25 Best Things To Do In Sarawak, Malaysia - Updated 2024

25 Best Things To Do In Sarawak, Malaysia - Updated 2024
Bhawna
Bhawna 
Updated
| 4 min read

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!

1. Kayaking in Kuching (from USD 51.0)

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.

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Fun Filled Kayaking Adventure in Kuching

Duration: 6 hours

40 reviews

2. Bumbu Kuching cooking class in Sarawak

25 best things to do in sarawak, malaysia | bumbu kuching cooking class in sarawak
Source: www.klook.com

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.

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Bumbu Kuching Cooking Class in Sarawak, Malaysia - Klook

Duration: 4hrsDuration

3. Night frogs tour in Kubah National Park (from USD 82.0)

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.

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Night Frogs Tour at Kubah National Park

Duration: 4 hours

9 reviews

4. Rainforest kayaking adventure in Sarawak

25 best things to do in sarawak, malaysia | rainforest kayaking adventure in sarawak
Source: www.klook.com

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.

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Rainforest Kayaking Adventure in Sarawak - Klook

5. Mount Murud

View of mountain ranges from the summit of Mount Murud
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Wilson Chin from ... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

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

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6. Fort Margherita

Fort Margherita
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Akml5599 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

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

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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

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8. Sibu Heritage Centre

Sibu Heritage Centre
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Cerevisae used under CC BY-SA 4.0

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

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9. Fort Sylvia

Fort Sylvia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Annette Teng used under CC BY 3.0

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

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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/

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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

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12. The Museum Cafe and Shop

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by The Museum Cafe & Shop at Singgahsana Lodge on Wednesday, October 16, 2019

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

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13. Sarawak Cultural Village

Sarawak, Cultural Village 11
Source: Photo by user Rainer Körner used under CC BY 2.0

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

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14. Semenggoh Nature Reserve

Posted by Haslinda Salleh on Sunday, 30 April 2017

The reserve works in conserving the life of orangutan​s 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

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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

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16. Deer Cave

Posted by D'Cave Homestay Mulu National Park on Wednesday, 8 October 2014

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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21. Chinese History Museum

Chinese History Museum, Kuching, Malaysia
Source: Photo by user User: Shoestring... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

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

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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

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23. Bako National Park

Mangrove area - Bako National Park - Sarawak - Borneo - Malaysia - panoramio
Source: Photo by user diego_cue used under CC BY-SA 3.0

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

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24. Sarawak sunset river cruise (from USD 136.0)

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.

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Kuching Cultural & Heritage Tour with Sarawak Sunset River Cruise

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

2 reviews

25. Kuching Wetlands National Park mangrove cruise (from USD 112.0)

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.

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Half-day Kuching Wetlands National Park Mangrove Cruise

Duration: 5 hours

2 reviews

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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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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