuching city. Why not try what I did and high five the adorable cat statues around town ? I soon discovered this was a LOT of fun 🙂

I booked a Grab car and simply asked the driver to take me to all the cat statues in Kuching. I was told that the main cat statue (the white cat in pic above) is adorned in traditional clothes from time to time, like during Chinese new year, the cat wears a red dress and so on so forth. How utterly cute is that?

Be Mesmerized by the best Sunsets in Malaysia

Honestly, I experienced some of the best sunsets of Malaysia right here in Kuching. Some of the best things in life are free and sunset chasing is surely the best. Especially if you are wondering what to do in Kuching alone, well, nothing beats solo gazing at a stunning sunset.

My top sunset spots in Kuching were –

Waterfront – Walk towards the very end of the Waterfront, opposite the open air market. You will come to a dead end and usually a lot of photographers will mark the spot after 1800 hrs daily. The USP here is the sun fading over the city and mountains with the river in forefront, offering perfect reflections of the changing colors of the sky. This is also definitely the best place to walk in Kuching with lots of food and entertainment to keep you occupied.

Bako National Park – You can find the most dramatic sunsets on the beaches of Bako. I love the crooked shaped mountain as the backdrop, sky always seems to be on fire and the Bornean bearded pigs make for excellent objects to shoot in this landscape.

Satang Island – The sunsets at Satang had the most beautiful and bright orange hues I have ever seen. This private island offers excellent sunset photography options with various objects on the beach – trees, fallen branches, crabs, rocks and the empty beach which help to create a stunning effect.

Gulp Beer in Cool Drinking Holes

Well, I am surely biased so I will highly recommend having a few pints at the MonkeeBar or Bear Garden. Both of these bars are affiliated with Project Orangutan so 50% proceeds go towards Orangutan conservation efforts. So, if you are in Kuching and want to drink for a cause – Check these bars out.

Other options are Junk, The Library or just head over to one of the many kiosks by the Waterfront to enjoy ‘after-party’ drinks at happy hour rates.

Walk along the Waterfront

THE place to be in Kuching, hands down is the beautiful waterfront. The Waterfront is a great place to walk around, eat out and chill with friends. Evenings are vibrant and lively with the lovely state legislate building, all lit up, casting amazing reflections on the water.

You can choose to stroll the length of Kuching waterfront or even opt to take a guided river cruise.  There is a lot to do at the Waterfront like listen to live music, eat local food (at dirt cheap rates) or watch breathtaking sunsets. The sunset point is right at the end of the waterfront and makes for lovely views of sun peeking behind the mountains. So if you are wondering what to do in Kuching at night? A visit to the Waterfront is surely one of the top things to do in Kuching at night , apart from scoring the multitude of bars.

India Street

Okay so in all honesty, coming from India, the India street in Kuching didn’t impress me much. Narrow lanes, shops and a local mosque is basically all the street has to offer.

It might not be the best place to visit in Kuching, but, the India street is right across the beautiful Waterfront and the open air market so its easy to cover it with your Waterfront evening stroll. If nothing else, the vibrant colors and clothing might interest you.

Check out the Kuching Mosque

Kuching has some incredible architecture with jaw dropping backdrop of rainforests and mountains. So much so that everything looks ultra pretty in the cat city.

Kuching city mosque and other lovely mosques in town stand tall and look stunning from every angle – throw in some cloud porn for good measure and you have a picture perfect setting. The city mosque however is the main one and one of the top Kuching attraction.

Visit the Quirky Upside Down Museum aka Rumah Terbalik

Okay so full disclosure – this was my first visit to an Upside down museum, so needless to say – I loved it to bits. I believe I saw a few upside down exhibits in London several years ago but nothing like this quirky museum in Kuching.

So as everyone knows, things in the museum are upside down and you simply pose and click pictures to give a notion of hanging from the roof and fun stuff like that.

After this, I even visited the bigger better version in Penang but quite honestly, I would say the museum in Kuching was far better. The staff was super helpful and smiling vs. the staff in Penang’s Upside down who always seemed to be a rush, can’t blame them as they are super busy, but hey.. you can’t rush a good picture now can you?.

Even though’s Kuching’s Upside down museum is small but its very new so with enthusiastic and helpful staff and lovely displays, this is surely a must visit. If you are wondering where to go in Kuching, this museum should be top of your list. If you are seeking for date ideas in Kuching, this museum will guarantee a fun time with your partner.

You can buy a combo ticket with the 3d Wonders museum (though, I didn’t try it personally). Ticket price for non Malaysians is RM 20. For any info, feel free to contact their responsive staff on their Facebook page .

Sarawak museum

Another one of those free things to do in Kuching is visiting the Sarawak State Museum. As the oldest museum in Borneo, it draws fair bit of crowds from all over Malaysia.

You can see stuffed animals and peek into the rural Bornean life and culture in the olden ‘headhunter’ days. My favorite part was a re-creation of a traditional long house. You can literally walk inside and see exactly how Sarawakians used to live, sleep, eat in their authentic village house.

Photography is prohibited inside the museum but the lovely building makes perfect backdrops for your travel photos.

See the Famous Fort Margherita

Built by Rajah of Sarawak in 1879 along the Sarawak river, this is a important milestone in Sarawak’s history.

Fort Margherita was built with the sole purpose of safe guarding Kuching from pirates who would come via the river. Back in the day, a canon shot from the fort, used to mark the end of each work day.

Loiter around Padungan Street

Jalan Padungan is a bustling street full of lovely themed restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, bars and bakeries. This is the place to be for chilling or a day out with friends.

Bar (or even restaurant/cafe) hopping can be easily done here and that’s what I did for over 2 weeks while volunteering at the bar. MonkeeBar is a short 5 mins walk from the street intersection which made this the perfect day hangout / work space for me.

Kuching Old Courthouse

If you like to see heritage style architecture, pay a visit to the old courthouse which is now a tourism complex. It used to be the administrative center for Kuching and now hosts all sorts of events like weddings, corporate events and a multitude of indoor and outdoor private events.

Stay at Fancy Hotels

You can stay at lovely hotels without breaking the bank just because Kuching is an overall cost effective city to live in. I have personally stayed in Citadines apartment hotel, where they provide fully equipped apartments with all hotel comforts. Click to read my review of Citadines .

The other hotel I tried was Merdeka Palace hotel , which was also pretty amazing with close proximity to Plaza Merdeka shopping mall and a short walk from the bustling Waterfront.

Apart from these two hotels, I practically lived like a local in the volunteer house whilst walking/cycling to work everyday, hitching rides or taking a Grab car. I also lived in basic jungle lodges at Bako national park and Satang island.

Must Read –  top 10 amazing hotels in Kuching on TripAdvisor .

Bask in the Cafe Culture

Cafe culture in Kuching is simply amazing. As someone who is location independent, I love working from cafes while traveling. I get to try local food, drinks, meet people and just enjoy living like a local .. in a new country. Plus, it is so much better working from a cafe than your hotel, right?

From themed cafes like Feast & Furious (You are right, that’s Fast & Furious themed) to lovely coffee shops like – Bing, 21 Bistro, The Coffee Garden, Earthlings & more, its easy to immerse in the cafe culture here.

Attend the Rainforest World Music Festival

Kuching has a variety of events and festivals which attracts hoards of travelers from around the globe. I was fortunate enough to be invited as a guest of Sarawak tourism to attend the amazing Rainforest World Music Festival 2017 and I LOVED it!

This absolutely makes it to my top 30 list. It was attended by over 20,000 Malaysians and foreigners this year and has a great vibe to it. Even though its trying to resurrect traditional instruments, the beats created are simply amazing. I never expected to have so much fun in a cultural music fest but this was way beyond my expectations and turned out to be a fun-filled event.

Lots of beer, great music and good company are the key elements to enjoy this festival – and of course, when it rains, things get a lot crazier.

Check out my video & pictures of RWMf 2017

Shopping in Kuching

Honestly, I am not big on shopping but I got some great deals for gifts, souvenirs and clothes at Plaza Merdeka. I also paid a visit to the biggest mall in Kuching – Spring Shopping Mall . However, the malls houses similar international brands like we have in India, so there was no novelty for me, at least.

India street and the open air market around the waterfront is great for street shopping. For example, I purchased a pair of slippers for 50 cents and no they are not branded but last for years.

Watch a Muay Thai match

Muay Thai is quite popular in Kuching, as in other parts of Asia. For the first time, I saw a Muay Thai match inside a mall (at Plaza Merdeka) and there was no place to step foot inside – that’s how much Sarawakians enjoy watching this sport. Bystanders were gawking at the champions from even upto 4th floor of the mall.

It was quite a frenzied affair, which also meant all shops were empty and I could roam around and shop with ease.

Buy Cat Souvenirs

You cannot visit the cat city and leave without cat souvenirs now, can you? Absolutely and most certainly not!

Purchase cute and cheap cat souvenirs and trinkets for just RM 10 ( USD 2.4) for 10 pieces at the cat museum, which is the cheapest I saw in the city. I also found a lovely cat print pashmina at Plaza Merdeka for RM 20 in their souvenir store on 1st floor. Apart from that, you can find souvenirs around the open air market at Waterfront or India street.

Try Local Food

You will NEVER be worried about ‘ What to eat in Kuching ‘. This city , like any other Malaysian city actually, is FULL of delightful delicacies around every corner. However, unlike peninsular Malaysia, Kuching is extremely cost effective.

My personal favorite restaurant is the Life cafe and for outdoor seating and local street food – head to the open air market at waterfront. Food kiosks offer dishes starting at just $1 and you can gulp ice cold beer as you enjoy the river breeze and lovely sunsets.

Stay Fit at Kuching Integrated Recreational center

Want to stay active while traveling ? Visit the Kuching Integrated recreational center to enjoy a variety of sports and activities to stay active, healthy and motivated. Take a jog around the huge park or dip in the pool, play a game of basketball or enjoy an open air Tai Chi class.

Meow Meow Cat Cafe

I love how Kuching city has all this cool cat stuff and I cannot stop recommending this destination to my cat loving friends. Another feature in the hat for this cat city is the enchanting Meow Meow cat cafe.

This is a lovely cat themed cafe with decor, drinks and food – everything themed around cats. Plus you can make new feline friends by playing with one of the 6 friendly in-house cats.

Entry is just RM 10 ($2.3) which includes a drink from their menu. What’s not to like about this cute cafe? I say, head straight to Meow Meow when you visit Kuching! Surely one of my favorite hidden places in Kuching. 

Cooking class with a local

Many locals offer cooking classes where you can learn the local cuisine. These classes can be quite fun too and start at around RM 50 ($11.6).

Benefits of taking a class with a local is you experience the local lifestyle first hand by cooking with them and understanding all ingredients and process. What you want to learn will depend on you but the popular dishes are Roti canai and Laksa .

My friend gave this class a shot and even though it was her worst attempt at making Roti canai, she had a blast.

For booking a cooking class, feel free to contact this number (Whatsapp/Call) – +601136316579

[BONUS Things to Do in Sarawak Kuching – Updated]

During my latest research on Kuching, I realized there are several attractions and fun things to do which I had missed visiting during my trip to the cat city. 

However, these can make for great additions to your Kuching sightseeing list so here are my 5 bonus things to do in the cat city of Kuching – 

Try Water Sports in Kuching

I love exploring water activities during my trips – be it surfing in Bali or wakeboarding in Hradec Kralove , tubing in Vang Vieng or paddleboarding in Big berry . 

With around 1050 kilometres of coastline, the Sarawak coastline is the second-longest in Malaysia. This ensures that Kuching has ample coastline for those interested in water sports activities.

If you are looking for adventure activities around the coast you can head for various kayaking spots where you can admire the spectacular and natural scenery of Kuching.

Also, those looking for underwater activities can try scuba diving and snorkelling here. You can find many scuba diving instructors and schools to help you learn how to scuba dive and snorkel if you are doing this for the first time. You can also try river cruising and enjoy the views of Kuching from a river.

Hike Mount Santubong

When you are exploring Kuching you can see Mount Santubong from a distance as it is one of the highest mountains in Sarawak. Nestled within a gazette national park this is one of the best places for hiking. Being one of the highest mountains in the area, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Sarawak River.

With more than 4 hours of hiking activity, you will need enough stamina and strength to hike up the mountain. If you are looking for a day-long hiking activity hiking Mount Santubong or Gunung Santubong is one of the things you must do when you are in Kuching. 

This is a popular Kuching tourist attraction which I am actually sad about missing, as a hiking enthusiast myself. 

Spend Time at Sarawak Cultural Village

Kuching has a long history of indigenous people living here for many centuries. Visiting Sarawak Cultural Village is one of the things you must do to find out more about the local culture and traditions and even the local arts and crafts.

Spending time at the Sarawak Cultural Village is a great way to go back in time and learn about the local architecture and other ancient techniques such as bead making, bamboo carving and weaving.

This cultural centre is Sarawak’s only living museum offering you a virtual tour of ethnic houses, try authentic Kampung food through the menu they offer multi-cultural dance performances as well. This is surely one of the top things to do in Sarawak. 

Click here to book a guided Sarawak village cultural tour. 

Pray at the Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple

Over many centuries many Chinese immigrants have settled in the city making Kuching their permanent home. Hence, you will also find one of the oldest Chinese temples here in Kuching.

It is estimated that the Tua Pek Kong Chinese temple was built in 1770 for the Chinese community settled here. The temple structure has intricate carvings that convey the stories of Chinese deities.

While the temple did suffer heavy damage during the Japanese invasion during the WWII era, the structure has been restored and today it has become a part of the Kuching Heritage Trail. The temple overlooks the Sarawak River and has become a focal point for the Chinese community living in Kuching. 

Explore Kuching Wetlands National Park

Visiting the Kuching Wetlands National Park can offer you a unique experience as you cover the saline mangrove plantations which are now the only existing part of Sarawak Mangrove Forest Reserve.

Going on a river cruise in this national park offers you a unique perspective and allows you to see the untouched natural beauty hard to find elsewhere. On this river cruise you pass through quaint Malay fishing villages, endangered species of birds and wild crocodiles basking in the mud.

Being on a river cruise during the evening hours provides a magical experience as you watch the sunset over the horizon and see those golden rays light up the water as well. You can say its one of the best place in Kuching city for nature lovers. 

Where to Stay in Kuching, Sarawak?

Kuching has all sorts of accommodation from private room rentals for long term or short stay options for tourists (which we will cover here).

Budget stays and Hostels in Kuching

Sunset homestay –  Highly rated accommodation offering mixed dorms for travelers.

QuiikCat – Private rooms close to the waterfront, without breaking the bank.

Hero hostel – One of the best rated centrally located hostels in Kuching.

Hornbill’s Nest Kuching – At 5 bucks a night, dorms here are cozy clean and comfortable.

Mid-Range Hotels in Kuching

The Lime tree hotel   – One of the top-rated properties in Kuching, with a rooftop lounge and a short walk from the waterfront.

Dorset Boutique hotel – Cozy rooms in the heart of Kuching city.

Luxury accommodation in Kuching

Hilton Kuching – Located in the bustling Kuching waterfront, Hilton is a class apart with its stunning pool and 6 in-house dining options. As ideal pitstop while you explore places to go in Kuching. 

Citadines Uplands Kuching – This was my choice of stay in Kuching so I can highly recommend these fully serviced apartments. Read my full review here .

Imperial suites Kuching – Fully serviced cozy apartment hotel in Kuching.

How to Stay Insured During your Trip to Kuching

Traveling to Kuching?  Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance!

• The price is 1/3rd of the price of the biggest competitor for similar coverage
• Offers worldwide coverage as well as limited home country coverage (up to 30 days every 3 months, or 15 days if your home country is the US)
• Available for purchase in 180 countries and can be purchased while already traveling
• It works like a subscription, you can choose your start date and cancel any time
• You can also select specific dates, with a minimum of 5 days
• 24/7 support is available
• 1 young child per adult (up to 2 per family) aged between 14 days and 10 years old can be included with no additional cost

Click here to read more or to buy SafetyWing Insurance and stay safe on your travels. 

