The best things to do in Kuching, Borneo, Malaysia

The best things to do in Kuching, Borneo

If you’ve got Borneo on the brain, chances are you’ll end up in Kuching, Malaysia at some point during your trip. As one of the largest cities on the island, the capital of Sarawak has plenty to see, including incredible architecture, serene gardens and a vibrant Chinatown.

View over the Sarawak River to the north side of the city of Kuching with DUN complex (seat of the Parliament of the Malaysian state of Sarawak) and Fort Margherita, Borneo. Things to do in Kuching, Borneo, Malaysia

It also makes a great base for exploring the fantastic natural areas nearby, like lush rainforests, orangutan sanctuaries, stunning beaches and snorkeling spots.

Here are the best things to do in Kuching, the ‘Cat City.’

Sunset over the town of Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. The best things to do in Kuching, Borneo

New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building

The impressive Dewan Undangan Negeri is truly one of a kind, and has become a fixture in the city since its completion in 2009. Serving as the assembly building, this photogenic spot was built for conducting state business but soon became one of the most interesting places in Kuching thanks to its unique architectural stylings.

Things to do in Kuching, Borneo, Malaysia

At only nine stories high it may not seem like much, but when you see it in person it’s incredible how grand it seems, making the people standing below look like tiny ants. While the site is not currently open for tours, visitors are free to walk around the grounds. Truth be told, you don’t have to get that close to it for a good look: instead, head down to the waterfront, and snap away!

It’s particularly stunning in the evening when the bright lights cast a reflection into the river, which makes a photo session here one of the best things to do in Kuching at night. Book a city tour

The best things to do in Kuching at night
Dewan Undangan Negeri at night

The Kuching cat museum and statues

The name Kuching is believed to have come from the Malay word for cat which is kucing, and the city lives up to its reputation of having plenty of feline fanatics. 

Cat-crazed attractions include statues of the pets waving from roundabouts, in the middle of parks, and spray painted on the side of buildings as street art. Oh, and there’s even an entire Cat Museum which houses a collection of sculptures, pictures and poems dedicated to the (sometimes) cuddly creatures, making it one of the best things to do in Kuching with kids…unless, of course, you consider yourself a dog person.

The best things to do in Kuching, Borneo

Masjid Bandaraya Kuching

The Kuching City Mosque (State Mosque of Sarawak) is like a pink, pastel palace, and its rose facade is best seen from the Sarawak River. Also known as ‘Masjid Lama’ (Old Mosque), it was built in 1968 and its striking architecture makes it a must-see when you visit Kuching. While visitors are welcome inside, they are asked to dress respectfully and only Muslims are permitted during prayer times.

Chinatown

The city has a strong Chinese influence, so it’s no surprise that Chinatown is one of the most popular places to visit in Kuching. Highlights along Carpenter Street include the Harmony Arch and the Hiang Thian Siang Temple, which dates back to the 19th century and is one of the top Kuching attractions. A bit further down is the Hong San Si Temple which features a rooftop decorated with ornate dragons, and is part of the Kuching Heritage Trail since it dates back to 1848.

Tip: If you’re craving Chinese food this area is one of the best places to eat in Kuching!

Chinatown Kuching
Chinatown Kuching

The Kuching waterfront

The city is situated on the banks of the Sarawak River, and walking along the waterfront boardwalk is the best place in Kuching to get a feel for what life is like around here, especially at night when locals are out and the sound of sizzling food stalls and bustling restaurants make for a lively ambiance.

You can also hop in one of the small boats and cross to the other side to explore another hawker centre and get a different vantage point of the city.

What to do in Kuching, Malaysia
The Kuching waterfront

Taman Sahabat

Taman Sahabat, the Malaysia-China friendship park, is a wonderful place to take a timeout from hectic city life and get back to nature. The large space hosts beautiful pavilions, a koi pond, gardens and statues—including a couple of kitty cats (no surprise there!).

Visitors can relax among the bright tropical flowers or check out the huge monument to China’s Admiral Zheng Ho. Taman Sahabat is one of the best free things to do in Kuching, and is also a popular spot for wedding pictures so if you time it right you might get to see a couple of newlyweds!

malaysia-kuching-wedding

Where to eat in Kuching at night

Kuching is home to Malays, Indians, Ibans and Chinese people, which makes for some creative cuisine. Whether you duck into one of the tiny restaurants or head to the open air markets which are usually the best place to eat in Kuching, you’ll get to enjoy an incredible fusion meal for as little as $3 including a beer. 

