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selective focus photography of blue peacock - Photo by ming ching how

Explore Kuching's Rich Culture and Scenery: A Traveler

About Kuching, Malaysia

Kuching, Malaysia is a hidden gem located on the island of Borneo. With its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and fascinating culture, Kuching offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Discover the vibrant food scene, explore the enchanting Sarawak River, or visit the nearby Bako National Park. Kuching is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

Located on the island of Borneo in Malaysia, Kuching is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. The city is the capital of Sarawak, one of Malaysia’s thirteen states, and is often referred to as the “City of Cats” due to the abundance of feline statues scattered throughout the city.

Kuching offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with modern shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels coexisting alongside historic temples, museums, and markets. Visitors can explore the city’s colonial past by visiting places like the Sarawak Museum, which houses artifacts from the region’s diverse indigenous cultures, or the Astana, a former palace that has been converted into the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak.

One of Kuching’s biggest draws is its proximity to nature. The city is situated at the mouth of the Sarawak River, which is home to a thriving population of proboscis monkeys and other wildlife. Visitors can take a river cruise to see these animals in their natural habitat, or venture further afield to explore the nearby Bako National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the rare proboscis monkey.

For those interested in culture, Kuching offers a wealth of experiences, from traditional Iban longhouses to the annual Rainforest World Music Festival, which attracts musicians and performers from around the world. Visitors can also sample the city’s famous Sarawak laksa, a spicy noodle soup that is a staple of local cuisine.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Kuching has something to offer. With its friendly locals, diverse attractions, and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder that Kuching is quickly becoming one of Malaysia’s top travel destinations.

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Popular Stays in Kuching, Malaysia

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Kuching, Malaysia

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Business hotelsHotels with charmSustainable HotelHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

Hilton Kuching

The following services and amenities are available, but with reduced service: Concierge, Fitness Center, Breakfast, On-site Restaurant(s), Room Service.The following services and amenities are currently not available: Business Center, Executive Lounge, Pool, Spa.The Hilton Kuching hotel is the perfect base for exploring this charming Malaysian city in Borneo. This central Kuching hotel rises up impressively from the picturesque Sarawak River and commands captivating views over the city. Just a 25 minute drive from the Kuching International Airport, the commercial center and attractions such as the Main Bazaar and Kuching Waterfront are only a short walk from this Kuching Hotel. Take a river taxi and visit the historical Fort Margherita and Astana, or experience local culture at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Visit Borneo's famous orangutans at the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Return to the hotel after a busy day to enjoy the wide variety of dining and entertainment on offer at this Kuching hotel. Unwind with a cold beer in Senso, the stylish bar and lounge, sample local specialties at the Waterfront Café, or for fantastic western cuisine check out the award-winning Steakhouse. Hold a meeting or event for 10 to 750 guests in one of 10 flexible function rooms at the Hilton Kuching hotel and stay in an Executive Room or Suite for Executive Lounge access.
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Business hotelsGolf hotelsHotels with spaSport hotelsFamily hotels

Damai Beach Resort

Damai Beach Resort enjoys an idyllic setting within walking distance of a white, sandy beach and the Sarawak Cultural Village just 4 km from the fishing village of Santubong. Just 35 km from the centre of Kuching guests can easily explore the delights this intriguing city has to offer including the main bazaar, Kuching Mosque and Sarawak Museum. An excursion to Bako National Park which is just 40 km away is a must. Extending over 36.4 hectares of prime seafront land, this superb resort is framed by lush tropical forest and enjoys the backdrop of the magnificent Mount Santubong.  The resort offers an abundance of energetic activities for the more adventurous guest, while those who prefer a relaxing break can lounge by the pool or take a leisurely stroll along the stunning beach. The exemplary dining options are rich and varied adding to the exceptional service and hospitality of the hotel.
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Business hotelsHotels with spa

