Sibu Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Sibu, including information on places to visit, activities to do, where to stay, and local culture.


Introduction to Sibu

Sibu is a scenic city located in the Rejang River in Sarawak, Malaysia. It is the third-largest town in Sarawak and offers a unique blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and delicious local cuisine. With its welcoming people, charming traditional architecture, and beautiful scenery, Sibu is a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.

List of Places to Visit in Sibu

Sibu offers a variety of culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, and excellent food and drink. Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Sibu:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sibu is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the history of the town and learn more about its traditions. Here are some must-see places:

  1. Sibu Heritage Centre: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Melanau, Iban, and Chinese communities in Sibu.

  2. Tua Pek Kong Temple: Built-in 1897, this temple is one of the oldest and most beautiful religious buildings in Sibu.

  3. Lau King Howe Memorial Museum: This museum houses artifacts and exhibits related to the early days of Sibu and its Chinese pioneers.

Natural Attractions of Sibu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sibu is a paradise for outdoor lovers and offers a range of natural attractions, from rainforest trekking to scenic river cruises. Here are some top picks:

  1. Tanjung Manis Beach: Located just south of Sibu, this beautiful beach offers a picturesque escape from the city.

  2. Bukit Lima Forest Reserve: This 900-hectare forest reserve offers hiking trails, bird watching, and a chance to see the unique flora and fauna of Sarawak.

  3. Rejang River Cruise: Take a trip down the Rejang River and explore the scenic countryside and traditional villages along the way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sibu

Sibu offers a range of hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  1. Bukit Lima Loop: This 8km loop trail offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding countryside.

  2. Sungai Merah Heritage Trail: This 9km trail takes visitors through the historic town of Sibu, with stops at museums and cultural attractions along the way.

  3. Bukit Aup Jubilee Park: This park offers a range of hiking trails and outdoor activities, including ziplining and rock climbing.

Best Things to Do in Sibu: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and outdoor adventures, there are several other things to do in Sibu. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

  1. Night Market Tour: Experience the vibrant local food and nightlife scene of Sibu by taking a tour of the night markets.

  2. Borneo Cultural Village Tour: Discover the customs and traditions of the indigenous communities of Sarawak by visiting the Borneo Cultural Village.

  3. Sibu Wetlands National Park Tour: Explore the unique wetland ecosystem of Sibu by taking a guided tour of the Sibu Wetlands National Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sibu

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sibu, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit the Sibu Heritage Centre and explore the historic town of Sibu.

  • Day 2: Take a scenic cruise down the Rejang River and visit the traditional village of Melanau.

  • Day 3: Hike the Bukit Lima Loop and visit the Lau King Howe Memorial Museum.

  • Day 4: Visit the Tua Pek Kong Temple and explore the bustling local markets.

  • Day 5: Take a tour of the Sibu Wetlands National Park and see the unique flora and fauna of Sarawak.

  • Day 6: Explore the beautiful beaches of Tanjung Manis and go snorkeling or diving.

  • Day 7: Sample the delicious local cuisine and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Sibu.

Food and Drink Scene of Sibu

Sibu is famous for its unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and indigenous cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kampua Noodles: These egg noodles served with meat and vegetables are a staple of Sibu’s food scene.

  2. Belacan Nasi Goreng: This spicy fried rice dish is made with belacan (shrimp paste) and is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

  3. Umai: This traditional Melanau dish is made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Tuak: This traditional rice wine is made from fermented rice and is a must-try beverage in Sibu.

  2. Kopi Luwak: This rare and expensive coffee is produced by feeding coffee cherries to civet cats and collecting and roasting their excrement.

  3. Teh C Peng: This iced milk tea with added red beans and syrup is a popular sweet beverage in Sibu.

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

Sibu offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses. Here are some top picks:

  1. The Paramount Hotel: This 4-star hotel in the heart of Sibu offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.

  2. Tanahmas Hotel: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a sauna, and is a great option for families and couples.

  3. Hometel @ Sibu: This budget guesthouse offers clean rooms, friendly service, and a central location near the night markets.

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

Sibu’s bustling markets offer a range of unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some must-buy items:

  1. Sarawak Pepper: This locally grown pepper is known for its unique flavor and is a popular souvenir.

  2. Pua Kumbu: This traditional Iban fabric is handwoven and often features intricate designs and patterns.

  3. Bird’s Nest: This delicacy made from the saliva of swiftlets is believed to have health benefits and is a popular gift for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Sibu

Sibu is a multicultural town, with several ethnic groups living together in harmonious coexistence. Visitors to Sibu are expected to respect local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering homes and temples, and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Sibu

The best time to visit Sibu is during the dry months of March to September when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is low. However, Sibu can be visited year-round, and each season offers a unique experience to visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sibu

When visiting Sibu, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try the local food and drink.

  • Learn some basic phrases in Bahasa Malaysia.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Disrespect the local culture and people.

  • Engage in illegal drug use.

Safety and Health

When visiting Sibu, it’s important to take care of your safety and health. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Sibu

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place and be alert for pickpockets.

  • Follow the signs and instructions when visiting natural attractions and outdoor areas.

Health in Sibu

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

  • Use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.

  • Be prepared for hot and humid weather by wearing lightweight clothing and drinking plenty of water.

Getting to Sibu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sibu is easily accessible by air and road, with several transportation options available. Here’s a quick guide:

Airports Near Sibu

  • Sibu Airport (SBW) is the main airport serving the town and is located around 23 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Sibu

  • Sibu Bus Terminal is the main bus terminal in the town and is located near the city center.

Other Options

  • Private car hire is available for those who want more flexibility and convenience.

How to Get Around in Sibu

Sibu is a small town, and most attractions can be easily reached on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and local buses are also available, and car rental services are available for those who want to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Sibu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sibu is located in a prime location for exploring the surrounding areas and nearby destinations. Here are some top picks:

  • Kuching: Explore the vibrant capital of Sarawak with its historic architecture, museums, and local food scene.

  • Miri: Visit the picturesque coastal town of Miri and its beautiful beaches and national parks.

  • Bako National Park: This unique national park offers a chance to see the rare proboscis monkey in its natural habitat.

Conclusion

Sibu is a charming town that offers a blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to see why Sibu is a must-visit destination in Malaysia! Remember to respect local customs, try the delicious local food, and take care of your safety and health when visiting this beautiful town.

The Sanyan Tower in Sibu The Sanyan Tower in Sibu View from the boat from Kuching to Sibu View from the boat from Kuching to Sibu Yulong Temple Yulong Temple Bukit Lima Nature Reserve Bukit Lima Nature Reserve Pedestrian Walkway near the Sibu Central Market Pedestrian Walkway near the Sibu Central Market Sibu Wharf Sibu Wharf