Sarawak is situated in Malaysia and it is also known for rugged, dense rainforests. Here, most of the land is green. People of different races, cultures, and religions live in Sarawak, where there is heavy rainfall in January and very little rain in June and July. The climate is always pleasant for visitors. The nearest airport is Kutch International Airport, which runs both domestic and international flights. Be sure to look at this list of the best things to do in Sarawak, Malaysia, to help you plan your itinerary!
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1. Kayaking in Kuching
This activity provides travelers with a different way of experiencing Sarawak, particularly Kuching, by letting them see it from the water. The adventure, which takes approximately six hours, takes guests kayaking down Sungai Sarawak Kiri River. Breaks will be taken in between paddling to give joiners a chance to go swimming, take photographs, and enjoy lunch at a local village along the way. Dry bags will be provided so guests can secure their items. While the activity might seem daunting, it actually welcomes people regardless of fitness and experience levels, and even children who are five years and above can join the trip.
Book Tours : Fun Filled Kayaking Adventure in Kuching
2. Bumbu Kuching cooking class in Sarawak
Learn more about and get hands-on experience in preparing Malaysian dishes in this activity. The lesson starts with picking the right ingredients - the guide takes guests to a local market so they can get a chance to choose the freshest items for sale, as well as pick up tips on how to haggle with vendors. The instructor then guides them through preparing tasty dishes, complete with dessert. Guests have the option to choose the morning session, which will teach them how to prepare food that they can enjoy for lunch, or the afternoon session, which will give them plenty of time to prepare what would serve as their dinner.
3. Night frogs tour in Kubah National Park
Did you know that Kubah National Park is home to over 60 species of frogs? This walking tour, which takes approximately four hours, is held at night, which is when these creatures are most likely to come out. Guests are taken right into the heart of the park and to its streams and ponds so they can meet these hopping creatures that come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for one of the world’s smallest frog species, which has made this park its home. Along the way, the guide will also introduce you to the different flora and fauna in the park, including pitcher plants, crabs, catfish, and other fascinating exotic creatures. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes if you join this tour.
Book Tours : Night Frogs Tour at Kubah National Park
4. Rainforest kayaking adventure in Sarawak
Want to experience a unique workout while in Sarawak? If so, join this tour that will take you on a kayaking adventure through Sungai Sarawak Kiri and into tropical jungles. Besides the lush greenery, guests will also be able to see awe-inspiring limestone outcrops. Along the way, you will be brought to mini-waterfalls and enjoy lunch at a local village. Depending on the package that you avail of, you may also be brought to Semengoh Wildlife Centre, where you can view some orangutans and/or take a tour of Annah Rais, a village that has a longhouse at its heart. Regardless of which tour package you choose, be sure to bring with you extra clothes, as you are likely to get wet during your adventure. It’s also advised that you slather on insect repellent and have swimming clothes.
Book Tours : Caving Adventure in Sarawak
5. Mount Murud
Outdoor enthusiasts need not look further than Mount Murud for their next trekking adventure. The highest mountain in Sarawak, this mountain is considered by many as one of, if not the best place to hike in the area, although the difficulty of the terrain means that only serious trekkers and climbers are encouraged to take on this expedition, which can take several days. There are two jump-off points to climb the mountain: Bario and Ba'kelalan. Either way, you will need to hire guides, and if necessary, porters. Your efforts will not only reward you with fantastic views of the surrounding areas but also the opportunity to catch sight of the rich flora in the area, which includes pitcher plants and orchids. Mount Murud has religious significance, and there is a portion of the trail that is considered holy ground by some locals who go on a pilgrimage to the peak every two years.
Mount Murud
Address: Limbang Division, Sarawak, Malaysia
6. Fort Margherita
Fort Margherita is a curious attraction in Sarawak, a distinctively Engish-style building on the banks of the Sarawak River at the edge of a jungle. It was built in 1879 by Charles Brooke, dubbed as the Second White Rajah. He named the building after his wife, Margaret Alice Lili de Windt, who, coincidentally, was also the reason why he had the Astana built, which he presented to her as a wedding gift. The fort was built to protect Sarawak from pirates. Visitors can explore the castle and check out the museum inside it, which features a number of historical artifacts and documents from the Brooke Era.
Fort Margherita
Address: Petra Jaya, Kuching 93050 Malaysia
7. Tanjung Datu National Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Tanjung Datu National Park is the smallest among the national parks of Sarawak, but it is widely considered as one of, if not the most beautiful of these. Part of the beauty of this destination is that it is a gorgeous combination of rainforests and beaches, both habitats of which are populated by magnificent creatures such as green turtles and Olive Ridley turtles, which the park is taking extra steps to conserve: birds such as peacocks and hornbills; primates such as pig-tailed macaques and the rare Bornean banded langurs; and other creatures such as barking deer, bearcats, and pit vipers. The park can be accessed either by boat or on land via Telok Melano.