Kuching Attractions Map

Here are some of the best places to visit in Kuching, all jotted down on a map to give you an idea of distances in the city –

What to do in Kuching for 3 Days?

Okay so I spent over 3 weeks in Kuching so obviously there was a lot to see in do. If you only gave 3 days in the cat city be sure to check out the cat museum, statues, good food and laid back bars. Keep it short and don't pack it with the multitude of Kuching activities.

What is Kuching Famous For?

Kuching's top attractions are surely - Bako national park (Definietly my favorite too), Cat museum, Kuching waterfront, Sarawak museum, City mosque and Damai Beach.

What to Buy in Kuching?

Since I was in Kuching for almost a month ofcourse I was expected to bring back souvenirs. So I decided to check the best souvernirs from Kuching to bring back as gifts. Personally, I loved the cat themed clothes (a little hard to find but one shawl is still my favorite), Black pepper, coffee and many cool local Malay food items. Textiles and Bornean artifacts from the headhunter tribes can also make for interesting gifts.

What to do in Kuching Waterfront?

Take photos of sunsets, listen to live music, take a traditional boat cruise on the river and eat amazing food. The waterfront was my favorite place for easy evening strolls.

Kuching is the gem of East Malaysia and a Sarawak must visit city. If you happen to be headed to Borneo, enjoy one of the many interesting and fun things to do in Kuching as listed here or try something different on your own. Do share your must-do’s and anecdotes from your time in Kuching city with me in comments or feel free to drop me an email .

• Recent Posts

• A Journey Through Australia’s Culinary Heritage: Iconic Recipes to Savor - October 24, 2024
• 7 Fun Things to Do in Las Vegas for Couples - October 18, 2024
• Best Routes in Europe to Add to Your First Euro Trip Itinerary - October 16, 2024

Related Posts

Uncovering Secret Drinking Holes & Top Bars in Bandung , Indonesia

To Kenya, With Love

How I Flew to 3 Countries for Just $115 Using AirAsia ASEAN Pass

22 thoughts on “35 best things to do in kuching sarawak in 2024”.

Such a great, in depth guide. I’ve never been to Malaysia but if I do this would be a great reference!

Wow, what an amazingly comprehensive post! I knew about the Orangutan Feeding, and was also aware of the chances to see sea turtles and the appeal of exploring nature and wildlife via the national parks and beaches. But thanks for the recommendations for all the other things to do! I want to visit the Cat Museum and the Upside Down Museum, that last one is an instagrammer’s dream! I also love gardens, so the Orchid Garden is now on my list. Food is a big passion of mine so eating locally and taking a class would be high priorities for me.

Hi Kavey, Totally agree on IG’er’s dream – reminds me I need to add more frm Kuching to my IG 🙂 There’s tons to see in Kuching itself and I soooo wanna explore more parts of Borneo. Have you visited already?

Wow, there is certainly a lot to do in Kuching! I love that all the activities are so varied too. How many days do you think is good for a visit, based on all these things to do?

I would say, at least two weeks 🙂

There’s a great balance of cultural and outdoor activities here. I love cats and would definitely spend some time at the cat museum. And I never say no to a good hike!

Honestly bookmarking this page and sending it to my husband as a possible travel option for next summer! I love the cats being everywhere (crazy cat lady here), and that there are opportunities to meaningfully volunteer and help with wildlife. Great and informative post. Also that upside down museum is AWESOME!!

omg I would LOVE to see the sea turtles!! It’s on my bucket list to see them in person. They’re such marvelous creatures!

Kuching is the best isn’t it!! Bako was one of the highlights of all our time in Asia to be honest, such an amazing place! But hey, my favourite thing to do in Kuching was to come and sink a few beers with you at the monkee bar!! ha ha!

I’ve never heard of Kuching but you have highlighted so many fun things to do. I’ll have to look more into it. I especially loved the museum. It looks quite fun for posing for pictures.

Looks like an amazing place Jo. My favourite – the upside down museum. Loved all the photos of you in unusual places. The Citadines reminded me of the hotel I always stayed at when I was in Melbourne for work many years ago. Always a comfy place to stay.

I had no idea this was such a cat-crazy city! What with all those cat statues, the cat museum and the cat souvenirs – how crazy! But also totally what I’d be wanting to see ha ha!

So many fun activities to choose from! I’d love to visit Kuching, thanks for sharing 🙂

Excellent article – I will be in Kuching early January 2018!! Being a massive cat lover ( juts returned from St Petersburg Russia ) which is also cat crazy city…. Will definitely use your trip report as a guide!! Any tips on Airport transfers to Hotel? Do you have any trip reports on Kota Kinabalu

Hey Johan, Glad you enjoyed the article and well you will surely love Kuching esp as a cat lover 🙂 Well use grab or uber from airport they are super cheap. Depending on where in the city you stay, fares start at JUST 4RM. Sorry I haven’t been to Kota Kinabalu yet (its on my list) but def visit Bako national park, near Kuching. Here’s my guide – https://www.wanderwithjo.com/bako-national-park-haven-wildlife-enthusiasts-nature-lovers/ Have fun and do share your experience with me once you are back!

I’ve stayed in Citadine twice! Love that hotel… and I loved how convenient it was to just walk over to the Springs and find dinner. Sakai is my fave sushi spot!

Good to know. wow i totally missed Sakai – next time.

I found kuching very boring

Sorry to hear, did you try some of these things?

Really great in depth guide 🙂

went there with my phillipines friend some years ago and while I was fascinated with the head hunter display across the river and textile museum ,there seemed to be much that was either being renovated or simply closed the orangotang refuge appeared to be on hold and no help from any staff we came across also a trap //the bus there had a very loose idea of any itinerary,,we got stranded there and managed to flag down a car to enjoyed the boat across to the fort and admin building being constructed and those head hunter skulls nearby //nice hotel and would go back to see changed things..of course/things have changed dramatically anyway now /would still like to receive info so will add my e mail address//vey good presentation from you chrs ted partridge new Zealand 02102651883 ps/it was actually yr 2008 was there

Ah yes ups and downs are part of any trip, Ted. I have my own set of travel fails – https://www.wanderwithjo.com/travel-fails/ Wow it must’ve changed a lot since 2008 – For me, its been few years already and I would want to go back too. Maybe once this is all over.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Start typing and press enter to search

• Open main menu
• Open search popup
• Philippines
• Close main menu
• Breaking News
• Current Affairs
• Community News
• New Openings
• Activities & Attractions
• Food Reviews
• Food Guides
• Nightlife Guides
• Hotel Reviews
• Hotel Guides
• Family & Kid-friendly
• Photo Spots
• Monthly Lobangs
• Sports & Fitness
• Beauty & Wellness
• Volunteering
• Phillippines
• New Zealand
• Africa & Middle East
• Rest of World
• Travel Guides & Tips
• Perspectives
• Inspiration
• Dating & Relationships
• Self-Improvement
• Upcoming Events

31 Things To Do In & Around Kuching, From Breathtaking Caves To Malaysia’s Biggest Museum

Things to do in and around Kuching

As the biggest state in Malaysia, Sarawak has much to offer with its abundance of natural wonders.

If you’ve been meaning to travel to East Malaysia but can’t decide on where to start, the capital of Sarawak, Kuching is a good place to begin. Here’s our starter guide to things to do in and around Kuching.

– Sightsee –

1. fort margherita – learn about the white rajahs’ history.

Visiting Fort Margherita and learning the history of how Sarawak was formed would ring a bell to most Malaysian high school students who paid attention during Sejarah lessons. The names James and Charles Brooke, after all, have been repeated consecutively in our textbooks and exams.

For those who enjoy history, Fort Margherita is where you can learn all about Sarawak’s birth in great, nitty-gritty detail at their 3-storey Brooke Gallery .

Dedicate an afternoon to find out how The White Rajahs came to East Malaysia, how they formed an administration, the battles between the rebels and the supporters, and how the Brooke dynasty came to an end. You can also view exclusive artifacts, original hand-written letters, weapons, and many more.

Fort Margherita was initially constructed by Charles Brooke in 1879 by the Kuching river to guard the area from pirates back then.

After touring it, cross the river via the Darul Hana Bridge to The Ranee Museum at Old Court House, where your Brooke Museum ticket will also grant you entry. Named after Queen Ranee, Sarawak’s second Rajah’s wife, it’ll bring you through her life as queen, her family history, and her memorabilia. Shop the souvenirs here for a takeaway from your Sarawak trip.

All visitors to the fort and the Brooke Museums must be fully vaccinated.

Entrance fee: RM10 locals, RM20 foreigners, free for children under 7 (includes admission to Brooke Gallery) Address: Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Telephone: 16 310 1880 Opening hours: 9AM-4PM, Daily Brooke Museums website | Brooke Gallery Facebook page | Ranee Museum Facebook page

2. Kuching Old Courthouse – dine in a historic setting

For those who want to relish in history without having to read long blocks of information, head over to the Old Courthouse near the Kuching Waterfront. A heritage, colonial-style building built by Charles Brooke in 1883, it’s a site that’s teeming with rich history.

It was originally used as a government office and a venue for state ceremonies. In fact, the Sarawak state council meetings were still held at the courthouse up till 1973.

What’s in place today are no longer government offices or administrative proceedings, but several fancy restaurants and event spaces have taken root instead – from COMMONS cafe that serves Western and local dishes perfect for weekend brunches to ROOTS bistro with fine dining, including Sarawakian ingredients that go well with evening drinks.

With a classy environment, luxurious ambiance, and ample food options, the Old Courthouse is now a place for special occasions for Kuchingites.

Address: 7, Jalan Barrack, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak Telephone: 82-417 601 Opening hours: 9AM-12AM, Daily Kuching Old Courthouse Facebook page | Instagram

3. Kuching Waterfront – soak up the nighttime atmosphere

Kuching Waterfront is where most Kuchingites gather at night to take a stroll by the river and spend quality time with their loved ones.

Even on a weekday night, you will see a substantial amount of people just sitting with their baes on the stairs by the river, or families hanging around the centre square playing with their kids.

There are also pop-up vendors selling snacks, trinkets, and toys, and roadside restaurants with proper tables and chairs that you can dine in at. You’ll be close to many key attractions from the Astana Negeri Sarawak’s public gardens, the Chinese History Museum, and the Chinatown area with plenty of food options from kolo mee to traditional handmade pau .

Parents with children can entertain them by buying bubble wands from streetside peddlers, while simultaneously enjoying the view of the Darul Hana Bridge and The Astana Negeri Sarawak’s palace where the governor resides – across the river, both lit up beautifully at night.

Address: 37, Jalan Main Bazaar, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak

4. Siniawan Night Market – relaxed evening atmosphere with local Chinese eats

Siniawan Night Market (Pasar Malam Siniawan) is a weekly food market that sets up every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5PM onwards. Located in the tiny town of Siniawan, the night market is operated by the town’s residents, mostly consisting of Chinese Hakkas.

Rows of food kiosks and stalls line up the street of century-old wooden shophouses adorned by glowing tanglungs at night.

The atmosphere is cheery and laidback, with visitors mingling around, enjoying their meals, and the locals happy to entertain and welcome people into their quaint town.

Do head there with an empty stomach and a ravenous appetite as there are plenty of local delicacies to feast on. From standard Malaysian staples such as ice kacang and char kway teow , to unusual finds such as the pitcher plant steamed rice, you’ll be spoilt for choices the whole night.

Siniawan is a 35-minute drive from Kuching city, with Grab fares priced from RM30 one way.

Address: Jalan Siniawan Bau, 93746 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Fri–Sun 4.30PM-11PM | Mon–Thu 6-10PM

5. Satok Weekend Market – morning shopping and bargaining excitement

The best way to get to know a place is to go to their wet market and see for yourself what the locals shop for, how they bargain, and how camaraderie is fostered between the vendors and shoppers.

That’s why there’s no better place to immerse yourself in locals’ daily life than at the Satok Weekend Market (Pasar Satok). The market is set up every weekend from early morning at 6AM till 10PM, so it’s perfect for both the early risers to catch the morning market scene and the night owls who prefer to shop when it’s dark.

You’ll find a plethora of produce and goods sold at Satok Weekend Market. Expect to see and shop for native handicrafts, flowers, seafood, rare forest produce, fruits, snacks, and a whole lot of delicacies. You’ll spend around RM60 if you’re planning to go home with some fruits, produce, flowers, and snacks.

Address: Q309, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 6AM-6PM, Daily

6. India Street – souvenirs, spices, and shopping

The name India Street (Jalan India) is a little misleading. One might hope to see a colourful scene with Indian restaurants, snacks, music, and fashion, but the India Street in Kuching is more like a quiet, short al fresco street lined with shops selling different kinds of goods and a couple of Indian Muslim restaurants. Nevertheless, this lane makes for a good pit shop for souvenirs, clothes, jewellery, spices, and textiles.

For those who like to wander through the nooks and crannies, try to spot a narrow passageway halfway through the street. It will lead you to Gambier Road and if you keep following the path, you’ll find a small Indian Muslim mosque called Masjid Bandar Kuching built in 1834, and tucked away from the busy street.

Address: Jalan India, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak

7. Chinatown – old-school stores and hip bars

An hub of racial unity in Malaysia, Kuching’s Chinatown is located 5 minutes away by foot from India Street. Here, you will find lots of old-school kopitiams and family businesses passed down through generations, and housed in pre-war shophouses. From its rattan furniture to Chinese ornaments, Chinatown is a rustic street with a strong sense of heritage.

At night, the place is famous among bar crawlers who patronise their many pubs, bars, and speakeasies, some out in the open, others obscured in hidden alleyways.

Address: Jalan Padungan, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak

8. Sarawak Cultural Village – local communities’ heritage and architecture kept alive

Sarawak Cultural Village (Kampung Budaya Sarawak) is a sprawling 17.5 acre – equivalent to 13 football fields – worth of land on the foothill of Mount Santubong. It’s a one-stop centre where you can learn all about the indigenous people of Sarawak.

There are 7 authentic ethnic houses in the village, built in actual sizes – each one representing the home of a different ethnic group. You can go into the houses, get a feel of how the indigenous people of Sarawak live, and learn more about the cultures of each ethnic community.

There are also a bunch of activities you can engage in at the village including a cultural dance performance, traditional games, rituals and ceremonies, and handicraft-making demonstrations.

The village is humongous with lots to see and do. You can easily spend around 4 to 5 hours taking in the sights and participating in the activities.

There’s also a lot of walking under the sun involved so make sure you come prepared with sunscreen, an umbrella, and adequate amounts of water.

Entrance fee: RM60 for adults, RM30 for children Address: Pantai Damai Santubong, 93752 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Tue–Sun 9AM-5PM | Closed Mondays Telephone: 082-846 108 Sarawak Cultural Village website

9. Semenggoh Nature Reserve – home to protected orangutans

Semenggoh Nature Reserve (Pusat Pemuliharaan Hidupan Liar Semenggoh) is a wildlife sanctuary specially dedicated to the rehabilitation of orangutans who have been orphaned or rescued from captivity.

Here, you can spot some of its over 20 resident orangutans that may come out during feeding times, so make sure you head there in the morning around 9AM-10AM or later in the afternoon from 3PM-4PM to catch the orangutans swinging from the trees and towards the rangers on the ground to collect their fruits.

You can also learn more about the orangutans at the information centre. Visitors will be introduced to the orangutans’ names, their family trees, and even their personalities.

Entrance fee: RM5 for adults, RM3 for senior citizens, RM2 for children 6 and above, free for children 6 and below (Malaysians) Entrance fee: RM10 for adults and senior citizens, RM5 for children 6 and above, free for children 6 and below (foreigners) Address: KM 20, Jalan Puncak Borneo, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 8AM-10AM and 2PM-4PM, Daily Telephone: 082-618 325 Semenggoh Nature Reserve website

10. Sarawak Timber Museum – learn about the state’s forestry industry and sustainability efforts

Sarawak is known for its vast rainforests – with mining, agriculture, and forestry making up 40% of the state’s GDP.