Grand Margherita Hotel, Kuching

Conveniently situated in the heart of the city's business, entertainment and shopping district the Grand Margherita, Kuching will appeal to business and leisure travellers alike. For visitors who are seeking to explore the rich culture of the area, the hotel is a 45 minute drive from Sarawak Cultural Village and Bako National Park.  It is also just a 20 minutes' drive from Kuching International Airport.Boasting the title as Kuching's only riverfront hotel it commands and unrivalled view of the picturesque Sarawak River and colourful Malay villages. Exuding comfort and timeless elegance this landmark hotel offers superb dining and leisure options to ensure that guests enjoy their stay to the highest possible degree. This hotel also offers 5 fully-equipped function rooms to fully cater to guests' business and conference needs.
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Business hotels

Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites, Kuching

Centrally located, the regal Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites gives guests privileged across to some of Kuching city's historical jewels including the Sarawak Museum and also one of Kuching's landmarks – Padang Merdeka. Nearby are Textile Museum, Chinese History Museum and Islamic Museum. The Hotel is just 5 minutes walk to the newly-build shopping mall – Plaza Merdeka and 10 minutes walk to the Main Bazaar – famed for its souvenir shops and the city centre along with other attractions. Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites features 213 rooms inclusive of apartment suites. The Hotel offers comprehensive facilities include access to Wi-Fi, health centre, gym, swimming pool and sauna. The Hotel has four international-standard food and beverage outlets:- Ristorante Beccari – the award-winning Italian restaurant; Aurora Court coffee house;  La Habana Cigar Divan; and its café bistro, Seattle Coffee & Tea.
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Pullman Kuching

A stay at Pullman Kuching places you in the heart of Kuching, within a 5-minute walk of Riverside Shopping Complex and Tun Jugah Shopping Center. This luxury hotel is 0. 7 mi (1. 1 km) from Plaza Merdeka and 1. 5 mi (2. 4 km) from Kuching Waterfront. Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. If you're looking for recreational opportunities, you'll find a health club, an outdoor pool, and a spa tub. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Make yourself at home in one of the 389 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature jetted bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. Grab a bite at Puzzle, one of the hotel's 2 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Relax with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Event facilities at this hotel consist of conference space and a meeting room.
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The Ranee Boutique Suites

This boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Kuching's picturesque Old Town, only a 5-minute walk from Kuching Waterfront Bazaar. Occupying a 19th century townhouse, this has been stylishly renovated in order to enhance its classical ambience with modern amenities. The traditional features of the old house have been deftly adapted to modern standards of comfort in order to cater to the needs of the discerning travellers. The spacious, air-conditioned suites are fitted with everything needed for a relaxed stay and few even open to airy balconies. WiFi is available throughout and guests can enjoy the delicious meals from the onsite restaurant in the comforts of their living rooms thanks to the room service. Those who decide to visit the venue itself will be treated to a soothing atmosphere, impeccable service and a varied local and international menu.
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Business hotels Hotels with spaFamily hotels

Citadines Uplands Kuching

Set in the culturally rich city of Kuching. Citadines Uplands is located in the prime location of Jalan Simpang Tiga-a hub for education and local federal government administration offices. Across is The Spring Shopping Centre-one of the largest shopping malls in East Malaysia and this strategic location provides a quick 10-minute drive to the Samajaya Free Industrial Zone. Located in the prime location of Jalan Simpang Tiga a hub for education and local federal government administration offices. Across is The Spring Shopping Centre one of the largest shopping malls in East Malaysia and this strategic location provides a quick 10-minute drive to the Samajaya Free Industrial Zone. Each of the 215 units ranging from studios to two-bedroom layout also feature a fully-equipped kitchen broadband internet access and a home entertainment system Individual air conditioning units allow you to control your apartment environment Relax in your urban retreat with round-the-clock reception and security business support services and recreational facilities get a workout in the gym or relax in the sauna.
Restaurant

Cove 55

Cove 55 Resort is conveniently located in the popular Damai / Santubong area. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, express check-in/check-out, Wi-Fi in public areas, car park, airport transfer are on the list of things guests can enjoy. Some of the well-appointed guestrooms feature internet access – wireless, internet access – wireless (complimentary), non smoking rooms, air conditioning, desk. Take a break from a long day and make use of outdoor pool, massage, garden, games room. Discover all Kuching has to offer by making Cove 55 Resort your base.

