Things to do in Kuching, Sarawak

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When we think of holidaying across the border, most of us would make a beeline towards the likes of Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. After all, convenience is key. But after your 10th trip down, things can feel a little been there, done that. So, what if we told you there are plenty of fresh adventures just 1 hour from Singapore?

Enter Kuching, the vibrant capital of Sarawak that’s chock full of unique outdoor activities, laid-back city life, and of course, delicious and authentic local food. Here’s the lowdown on things to do in Kuching if you’re looking for a new holiday destination that’s convenient.

The current exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$0.30 as of 20th September 2024.

*Note: The promotions featured in this article may no longer be available.

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How many days should I spend in Kuching?

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3-5 days should be plenty of time to allow you to comfortably experience Kuching’s top attractions or venture out for some day trips. If you’re sticking to just the city, you can dedicate a couple of days to places like the Borneo Culture Museum, Kuching Waterfront, Main Bazaar, and Carpenter Street.

Save another couple of days to venture out of the city to see the natural attractions Kuching has to offer, such as the Bako National Park and Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to observe semi-wild orangutans. If you’d like to extend your trip, consider hiking at Borneo Highlands, or visiting Santubong Peninsula for mangrove forests and to visit the Sarawak Cultural Village.

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How to get around Kuching

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Much like Singapore, Grab and Uber are considered staples for transport in Kuching, with almost every driver being a user of both. Besides this, you can also opt to take the public buses that run all over the city. Long-haul buses can go up to far as Gunung Gading National Park, Miri, and Sibu from the Express Bus Terminal.

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– Must-see attractions –

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1. Semenggoh Wildlife Center

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Wild orangutans in the flesh

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Image credit: Sarawak Tourism Board

We can’t mention Sarawak without talking about majestic – and endangered – orangutans which are native to Borneo Island. You may have already seen them roaming around their habitat at the Singapore Zoo, but have you ever seen them in the wild? Well, you can do just that, plus learn about orangutan conservation at the Semenggoh Wildlife Center.

For more than 20 years, the gentle creatures at the centre, who had been orphaned or rescued from captivity, have been rehabilitated to learn to survive in the wild so they can live and roam freely in the rainforest. The reserve opens twice daily for hour-long feeding sessions, where the park rangers call the orangutans to the feeding platform.

Sightings aren’t always guaranteed, but reviews promise that an encounter with orangutans here is one for the books. There’s also a gallery and botanical research centre onsite, so feel free to visit them after the feeding session. Note that tickets for the feedings can only be purchased onsite.

Pro tip: Follow Semenggoh Wildlife Center’s Instagram for notices on fruiting seasons, which may result in lower chances of spotting the orangutans as they have ample food in the jungle.

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2. Kuching Waterfront

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Scenic walk with plenty of food stalls

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Image credit: @the.waterfront.hotel.kuching via Instagram

Kuching City is highly underrated. Not only is it laid-back and filled with yummy food, but it’s also got its fair share of picturesque sights to feed your camera roll. So, when planning a trip here, be sure to set aside at least a day to explore the serene Kuching Waterfront.

You don’t even have to walk far; just head to the Darul Hana Bridge area that’s surrounded by some of Kuching’s most iconic architecture. For one, there’s the gorgeous Floating Mosque, India Mosque Kuching, that sits atop the Sarawak River. Not to mention, historical landmarks such as the Square Tower and Kuching Old Courthouse that date back to the 1870s.

Image credit: @marco_discoveries via Instagram

Cross the Darul Hana Bridge and you’ll be able to admire the intricately designed Sarawak State Legislative Assembly up close. Be sure to take a stroll to The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita, a fort-turned-gallery. Around this area, you’ll find more gems such as the Hanging Garden floral arch and Water Cascade fountain.

Image credit: @afrezana via Instagram

Pro tip: The waterfront area lights up once the sun goes down, so come during sunset hours and take your time while you’re here.