It may sound like a dry topic, but those with an interest in forestry, traditional wooden crafts, forest products, and the development of the timber industry should definitely head to the Sarawak Timber Museum (Muzium Perkayuan PUSAKA).

Located in the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Council building, the museum offers visitors a view of heritage forest items that are associated with local customs and traditions, and learn more about the efforts to sustain the forests and wildlife of Sarawak.

Entrance fee: Free Address: Wisma Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Mon–Thu 8AM-1PM and 2PM-5PM | Fri 8AM-11.30AM and 2PM-5PM | Closed weekends Online booking required. Book here . Telephone: 082-473 000 Sarawak Timber Museum’s Facebook page 

11. Sarawak Islamic Heritage Museum – local and world Islamic community, agricultural, and craft history

The Sarawak Islamic Heritage Museum (Muzium Warisan Islam) comprises 7 galleries, each with an individual theme centered around the history, heritage, and culture of the Muslim community in Sarawak.

Here, visitors will get to learn about the history of Islam in Sarawak, Islamic architecture, weaponry, decorative arts, literature, and more – also look out for the Middle Eastern artifacts dating from the 1800s.

The museum was originally a school called the James Brooke Malay College. Then it changed its name to the Madrasah Melayu Sarawak in 1930, before turning into a museum in 1992.

Entrance fee: Free Address: Jalan P. Ramlee, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-4.45PM | Sat & Sun 10AM-4PM Telephone: 082-244 378

12. Sarawak State Museum – Borneo’s oldest museum

Built in 1891, the Sarawak State Museum (Muzium Negeri Sarawak) is the oldest museum in Sarawak. They claim to be the keeper of one of the best collections of artifacts in Southeast Asia. In fact, visitors can look forward to a plethora of different exhibits, displays, and collections.

You can walk around at your own pace and learn more about the specimens of Sarawak fauna including reptiles, mammals, birds, and other native animals all mounted for display. There are also a wide range of ethnographic collections, historical artifacts, and traditional handicrafts.

The exhibits are very diverse, with galleries ranging from the items representing the oil industry in Sarawak, a Heroes’ Memorial, a Botanical Garden, and more.

Entrance fee: Free Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Taman Budaya, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Mon – Fri 9AM-4.45PM | Sat & Sun 10AM-4PM Telephone: 082-244 232

13. Borneo Cultures Museum – Sarawak’s newest museum

The new kid on the block among Sarawak’s museums, the Borneo Cultures Museum has been selling out entrance tickets ever since it opened in March 2022. As the second-largest museum in Southeast Asia and Malaysia’s biggest museum , it boasts over 1,000 historical artifacts and exhibits about the region’s nature, local communities, and architecture.

Entry is free until the end of June 2022, and lockers and wheelchair-friendly lifts and other facilities are available. Read more about the museum in our article here .

Address: Lorong P. Ramlee 2 93400 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-4.45PM | Sat & Sun 9.30AM-4.30PM Borneo Cultures Museum Facebook

14. Cat Museum – because it’s Kuching after all

Cat lovers would be ecstatic to know that the city of Kuching is not named so without reason. Sarawak is clearly serious about their tribute to this feline. Their cat statues all over the city and a full-fledged museum dedicated to cats prove their point.

In fact, Kuching’s Cat Museum (Muzium Kucing Kuching) is the world’s first cat museum, and has more than 4,000 artifacts, art, souvenirs, and photos all centered around adorable meowkins.

You will learn about how Kuching got its name, different species of cats, famous cats in history, and more. There are also a whole lot of pictures of cats fighting, cats napping, and cats at play, among many others. A purr-fect afternoon for all the cat ladies and gents out there, indeed.

Entrance fee: RM1 Address: Bangunan DBKU, Jalan Semariang, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 9AM-5PM, Daily Telephone: 082-446 688

15. Chinese History Museum – the history of migrants-turned-Sarawakians

As its name suggests, the Chinese History Museum features the history of the Chinese community in Sarawak.

Visitors will learn about the initial migration of the Chinese people into Sarawak, the early pioneers of businesses and inventions, traditional trading activities, political history, and more. Actual household items used by early settlers and their descendants are fascinating and well-preserved.

The museum was previously the headquarters of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sarawak, but was turned into what it is today and officially opened to the public in 1993.

Entrance fee: Free Address: Jalan Bazar, Sarawak, 93100 Kuching Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-4.45PM, Sat & Sun 10AM-4PM Telephone: 082-258 388

16. Tua Pek Kong Temple – a scenic spot during festive seasons

Located right opposite the Chinese History Museum and right smack in the middle of a busy intersection lies Tua Pek Kong Temple , the oldest temple in Kuching.

Believed to have been built in 1843 with some claims saying the temple was founded in 1770, Tua Pek Kong temple is dedicated to the God of Prosperity.

You can visit the temple any time when it’s opened but it’ll be better if you check it out during festive periods such as Chinese New Year and the Wang Kang Festival – a festival to commemorate the deceased – to watch devotees and the vibrant temple come to life.

Address: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 6AM-6PM, Daily Telephone: 082-237 643

17. DBKU Orchid Garden – diverse blooms in a well-kept park

Those who love flowers would thoroughly enjoy their time at the DBKU Orchid Garden (Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara Orchid Garden). There is 15.4 acres’ – equivalent to around 11 football fields – worth of space, filled with a collection of 75,000 beautiful plants.

You can expect to admire various types of orchids of all colours, sizes, rarity, and scents – some housed in a cold room.

It’s also easy to get to, as the botanical garden is located opposite the Kuching Waterfront, near the Astana and Fort Margherita, so you can easily cross over the bridge to grab a bite at Chinatown when you’re done strolling through the garden.

Entrance fee: Free Address: Kampung Istana, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Tue–Sun 9.30AM-6PM Telephone: 082-446 688

18. Talang Satang National Park – a turtle hatchery

The waters of Sarawak boast 5 critically endangered turtle species and you’ll have a chance to spot 2 of those species, namely the Green turtles and Hawksbill turtles, when they come ashore to lay their eggs on the four islands of Talang Satang National Park (Taman Negara Talang Satang).

The park is so active with turtle activity that it recorded up to 95% of turtle landings in Sarawak. This led the state to gazette the four islands – Pulau Talang-Talang Besar, Pulau Talang-Talang Kecil, Pulau Satang Besar and Pulau Satang Kecil – as a marine protected area in 1999, which allows conservation efforts to be carried out.

It’s highly recommended to book a tour as they’ll take care of your transportation and accommodation if you choose to stay overnight. Prices vary but do expect to spend from RM300 per person.

Most tours will pick you up from your hotel to head to the Boat Club, where you’ll then board a boat to the marine park. The journey will take 40 minutes crossing mangrove forests before the boat goes out to the open sea.

If you are staying overnight, you can spend the first day snorkeling and relaxing on the serene beach then wait for nightfall in hopes of a turtle landing.

Those who are only there for a day trip, unfortunately, will not be able to watch wild turtles lay eggs, but you can still drop by the turtle hatchery where conservation efforts are put in place to protect the eggs.

Some tour companies to check out include Borneo Adventure , CPH Travel , and Borneo Travel Network .

19. Damai Beach – evening dinner views

If you’re longing to catch the ocean breeze, you can head over to Damai Beach (Pantai Damai) to chill and stroll along the beach in the evening.

Located right opposite the Sarawak Cultural Village, it’s almost an hour away by car from Kuching city centre with Grab fares going up to more than RM50 for a one-way trip.

There are a few restaurants in the area with al fresco dining, so it’s best to head there just before the sunset to enjoy some drinks outdoors when it’s not too hot, then stay on till dinner to relax to the sound of waves and the night breeze.

Address: SF3 Damai Central, Pantai Damai, Kampung Santubong, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 8AM-10PM, Daily Telephone: 082-846 113

20. Bumbu Cooking Class – learn local recipes

Sarawak’s local delicacies are truly one of a kind, and now you can learn to cook them wherever you go by attending a local cooking class.

Bumbu Cooking Class , in particular, offers you the full experience of going to a local market to pick out fresh ingredients, then proceeding to learn how to cook popular Sarawakian dishes with a friendly teacher, Joseph.

The menu changes every now and then, but you can expect to master recipes for sago pudding, ayam masak merah , stir-fried midin , and tako – a type of kuih wrapped in pandan leaves.

One session will cost you around RM190 per person.

Addr ess: 57, Carpenter St, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-5PM | Sat 9AM-1PM | Closed Sundays Telephone: 019 8791050 (Joseph) Bumbu Cooking Class’ website | Facebook page 

– Outdoor activities –

21. bungo range national park – less-trodden forests near the indonesian border.

Only accessible by boat, the Bungo Range National Park is still relatively unknown as not many have hiked there before.

Located on the border between Sarawak and Indonesia, it is truly a hidden world of gorgeous waterfalls, ethereal jungle landscapes, and a remote Bidayuh village high up in the hills.

The trek begins from the Bengoh Dam where you will first board a sampan that will take you on a short 10-minute ride to a hill to start your hike.

The journey is easy and doable for beginners as the ground is mostly flat. You will also be required to cross handmade bamboo bridges across rivers, which can feel a little unnerving especially if you’re scared of heights. But the reward leads you to several breathtaking waterfalls and refreshing streams that you can take a dip in along the way.

Then, if you’re up for it, you can visit Kampung Sting, a Bidayuh village shrouded in the hills – think a 40-minute hike uphill. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and you’re free to take a walk around their village and see their way of life.

A guide is mandatory for this excursion. Those interested can look for MJ at 010-231 7878, a local Sarawakian who provides native guides to take you to the Bungo Range.

Expect to pay around RM60 to RM100 per person, depending on the size of your group. The guide will meet you at the Bengoh Dam. You will have to arrange your own transport to the dam, easily accessible by Grab for around RM50 for a one-way trip.

Duration: 5 hours Difficulty level: Easy

22. Silabur Cave – a challenging hike to a huge cavern

Silabur Cave is even more obscure, with many locals unaware of its existence till now. This hidden gem is tucked away in the town of Serian. It’s quite a distance from Kuching – 2 hours away by car – so it’s recommended to rent a car. Car rental companies are aplenty in Kuching, with prices mostly starting from RM100 a day.

The entrance of the hike can be found at Kampung Batu Lin, a Bidayuh village. Upon reaching, it’s a must to hire a guide for around RM80 per person. You have to plan your expedition beforehand, and can contact a local guide or guides to book them for your hike.

From the village, it takes about 2 hours to reach the cave. Once you’re in the cave, there are parts where you will have to navigate in total darkness so it’s mandatory to bring a torchlight with you, better still if it’s a headlamp.

You will spend more than 3 hours exploring just the cave alone as the cave is massive. The main chamber itself, although not accessible to visitors because of its dangerous descend, is able to fit 3 Boeing airplanes from head to tail.

There are incredible rock formations that look jade green when sun rays illuminate the cave through gaps and cracks from the top. You can also look out for bats, swiftlets, and other cave creatures during your expedition.

It’s recommended to wear rubber shoes for better grip and do bring at least 1.5L of water for one person, some dry food such as energy bars and biscuits to fuel up, and a change of clothes as you may get wet or dirty from bat excretions after.

Guides’ numbers: Benedik 014-589 8801 Able 011-1939 9146 Marasang 014-591 2964

For those who prefer going with a tour operator, CPH Travel offers the excursion for around RM350 per person.

Duration: 6 hours Difficulty level: Moderately challenging Address: Tebakang, 94700 Serian, Sarawak

23. Kubah National Park – cooling, scenic falls, home to wildlife

Kubah National Park (Taman Negara Kubah) is a 2,230-hectare park with Mount Serapi, Mount Selang, and Mount Sendok nestled within its enclave.

You can look out for bearded pigs, hornbills, mouse deers, and a bunch of other reptiles and amphibians during your hikes. In fact, the park is known for its rich amphibian species that they have a dedicated frog pond for you to spot those slimy creatures.

There are many trails in Kubah National Park, each with different levels of difficulty leading you to a separate destination. You can trek to the Matang Wildlife Centre, climb up to viewpoints, or go to waterfalls.

Address: 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 8AM-4PM, Daily Telephone: 082-370 264 Entrance fee: RM10/adult

24. Mount Serapi – view the entire city of Kuching from the peak

The Mount Serapi (Gunung Serapi) trail in Kubah National Park is a steep, uphill climb on a tar road. Trekking on a tar road may sound easy but the continuous, 3-hour uphill walk will leave you breathless with legs soft as tofu by the time you reach the top. It’s an exhausting, but satisfying workout.

Besides, being surrounded by thick trees and breathing in pure fresh air makes the experience enjoyable. And you’ll be greeted with endless blue skies and views of the mountain valleys ahead of you when you make it to the summit.

Address: 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

25. Blue Pool at Mount Santubong – crystal-clear water

Mount Santubong is a popular hiking spot among Kuchingites, with amazing views at the top. Not just that, the mountain also boasts a natural blue pool huddled inside its lush greens.

You can access the pool in Permai Rainforest Resort as there’s a trail that specifically leads you there. The pool is the size of a pond, with a gorgeous blue shade that changes colour depending on the time of the day.

You will have to cautiously manoeuvre over rocks, steep tracks, and narrow pathways to get there but taking a dip in the pool is a refreshing experience and a deserving reward that’s well worth the hustle.

Duration: 6 hours Difficulty level: Moderately challenging Address: Teluk Penyuk, Jalan Sultan Tengah, Santubong, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Telephone: 082-846 490

26. Bako National Park – free-roaming wildlife and ancient rock structures

Bako National Park (Taman Negara Bako) is one of the smallest national parks in Southeast Asia, but rest assured that it has lots to offer.

The wildlife is diverse there, but the main attraction is the proboscis monkey, the big-nosed primate with reddish-brown fur and a long tail.

The park is also home to macaque monkeys, monitor lizards, flying lemurs, snakes, bearded pigs, and rare birds that are frequently spotted within the park.

As it’s located near the coastline, you can follow the Teluk Pandan Kecil trail to marvel at the rock formations carved by the waves over hundreds of years.

Address: Muara Tebas Peninsular, 93000, Kuching, Sarawak Opening hours: 8.30AM-5PM, Daily Telephone: 082-370 434

27. Irrawaddy dolphin tours – see rare dolphins up close

Many Malaysians would be surprised to know that there are dolphins swimming in our seas. Although these creatures are a rare sight, there are several tour operators in Kuching offering to bring you on an Irrawaddy dolphin tour .

The rates vary depending on the operators, but a ballpark figure is around RM170 per person. The tour will take you cruising through the Santubong River and pass mangrove swamps where you will get to take a closer look at the mangrove ecosystem, and even keep an eye out for other animals such as crocodiles, monkeys, and uncommon birds.

The Santubong area is apparently one of the best places in Sarawak to catch a glimpse of the Irrawaddy dolphins as they are often seen swimming in rivers, estuaries, and around shallow coastal areas.

Here, the dolphins are also accustomed to boats – they have been spotted diving around small fishing boats repeatedly.

As expected with all wildlife sightings, there’s no 100% guarantee that you’ll spot a school of dolphins doing flips around you, so don’t feel too dejected if you fail to spot them.

However, some tour operators claim that the boatmen are familiar with these dolphins and will know how to call out to them, so let’s hope that these adorable creatures are nearby and in a friendly mood on the day you set out to meet them.

Some tour companies to check out include Borneo Adventure , Bako National Park , Bike & Tours , and Mari Mari .

28. Kayaking and canoeing – exercise while hitting the water

With its number of rivers, mangrove swamps, and creeks accompanied by gorgeous landscapes, it makes sense that kayaking and canoeing are popular activities in Kuching.

There are many tour operators offering kayaking and canoeing for varying levels of fitness starting from around RM180 per person.

You can opt to gently row down the stream and relax to your heart’s content, or try to manoeuver a bamboo raft and have fun falling into the water again and again.

Some popular tour companies to check out include Semadang Kayak , The Rucksack Rainforest Kayaking , Bike & Tours , and Adventure Alternative Borneo .

29. Kuching Wetlands National Park – wildlife-spotting cruises

For those who want to be near the ocean but still stay dry, you can hop on a river cruise at Kuching Wetlands National Park (Taman Negara Tanah Lembap Kuching). The park comprises 6,610 hectares of mangrove forest, small rivers, creeks, and streams.