Things to do in Kuching, Malaysia

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Kuching, Malaysia

Sarawak Cultural Village
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching

This award-winning living museum showcases Sarawak's unique and diverse culture in an accessible, visitor-friendly setting just 45-minute from Kuching. Authentic buildings are set amidst a scenic 17-acre site and is populated by members of Sarawak's many ethnic groups, going about everyday activities. These include wood and bamboo carving, beadwork, weaving, sago-processing, tree-bark cloth making among others. You can learn how to throw a spinning top, try a Penan blowpipe or pick out a tune on an Orang Ulu sape. The tour concludes with a colourful multi-ethnic culture performance in the village's air-conditioned mini-theater.
Cultural Village
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching

Get a special perspective on Malaysia's local peoples and traditions with a visit to Sarawak Cultural Village. This living museum showcases the region's unique and diverse cultures in an accessible, visitor-friendly setting, just a 35-minute drive from Kuching. - Remarkable living museum showcasing Sarawak's cultures - A walk through beautiful & authentic traditional buildings - Members of the local community partaking in daily activities - Rare chance to learn how to throw a Malay spinning top - Flurry of colors in a stunning multi-ethnic performance
Semenggoh Orangutan Centre from Kuching
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Semenggoh Orangutan Centre from Kuching

Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is located 24km from the centre of Kuching. This orangutan rehabilitation centre trains orphaned or rescued orangutans how to survive in the wild. Over 20 orangutans live in forest within the nature reserve and often return to the centre at feeding times. You will visit the feeding area to watch the orangutans come down from the trees for a free meal. We support animal care centers, your booking helps us in contributing USD10 to the center's affords. Whitesocks Pay It Forward Initiative
Semenggoh Center
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Semenggoh Orangutan with Rainforest Kayaking from Kuching

The adventure starts with a visit to semenggoh Wildlife Center to see the Orangutan at feeding time 0900 am. walk along the path way with the Park Ranger's supervision and observe this shy and intelligent primates going about high up on the tree canopy. then proceed to Kampung Bengoh for kayaking with your local native guide. We support animal care center's , your booking helps in contributing USD10 to the centers affords. Whitesocks Pay It Forward Initiative
Marvellous Creature Orangutan : Sarawak Semenggoh Wildlife Centre Tour
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Marvellous Creature Orangutan : Sarawak Semenggoh Wildlife Centre Tour

The Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is the biggest Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak; established in 1975 as a sanctuary for the injured and orphaned orangutans. Together with the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah this is the most well known rehabilitation center for tourists to visit. - Immerse yourself in the wildlife of Malaysia with an exciting trip to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre in Sarawak - Discover facts about the local wildlife as you explore the Interpretation Area or the Botanical Research Center - Meet the rehabilitated orangutans and learn more about their stories with a stop at the Orangutan Gallery - Get a chance to see the orangutans that have not yet been released into the wild - Travel with ease and comfortable to and from Kuching with a convenient transfer service from your hotel
Sarawak Orangutan Semenggoh Wildlife Centre Tour
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Sarawak Orangutan Semenggoh Wildlife Centre Tour

The Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is the biggest Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak; established in 1975 as a sanctuary for the injured and orphaned orangutans. Together with the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah this is the most well known rehabilitation center for tourists to visit. - Immerse yourself in the wildlife of Malaysia with an exciting trip to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre in Sarawak - Discover facts about the local wildlife as you explore the Interpretation Area or the Botanical Research Center - Meet the rehabilitated orangutans and learn more about their stories with a stop at the Orangutan Gallery - Get a chance to see the orangutans that have not yet been released into the wild - Travel with ease and comfortable to and from Kuching with a convenient transfer service from your hotel
Iban Longboat to Batang Ai Iban Longhouse
Digital Voucher3 days

3 days 2 nights Batang Ai Iban Longhouse & Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Sarawakian’s rich cultures and customs, unique traditional rituals, dances, foods, and costumes are among the things that continue to intrigue and fascinate visitors and researchers from around the world. Their warm hospitality and simple ways of life are also some of the traits that many visitors find endearing. I guess, the fascination for this exotic destination also stems from interesting stories about the headhunters of Borneo. Images from National Geographic or Discovery Channel showing small dark people with tattooed bodies donning fancy headdresses of exotic bird feathers must have also fuelled the curiosity of our foreign visitors.
Kuching City Sightseeing Tour
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Kuching City Sightseeing Tour

Kuching, described as one of the most attractive cities in Southeast Asia, is the State capital of Sarawak. It is a city rich in history, and modern day Kuching is a delightful blend of modern structures and old-world charm. Enjoy the sightseeing of Kuching city with local Sarawakian guide/driver to visit many places of interest of Kuching.