Tanjung Datu National Park
Address: 79466 Lundu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Tanjung Datu National Park
8. Sibu Heritage Centre
The Sibu Heritage Centre is a museum that displays artifacts and antiques to showcase the rich cultures and traditions of the various ethnic groups in the region. Included in the exhibits are ancient tools that date back to the beginning of civilization in the area, porcelain vases and clay vases that give clues on the historical connection of Sarawak and China, and taxidermied animals from different parts of the globe. Before it was converted to the Sibu Heritage Centre, the building was used as the office of the Sibu Municipal Council.
Sibu Heritage Centre
Address: 18 2, Jalan Central, Pekan Sibu, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Sibu Heritage Centre
9. Fort Sylvia
Originally named Kapit Fort, this structure was built in 1874 by Charles Vyner Brooke, the third and last White Rajah of Sarawak. In 1925, it was renamed Fort Sylvia after Sylvia Brett, whom he married in 1911. The building has served various purposes since it was built: a peacekeeping facility, the administrative center of the Upper Rejang region, the home of a paramilitary force, and the location of the district office, district courthouse, and the resident’s office, before it was turned over to the Tun Jugah Foundation, which converted a portion of the fort into a museum. Among the exhibits here are ethnic handicrafts, as well as a number of cultural and historical artifacts.
Fort Sylvia
Address: Jalan Kubu, Kapit 96800 Malaysia
10. Drunk Monkey Old Street Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
It's the season to be jolly!!! Book your spots with us now and let us celebrate and countdown together for the special Christmas Day tonight!
Posted by Drunk Monkey Old Street Bar on Monday, December 23, 2019
While Sarawak is known for its historical and natural attractions, it has a number of offerings that fall outside either category. One such place is Drunk Monkey Old Street Bar, which is located in Carpenter Street, one of the oldest streets in Kuching. The owners took inspiration from the laneways and arcades of Melbourne when they established this bar. As a result, you get to see vintage touches in its different corners. It has plenty of drink offerings, including a variety of whiskies and beers that can be paired with finger food. It features both indoor and outdoor seating.
Drunk Monkey Old Street Bar
Address: 68, Carpenter St, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: [Drunk Monkey Old Street Bar](https://www.facebook.com/drunkmonkeyoldstreetbar/
11. Payung Cafe
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Payung Cafe on Sunday, January 28, 2018
While small, Payung Cafe can be easily found thanks to its decor of paper parasols (“payung” is the Bahasa Malaysia word for “umbrella”). This is a great option for those who want to try out authentic Malaysian food. Some food recommendations here are mushroom rolls, pomelo salad, and otak-otak. Health nuts will love the fact that deep-frying and MSG are not factored in the recipes of this cafe.
Payung Cafe
Address: Malaysia, Pekan Sibu, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Payung Cafe
12. The Museum Cafe and Shop
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Think of the Museum Cafe and Shop as a cafe, a souvenir shop, and an art gallery rolled into one. Vegan and vegetarian options are available on the menu. Many of the artworks on display and for sale are by Ramsay Ong Liang Thong, a Kuching-born artist. Some unique artifacts are also for sale, perfect for those who want to purchase unique souvenir items.
The Museum Cafe and Shop
Address: 1, Temple St, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: The Museum Cafe and Shop
13. Sarawak Cultural Village
Want to see a cultural place in Sarawak? Visit Sarawak Cultural Village, a place where you will find many cultural objects, cultural dresses and expect happiness. There are lots of shows which will make one relaxed and entertained. The shows include people in their cultural dresses performing various acts and dance performances. It is a place specially designed for families. Here, children will learn many new things about culture and the heritage of the people living in Sarawak.
Sarawak Cultural Village
Address: Damai Beach Resort, 93762, Kampung Budaya Sarawak, 93010 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Sarawak Cultural Village
14. Semenggoh Nature Reserve
Posted by Haslinda Salleh on Sunday, 30 April 2017
The reserve works in conserving the life of orangutans and birds in this region, and you will find both here. This nature reserve has been working for last 20 years and has become an attraction for tourists, so if you are interested in watching orangutans and new breeds of birds, then you should plan a visit. You will be shocked to see the very intelligent animals.
Semenggoh Nature Reserve
Address: 93250 Siburan, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Semenggoh Nature Reserve
15. Sarawak State Museum
Posted by Kelvin Goh on Tuesday, 6 June 2017
The Sarawak State Museum is the oldest museum in Borneo. It is an amazing place filled with exhibits related to Sarawak. It includes beautiful potteries, art, and creations of the people living there. Don’t miss this place if you are traveling with your family, because it is especially recommended as a family fun spot. The museum is clean and green and the environment will surely attract people.
