Kuching Travel Guide (Sarawak/Malaysia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Kuching
List of Places to Visit in Kuching
Hiking/Biking Routes of Kuching
- Kubah National Park
- Damai Beach to Santubong
Best Things to Do in Kuching: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Kuching
Food and Drink Scene of Kuching
Where to Stay in Kuching: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hilton Kuching
- Singgahsana Lodge
What to Buy in Kuching: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Kek Lapis Sarawak
- Pepper
Local Culture and Customs of Kuching
Best Time to Visit Kuching
Do’s and Don’ts of Kuching
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Kuching
- Health in Kuching
Getting to Kuching: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Kuching
Where to Go Next from Kuching: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Santubong Peninsula
- Batang Ai National Park
Conclusion

Introduction to Kuching

Kuching, also known as the Cat City, is the capital of Sarawak, a Malaysian state on the island of Borneo. This charming and laid-back city is a perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in different cultures, explore natural wonders, and indulge in delicious local food. Kuching has been voted as one of the most liveable cities in Asia, and it’s easy to see why.

With a mix of colonial and traditional architecture, Kuching offers a unique blend of cultures from the Malay, Chinese, and indigenous communities. Visitors can experience the rich history of the diverse communities through its cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights.

Here is a comprehensive tour guide for Kuching that includes information on the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and tips for your trip to this charming city.

List of Places to Visit in Kuching

Kuching has a rich history that can be traced back to the 7th century. It has been a trading post for centuries, and its diverse communities have been co-existing for generations. Here are some of the places that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kuching:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sarawak Museum

Sarawak Museum is one of the oldest museums in Asia and houses the largest collection of indigenous arts and crafts in Malaysia. It showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Sarawak and has an impressive collection of artefacts, including traditional weapons, musical instruments, and textiles.

Fort Margherita

Fort Margherita is a 19th-century fortress that was built to protect Kuching against pirate attacks. Today, it is a museum that showcases the history of Sarawak and the Brooke dynasty which ruled the region.

Kuching Waterfront

The Kuching Waterfront is a picturesque riverfront that offers scenic views of the Sarawak River and the historic buildings that dot its banks. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll along the river, enjoy street performances by local artists, and have dinner at one of the many restaurants.

Natural Attractions of Kuching: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bako National Park

Bako National Park is a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. It is home to a range of wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, monitor lizards, and hornbills. Visitors can go on treks, beach walks, and watch the stunning sunsets.

Semenggoh Nature Reserve

The Semenggoh Nature Reserve is home to orangutans that were rescued from captivity or those that have been taken from the wild. Visitors can observe the semi-wild orangutans as they make their way to the feeding platforms.

Fairy Cave and Wind Cave

Fairy Cave and Wind Cave are limestone caves that are known for their natural beauty and are accessible from Kuching. Visitors can hike up to the caves and explore the stunning rock formations.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kuching

Kuching has a range of hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Here are some of the popular routes:

Kubah National Park

Kubah National Park is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The park has several trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Damai Beach to Santubong

The trail from Damai Beach to Santubong is a popular hike among locals and tourists. The hike offers scenic views of the beach and the forest and leads to the peak of Santubong mountain.

Best Things to Do in Kuching: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Kuching, from exploring the city’s cultural heritage to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best activities and tours you shouldn’t miss:

Kuching City Tour

The Kuching City Tour is a great way to explore the city’s cultural and historical heritage. The tour covers some of the must-visit attractions, including the Sarawak Museum, Kuching Waterfront, and Fort Margherita.

Sarawak River Cruise

A river cruise on the Sarawak River is a relaxing way to explore Kuching. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the city’s skyline, watch the traditional longboats, and enjoy a sunset dinner.