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– Nature – 

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3. Bengoh Dam

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Natural “infinity” pool

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Image credit: @choty_behen via Instagram

Sure, we’ve got a good array of nature reserves in Singapore, but we’ve got to admit that our little island lacks vast rainforests with waterfalls, rivers, and mountains. Not too far away by plane, Kuching is surrounded by dramatic natural landscapes that easily outshine ours and allow you to truly detox from city life.

Image credit: @_pija via Instagram

Among the many options is Bengoh Dam (RM5/pax) that’s home to 2 waterfalls with one that’s fondly known to locals as the “Jurassic World” of Sarawak. Don’t worry, you won’t encounter any dinosaurs here – just trails and photo-worthy spots that resemble scenes right out of Jurassic World.

While you’re at it, consider other waterfalls such as the Jangkar Waterfall in Kampung Biawak Lundu that’s beginner-friendly, and a trove of other falls in the Padawan area.

To get to any of these waterfalls, we recommend booking a tour package or local tour guide for a fuss-free experience. Bengoh Dam is accessible without a guide, and is a 1-hour drive from Kuching, as is Kubah National Park which is just 30 minutes out of the city.

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4. Bako National Park

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 Spot adorable proboscis monkeys

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Image credit: @assadnegyal via Instagram

Bako National Park is nearly always mentioned when it comes to things to do in Kuching. And it’s easy to see why: not only is it home to pristine beaches and stunning natural landscapes, but it’s also filled with hiking trails dotted with waterfalls and plenty of wildlife.

Image credit: @yasuhiroazuma via Instagram

One of the main stars here are the park’s proboscis monkeys. Most tours will bring you to see these playful creatures frolicking around the mangroves. Visitors can also likely see wild boars, various types of monkeys, crocodiles, and plenty more. Overnight accommodations are available in the park too, if you’ve planned a couple of days’ worth of exploration.

Admission:

• RM10/adult and RM3/child for residents
• RM20/adult and RM7/child for tourists

Do check with your tour operator if this is covered in your package.

Book a tour of Bako National Park (RM340/adult).

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5. Kubah National Park

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1.6km-long Waterfall Trail

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mage credit: @zlapan via Instagram 

If you’ve got more time in Kuching and are thriving in the greenery, make sure you check out Kubah National Parks, another outdoor gem worth visiting, and has the 1.6km-long Waterfall Trail of moderate difficulty with boardwalk sections. The park is famous for its frog population and wild durian trees.

With 6 jungle trails, including a path leading to the summit of Gunung Serapi, this park will certainly force you to reach your step count goal of the day. If you find yourself seeing stars in the broad daylight, take some well-deserved rest in the wooden shelters perched along the path and relax mid-hike.

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6. Kuching’s rivers

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 Ride bamboo rafts & spot river dolphins

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Image credit: Semadang Adventure

Kuching is surrounded by natural landscapes, so obviously you’re going to get some glorious rivers just outside the city. With that comes plenty of river activities that’ll give you an experience in nature that you’ll never forget.

For starters, explore Semadang River like a native by hopping aboard a bamboo raft. There are tours that’ll take you down the river in both kayaks and traditional bamboo rafts. You’ll stop by a waterfall, feed some fish, and even cool off at the riverbank itself. They’ve also got tours that include cycling and caving.

Image credit: Klook

Don’t stop there, though. Pen in half a day to spot wild Irrawaddy dolphins in Santubong and Salak Rivers. There are many tours that can take you to either of these rivers to see the dolphins, but note that sightings aren’t guaranteed. Nevertheless, most tours will bring you through lush mangroves where there’s a high chance of spotting other wildlife such as mudskippers, crocodiles, and monkeys.

Book a bamboo raft tour (RM368/pax) or Irrawaddy dolphin tour (RM240/pax).

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– Food – 

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7. Golden Arch

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Must-eat Laksa

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Image credit: Thinesh Raja via Google Maps 

Did you really visit Sarawak if you didn’t have a bowl of spicy and sour Sarawak laksa? Being the capital city of the state, Kuching is no doubt the best place to gorge on this local dish – plus other must-trys like kolo mee.