For around RM200 per person, you can hop on the Santubong Wildlife Cruise that will take you through the park to spot animals such as proboscis monkeys, Irrawaddy dolphins, monitor lizards, eagles, crocodiles, kingfishers, and a wide range of birds.

The cruise will usually take around 3 to 4 hours, and remember to bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mozzie bites when you’re passing through the mangrove forests.

Tour companies to check out include Borneo Adventure , CPH Travel , and Amansar Tours and Travel .

Address: Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

30. Wind Cave and Fairy Cave – beginner-friendly cave exploration

The Wind Cave (Gua Angin) and Fairy Cave are perfect for those who want to explore caving, without the need to go through hours of taxing hike.

The caves are only 30 minutes away by car from Kuching where you can even drive straight up the tar road that will bring you right at the entrance of Wind Cave.

There are proper walkways and platforms for you to stroll on to admire the extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites.

Once you’re done exploring the Wind Cave, you can then head to the Fairy Cave, a mere 10-minute drive away.

There are also concrete stairs and elevated platforms at the Fairy Cave so it’ll be suitable for young children as well.

Wind Cave Address: 94000 Bau, Sarawak Opening hours: 8.30AM-3.45PM, Daily Telephone: 082-765 490

Fairy Cave Address: 94000 Bau, Sarawak Opening hours: 8.30AM-4PM, Daily Telephone: 013-803 5516

31. Gunung Gading National Park – home to the world’s largest bloom

Did you know that the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia, can be as big as a coffee table when it’s in full bloom?

Those who have never caught the sight of this majestic flower should definitely make a trip to Gunung Gading National Park (Taman Negara Gunung Gading) where you may get the chance to witness the Rafflesia blooming.

The flowers bloom year-round, though it’s highly recommended to give the visitor information centre a call in advance to check if you’ll be able to see them.

You can also cool off by the park’s four waterfalls in between hikes, and also rent rooms from RM40 per room with 2 bunk beds and basic kitchen facilities, though you’ll have to bring your own food.

Address: 94500 Lundu, Sarawak Opening hours: 8AM-5PM, Daily Telephone: 082-735 144 Gunung Gading National Park website | Facebook

Where to go and what to do in Kuching

Kuching covers most things a traveller would seek – unforgettable food, phenomenal views, accessibility when getting around, and most importantly, warm and friendly people. It will leave you satisfied, fulfilled, happy, and itching to return.

For more travel guides, check these out:

• Kudat, Sabah is a hidden Malaysian beach town
• Hiking trails in Sabah
• Visit scenic beaches and the Sky Mirror Jetty at Jeram, Kuala Selangor
• Hin Bus Depot in Penang is a bustling arts and culture hub
• Go mountain biking and jungle trekking at Pulau Jerejak, Penang

Cover image adapted from: @tunehotels , Semadang Kayak ,  Saieed Rahman , @_anuar , @nicholascsc007 , Borneo Cultures Museum

This article was updated by Janet Cho in January 2023.

• 60 Things To Do In Melaka That Prove There’s More To The State Besides Jonker Street Night Market
• 15 New Cafes & Restaurants In KL & Selangor In October 2024 – Ghibli-Like Cafe & RM10 Udon
• 10 Hair Salons In Johor Bahru For Stylish Perms & Trendy Colours To Update Your Look
• Concerts In Malaysia In 2024 – Live Performances You’ll Want To Keep Your Eyes Out For
• 15 Romantic Restaurants In KL For Date Nights That’ll One Up Your Usual Lepak Spot

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Travel & Food, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

My PERFECT Kuching Itinerary With Heritage Walks, Where to Eat & Day Trips From Sarawak’s Capital

April 23, 2023 by Bino Leave a Comment

To outsiders, it would be a mistake to merely classify Kuching as just another city in Malaysia. It has had a long history as the capital of a self-governing state distinct from the affairs of the Malayan peninsula or even from Sabah . Even until this day, Sarawak has a separate immigration regime from the rest of Malaysia. All this means that visitors who come can expect something different from Kuala Lumpur , Penang or even Melaka . The streets are brimming with history and a casual walk through the older parts of town can attest to that. This despite Sarawak being sparsely populated and mostly forested. 

The fact that much of Sarawak is still filled vegetation presents plenty of eco-tourism opportunities. It is possible to go to the beach in the morning, go hiking through a hill or cave in the afternoon and come back in the evening for a great meal and a night cap. Speaking about food, this is also one of Malaysia’s food capitals with dishes such as Kolo Mee, Sarawak Laksa and Ayam Pansuh closely associated with the city as well as the state. 

I have visited Kuching a number of times and love the laidback vibe of the city. In this article, I aim to show how one can do Kuching in 1, 2, 3 or even 4 days with a Kuching itinerary that can easily be adapted depending on one’s interests.

Table of Contents

Explore the Colonial Architecture

kuching post office – colonial architecture in kuching

Immediately south of the waterfront is Kuching’s traditional civic core. This area is replete with colonial style buildings including the Main Post Office . Adorned by imposing neoclassical columns, the building was designed by architectural firm Swan & Maclaren which also designed several buildings in Singapore’s civic area including the Raffles Hotel.

old court house

Some of Kuching’s old  buildings have found a new lease of life as cafes and restaurants. One example is the Old Court House which now houses a cafe, bar and fine-dining restaurant. Visitors are free to roam some of these buildings. The Old Court House in particular, has a beautiful inner courtyard fitted with benches for folks to sit and relax.

Go Museum Hopping

borneo cultures museum

In all my travels in Asia, I have not seen so many museums concentrated in one place. In Kuching, the museum selection ranges from the tacky, quick visit types to multi-story affairs that will take a few hours. The new Borneo Cultures Museum is a must-visit even if you are not really into museums. Anyone with more than a passing interest in tribal cultures, headhunting and early human settlements will find the exhibits here quite immersive. The museum itself also affords one of great views over the city. A short walk from it is the Sarawak Museum which was purposely built in the 1800s as an ethnology museum. 

Near the waterfront is the Chinese History Museum . Admission is free and visitors can learn more about the various Chinese dialect groups that populate and make up a significant proportion of the city.

If you have time to spare, you can also check out the rather kitschy Cat Museum , built simply because Kuching’s name means “cat” in Malay (although cats were not a significant part of the city’s origins). This museum is filled with plenty of cat and feline memorabilia and exhibits. 

Strolling Through Jalan India & Jalan Carpenter

Kuching is large enough for all the urban creature comforts but its streets are still relatively free of air pollution and quite pleasant to walk around (when it’s not too hot). As the city has been the capital of Sarawak for over 180+ years, the old commercial areas are charming with plenty of photo-worthy corners to check out. The two streets to go for a stroll in Kuching are Jalan India, the traditional home of the local Indian population in Kuching, as well as Carpenter Street – the city’s first Chinatown. 

jalan india

Jalan India today has a large cover above the shophouses to protect pedestrians from the rain. The street is pedestrian-only and is filled with bazaars. Lorong Kai Joo is an alley off Jalan India where one can find age-old bakeries and teahouses. Hiap Yak Tea Shop is where people come for a cup of coffee and toast in a retro setting. It is known for opium coffee – essentially black coffee flavored with a slab of butter. 

looking at jalan bishopsgate from jalan carpenter

Jalan Carpenter is a relatively short stretch filled with furniture stores, bars, Chinese restaurants as well as a few cafes and the odd souvenir shop. As Kuching is not an extremely touristy place, the area still has a very local feel. Drunk Monkey is a popular watering hole in the area with a rather sparse but sufficient menu. If you are looking for cocktails, the 2-story The Royal Chamber might be more up your alley. For coffee lovers, Black Bean Coffee towards the end of the stretch is regularly regarded as one of the best coffee places in Kuching. While they don’t have an instagrammable cafe to boast of and seats are rather limited, they offer various types of coffee beans including those from Sarawak itself.

cat statues of kuching

In the eastern side of the city center, Jalan Padungan is also worth a stroll. The arcaded shopfronts seemingly alternate between restaurants, shops selling Kuching snacks and auto supply / hardware stores. Here, you can stock up on Kuching delicacies such as Bee Pang (crispy rice cakes), Almond Cookies, etc. On both ends of the street, you can also see variations of Kuching’s famous cat statues.

Take a Sampan to Fort Margherita

fort margherita

From the city center, hire a sampan for the 5 minute or so journey to the northern bank of the river and visit Fort Margherita. Situated on a hill overlooking the town, this historical building was built to fend off pirates and has been converted into The Brooke Gallery – a museum dedicated to Charles Brooke, the “White Rajah” who previously ruled Sarawak. 

Tip: If you also intend to visit The Ranee Museum inside the Old Courthouse, purchase the Explorer Pass which gives you admission to both Fort Margherita and The Ranee Museum.

Explore the Waterfront

The waterfront of Kuching is one of its defining features and makes for one of Malaysia’s most picturesque city panoramas. With a river that curves gently in all the right places and a number of landmarks strategically built by the riverbanks, the waterfront is an active meeting point both in the day and at night. Early in the morning and in late afternoon, one can catch joggers zipping through the well-paved promenade. At night, families gather here for supper or a pleasant evening stroll. 

darul hana bridge

The Darul Hana Bridge is a twirling pedestrian bridge that connects the northern part of town with the south. The design contains traces of local tribal culture with the hornbill topped towers paying homage to the Bidayuh culture. This is the best place to catch the sunrise or sunset in Kuching in my opinion if you don’t have access to a rooftop / high view point. At night, there is also a light and water show by the river. Called the Darul Hana Musical Fountain, the schedule is as follows: 8:30PM and 9:30PM daily with an additional one at 10:30PM on Friday and Saturday. 

From the bridge, one can have a closer view of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly . Depending on who you ask, it said to resemble either a royal Malay umbrella (payung negara) or a traditional multi-pointed hat from the Iban tribe. The building was opened in 2009 and is now probably the best known architectural landmark of the city. For your best bet in getting postcard worthy shots of the assembly building, I can suggest going in the afternoon (any time after 2pm) to see the sunlight shining on its exterior.

Tip: For a panoramic view of Kuching’s cityscape, head up to the rather eerie carpark building that is Medan Pelita. You will be able to see the nice contrast between the low-rise shophouses and the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly and the river separating both areas.

Try Sarawakian Cuisine

For dinner, head to Lepau for a dose of local Sarawak cuisine. The menu offers a rundown of the specialties including Ayam Pansuh – chicken cooked in bamboo stalk and covered in tapioca leaves, Tempoyak (fermented durian) served with a variety of meats – as well as Midin (forest ferns).

Semenggoh Wildlife Reserve

semenggoh wildlife centre

A trip to Kuching is probably incomplete without a visit to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre for a round of orangutan spotting. The park is roughly 35 minutes from Kuching and is a habitat for wildlife rather than a zoo. As such, it is not always guaranteed that one can spot orangutans during a visit although chances are fairly high. The only exception is during fruit season (typically between October to March) when the orangutans can easily find food to eat from the forest and as such, do not need to go to the feeding area, where the galleries are located, for food.

Unless you have your own car, it is recommended to visit Semenggoh Wildlife Reserve as part of a join-in tour (you can book an inexpensive one here ) because it is located in the wilderness and it might be difficult to find a Grab / taxi back. A typical tour lasts for about 3 hours and can be opted for either the morning of afternoon. Visits are timed to coincide with the feeding schedule.

tasik biru in bau

The town of Bau is located some 45 minutes to 1 hour away from Kuching. This former mining town is famous for its caves, mountains as well as the manmade Taman Tasik Biru , a former gold mine that has been filled with water and turned into a lake. The relatively serene surroundings makes it a conducive place to rent a boat or to just sit by one of the lakeside sheds and watch the world go by. 

paku rock maze garden

A relatively new attraction is Bau is the Paku Rock Maze Garden – a beguiling rock formation just off the highway connecting Kuching and Bau. It is literally a rock maze – with the 2-meter tall (or more!) rock formation creating natural passageways within the forest. While it is possible to get lost within the rock maze, fret not. Signs are scattered within the complex to guide visitors to the right path. Admission is free. 

In Bau, one can also visit the 2 caves: Wind Cave and Fairy Cave which are about 7km away from each other. The 2 caves can be visited within a few hours. Bring insect repellant and flashlights. Some parts of the Wind Cave are pitch dark. 

Siniawan 

siniawan night market

End your day of exploration in the one-street town of Siniawan . Every Fridays to Sundays, this quiet row of wooden shophouses comes alive with lanterns, a night market and street stalls selling various snacks. Tables are laid out on the street and visitors can partake in various Sarawak and Malaysian dishes. If you love soaking in the old town vibes, it’s worth the 15 minute journey here from Bau. To get back to Kuching, allow for about 40 minutes drive. 

Enjoy a Hearty Bowl of Kuching’s Quintessential Kolo Mee

kuching kolo mee

Kolo Mee is to Kuching as Pho is to Vietnam. If you were to think of one iconic dish to come from the Cat City, it would most likely be these bowls of curly, springy noodles with minced meat, char siu and doused with a light sauce. It can be had at any time of day but is most commonly eaten as a breakfast dish. You can have it plain which is the standard version or opt for a “red” version which comes with char siu sauce. Whichever version you go for, it’s easy to find kolo mee in any coffee shop in Kuching. Popular spots for a bowl include Chong Choon Cafe and Choon Hui Cafe . The latter is also popular for Sarawak Laksa.

Sarawak Cultural Village

sarawak culture village

Located near Mount Santubong is the Sarawak Cultural Village . Think of it as a living museum – with reconstructions of traditional houses of the tribes living in Sarawak. This is a good way to gain a quick overview of the many indigenous cultures found in the state without having to travel to Sarawak’s remote areas. The village also boasts of peaceful ponds, attractive foliage and photo-worthy sections. Don’t miss the enthralling cultural performance at the end. If you head there in the morning, you can expect to be back in Kuching by about 1:30PM to 2PM. You can join a group tour to the village here with hotel pick-up included. 

Shop for Handicrafts

Kuching is a great place to buy authentic tribal handicrafts. If you love rattan, beadwork, woven cloths, carvings and intricate patterns; the shops along the Main Bazaar – the shophouses facing the waterfront – offer plenty of choices. Quality varies as well and haggling is expected in the smaller stores. Many of the products are expertly done and don’t carry any kitschy “Sarawak” or “Kuching” logo on them. I personally bought some baskets with intricate woven patterns as decorative wall art. For something more upmarket, you can check out the souvenir shop inside The Ranee Boutique Suites or the Sarawak Craft Council. 

Seafood Dinner at Top Spot

Located in a nondescript building is Topspot Food Court , Kuching’s most popular spot for seafood. Located at the topmost floor of the building, the venue hosts dozens of seafood stalls with a communal dining hall. Dishes to try here include spiny lobsters, bamboo shells, crab and prawns that can be cooked to your liking. Check out the local version of the oyster pancake which is presented as a thin UFO-shaped cracker with the oysters studded throughout the surface.  

Bako National Park

If you have another full day to spare in Kuching or timed your departure for the evening, you can head out to Bako National Park which can be done as a day trip. What makes this national park special is that its coastal setting affords one of a variety of experiences – including jungle trekking, chilling by the beach and taking a boat ride out to see some rock formations. 

bako national park in sarawak by Fabio Achilli

A typical trip to Bako National Park involves going through one of the trails, each with its own unique features and having varied levels of difficulty. For beginners, the Paku Trail is relatively short, with little change in terrain. The trail ends at the beach. Other tails include the Tajor Trail, Limbang Trail and for those seeking a challenge – the Limau Trail which also end on the beach. While trekking through the park, your guide will try to seek out proboscis monkeys. These big-nosed primates are found all over Borneo, especially in the coastal and mangrove areas.  You can join a day tour to Bako National Park here .

gunung gading national park by axxonlive

Another option is to head to Gunung Gading National Park for another day tour to see the Rafflesia flower (if it’s in bloom). The tour typically lasts until 3:30PM to 4PM and involves a hike to see the flower if it’s in bloom, waterfalls as well as a spot of swimming.