Sarawak Cultural Village

The Sarawak Cultural Village is a living museum that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Sarawak. Visitors can experience the traditional dances, music, and crafts of the different ethnic communities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kuching

Here is a week-long itinerary for Kuching that covers some of the city’s must-visit attractions:

Day	Activities
1	Explore Kuching city, including the Sarawak Museum, Kuching Waterfront, and Fort Margherita
2	Visit Bako National Park
3	Visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve and the Fairy and Wind Caves
4	Hike to the peak of Santubong mountain
5	Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village
6	Take a river cruise and enjoy a sunset dinner
7	Relax and shop for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Kuching

Kuching is a food lover’s paradise, and its culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse cultures. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Laksa Sarawak

Laksa Sarawak is Kuching’s signature dish and is a spicy noodle soup made with fish, prawns, and bean sprouts. The broth is made with a combination of spices, including galangal, lemongrass, and turmeric.

Kolo Mee

Kolo Mee is a popular breakfast dish that consists of egg noodles, minced pork, and char siew. It is usually served with a bowl of soup and chili sauce on the side.

Local Beverages

Teh C Peng Special

Teh C Peng Special is a popular drink in Kuching and is a combination of tea, evaporated milk, and syrup. It is served cold with a generous amount of ice.

Tuak

Tuak is a local rice wine that is made from fermented glutinous rice. It has a sweet taste and is a popular drink during festive seasons.

Where to Stay in Kuching: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kuching offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kuching:

Hilton Kuching

The Hilton Kuching is a luxury hotel that offers stunning views of the Sarawak River and the city skyline. The hotel has all the modern amenities and is a perfect base for exploring Kuching.

Singgahsana Lodge

The Singgahsana Lodge is a budget-friendly hostel that offers clean and comfortable rooms. It is located in the heart of Kuching and is within walking distance to many of the city’s must-visit attractions.

What to Buy in Kuching: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kuching is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the items that you shouldn’t miss:

Kek Lapis Sarawak

Kek Lapis Sarawak is a traditional layered cake that is made from flour, sugar, eggs, and spices. It comes in a variety of flavours and is perfect for bringing home as a souvenir.

Pepper

Sarawak is known for its high-quality black pepper, which is grown in the region. Visitors can buy pepper directly from the farmers or from the local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Kuching

Kuching is a city with diverse cultures, and visitors are advised to respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some of the things to keep in mind:

• Dress modestly when visiting religious places. • Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. • Avoid pointing with your finger, use your thumb instead.

Best Time to Visit Kuching

The best time to visit Kuching is from June to August when the weather is dry and sunny. The temperature is between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kuching

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Kuching:

Do:

• Try the local food. • Learn a few words in the local language. • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

• Touch someone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful. • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious places. • Smoke in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kuching

Kuching is a relatively safe city, and visitors are advised to take the usual precautions when traveling. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep your valuables in a safe place. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas.

Health in Kuching

Visitors are advised to take the necessary vaccinations before visiting Kuching. Malaria is present in some parts of Sarawak, including Kuching, so it is important to take precautions and use mosquito repellent.

Getting to Kuching: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kuching is well-connected by air, land, and sea.

Airports Near Kuching

Kuching International Airport is the main airport in Sarawak and is located just 11 km from the city center. There are several direct flights from major cities in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Bus Stations Near Kuching

The Kuching Sentral Bus Terminal is the main bus terminal in Kuching and is located just 5 km from the city center. There are several bus companies that operate services to and from Kuching.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Kuching by train or boat. However, these options are less frequent and take longer.

How to Get Around in Kuching

Kuching is a small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. Alternatively, visitors can use taxis, Grab, or rent a car or scooter to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Kuching: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kuching is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding region, which is rich in cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

Santubong Peninsula

Santubong Peninsula is located just half an hour from Kuching and offers a range of outdoor activities, including beach walks, hiking, and kayaking.

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai National Park is located about 4 hours from Kuching and is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to a range of wildlife and offers hiking, kayaking, and cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Kuching is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of cultures, natural wonders, and delicious food. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history, embark on outdoor adventures, and indulge in the local cuisine. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your trip to Kuching and experience all that this charming city has to offer.