Options are aplenty for the perfect bowl of laksa, but one that stands out is the big prawn laksa found at Golden Arch Garden Laksa (Garden Cafe & Restaurant). A regular bowl of laksa costs from RM6 and up, and if you want jumbo prawns to go with it, you can expect to pay RM15 and up, depending on the prawns that are in season.

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8. The Round Tower 1886 Cafe & Restaurant

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Cafe in a preserved colonial building

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Image adapted from: The Round Tower 1886 Cafe & Restaurant via Facebook

You can’t call yourself Singaporean if you don’t have cafe-hopping on your travel itinerary. Thankfully, Kuching has plenty of options that’ll leave you spoilt for choice.

If you’re inspired by the historic sights around the Kuching Waterfront, you’ll feel right at home at The Round Tower 1886 Cafe & Restaurant. The cafe is housed in a preserved colonial building, and it’s got some quiet al fresco nooks that are perfect for a relaxing meal. Take your pick from an array of hearty brunch fare, including Creamy Carbonara (RM39.55) and Seafood Aglio Olio (RM50).

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9. Feast and Furious Cafe

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Motorsports-themed cafe

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Image credit: @enilasor8886 via Instagram

There’s no need to be a motorsports fan in order to appreciate the novelty behind Feast and Furious Cafe. In between snapping photos of racecars, bikes, and helmets, fill up on Western and local fare, including classics like Chicken Chop (RM26) and Laksa (RM14.90).

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10. Meow Meow Cafe

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Cat cafe with light bites

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Image credit: Meow Meow Cafe via Facebook

For some wholesome family fun, head on over to Meow Meow Cafe – after all, Kuching is all about their cats. Things are pretty fuss-free here – you can pay a fee of RM10 to enter the cat room and indulge in some cat therapy. Or, simply chill at the cafe area and observe the kitties from there. The cafe has light bites such as French Fries (RM5) and Honey Toast (RM3).

Pro tip for cat-lovers: There’s a massive cat statue adorning 7 cats located at Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching.

Image credit: Sarawak Tourism Board

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– Culture – 

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11. Sarawak Cultural Village

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Learn about local culture at a Living Museum

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Image credit: @mic.gillessen via Instagram

It’s no secret that Sarawak is incredibly rich in culture, with 34 ethnic groups making up the state’s population. Trust us when we say it’s worth learning about. You can do all that at Sarawak Cultural Village (Kampung Budaya Sarawak). This award-winning gem is known as a “Living Museum” that spans across a whopping 17 acres of land, so bring your walking shoes.

One of the main highlights is the replica buildings from the major ethnic groups found in Sarawak. You’ll see Bidayuh, Iban, and Orang Ulu longhouses, a Melanau tall house, and other traditional structures.

Image credit: @emilyhalim23 via Instagram

Head inside each building and the staff – who represent the various ethnic groups – will be more than happy to tell you about their culture. Be sure to catch the cultural shows at the village at 11.30am or 4pm.

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12. Cycle Tours

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Cycle through local kampungs & browse a local market

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Image credit: @miliannlt via Instagram

Sure, it’s easy to take a Grabcar to nearly everywhere in Kuching, but arguably the best way to truly immerse yourself in the local sights is out in the open air. And what better way to do it than hopping on a bicycle? Don’t worry – you won’t be cycling aimlessly either. For a non-touristy day out, book yourself a cycling tour that brings you all the way to Sarawak River’s northern banks.

The 3-hour tour starts at 8am, and you’ll get to observe the sights and sounds of a local village while you’re at it. En route, a sampan ride will even take you across the river. Plan your trip on a weekend to catch the Kubah Ria Sunday Market. You’ll find tonnes of tropical fruits and fresh produce being sold, and even local delicacies such as live sago worms.

Book a cycling tour of Kuching’s local villages (RM150/person).

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13. Borneo Cultures Museum

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Malaysia’s largest museum with themed galleries

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Image credit: Afif Rais via Google Maps

To add an educational experience to your trip, head on over to the Borneo Cultures Museum to learn more about the history and traditions of the indigenous people of Sarawak. But don’t think for a minute that this place just has poster boards of info. There are interactive and themed displays that’ll even entertain kids.