Other Tips for Kuching

• Travel insurance: It may be advisable to get travel insurance, especially if you plan to do adventure activities. If you come from Singapore, I can recommend checking out Starr TraveLead for its cheap single- trip travel insurance with S$10 cash rebate to help offset the insurance cost here . If you are based elsewhere, check out Worldnomads as they have quite an extensive coverage, even including personal accidents into their list of benefits. 
• Weather: Kuching is the wettest major city in Malaysia and it can rain any time of the year. However, it is the wettest between November to March where rains can be expected for 25 out of the 30 days of the month. That being said, it usually does not rain the entire day but plans for outdoor activities may be dampened by strong winds, flash floods and other inconveniences. The best time to visit Kuching is between June to July. These are the driest months. June is also the month when the Rainforest Music Festival is held. 
• Practicalities: Outside of Kuching’s arcaded streets of Jalan Carpenter, Jalan India, Main Bazaar and Jalan Padungan; most of Kuching’s streets offer little shelter from the heat and the rain. As such, if you walk outdoors during the day; you’ll most likely be baked under the sun. It’s wise to put sunblock even if you’re just staying within the city.
• Farther afield: Kuching serves as a hub for Borneo so if there’s an interest in exploring more, you can fly to Brunei and Labuan . Sibu and Miri are also reachable by air. Kota Kinabalu is roughly 1 hour by air. 

Where to Stay in Kuching

Budget: The Meritin Hotel is an affordable 3-star hotel located in Jalan Padungan, a street filled with quaint shops, cafes and restaurants. Rooms are clean, functional and for families wishing to stay together, they have a Family Room category featuring 2 double beds.

Midrange: When it comes to location, it’s hard to find any other hotel with a better address than The Waterfront Hotel Kuching . The hotel is located right smack in the middle of town, in between Jalan India and Jalan Carpenter. The waterfront is 3 minutes walk and the Old Court House is directly beside it. The main museums are 2 blocks away. Rooms here are spacious and they also have a Family Room category with 2 double beds. The small supplement for a river facing room is well worth the upgrade and you can watch the nightly light show from the comfort of your room.

You can also check for the best deals for hotels in Kuching here .

You May Also Like

Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

More Posts - Website

Reader Interactions

Older posts, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Kuching, Malaysia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 6, 2024

Located in the west of Borneo Island, Kuching is the capital and largest city of the state of Sarawak in Malaysia. Set in a picturesque spot on the banks of the Sarawak River, not far from the South China Sea, the city has long been an important trading post. As such, it is home to an intriguing mix of different peoples, cultures, and cuisines.

Throughout its history, Kuching has been ruled by everyone from the Sultan of Brunei to the Japanese, and the adventurer James Brooke rather incredulously made it his own personal kingdom. Consequently, there are a lot of interesting historical sights to be found around town, with galleries, museums, and old colonial buildings all on show.

In addition to all of these tourist attractions, Kuching is ideally located if you want to explore the wild jungles and rugged coast that Sarawak is renowned for.

12. Chinese Museum

Once the courthouse of the Sarawakian Chinese, this delightful museum now hosts a whole range of different exhibitions on the customs, cultures, and lifestyles of the nine main Chinese communities that came to live in the city. Among the extensive collection are lots of fantastic artifacts, photographs, and traditional costumes for you to peruse. These document the history of the Chinese in Kuching since they first started migrating to the city around the year 1830.

The pastel-colored colonial-era building lies on the banks of the Sarawak River and is just a stone’s throw away from the gorgeous Tua Pek Kong Temple, which is an important holy site for the local Chinese community.

11. The Old Courthouse

Built all the way back in 1871, the Old Courthouse was once the administrative center of the city. As such, it occupies a prominent place along Kuching’s waterfront. Its verandahs, pavilion, and Round Tower are very peaceful to walk around and showcase some wonderful architecture from different epochs.

Nowadays, the lovely old colonial building is home to the fantastic Ranee Museum, which looks at the life and times of Margaret de Windt, the former queen of Sarawak. There’s also a bar and restaurant. In addition to this, there are several venues located in the Old Courthouse that host art exhibitions and cultural performances.

10. Sarawak Museum

The oldest museum in the whole of Borneo, the Sarawak Museum was first opened in 1888. Since then, it has educated countless numbers of people on the rich history, culture, and heritage of the island’s many indigenous groups.

With lots of interesting ethnographic artifacts, local handicrafts, and wildlife specimens on display, the museum really is fascinating to wander around.

The extensive collection is housed in a charming old building that dates to Victorian times. With the perfectly manicured lawns all around it, it wouldn’t look out of place in Merry Old England. Due to re-open in mid-2020 after lengthy renovation works, the Sarawak Museum is well worth visiting if you want to learn more about Borneo and Kuching’s captivating past.

9. Mount Santubong

Located around half an hour’s drive to the north of Kuching, Mount Santubong lies at the heart of a delightful national park of the same name, with lots of great outdoor activities and beautiful scenery on offer. Towering above its surroundings, the mount dominates the park, and its forested slopes rise dramatically above the glistening waters of the South China Sea.

Trekking through the lush rainforest to reach its summit is a marvelous experience, and the views from up high are simply spellbinding. With wildlife in the shape of proboscis monkeys and colorful hornbills for you to spot, Mount Santubong certainly makes for a memorable and nature-filled day out.

8. Fort Margherita

Overlooking the lively Kuching waterfront, Fort Margherita was built in 1879 on the banks of the Sarawak River to help protect the city from attack. One of the main attractions in Kuching, the dazzling white walls and turrets of the fort stand out against the greens of the lawns and trees that surround it.

Besides exploring the impressive fortifications, visitors can also take a look around the fort’s Police Museum, which has an amazing collection of old armaments and armor, including cannons, pistols, and swords.

7. Sarawak Orchid Garden

Located just a short walk away from Fort Margherita, the Sarawak Orchid Garden is a delight to stroll around, with a myriad of different plants, flowers, and orchids lining its peaceful pathways and greenhouses. Tastefully laid out, the garden is very well looked after, and there are over 75,000 plants on display.

The gorgeous Normah Orchid – the state’s flower – can be spotted here and there. To get to the orchid garden from Kuching waterfront, you can either walk across the Darul Hana footbridge or take a short boat ride across the river.

6. Waterfront Promenade

Covering the south bank of the Sarawak River, Kuching’s scenic Waterfront Promenade stretches for just under a kilometer, and for many people, it is the heart of the city. Taking you past such sights as the Chinese Museum, Square Tower, and the India Mosque, the promenade really is a beautiful place to go for a walk and has a lovely laidback feel to it.

On the opposite bank, you can see the impressive Astana and Fort Margherita rising before you; at night, lots of young couples congregate here to take a romantic stroll when everything is beautifully illuminated. As a number of cafes and food kiosks line the way, the waterfront promenade is also a great place to grab a bite to eat.

With so much for you to see, no trip to Kuching can ever be complete without having ambled along the promenade at least once or twice.

5. Gunung Gading National Park

Although Gunung Gading National Park is blessed with lots of stunning scenery, fantastic treks, and fantastic wildlife, it is the enormous Rafflesia flower that is undoubtedly the star attraction. Reaching up to a meter in diameter, the parasitic plant is remarkably the world’s largest flower. It can take months and months to grow, only to bloom for just a couple of days.

While it certainly does make for an impressive sight, the national park has loads of other natural wonders for you to enjoy, with plenty of trails and paths snaking their way through the dense rainforest that coats its mountainous terrain.

Lying around two hours away from Kuching, Gunung Gading National Park is just about doable as a day trip. While visiting its many twinkling streams and waterfalls, you may even catch a glimpse of an orangutan or two peacefully swinging through the jungle.

4. Kubah National Park

Despite calling itself ‘the home of palms and frogs,’ Kubah National Park has much more to offer, although you certainly will see plenty of them dotted around the rainforest. Hidden away amongst the dense undergrowth are lots of colorful orchids, as well as a number of beautiful waterfalls for you to make your way to.

As it lies just half an hour’s drive to the west of Kuching, many locals enjoy coming here at the weekend to go for a walk in the forest or cool off in one of its pretty streams or bathing pools.

3. Sarawak Cultural Village

If you’re interested in learning more about Borneo’s various indigenous peoples and cultures, then a visit to the Sarawak Cultural Village is a must. The living museum has seven traditional buildings and longhouses for you to wander around, and each of these displays an architectural style from a particular group, such as the Malay, Chinese, or Penan.

In addition to this, you’ll see lots of locals dressed in their traditional attire making handicrafts using ancient techniques. These live demonstrations show you how the indigenous groups once weaved, carved, and cooked. Twice a day, the locals put on a dance and music performance which proudly showcases their rich cultural heritage.

2. Bako National Park

The first national park to be established in Sarawak all the way back in 1957, Bako is home to an incredible range of different landscapes and ecosystems. Lying just half an hour away from Kuching, it is one of the most popular national parks with both locals and tourists alike, and it is easy to see why.

Jutting out into the South China Sea, the peninsula on which it lies is home to jagged cliffs and secluded beaches, with some pretty mangroves also on display. Its tangled mess of dense rainforest is a delight to explore, and lots of hidden waterfalls and sparkling streams can be found here and there.

As there are a plethora of fantastic paths and trails for you to hike along, many people end up staying a night or two in Bako. On top of its astounding natural sights, Bako National Park also boasts a vast array of wildlife, and over 150 types of birds have been spotted within its confines. With proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, monitor lizards, and pangolins all on show, the park really is well worth visiting.

1. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

For many people, Borneo is synonymous with orangutans, and Semenggoh Nature Reserve is one of the best places to see them in the world. The reserve has long run a successful rehabilitation program for orphaned or rescued orangutans, and thankfully, all of them have since been released back into the wild. As such, they roam free around the rainforest at their will, coming and going as they please.

Many of them, however, still return to the center for a free meal a couple of times a day. Seeing the orangutans happily munching away on the fruit that is left out for them is an amazing experience, and is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any trip to Kuching – or even Borneo, for that matter.

Besides seeing them up close and personal, visitors to Semenggoh Nature Reserve can also go on a walk around its premises and enjoy the colorful fauna and flora of the rainforest.

Best Time to Visit Kuching

With temperatures remaining between 30 and 33°C (86 to 91°F) and each month seeing a lot of rainfall, you can’t really visit Kuching and avoid the heat, sun, humidity or rain. As such, many just visit when they have a holiday or plan it around one of its numerous fun festivals.

As the driest months are from April to September (though that’s not saying much!), loads of people visit then. July and August are of course the peak season due to the school holidays with prices being higher. Conditions are also best then for exploring the center, sunbathing or trekking about its lush, steamy jungle. Huge events include its Gawai Dayak Festival and Rainforest World Music Festival in June.

From October to March, the riverside city sees an incredible amount of rain tips down. If you don’t mind the sudden strong showers, prices are lower and there are barely any crowds at its caves, jungle lodges and wildlife sanctuaries.

Although extremely wet with pretty much every single day seeing at least some, if not a lot, of rain, December is the most popular month along with August. Prices again rise as people pour in for the holidays. Some also visit for Chinese New Year in either January or February.

Where to Stay in Kuching

If you are wondering how easy it is to stay in such a seemingly far-flung place, don’t worry; it’s actually very straightforward. There are a host of hotels to choose from, ranging from elegant simplicity to outright elegance – polished hotels that jostle with shopping malls, or towers that overlook the tranquil river. Whatever you’re looking for, you are going to find something for you in this wonderful city.

Abell Hotel – This hotel is located right in the middle of the most historic part of Kuching, within walking distance of the Kuching Waterfront Bazaar and the Sarawak Museum. This large hotel is clean and modern, with a gleaming tiled lobby and simple rooms boasting neutral color palettes, white linen, and en suite bathrooms. There is a large restaurant where you can enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning.

Imperial Hotel Kuching – This impressively sized hotel stands out in the city of Kuching. There is a swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers lying on a rooftop with views out over the city. The rooms provide a touch of luxury, with swanky carpets and warming colors; there’s the option of larger suites with even better views, too. Located right next to the Boulevard Shopping Mall, it’s convenient for a spot of retail therapy.

Harbour View Hotel Located very close to the waterfront, the rooms at this hotel are comfortable and cozy, decorated in warm, earthy tones – some even come with amazing views of the river. There is a cafe on site where guests can sip on a kopi, plus there is a fun karaoke lounge serving drinks.

Pullman Kuching – Part of an international hotel chain, Pullman Kuching is sharp and stylish. It contains no less than five options for dining, so you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to your evening meal. There is also a stylish outdoor pool where you can sun yourself or take a refreshing dip. The rooms are an exquisite mix of easygoing aesthetics and contemporary cool, all done in chocolate tones and featuring views across the city.

Grand Margherita Hotel – With exceedingly beautiful river views, this hotel is situated next door to the Sarawak Plaza Shopping Complex along the riverside boulevard. There is an outdoor swimming pool along the water’s edge, plus four options for dining, meaning you’ll never go hungry. For children, there is a playground, while adults can work out at the gym. Here, you can simply head back to your fancy traditional-meets-modern room after a day of exploring.

Hilton Kuching – The Kuching branch of the famous hotel brand, is located within walking distance of almost everything – the Chinese Temple, the Chinese History Museum, and even the Waterfront Bazaar. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool edged with palms and sun loungers, while inside, there is a choice of restaurants – from the Waterfront Cafe to the elegant cocktail bar. The rooms , with their plush carpets and soft furnishings, make for a classic and stylish stay in the city and boast views of the river.

Imperial Riverbank Hotel – This hotel is situated on the banks of the river in Kuching, just steps away from the Cat Statue. The rooms are compact but cozy, with high ceilings and traditional fabrics, offering a simple but stylish place to call home while staying in this city. Each morning, there is a continental breakfast served, but the food stalls along the riverfront – as well as restaurants – are within easy walking distance of the hotel.

Puteri Wing – Boasting everything from tennis court to a large outdoor pool, this hotel also has a multitude of dining options – from Chinese and Thai to Western and more local dishes. There’s even a babysitting service are also on offer, making this a good option for young families. Rooms have a homely but traditional feeling, making them a familiar and comfortable place to stay.

Share this post:

10 Most Amazing Destinations in East Malaysia

10 Best Malaysia Beach Resorts

8 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

10 Most Amazing Destinations in West Malaysia

6 Most Beautiful Regions in Malaysia

10 Best Beaches in Malaysia

8 Amazing Things to Do in Sabah, Malaysia

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia

23 Top Tourist Attractions in Malaysia

16 Top Tourist Attractions in Malacca, Malaysia

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top 12 places to visit in Kuching (attractions within the city)

Posted on Last updated: January 26, 2024

Categories Sarawak , Visit Malaysia

We recently spent a week in Kuching and visited many of the renowned places in the city. In this article, we want to share our experiences and suggest the best places to visit if you travel to Kuching. Our story is based on our experiences and perspectives, and we took all the photographs in this article.

We will focus on the places to visit in Kuching City only. We plan to write a separate article for all the places we visited within a two-hour drive from Kuching City. Also, we arranged our list of places to visit in the order that we visited them, so it does not mean that the first place listed is the most important or the last place listed is the least important.

If you want to learn what to eat in Kuching, we have a separate article dedicated to Kuching’s food.

Here is the list of places to visit in Kuching based on our trip to Kuching.

1. Kuching Waterfront Esplanade

The Kuching Waterfront Esplanade, located along the south bank of the Sarawak River, should be on top of the list of places to visit in Kuching. It offers beautiful river views and is a popular spot to experience the city’s cosmopolitan vibes. It is just a few minutes from Carpenter Street, Chinatown. 

The waterfront runs alongside the Sarawak River and is best visited in the evening. We came here before sunset and waited until after dark to see it lit up.

There are many famous buildings in this area, with the latest addition being the tallest flag post in Malaysia, located on the opposite side of the river.

We walked around the Waterfront and took lovely pictures of the Sarawak River with the cruise sailing along. Here is the perfect spot to view the Dewan Undangan Negeri across the river.