Sarawak State Museum
Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Taman Budaya, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Sarawak State Museum
16. Deer Cave
Are you planning to do something adventurous? Deer Cave is located near Miri, Sarawak, and is a place of fun and adventure. It is in a protected rainforest, and you will find many new species of animals here. This area is known for mind blowing peaks, caves and many more exciting spots which take one to the Garden of Eden, the most beautiful and scenic. There are some waterfalls also, so you will surely be surprised with the beauty of this place.
Deer Cave
Address: Maleisië, Marudi, Sarawak, Malaysia
17. Gunung Mulu National Park
Posted by Burt Sun on Sunday, 11 June 2017
This national park is situated in the Miri Division, Sarawak, Malaysia. The national park is famous for caves and karst formations. These formations attract the visitors, as they are an unusual sight. Also, there are facilities of expeditions for adventures in the wild forest. This area also has flora and fauna, and you will find various species of animals like orangutans and rhinoceros hornbills here. If you are looking for an adventurous break, then you should visit this national park.
Gunung Mulu National Park
Address: Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Gunung Mulu National Park
18. Lambir Hills National Park
Posted by Winnie Liew on Monday, 5 June 2017
Lambir Hills National Park is situated in the Miri Division of Sarawak, Malaysia. This is a small national park that is well known for the mixed dipterous forest. This forest is also well known as “Health Forest” because of the presence of health healing plants in this region. This place makes ones mind and heart fresh, and helps you cool off. If you are looking for a lifetime experience to gain good health and knowledge about plants, then you must make a visit to Lambir Hills National Park.
Lambir Hills National Park
Address: Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Lambir Hills National Park
19. Niah National Park
Want to visit a peaceful, calm and fascinating place? Have a walk in Niah National Park. It is located within the Miri Division, Sarawak as well. In this place, you will find beautiful flora and fauna, so you must visit if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, various plants, and animals. It is a perfect spot for trekking and adventures. Besides, it also has beautiful lakes, which will calm your mind. You should never miss the opportunity to visit this god gifted place.
Niah National Park
Address: 98200 Niah, Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Niah National Park
20. Tua Pek Kong Temple, Sibu
关帝庙😁
Posted by Williem Tan on Friday, 9 June 2017
This place was especially made to calm one’s mind. Till now, it is highly popular with tourists. It is famous for huge statues and the blessings given to the tourists after praying. It is on the list of the oldest Chinese temples. It has beautiful artwork in it and is made up of seven-stories. It is located near a river and is also perfect for photography loving visitors.
Tua Pek Kong Temple, Sibu
Address: Jln Temple, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
21. Chinese History Museum
This museum is about the Chinese people, and is located in Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman. The Chinese History Museum also has some arrangements for food for visitors, and should be visited by everyone, especially for children as they can learn about the history and background of the Chinese people.
Chinese History Museum
Address: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93756 Kuching, Malaysia
Website: Chinese History Museum
22. Textile Museum Sarawak
This is a museum containing things like traditional costumes and fashion accessories. It also consists of many weaved objects like mats, etc. It is very popular with families, and the three story building is very clean. It was opened in August 2005.
Textile Museum Sarawak
Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg 93100, Kuching.
Website: Textile Museum Sarawak
23. Bako National Park
This park is the oldest and the best, and is rich in flora and fauna. It includes jungle streams and waterfalls and beautiful beaches. Nature lovers will enjoy this place the most, as it has many different and mind blowing species of animals. You can also enjoy fun activities here like boating and trekking. It has food shops, which serve delicious food, so this area is highly liked by all people. It is highly recommended for families and children!
Bako National Park
Address: Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: Bako National Park
24. Sarawak sunset river cruise
This tour gives guests the chance to see Kuching in a different light, literally and figuratively. The sunset cruise allows you to see the beauty of the city from the water. Among the landmarks that you will catch sight of from the boat are the Astana, which now serves as the Governor’s residence, and Dewan Undangan Negeri Sarawak, the State Parliament. You will also be able to see houses on stilts and houseboats, allowing you to enjoy glimpses of life along the river. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the creatures that have made the river their home, such as river dolphins, crocodiles, and fireflies. This tour is perfect for couples who want to add a romantic touch to their holiday in Kuching.
25. Kuching Wetlands National Park mangrove cruise
This activity sees guests taking a leisurely boat cruise through the mangroves of Kuching Wetlands Park. The nature park is home to a variety of animals, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for animals such as crocodiles, river dolphins, monkeys, and birds. Guests are given the option to choose between the morning and afternoon tours, depending on their preference and availability. Up to 20 people can join this tour at a time. The activity takes approximately five hours.
Enjoy your visit to Sarawak
Sarawak is a beautiful place. Visitors who love to see greenery and wildlife will adore this place. The climate is mostly pleasant throughout the year, so now is as good a time as any to start planning your stay!
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