Look out for Love Our Rivers, which is the children’s gallery. Themed on sustainability and the importance of water bodies, the gallery includes artwork that’s been made with trash found in rivers. There’s also Harmony With Nature, another exhibition that covers the symbiotic nature  of the eco and river systems that are a part of Borneo’s culture. If you dozed off in history lessons, now’s your chance to redeem yourself with Time Changes, a display of the historical background of Sarawak.

Once you’ve deemed yourself an expert on history and culture, make your way to the playground and lounge area on level 2 to tire your kids out before their afternoon nap.

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– Where to stay in Kuching – 

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14. The Waterfront Hotel

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5-star hotel on bank of Sarawak River

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Image credit: @the.waterfront.hotel.kuching via Instagram

The Waterfront Hotel is perhaps the most popular hotel in Sarawak, and rightfully so, considering its many features and amenities. Besides providing a spectacular view of the heart of the city, it is also situated right in the middle of all the action, requiring only a 5-minute walk to reach Kuching Waterfront.

Image credit: @the.waterfront.hotel.kuching via Instagram

When you’re done clocking in your step count for the day, relax and unwind at Zapatos the Lounge on level 4. Sip on a cocktail (from RM20), while taking in the gorgeous view of the Sarawak River. If you’re looking to get a bit of sun, there’s an outdoor pool you can splash around in. If bad weather hits, don’t worry, you can head on over to the indoor pool as well. Additionally, there is also a sauna and fitness centre so gym bros don’t have an excuse to skip leg day.

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15. Imperial Hotel Kuching

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Conveniently located 4-star hotel with fitness centre & outdoor pool

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Image credit: @imperialhotelkuching

 Travellers can agree that there’s nothing better than a conveniently located hotel to reduce travel time exponentially. Imperial Hotel Kuching is another worthy addition to this list, as it’s only a 5-minute drive from the airport and 10 minutes from the city’s CBD. Plus, it’s also located on top of the Boulevard Shopping Mall, so you can easily give into your shopaholic tendencies and also conveniently get a bite to eat.

Image credit: @imperialhotelkuching

Escape the heat and plunge into the outdoor pool. We recommend taking a dip at sunset, as you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous view of the city. If that workout wasn’t enough for you, head on over to the fully-equipped fitness centre and make your trainer proud.

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16. The Borneo Hotel

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Situated in the city centre with a lounge & cafe

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mage credit: @theborneohotel via Instagram

The Borneo Hotel provides affordable stays starting at RM212/night. Besides saving you from significant wallet damage, it also has easy access to popular destinations, like Carpenter Street and Chinese Heritage Museum, since it’s situated in Kuching City Center.

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mage credit: @theborneohotel via Instagram

Skip the tedious process of finding and getting to a bar post-dinner and make your way to the Borneo Hotel Lounge instead, where live music is performed every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Cozy Corner Cafe is another note-worthy eatery at this hotel, and serves both local and Western food that will cure those hunger pangs.

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Best things to do in Kuching, Sarawak

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As you can see, there are plenty of places to visit in Kuching, whether you’re an adventure seeker or looking for a getaway with the family.

The city isn’t just a gateway to a pandora’s box of outdoor activities that you’d never otherwise get to experience; it’s also got creature comforts such as city sights, cafes, and of course, great food. Plus, with its trove of nature parks and conservation efforts, Kuching’s known as a leading ecotourism destination.

We also know that when it comes to travelling for leisure, convenience is key. That’s why we’re not complaining that it only takes a 1-hour direct flight from Singapore via Scoot, which has daily flights to Kuching.

Navigating the city isn’t difficult either – ride-sharing services and taxis are available to shuttle you around, not to mention numerous tour operators that’ll bring you to all the gems of the city and beyond. So, the next time you’re looking for something fresh to do just across the border, Kuching beckons.

Find out more about Kuching, Sarawak’s offerings

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This post was brought to you by Sarawak Tourism Board.
Cover image adapted from: @_pija, @zlapan, @josef1064 & @ezuwanhakim via Instagram
Last updated by Evangelin Deshika on 20th September 2024.