Why People Love Kuching, Malaysia

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Kuching, Malaysia

C
Chrisbish4
3
Jun 2023
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
The village has clear potential to be fantastic - but- is in need of some serious maintenance - questionable safety in places. Could do with more information about how people lived and features of the houses. At the Chinese house we learned about pepper production which was great and some houses ...
A
annesabry
5
Aug 2019
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Thank you to our to tour guide Mr Vincent for your services.. 5 stars🌟 The performances were excellent.💖 Must visit!!!👍👍🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
AS
Arvind S
5
Feb 2016
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village Tour from Kuching

It was nicely organised tour by your local representative.Mr.Mastry our guide gave us good information and took care of us.The sarawak village is worth to visit.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Kuching

What are the must-visit attractions in Kuching?

Kuching has plenty of attractions that tourists can visit. One of the most popular places in Kuching is the Sarawak Cultural Village, which offers a glimpse into the local culture and heritage. Another must-visit attraction is the Semenggoh Nature Reserve, where you can see orangutans up close. Other attractions include the Kuching Waterfront, Fort Margherita, and the Cat Museum.

What activities can I do in Kuching?

There are many activities that tourists can do in Kuching. One of the most popular activities is visiting the Bako National Park. The park features rainforest, beaches, and an array of wildlife. Visitors can also take a boat ride down the Sarawak River or visit the nearby Bidayuh villages. Another popular activity is exploring the city's culinary scene, which is known for its delicious local food.

What is the best time to visit Kuching?

The best time to visit Kuching is between the months of June and August. During this time, the weather is dry and mild, making it perfect for exploring the city's attractions and outdoor activities. However, visitors should be aware that this is also peak tourist season, so it is recommended to book accommodations and activities in advance.

What are some local delicacies that I should try in Kuching?

Kuching is known for its diverse culinary scene, which includes a variety of local delicacies. Some must-try dishes include Sarawak Laksa, which is a spicy noodle soup, Kolo Mee, which is a type of noodle dish, and Ayam Pansuh, which is a chicken dish cooked in bamboo. Visitors should also try Kek Lapis, which is a layered cake with different flavors and colors.

What are some of the best accommodations in Kuching?

Kuching offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best accommodations in Kuching include The Waterfront Hotel, which is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the Sarawak River, Hilton Kuching, which is a luxury hotel with great amenities, and The LimeTree Hotel, which is a boutique hotel with a cozy atmosphere.

What is the culture like in Kuching?

Kuching has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The city is home to a mix of different ethnic groups, including Malay, Chinese, and Dayak. Visitors can experience the local culture by visiting the Sarawak Cultural Village, which showcases the different customs and traditions of the state's ethnic groups.

What is the nightlife like in Kuching?

Kuching has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some popular spots include the Junk Bar, which has a laid-back atmosphere and serves delicious cocktails, The Wayang, which is a trendy rooftop bar with great views of the city, and the Carpenter Street, which is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.

What are some of the best outdoor activities to do in Kuching?

Kuching is surrounded by natural beauty, which makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a hike in the Bako National Park, which offers stunning views of the coastline and an array of wildlife. Another popular activity is kayaking down the Sarawak River or visiting the nearby Gunung Gading National Park, which is home to the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia.

What is the transportation like in Kuching?

Kuching has a well-developed transportation system that includes taxis, buses, and rental cars. Visitors can also take a boat ride down the Sarawak River to explore the city's attractions. The city is also pedestrian-friendly, so visitors can easily walk around and explore the different neighborhoods and attractions.

What are some of the best shopping destinations in Kuching?

Kuching has a variety of shopping destinations to choose from, including malls, markets, and boutiques. Some popular shopping destinations include The Spring Shopping Mall, which features a mix of local and international brands, the Kuching Waterfront Bazaar, which offers traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, and the Satok Weekend Market, which is a great spot to find fresh produce and local snacks.