We also strolled to the Darul Hana Bridge, but it started to rain. Now is December, which is already the start of the monsoon season. So we headed back to our car and stopped by the Square Tower.

a. Dewan Undangan

On the other side of the river is the impressive Dewan Undangan building. There’s also a jetty where you can join a waterfront cruise to tour the Sarawak River.

b. The Square Tower

The Square Tower is a historic fort and prison built in 1879, located on the Waterfront on the south bank of the Sarawak River; it has served various purposes throughout its history, including as a jail, administrative office, and dance hall. The building is a significant historical remnant from the Brooke era of Kuching’s history. It is now home to the Magenta Restaurant, a fine-dining restaurant in the historic fort.

c. The Darul Hana Bridge

The Darul Hana Bridge is a pedestrian bridge in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. It was completed in November 2017 and spanned over the serene Sarawak River. The bridge connects the City North with the City South. The Darul Hana Bridge is known for its dynamic twisting shape, which offers a unique and visually appealing sight.

The bridge is designed with Yin and Yang, symbolizing the balance of cultures living together. It has two masts, inclined in opposite directions, and a walkway made of precast concrete slabs. The bridge has several resting areas where you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view over the river. It is decorated with colored night lights, adding a vibrant touch to the city’s Waterfront at night.

One of the best places to capture a stunning photo of the floating mosque at night is from this bridge.

During the day, visitors can enjoy scenic views of Astana, Fort Margherita, Dewan Undangan, the tallest flag pole in Malaysia, and the Malay villages across the river. The best time to visit is after sunset when the esplanade comes alive with vibrant nightlife. 

2, The Cat Monuments

There are a few cat monuments in Kuching. Kuching is thought to have derived its name from the Malay word “kucing,” which means cat. 

The most famous Cat Monument features a family of cats known as “The Cat Family.” This iconic statue is located at the golden triangle of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, in front of the Grand Margherita Hotel and beside the Riverside Majestic Hotel. The statue consists of a father cat, a mother cat, and seven kittens. It has been in place for nearly 30 years and is one of the most photographed spots in Kuching. 

Another notable cat statue is the Cat Monument in Kuching China Town, in front of Padungan Road, near the city center. This monument features a cat wearing different styles of uniform. 

There is also the Padungan Roundabout Cat Statue, a 2.5-meter-high statue of a white cat with its front left paw raised as if waving at visitors.

In addition to these statues, Kuching is home to several other cat-themed public spaces and roundabouts

Cat and the name of Kuching

here are different versions of the origin of the name. One version suggests that when James Brooke, the first White Rajah, asked a local Malay guide about the settlement’s name, the guide thought he was pointing to a cat and replied, “Kuching,” and the name stuck.  Another version suggests that the name “Kuching” might have derived from the Kuching River, a small stream that flowed from the direction of the Kuching Reservoir Park (Reservoir Park, Kuching). The name has been associated with the city since the Brunei rule, and it is also suggested that “Kuching” means “mata kucing” (cat’s-eye in Malay) for the longan fruit, a popular trade item.

3. Chinatown of Kuching

There are two main Chinatowns in Kuching. One is at Padungan Street, and the other is at Carpenter Street. The Hong San Si Temple is situated to the east, while the Old Court House and Round Tower are located to the west.

Both of these areas have many well-preserved shophouses, which are worth exploring for their unique architecture. Small food stalls, bars, and shops sell various items in these areas. We walk around these areas and have dinner several times.

4. The Chinese History Museum Kuching

The Chinese History Museum Kuching was constructed in 1912 and was initially used as a court by the Chinese people until 1921. After that, it was taken over by the Chinese Trade Council. In 1993, the building was converted into the Museum of Chinese History, 

The outside of the museum is prominently painted in pink. Once we enter the museum, we can see a pair of ivory sculptures. 

The museum is situated opposite the Tua Pek Kong temple. It traces the history of the various Chinese dialect groups in Sarawak.

The museum also showcases some of the Chinese political leaders in Sarawak. 

It is open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm and on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is free. 

Various artifacts, documents, and exhibits depict the Chinese community’s journey in Sarawak, including their traditions, culture, and contributions to the state. 

Besides, traditional Chinese musical instruments and a replica of an old primary school classroom are on display.

Also, there are stories about some of the main festivals the local Chinese community celebrates.

5. Tua Pek Kong Temple

Tua Pek Kong Temple is opposite the Chinese History Museum.

It is also known as Siew San Teng Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in the city, and is part of the Kuching Heritage Trail. The temple is believed to have existed before 1839, and several renovations in the 19th century. 

The temple survived the 1884 Great Fire of Kuching and the Japanese invasion during World War II, with its structure remaining intact despite the surrounding damage. It is ornately decorated and is said to have the best Feng Shui location in the city. 

6. Fort Margherita.

Fort Margherita is an ancient fort constructed in 1879 by Charles Brooke, the Rajah of Sarawak. The fort was built in the style of an English castle to safeguard Kuching from pirate attacks. Today, it houses the Brooke Gallery, an exhibition showcasing Sarawak’s history under the Brooke dynasty. The fort was named after Charles Brooke’s wife, Ranee Margaret.  

The battlement of the three-story tower block includes a watchpoint on top, a courtyard surrounded by a high wall with sharp glass shards inlaid for protection, and wooden windows set into the wall where the cannons were fired. 

The spiral stairs between each floor are not easy, but it is worth exploring all the floors, especially if you want to know more about the history of Sarawak during the White Rajahs.

7. Malaysia-China Friendship Park

The Malaysia-China Friendship Park is a 2.8-hectare man-made park commemorating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and The People’s Republic of China. It was established in 2004, the year of Malaysia-China friendship, and was funded by the governments of both countries.

As you enter the park, you’ll be welcomed by beautiful white stone lions. The park offers stunning views of the Tea Pavilion and the lake, featuring a large pond full of fish. 

The popular attraction in the park is the giant statue of Zheng He (Cheng Ho), a Chinese explorer who commanded expeditions to Southeast, South, Western, and East Africa from 1405 to 1433. Admiral Cheng Ho played a significant role in Malaysian history. He accompanied Princess Hang Li Po and 500 ‘Dayangs’ (ladies in waiting) to marry Sultan Mansor Syah of Melaka. This led to mixed marriages that birthed the ‘Baba and Nyonya’ in Malaysia.

The statue of Cheng Ho and the stone platform-shaped Chinese junk were built at one end of the lake, facing away from the Tea Pavilion. It is between 30 and 40 feet tall and is believed to be one of the world’s largest statues of Cheng Ho. It stands before a stone junk, with his right hand stretched out in greeting while holding royal diplomatic scrolls. 

8. Sarawak Islamic Information Centre

The Sarawak Islamic Information Center is a place that may not be included in the list of must-visit places in Kuching. However, after I visited this place, I recommend taking some time to explore the unique architecture of the building.

The Islamic Information Centre was established on August 17, 2008, to promote and communicate the universality of Islam and create a better understanding of the religion among Sarawak’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious population.

The most prominent feature of this building is its architectural design. It perfectly blends various ethnic designs from different groups in Sarawak.

It features a combination of various ethnic identities, highlighting the true Islamic universality with no distinction between different races and cultures.

Upon entering the building, we counted all six designs: Chinese, Malay House, Iban longhouse, Bidayuh Baroque, Melanau High House, and Orang Ulu. All of these designs represent the main ethnic groups in Sarawak. The architecture of the building signifies “One Religion, Many Cultures,” where Islam is universal and not exclusively specific to Malays or Arabs.

It is highly unlikely that you will find Islamic architecture with such a unique design anywhere else.

9. Borneo Cultures Museum

Borneo Cultures Muzeum is the second-largest Southeast Asian museum, a modern five-story building. It should be one of the places to visit in Kuching, regardless of the duration of your visit.

The museum’s first floor is the lobby, where you can find the auditorium, function room, and VIP lounge.

On the second floor, you can explore the Children’s Gallery and the Arts & Crafts section, which has several areas where kids can engage in various activities. It has sensory booths offering an interactive learning environment to keep children entertained.

The third floor is the main gallery called In Harmony with Nature. It is the largest gallery in the museum, offering 2,188 sq m of exhibition space. Here, we learn about the close relationship between local communities and their surrounding environments. It also lets us embark on a river journey through three major geographical regions- sea, mountain, and forest.

The fourth floor is the Time Changes gallery. Here, we journey through time and explore changes across the ages. We learn about archaeological discoveries across Sarawak’s network of caves, the history behind the formation of Sarawak and its regions, and the rise of nationalism within the state. It tells the entire history of Sarawak, from the prehistoric era to the modern times.

The fifth floor is the Objects of Desire gallery, which showcases the intricate handicrafts of the tribes in Sarawak. These range from mats and beadwork to clothing and reflect skilled craftsmanship that has yet to be seen since.

10. Cat Museum

The Cat Museum in Kuching is the largest museum dedicated to cats worldwide. It was founded in 1993 at the Petra Jaya in the Kuching City North City Hall.

The museum houses over 4,000 artifacts, including paintings, a gallery of feline-related advertising, and memorials related to cats. It tells the history of cats back 5,000 years, and the museum’s highlight is the mummified cat from ancient Egypt.

If you love cats, this museum is the ultimate paradise for you. But even if you’re not a cat lover, it’s still one of the worthy places to visit in Kuching.

11. The Kuching Old Courthouse

The Kuching Old Courthouse was built in 1868 and completed in 1874. It served as the administrative center for the government of Sarawak until 1973. 

In 2003, the building was converted into the Sarawak Tourism Complex. The architecture of the building is notable, consisting of four blocks and featuring an ironwood roof. 

The Food Journal Group now manages the Old Courthouse, a heritage building catering to private events and corporate functions.

12. Taman Perpaduan

Taman Perpaduan is a park that promotes unity and harmony among the diverse communities in Kuching. The park serves as a public space that provides recreation and relaxation opportunities. The park offers a peaceful and serene environment where people from different backgrounds can interact and learn about each other’s cultures.

During the evening, we visited the park and saw many locals jogging, exercising, and spending quality time with their families. The park’s main features are a beautiful lake with a fountain and a unity statue with two hands holding together.

Other places to visit in Kuching (within a two-hour drive from the Kuching): 

We have visited several places within Kuching City. However, we will not provide detailed information about them in this article, as we plan to write another article about places to visit outside the city but within the distance of a day trip. To give you an idea of the places you can visit, here is a list of the places we have already visited.

• Bako National Park- to view the stunning sea stacks, look for beared pigs and proboscis monkeys, and enjoy walking on the trails.
• Sarawak Cultural Village- A place to learn about the culture of various tribes and visit the traditional houses.
• Semengguh Wildlife Centre – A place to get close to the Orangutan in the wild.
• Annah Rais Longhouse – Visit the Bidayuh longhouse, understand the culture, and enjoy traditional food with the family.
• Kubah National Park – One of the best trails we had it during our trip, especially if you like jungle tracking and waterfalls.
• Gunung Gading National Park – The best place to observe Rafflesia Blooming. 
• Matang Wildlife centre – A center to rehabilitate orangutans.
• Fairy Cave and Wind Cave are beautiful caves with standing rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites formations; look for bats, swiftlets, and underground rivers.
• Paku Rock Maze Garden – This unique rock formation is a mini pinnacle.
• Serikin is a border town with Indonesia where they offer a variety of goods brought in from Indonesia, including fabrics, rattan mats, and other traditional products.

Friday 26th of January 2024

Not being a troublemaker, but the stone bench in your photo is obviously being held by a cat ( which makes total sense ) and a panda, ….not orangutan.

Thank you for bringing the mistake to my attention. I have fixed it and appreciate your help.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

10 Top Things to Do in Kuching, Sarawak

Although most travelers arrive interested in the island of Borneo's many natural attractions , all inevitably end up spending some days in the "big" city of Kuching before going farther afield. Kuching, the capital of the state of Sarawak in Malaysia, is pleasant and has interesting things to do.

Walking around between sights in Kuching, you slowly become aware that something is missing: the hassle. Unlike some other places in Asia where travelers get plenty of sales pressure, the vibe in Kuching is friendly. Those smiling and greeting you with a "good morning" are genuine.

A handful of interesting museums in the Kuching area—along with cultural villages, limestone caves with bats, and a chance to see endangered orangutans and proboscis monkeys, among other attractions—will keep you entertained.

Hike Through the Jungle in Bako National Park

Bako National Park is the quickest and most accessible way to enjoy a taste of Borneo's rainforest without going too far. After an approximately 45-minute drive from Kuching, the park is then a 30-minute boat ride from Kuching. Sarawak's smallest and oldest national park includes secluded beaches, jungle streams, numerous walking trails, and waterfalls.

Even travelers who aren't up for any serious trekking will enjoy the abundance of flora and fauna in Bako, including the endangered, strange-looking proboscis monkeys, famous for their big noses. If you traverse the boardwalk trails around the park headquarters, you'll be treated to a lot of wildlife. Bako can be visited with or without a guide on a day trip.

See Orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Located only 45 minutes outside of Kuching in the 1613-acre Semenggoh Nature Reserve, the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is the easiest way to see Borneo's endangered orangutans who roam freely in the green forest canopy.

Morning and afternoon feeding times provide visitors with chances to photograph semi-wild orangutans that come out of the forest for offerings of fruit. There aren't any guarantees the orangutans will show up, but some almost always do.

The rangers at Semenggoh are highly trained, and signboards explaining the plight of the orangutans aim to inspire visitors to work toward a brighter future for these highly intelligent creatures.

Experience Unique Museums

Kuching has some interesting museums on art, natural history/science, textiles, women, and other subjects. You can easily visit a few museums in a day; some are located within walking distance of Chinatown and the waterfront.

• The Chinese History Museum : This museum details several Chinese communities who set down roots in Sarawak around 1830. See musical instruments, photographs, costumes, and more.
• The Sarawak Museum : Built in 1891, Borneo's oldest museum is an excellent place to learn about the former headhunting indigenous tribes and native crafts, artifacts, and beyond. The museum is closed until sometime in 2020 due to an expansion, so confirm schedules before you go.
• Cat Museum : Kuching means "cat" in the Malaysian language; since you are visiting the cat city, don't forget about the world's first feline museum with various photos, exhibits, art, and thousands of kitty souvenirs.

Stroll at the Kuching Waterfront

Kuching's waterfront is pleasant—and safe—to stroll at night, particularly around sunset as the call to prayer reverberates across the river. The walkway has some restaurants, carts selling snacks and drinks, plus benches for taking in the view and doing some people watching. Local buskers and street musicians sometimes perform along the way.

You can cross the river by boat or take a sunset river cruise available at stations along the waterfront.

Stay at an Iban Longhouse

While in Kuching, visitors can make arrangements for some highly memorable adventures by staying in an Iban longhouse—the farther from the city, the more authentic the experience. Learn about indigenous culture staying in a Sarawak longhouse where several families live, and see a local dance and music performance. At night, you might sip on some  tuak, the local rice whiskey. The next day may entail a jungle hike or a garden tour.

Reserve a stay through the Sarawak Tourism Board and follow some handy tips for a smooth experience.

Enjoy Sarawak Food

Before leaving Sarawak, try these local dishes in Kuching that won't all be available elsewhere. At the famous Topspot open-air food court at the end of the waterfront, you'll find a plethora of fresh seafood at reasonable prices.

Along with local seafood, sample some of these specialties while in Kuching:

• Laksa Sarawak: Spicy, slightly fishy, and filling, Sarawak's version of laksa noodle soup is different than that found in other parts of Southeast Asia.
• Midin: A local fern that grows wild in the rainforest, midin is healthy, delicious, and remains crunchy even after being cooked (try it prepared in garlic).
• Kolo Mee: The default noodle soup for many locals, kolo mee, made from egg noodles, is an inexpensive dish best enjoyed in Chinatown.
• Kek Lapis: The colorful, multi-layer cakes seen around town are a local treat known as kek lapis; they are as heavy as they look.
• Empurau : This type of carp from Sarawak eats only fruit, and is the most expensive fish in Malaysia and perhaps all of Asia.