Sarawak Laksa, a spicy and flavourful dish that originates from the Malaysian state of Sarawak.Things to do in Kuching, Borneo, Malaysia

The city also has great dim sum, which is basically Cantonese food prepared in bite-sized portions, like appetizers. Go for brunch and prepare to be dazzled—even if you don’t exactly know what you’re eating. Some of the local’s favourite best food in Kuching includes:

  • Kolo mee: Dry noodles served with slices of minced meat, spring onions and char siew.
  • Sarawak Laksa: While laksa is common throughout Borneo, each state puts its own spin on it and here in Sarawak you can expect the broth to be made with sambal belacan, sour tamarind, lemongrass, spices and coconut milk, while the laksa has prawn, chicken, egg strips, bean sprouts and lime.
  • Kueh Lapis: These colourful sweet treats are so pretty to look at you’ll have a hard time biting into the sugary loafs.

Popular Kuching day trips

There are some fantastic Sarawak tourist attractions near the city which will you give you some insight into Malay culture, as well as natural areas like beaches and lush jungles. Here are a few one-day excursions to include on your Kuching itinerary (which you can read more details about in this Borneo travel guide):

  • Sarawak Cultural Village: The Sarawak Cultural Village is like taking a walk back in time, through its  living museum that provides a glimpse of what life in Malaysia used to be like. Located a 45 minute drive from the city, the complex is tucked into the base of Mount Santubong which makes for a gorgeous backdrop, and showcases Malay customs and heritage. A number of traditional homes have been constructed on the property, including the Orang Ulu longhouse, a Melanau (tall house), and even one on stilts! Visitors are free to walk through them, and inside you’ll find the staff demonstrating pastimes like making cakes, spinning tops, and even shooting blow darts.

malaysia-sarawak-house

  • Damai Beach Resort: Next to the cultural centre you’ll find Damai Beach, where stretches of golden sand await. Spend the day playing in the warm waters of the South China Sea, working on your tan or exploring the surrounding rainforest. 
  • Semenggoh Wildlife Centre: This refuge is is one of the best places to visit in Sarawak if you want to see those famous orangutans. During a visit, you can expect to see the primates hanging out in the tall trees as you walk along the trails, and there’s also a botanical research centre.
Young Orangutan in Borneo, Malaysia
An orangutan in Borneo
  • Bako National Park: Borneo’s lush rainforests are a haven for mischievous monkeys, and you can see them in their natural habitat at this park which is a short drive and boat ride from Kuching. Keep an eye out for the big-nosed proboscis monkeys and macaques as you explore the lush trails.

Practicalities for sightseeing in Kuching

Currency: The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

How to get to Kuching: Kuching International Airport has flights that connect traveller with Brunei and Kota Kinabalu, as well as around Kuala Lumpur on the mainland. There are also international flights available from places like Hong Kong and Singapore.

Alternatively, travel to Kuching by bus. The service between Kuching and Pontianak, Indonesia takes about 10 hours, and buses also travel to Bandar Sri Begawan, Brunei daily.

Where to stay in Kuching

  • Ranee Boutique Suites– Conveniently located in Kuching’s Old Town, each room in this boutique hotel that dates back to the 19th century is individually designed with a beautiful, sleek style. Guests love the spacious suites and great location. Click here to book
  • The LimeTree Hotel– This updated Kuching hotel is a great base for exploring, located in the city centre and adjacent to the charming Chinatown Padungan area. Breakfast is included, and there are great views of the skyline from the rooftop lounge. Click here to book
  • Imperial Riverbank Hotel– This waterfront hotel is one of the most affordable hotels in the area (likely due to the small rooms) which makes it a solid option for those on a budget. The Imperial is a short walk from Tua Pek Kong and Cat Monument, and guests rave about the friendly staff. Click here to book
Dewan Undangan Negeri
Dewan Undangan Negeri

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9 thoughts on “The best things to do in Kuching, Borneo”

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  8. Error: The Borneo Rainforest Lodge and Danum Valley is not situated in Sarawak but in Sabah, which is a neighbouring state.

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