Get a Panoramic View From the Civic Centre

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Anyone who loves a perspective from above must stop at this landmark in Kuching: the prominent Civic Centre. You'll get a 360-degree panorama of the area from the platform on top of the tower. On a clear day, the city and the mountains in Kalamantan are visible. Look for the unique building on Jalan Taman Budaya with the umbrella-shaped roof.

Visit a Living Cultural Museum

Craig Pershouse / Getty Images

Just 22 miles (35 kilometers) out of Kuching is Sarawak Cultural Village, an award-winning living museum on 17 acres of land where tourists can learn about the state's diverse ethnic groups whose members dress in traditional costume, create music, engage in beadmaking, and perform other typical activities for visitors. Enjoy a multicultural dance performance as well.

Delight in the Rainforest World Music Festival

Rainforest World Music Festival

Kuching gets busy during the annual Rainforest World Music Festival held at the Sarawak Cultural Village for a few days each summer. A variety of world music is honored through workshops and concerts by artists from around the world as well as indigenous musicians from Borneo. Look for arts and craft displays and food vendors adding to the fun.

Step Into a Limestone Cave

Ikhwan Aris / Getty Images

To see lovely limestone caves, head to the Wind Cave and Fairy Cave Nature Reserve in Bau. The two caves are about 5 miles (8 kilometers) apart and a 30-minute drive from Kuching.

The always-breezy Wind Cave on the banks of the Sarawak River is home to stalagmites, stalactites, and thousands of bats; bring a flashlight.

The Fairy Cave (under construction through 2020, so confirm before going) features a stalagmite structure at the entrance that looks like a Chinese deity, and green moss adds to the mysterious beauty. Rock climbers love the cave's outer surface.

Related Articles

More related articles.

• 10 Must Visit Attractions In...

15 Must-Visit Attractions in Kuching, Malaysia

Sarawak is a diverse, fascinating region of Malaysia with plenty to offer, from the huge stretches of thick jungle and the various towns to the heady mix of different cultures. Kuching, the state capital, provides a great stepping stone into exploring the region while also having plenty to offer in its own right. Here are some of the highlights.

Admire the astana: residence of sarawak’s white rajahs.

Building, Memorial

The Astana (palace) always features on lists of the must-visit attractions in Kuching. Sitting elegantly on the banks of the River Sarawak, the 1870 colonial palace exudes grandeur. Formerly the residence of Sarawak’s White Rajahs , it’s now the Governor of Sarawak’s seat and isn’t open to the public. Manicured lawns and a fence surround the palace with Astana spelled out in giant white letters. Stand on the opposite side of the river for the best photographs. Return after dark when the palace lights up.

Stroll along the Kuching Waterfront

Natural Feature

The Kuching Waterfront hugs the southern banks of the Kuching River which divides the capital. The walkway provides views of the river, access to hotels and restaurants as well as vendors hawking snacks and street food. Stretching for almost one kilometre (0.6 miles), you can watch the sunset, snap a photograph next to the First White Rajah of Sarawak and visit Kuching’s oldest Taoist temple at Tua Pek Kong.

Learn about the White Rajahs at Fort Margherita and Brooke Gallery

The prominent Fort Margherita stands on the northern banks of the Sarawak River. The Second White Rajah Charles Brooke built the fort in 1879 to defend the city against pirate attacks and named it after his wife, Margaret. Today, it houses the recently opened Brooke Gallery with relics, artefacts and historical documents detailing Sarawak’s early statehood under the White Rajahs. Fort Margherita sits inside the police barracks, so you might need to show ID before entering.

See Kuching's oldest temple: Tua Pek Kong Temple

Buddhist Temple

Dating back to 1843, Tua Pek Kong holds the title as Kuching’s oldest Chinese temple. Located in the heart of the city centre near the Waterfront and Chinese Museum, the colourful façade welcomes curious visitors. While the Taoist temple might not be an obvious entry on the list of the must-visit attractions in Kuching, it does provide cultural insights into the city’s past and hosts several annual festivals.

Embrace local culture at Sarawak Cultural Village

Sitting 35 kilometres (21.7 miles) north of Kuching in Damai, Sarawak Cultural Village gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sarawakian tradition. The open-air museum features a collection of longhouse replicas such as ones that the infamous former headhunting Iban tribes inhabited, as well as Malay kampung-style dwellings and Chinese farmhouses. Stroll through the village and see traditional instruments inside the Rainforest Music House or follow jungle trails to the foot of Mount Santubong. Families and tourists interested in Sarawak’s rich cultural and ethnic heritage rate this as one of the must-visit attractions in Kuching.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,058 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Tour the oldest museum in Borneo: Sarawak State Museum

Borneo’s oldest museum first opened in 1891. The White Rajah at the time, Charles Brooke, had a passion for natural history and commissioned the Sarawak State Museum. Several displays cover all aspects of Sarawak from ethnographic exhibits and traditional longhouses to Neolithic artefacts, natural specimens and both Chinese and Islamic art. The grand three-storey colonial building housing the museum is a masterpiece in itself.

Photograph orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Approximately 21 kilometres (13 miles) south of Kuching sits the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. The orangutan rehabilitation centre has been taking care of baby and orphaned orangutans since opening its doors in 1975. Orange-haired primates roam semi-wild inside the protected area. Visit during either the morning feeding time between 9am and 10am or in the afternoon at 3pm.

Visit the Cat Museum in the City of Cats

Sarawak’s name translates as cat in English, giving it the nickname City of Cats. The world’s first cat museum covers four galleries inside the City Hall buildings. With over 4,000 items covering everything related to felines, this is a must-visit attraction in Kuching for cat lovers. Since opening in 1988, the Cat Museum has received thousands of annual visitors. Expect to find figurines, photographs, posters and a rare Egyptian mummified cat.

Take a river cruise through Kuching Wetlands National Park

Park, Natural Feature

Although it requires you to travel 15km (9mi) outside of the capital, Kuching Wetlands National Park is one of the area’s crown jewels and certainly justifies the extra distance. The maze of waterways connects the Sibu Laut River with the Salak, and on arrival you simply jump in a tour boat and away you go, spotting fish, crocodiles, monkeys, birds and even the strange-looking and increasingly rare Irrawaddy dolphins.

See proboscis monkeys at Bako National Park

Forest, Hiking Trail, Park

Holding the title as Sarawak’s oldest and one of the state’s smallest, Bako National Park can be reached within an hour to the northeast of Kuching. After taking a boat to the park entrance, you can hike along colour-coded trails, visit beaches and go wildlife-spotting in the many habitats. Highlights include its resident population of endemic proboscis monkeys, slow loris and pangolins, as well as 190 species of birds, lizards and mammals. Bako National Park is an ideal place to see wildlife and experience Sarawak’s rainforests.

Count the cat statues in Kuching

Architectural Landmark

Given the city’s name, it’s quite fitting that Kuching has several cat statues decorating public spaces. The Kuching South City Council Cat Statue, a white feline posing in front of Little Chinatown, became the first of many sculptures in the city. A favourite activity for visitors is to stroll along the streets in search of the statues and pose next to the giant felines.

Climb to the top of Mount Santubong

Visible as you enter Kuching, Mount Santubong is one of the highest mountains in the area, at 810m (2,657ft) above sea level. The mountain lies within a national park, and can be reached from Kuching in about 30 minutes. The hike to the summit takes around four hours, and leads you through thick jungle and up to one of the best panoramic views of Sarawak anywhere in the region. A slightly easier two-hour hike will take you to a nearby waterfall, a perfect spot to sit and relax.

Explore the Sarawak Orchid Garden

Botanical Garden, Park

Having opened in 2009, the Sarawak Orchid Garden is a relatively new addition to the Kuching tourist roster. It sits next to the Sarawak River, accessible either by using the Darul Hana footbridge or taking one of the jetty rides. In either case, you can easily spend hours walking through the gardens, observing and learning about the hundreds of orchid species on display and the various ways they hoodwink insects into pollinating for them.

Take a look around Kuching Mosque

Like the rest of Malaysia, Kuching (and Sarawak at large) has a significant Muslim population, and as the state capital, Kuching sports the largest mosque in the area. Originally built in 1847, completion of the work on the version you see today occurred in 1965. The opulent pink and gold building is open to visitors, although non-Muslims cannot enter during prayer, and appropriate dress is requested for those who do visit (legs covered, shoes removed).

Snorkel at Satang Turtle Island National Park

This one actually involves taking a day trip out of Kuching, but most of these are organised within the city. Travelling to Pulau Satang Besar, you are given the opportunity to see the turtle conservation centre and hatchery where baby turtles are released into the sea in order to boost the local population. The beach itself is also a great snorkelling spot.

Additional reporting by Callum Davies.

About the author

Sam is a self-confessed travel addict who loves exploring the places most tourists don’t covering just over a third of the world's countries to date. When he’s not travelling, he’s writing. When he’s not writing, Sam follows his other passions in life: long distance running and reading.

The 10 Most Beautiful Towns In Malaysia

The Oldest Religions in the World

The 8 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

The 12 Most Beautiful Mosques in Malaysia

A Guide to Using Public Transport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The 13 Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Asia

How to Travel to the Perhentian Islands From Mainland Malaysia

15 Malaysian Slang Words To Help You Speak Like a Local

The Best Dishes To Eat in Malaysia

11 Heroic Tips for Using Southeast Asia's 'Bum Guns'

The 12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Borneo

25 Essential Malay Phrases You'll Need in Malaysia

Culture Trip Fall Sale

Save up to $1,058 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

Things To Do In Kuching

Top hotel collections.

Near Kuching Waterfront

Cheap Hotels

Budget Hotels

• Filter (30)
• National Park (7)
• Cultural Village (2)

1. Sarawak Cultural Village

22 km from city center 1 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Snuggled on the island of Borneo, Sarawak Cultural Village is a living museum that gives visitors a glimpse of the state’s indigenous tribes living in their traditional dwellings. It is located at Pantai Damai, 32 kilometres from the capital city of Kuching.

2. Kuching Waterfront

0 km from city center 2 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Kuching Waterfront, spread across 900 metres along the southern bank of Sarawak River, is the most iconic place in Kuching. The waterfront is lined with hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, entertainment areas and various historically significant buildings making it one of the most popular attractions.

3. Sarawak Cultural Village

22 km from city center 3 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

4. Tua Pek Kong Temple

1 km from city center 4 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Tua Pek Kong Temple is an old Chinese temple situated atop a foothill, opposite to the Kuching Esplanade. The focal point for the entire Chinese community in Kuching, and the oldest temple in the city, this temple serves as a major tourist attraction.

Top Hotels In Kuching

₽ 346 onwards

₹ 99 onwards

₽ 1,906 onwards

₽ 1,502 onwards

5. Fairy Caves

5 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Located at a distance of 40 kilometres from Kuching near the former Bau gold mining settlement, Fairy Cave is a limestone cave with unique rock formations. It is commonly known as Gau Pari and can be accessed after climbing a four-storey staircase.

6. Kuching Cat Museum

5 km from city center 6 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Kuching Cat Museum is reputed as the world’s first cat museum dedicated to the feline. Located to the north of Kuching in the City Hall, it boasts more than 4000 artefacts (photos, exhibits, souvenirs) displayed in four different galleries.

7. Kuching Cat Museum

7 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Located to the north of Kuching on the ground floor of the City Hall, Kuching Cat Museum is reputed as the world’s first cat museum dedicated to the feline. Perched atop the hill of Bukit Siol, it boasts more than 4000 artefacts displayed in four different galleries.

8. Kuching Wetlands National Park

19 km from city center 8 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Kuching Wetlands National Park, located about 30 kilometres from Kuching in Sarawak, is one of the last remains of the former Sarawak Mangrove Forest Reserve. The park is filled with saline mangrove plantations and tourists can explore the lush greenery and vegetation of the park on a river cruise. It also houses some endangered species.

9. Orchid Park Kuching

2 km from city center 9 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

The Sarawak Orchid Garden is one of the most popular orchid exhibitory and garden in Malaysia. Sprawled over an area which is 15 acres huge, it houses more than 82 different species of orchids. The major highlight is the Normah Orchid indigenous to this region.

10. Kuching Waterfront

10 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Kuching Waterfront, bordering the southern bank of Sarawak River, is the most iconic place in the city with the cosmopolitan vibes and the best views of the River, Astana and the Fort Margherita. It is a walkway described by locals as 'the people place' owing to the myriad of hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, entertainment areas and various historically significant points located there.

11. Mount Santubong

20 km from city center 11 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

With a height of 810 metres, the mammoth Mount Santubong stands erected on Damai Peninsular near Kuching. Regarded as one of the highest peaks in Kuching, it boasts several hiking trails that allure trekkers and adventure seekers across the nation.

12. Fort Margherita

12 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Fort Margherita is one of the most important monuments in Sarawak’s rich history. Situated across the Sarawak River, near Astana, the main purpose of the fort was to act as an attacking and defensive mechanism.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Kuching

Car Rentals in Kuching - Complete Guide to Renting a Car

Food & Drink

10 Vibrant Cafes in Kuching That Are Worth Trying for Scrumptious Food and Aromatic Brew

10 Best Bars in Kuching to Enjoy the Nightlife

5 Best Spas in Kuching for Rejuvenation & Massage

Nightlife in Kuching - 10 Best Things to Do at Night

13. Sarawak Museum

2 km from city center 13 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

The Sarawak State Museum, located in Taman Budaya, is one of the oldest and most comprehensive natural history museums in Borneo. Inspired by the Normandy town-house, the museum building houses the ethnographic collection and natural history displays.

14. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

14 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Semenggoh Nature Reserve, located around 20km from Kuching is one of the most diverse nature reserves serving as a rehabilitation centre to the primate orangutang and several bird species.

15. Tua Pek Kong Temple

1 km from city center 15 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

16. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

16 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Semenggoh Nature Reserve, located around 20km from Kuching is one of the most diverse nature reserves serving as a rehabilitation centre to the primate orangutang and several bird species. The major highlights are orangutang feeding and bird watching.

17. Fort Margherita

1 km from city center 17 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Fort Margherita is one of the most important monuments in Sarawak’s rich history. Situated across the Sarawak River, near Astana, the former fortress is now converted into the Brooke Gallery which houses rare memorabilia of the Brooke family and history of Sarawak.

18. Niah National Park

18 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Niah National Park, located in the Miri Division of Sarawak, encompasses of limestone caves and forms an archaeological site that attracts the interest of both history and nature lovers.

19. Fairy Caves

33 km from city center 19 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

20. Kuching Main Bazaar

20 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Unarguably one of the most visited places in the city, Kuching Main Bazaar is the one stop marketplace with the highest concentration of ethnic handicrafts and antique shops in the city. The exact location of the bazaar is adjacent to the Waterfront, in the heart of old Kuching.

21. Batang Ai National Park

21 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Batang Ai National Park is a national park in Malaysia which can be accessed through the largest man-made lake Batang Ai. Orangutans (pongo pygmaeus) can be widely observed while on the treks offered or while staying in the longhouses or night camps.

22. Tua Pek Kong Temple

1 km from city center 22 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

23. Sarawak Islamic Heritage Museum

2 km from city center 23 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Situated in Kuching, Sarawak Islamic Heritage Museum provides a deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak’s Muslim community. The seven galleries are the main attraction of this museum. These galleries give an insight into Islamic architecture, literature, science, decorative arts, and costumes. Each of these galleries features a different theme.

24. St Thomas Cathedral Kuching

2 km from city center 24 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

The St Thomas Cathedral is an Anglican church situated in the Malaysian city of Kuching. The church features Basilian style of architecture with a bright-red barrel-vaulted ceiling. The Calvary steps, Narthex, Tower and Western Courtyard are the main features of this church.

25. Kubah National Park

19 km from city center 25 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Kubah National Park is located 20 km from Kuching at the scenic backdrop of Matang Range. Even though the park beholds a myriad of fauna, it is famed for its flora, especially the wide range of palm species.

26. Bako National Park

22 km from city center 26 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Bako National Park is the oldest national park of Malaysia housing beaches, cliffs and rock formations. Covering an area of 27 square kilometers, it envelops the peninsula of Muara Tebas. The wildlife of the park is exceptional with long-tailed macaque monkeys, proboscis monkeys, squirrels and monitor lizards. Proboscis monkeys, unique to Borneo, are a major highlight of this park. It is said that one can witness all the Borneo’s vegetation at Bako.

27. Gunung Gading National Park

61 km from city center 27 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Often referred to as the ‘Home of the elusive Giant Flower’, Gunung Gading National Park is located near the town of Lundu in Kuching Division of Sarawak, Malaysia. The park is considered as the best place in Asia to witness the rare Rafflesia plant which produces the world's largest flower. This parasitic plant is 1 meter huge and blooms for a few days only.

28. Santubong

20 km from city center 28 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Santubong is a town that sits under the peak of Mount Santubong in the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. It is famous for the huge expanse of sandy beaches. A visit to this town ensures the sight of Irrawaddy river dolphins. Lucky travellers may also spot Indo-pacific humpback or finless porpoises. Another uniquely alluring feature is that of Kampungs which are coastal Malay villages giving an experience of Malay life.

29. Talang Satang National Park

34 km from city center 29 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Talang Satang National Park is the first Marine National Park of Malaysia. The area covered under the park is home to an array of marine life including the endangered Green and Hawksbill Turtle. Talang Satang is the first site in the world to emphasise turtle research and management. The park also has rich coral reefs and underwater life.

30. Sarawak Natural History Museum

2 km from city center 30 out of 30 Things To Do in Kuching

Established by Charles Brooke the Second Rajah in 1860, Sarawak Natural History Museum pays homage to the great naturalist Alfred Russell Wallace. Open daily, it is the oldest museum in Borneo. There are two floors displaying specimens of Sarawak fauna like reptiles, mammals, birds, ethnographic artefacts of the indigenous people, musical instruments and handicrafts.

Things To Do In Nearby Places

FAQs on Kuching

How can i commute within kuching, what are the top sightseeing places in kuching, browse hotel collections, by hotel type.

Best Resorts In Kuching for a Staycation

Hostels In Kuching

By Budget Category

Cheap Hotels In Kuching

Budget Hotels In Kuching

By Star Category

3 Star Hotels In Kuching

5 Star Hotels In Kuching

With Specific Facilities

Hotels Near Kuching Waterfront

Hotels Near Kuching Airport

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

One Day in Kuching Itinerary – Top things to do in Kuching, Malaysia

The little-known city of Kuching is the riverside capital of Sarawak, a state in the country of Malaysia. Proudly located on Borneo, this alluring city forms an excellent base from which to witness the beauty of the whole island. It also serves as a gateway to several national parks, wild coastal and rainforest destinations. Therefore, one day in Kuching is bound to be exciting.

What’s the best time to visit Kuching?

Being a truly tropical city, it’s never too hot and always a bit wet in Kuching. The temperature hovers between 20 and 36 degrees Celsius throughout the year, with frequent rain showers. The months from April to October are the driest months of the year in the city, while the wettest months are from November through February.

Generally, the best time to visit Kuching is during the driest months i.e. from April to October . The temperature remains hot and humid, but pleasant enough for a whole day of sightseeing, although with some scattered and unpredictable rain.

A few facts about Kuching

A few facts about the city or the region should be mentioned here as well as the most interesting sights and events.

– People of Kuching are called ‘Kuchingites’.

– Kuching has a lot of food varieties. The most popular dishes in Kuching include Kolo Mee, Kueh Chap, Laksa, Tomato Noodle, Kek Lapis, and the delicious Chicken Bamboo.

– Kuching is also known by the name of ‘City of Cats’ for no specific reason. In fact, one can find cat statues throughout the city, e.g.. on the sidewalks, on rooftops, inside roundabouts, on signals, in a park, etc. The obsession is believed to have stemmed from the city’s name ‘Kuching’. The word is thought to have derived from the Malay word ‘Kucing’ which means cat.

– There is a specialized cat museum in the city, and it houses around 4000 exhibits, statues, and artifacts about cats from all over the world.

One Day in Kuching Itinerary

Kuching is an interesting city packed with a lot of fun and entertainment for its visitors. If you are planning a trip to Kuching but have limited time to spend in the city, here is the perfect one day Kuching itinerary for you.

Start Your Trip by Visiting Semenggoh National Park

In the morning, after breakfast, start your trip with Semenggoh National Park , which is where the wildlife center lies. It is located around 22 km away from Kuching and takes around 20 minutes to reach by car. Make sure to reach the park by 9 am and get the opportunity to see Orang-utans live during their morning feeding session. Go for a short hike and spend around 45 minutes in the park.

Total Time – 1 hour

Visit Borneo House Museum

While coming back to Kuching for further sightseeing, stop at Borneo House Museum which is an educational and interactive 3-D museum and features heritage and artistic culture of Sarawak.

Total time – 30- 40 minutes.

Grab a delicious lunch

Head to any restaurant of your choice and grab a delicious lunch after the first half of your day of sightseeing. If you don’t know where to go, here is a tip for you – visit Zhun San Yen Vegetarian if you want to explore tasty vegetarian cuisine or head to Life cafe or Borneo Deligh t for the best experience.

Explore Sarawak State Museum

Next, head to Sarawak State Museum which is considered to be one of the best in South East Asia . It exhibits a wide collection of natural history artifacts and objects. 

Total Time – 2 hours

Kuching Esplanade and Waterfront

In the evening, take a nice stroll here and relax or hire a boat for a river cruise in the Sarawak River . This place is perfect for relaxing and for photography.

Chinese Museum

Located next to the Waterfront and Esplanade, the Chinese Museum is easily accessible and worth a visit. It doesn’t take more than 30 minutes to cover it.

Spend Some time in Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple and Market

In the evening visit Tau Pek Kong Chinese Temple , which is an important place of worship for the Chinese community. Later, hit the local market near the Chinese temple and shop for local artifacts there.

**If time permits, you can also visit the old Mosque and the cat museum which is located on the other side of the city. **

Have a great Dinner

There are a myriad of choices in terms of dinner restaurants in Kuching where you can enjoy a great dinner if you have plans to have dinner here. You can head to Zinc Restaurant and Bar for a wonderful dining experience or Bla Bla Bla for its famous Cashew Nut Prawns.

Nearby Lepau offers some of the authentic native cuisines where one should definitely try its Ceylonese Food.

Where to stay in Kuching?

There are plenty of accommodation options in Kuching to choose from, ranging from elegant simplicity to absolute elegance.

Imperial Hotel Kuching

Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli, 93250 Kuching

For a convenient location and reasonable prices, Imperial Hotel Kuching is a very original place to stay in. With a stellar location next to Boulevard Shopping mall and a few minutes from the airport and Kuching Waterfront, the Imperial features contemporary décor and modern amenities.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Tune Hotel – Waterfront Kuching

Jalan Borneo, Off Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak

Just next door is a stunning budget alternative Tune Hotel – Waterfront Kuching . The hotel offers basic neat and clean rooms with attached bathrooms.

Kuching has no shortage of budget backpacker hostels. Singgahsana Lodge is also one of the best options for a budget stay and offers a shared terrace and has a central location. Another option is La Nomade hostel , which is located just half a kilometer from Waterfront bazaar and offers a 24 hours front desk service and shared lounge.

Day trips from Kuching

There are many destinations an hour or so from Kuching which can be visited on a half-day or a day trip from the city. These excursions range from ecological explorations to cultural adventures and are packed with fascinating activities and atmosphere.

Bako National Park

Located 12 miles (20km) away from the city of Kuching, Bako National Park, one of the oldest national parks in the region, features a variety of wildlife, swamps, mangrove forests, lush vegetation and much more. The park also has many short and long well-maintained trails used for walks and hikes.

Damai Beach and Sarawak Cultural Village

Another great day trip from Kuching is the one to Damai Beach located underneath the Gunung Santubong Mountain. The adjoining Sarawak Cultural Village is another highlight of this area featuring illustrations of the houses from the various tribes of the area. The easiest way to reach here is by using a shuttle bus from Kuching.

Semenggoh Wildlife Center

This is one of the most popular day trips from Kuching and it’s pretty to understand the reason for its popularity. The wildlife center provides a rare chance to see orangutans in their natural habitat. Visitors can get to see Orang-utans roaming freely and swinging through the trees especially during their feeding sessions which happen twice a day i.e. morning and evening. Getting here is quite easy as one can take a direct bus to Semenggoh from Kuching.

Extra travel tips for visiting Kuching

– Because of its tropical climate, the climate in Kuching is generally hot and humid, so it is advisable for visitors to wear comfortable clothing.

– The city also has unpredictable rain showers; therefore, carrying a raincoat or an umbrella in your bag is a good idea.

– Always check the weather forecast for your travel dates while planning your trip to Kuching. It will help you to plan your itinerary.

– Pack a good waterproof jacket with a hood for your rainforest and national park trips.

– Carry sealable plastic bags to place your phone, money and other essential items to prevent them from getting wet.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Kuching Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

No Admission Of Guilt!

Example – do not delete this tab. used for displaying talkbacks in functions.php, press article, our comment.

Source: No Admission Of Guilt! , Free Malaysia Today

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the apology issued by former prime minister Najib Razak over the 1MDB scandal. “I welcome it (terima baik),” he told reporters here after Friday prayers when asked to comment on the apology issued by Najib yesterday. Malaysian and US authorities allege that about US$4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1MDB, a state fund co-founded by Najib. He has been slapped with a total of 42 charges in several trials linked to 1MDB. Najib is currently serving a reduced six-year sentence following a pardon after he was convicted of misappropriating RM42 million in funds belonging to former 1MDB subsidiary SRC International. Yesterday, he said he had reflected on the 1MDB fiasco over the past 26 months, and it pained him that it happened when he was the prime minister and finance minister. “… and I would like to apologise unreservedly,” he said in a statement read out by his son, Nizar, at the lobby of the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex. Najib also denied being the mastermind or collaborating with fugitive financier Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, in the scheme. His apology came six days before the High Court decides whether he is to enter his defence in a 1MDB corruption case that started five years ago.

Forgiveness follows repentance in the normal course of things.

However, Najib has only admitted to guilt of being “too trusting” and to having been “misled”.

This won’t do and the facts defy it. His wilful and repeated refusals to believe only what he wanted to hear extended well beyond all that is taught about right and wrong.

From day one he listened to 24 year old Jho Low and refused to listen to the Chairman of the Board of 1MDB who called to warn him that the money had been removed against the orders of the directors. Later he refused to listen to the auditors KPMG who said they needed to look at the accounts in the normal way.

Both these entities. whom Najib knew he ought to have been listening to in order to avoid fraud at the fund, resigned in consequence (the latter he actually sacked for non-compliance with his demands they sign off on dodgy accounts) and Najib brought in flunkeys to replace them.

He then continued to attack all those who pointed out the escalating problems with 1MDB, threatening them with arrest and sacking his ministers and anti-corruption chiefs, whilst choosing to believe shifty types like Arul Kanda who claimed all was well till the roof fell in – even whilst Jho Low was already on the run.

Yet he actually did know pretty much everything, of course .  We have all heard the tapes, recorded on July 16th 2016, just BEFORE the US Department of Justice published the entire money trail on 1MDB’s stolen billions, where Najib was pleading with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi to help him cover up that Riza had funded his films from 1MDB.

So, Najib knew, of course , that money had been stolen and it had gone to his own family. Yet, he continued to lie about it and to threaten, arrest, sack anyone who told the truth.

He is also ignoring the embarrassing reality that what he now HAS admitted to as his excuse for receiving a RM681 million payment into his personal account – that he thought it was a gift from the Saudi King to help him keep political power – was itself a crime.  His government has criminalised foreign political donations. Yet, this is what he claims he thought the HUGE sum of money was.

In short, given Najib still only admits to being too trusting when he apologises, it is not an actual apology for what he did. It is merely another denial.

Had he been genuinely defrauded and at least at some point reported it then he would rightly have been thrown out of office as an ignoramus but would have had a genuine defence. But Najib brazened it out to the end, abusing his entrusted powers to threaten and destroy all who stood up for the truth. He did this well after the truth was out bringing Red Shirt gangsters onto the streets to wave sticks at those calling for a clean up.

Anwar therefore ought not to accept this apology that does not include an admission of guilt. There are plenty of thieves in Malaysia that would be relieved to hear they can say “ sorry I didn’t realise ” and be let off their sentence.  None of them stole anything like what Najib did nor did half the damage.

(Moreover, it should be for the courts and not Anwar to decide whether Najib should answer for his crimes. And it is for the Agong to take the responsibility of issuing any pardon).

Your views are valuable to us, but Sarawak Report kindly requests that comments be deposited in suitable language and do not support racism or violence or we will be forced to withdraw them from the site.

• Philippines
• South Korea
• The Maldives
• Appointments
• Trade Calendar
• News Archive

• Print Edition

PATA, Sarawak Tourism Board strengthen AI capabilities for tourism businesses

PATA and Sarawak Tourism Board will launch a new training programme for tourism businesses in Sarawak, Malaysia next week, focusing on technology and AI.

The AI-Driven Transformation: Empowering Sarawak’s Tourism SMEs training is a continuation of the capacity-building programme initiated in May in Kuching, where over 50 local tourism small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) received training on financial management, sustainability, digital marketing, digital payments and cybersecurity.

Scheduled from October 29 to November 1, the four-day training will take place in Kuching, where participants will engage in hands-on workshops designed to help them integrate AI into their daily operations, with a focus on practical applications for marketing, operations, customer satisfaction, and sustainability. These workshops will also include case studies and real-world examples of AI’s successful integration into tourism businesses worldwide, providing actionable insights that participants can implement immediately.

AI’s potential for automating processes, enhancing customer experiences, and driving operational efficiency is becoming increasingly indispensable to the long-term success of tourism businesses. These SMEs must be empowered with accessible and practical AI solutions that streamline processes, create personalised customer experiences, and support sustainable practices.

However, many of these businesses encounter challenges in adopting and applying new technologies, particularly AI, which remains largely untapped without sufficient guidance and training, leaving many tourism SMEs vulnerable in an ever-competitive global market.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid commented: “PATA recognises that, while AI has immense potential, SMEs require targeted, practical training to bridge the gap between understanding AI concepts and applying them in real-world contexts.

“This AI training initiative will help guide businesses in becoming digitally ready, at a time when the marketplace is rapidly evolving. We look forward to supporting other tourism organisations and destination marketing organisations in developing similar skill sets for their stakeholders, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.”

Sarawak Tourism Board chairman Dennis Ngau added: “This collaboration with PATA marks a pivotal step in our efforts to drive technological adoption, particularly in AI, which holds transformative potential for enhancing the efficiency and resilience of Sarawak’s tourism SMEs. By providing accessible training that aligns with global trends, we aim to not only uplift the industry but also ensure that our tourism offerings remain relevant and attractive to an increasingly tech-savvy market.”

Savour Asia’s culinary street food delights

Unlock a wealth of perks with stays at ONYX Hospitality Group’s hotels

Advertise with us

Is Your Business Listed On TTGmice Planner Online?

Meet in paradise at Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa

Why M Social Suzhou is the ideal hotel to experience the city's heritage and cultural gems

Save, indulge and explore the world’s most exclusive destinations with Silversea

Taipei promotes its bleisure appeal

RELATED ARTICLES

Two meliá hotels lean into ai to tackle food waste, vouch expands ai-powered solutions for hotels, gains fresh funding, melia chiang mai contributes to culinary sustainability education, tagthai launches personalised travel itinerary planner, sustainability implementation in organisations still a work-in-progress: ntuc learninghub, sabre-google roundtable highlights ai’s relevance, impact on travel industry, pata sets out plans to support members on climate-related impacts on business, pata, sanya collaborate on tourism development, practical experience key to developing curriculum for institutes of higher learning, tried and tested.

M Social Hotel Phuket

Alma Resort sets the stage for romance

What to buy now.

New hotels: Dorsett Kai Tak, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort and more

• TTG Travel Awards
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

All Rights Reserved