Things to do & places to visit in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Kuching is a fine choice for an enriching vacation that's as packed with learning as it is leisure. Its many museums and impressive planetarium will enthrall even the tiniest travelers, and a quick climb to the top of the Kuching Civic Center will reward you with jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Grab a snack from a stall on the bustling waterfront, and don't miss the absolutely massive Sunday market, which is an electric experience for shoppers, vendors, and observers.

Kuching city in Sarawak, Malaysia. Timezone: Asia/Kuching, current date and time: Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 16:21.

Kuching Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

85°F - 78°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Pleasantly warm, muggy

Feels like

68%

Chance of rain

301.0 millimeters

Amount

3.8 mph

Wind speed

84%

Humidity

12.2

Daylight length

6:29 AM

Sunrise

6:40 PM

Sunset

25%

Cloud cover

Sleeveless shirt, rain coat and rain boots

What to wear

Top things to do (23)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Borneoartifact Asian Art, Antiques, Cultural artifacts (24 reviews)
- shopping in kuching, antiques and souvineers
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Antique Shops

Gallery of museum quality Borneo tribal ancient arts, artifacts, antiques, crafts & info, We specialize in museum quality Borneo tribal art, antiques, native`s collectibles, native`s charms, and native`s traditional musical intruments, native`s daily items, native`s used items, native`s hunting trophy and the native`s weapons. By appointment only, please call first.. See more..
4.5 Semenggoh Nature Reserve (3.399 reviews)
- Great experience
Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Going to Semanggoh Nature Reserve was my first experience to see orangután in their natural habitat. I wasn’t sure what to expect going to a nature reserve. It was very touristy as they have two feeding times per day and only allow you to visit at those times. Suggest to arrive 30mins prior to the times advertised to be safe and arrive to the feeding area. We saw Annuar (a 24 yr old male) down on the feeding platform, who was very impressive with his large cheek pads and his long hair is gorgeous. Could easily pass for a shampoo commercial! And we saw a mother with two little ones up on the ropes. Wouldn’t been nice if everyone stayed quiet yet people kept talking which took away a little of the atmosphere, yet I was still happy with my first orangutan experience. Highly recommend if in Borneo. See more..
4.5 Bako National Park (946 reviews)
- Have to go
Spent More than 3 hours National Parks

Our experience at Bako National Park was amazing with Alex Wee. He is a very knowledgable guide and can explain all the natural phenomena occurring and answer our queries. In addition, he knows the various routes very well and is able to advise us on which trail to take based on our time constraint and physical fitness. Lastly, he does not hide his passion for the wildlife and nature of the island and tries his best to spot elusive creatures such as the probiscus monkeys to make our trip worthwhile. He is like a walking encyclopaedia He is also very friendly and humble and caring. Fluently in English and Hokkien. Chinese is ok. For contact purposes: +60 11-2363 9286 See more..
4.5 Mount Santubong (264 reviews)
- Waterfall, suspension bridge and more.
Mountains

There were 2 trails available, red, leading to the summit and blue, a loop leading back to the registration hut. At the time we were there, the red trail was closed due to the wet weather. The blue trail was very interesting as we overcame different obstacles. We came upon a waterfall, suspension bridge, crossed rivers, jumped onto a vine and swung around like Tarzan, climbed down a steep slope, saw an insect giving birth, saw Venus fly traps, etc. In other words, it was heaps of fun. See more..
4.5 Kubah National Park (262 reviews)
- Recommended
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM National Parks

The nationalpark offers nice trails, which are very good signaled and clean. For the entrance you pay 20rm and you have to sign in and out at the headquarter. The staff at the headquarter is very friendly and helpful, they explain you the trails. They show you a good map (with the trails and emergency callnumbers) of which you can take a picture See more..
4.5 The Brooke Gallery (180 reviews)
- Interesting visit
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

Open from 24th September 2016, the 175th anniversary of the founding of the State of Sarawak, the Brooke Gallery tells the story of one of the most remarkable kingdoms in history: Sarawak and its 'White Rajahs'. In the 1830s Sarawak, a province of the once-mighty Sultanate of Brunei in north-west Borneo, was ravaged by piratical raiding and rebellion against Brunei rule. Inspired by stories of its natural wonders and diverse indigenous cultures, a bold English adventurer, James Brooke, arrived on its shores in his yacht, Royalist, in August 1839. He was to forge a unique bond with its peoples and together they built the foundations of today's Sarawak. The displays focus on the people, places and events that have shaped the state. They take us on a journey through a century of 'White Rajah' rule that began in September 1841, was shattered by the Japanese invasion of December 1941 and ended in July 1946 with Sarawak's annexation as a British Crown Colony. The subsequent move towards political independence culminated in Sarawak's part in forming the Federation of Malaysia in September 1963. See more..
4.5 The Great Orangutan Project (164 reviews)
- Visit Here and Support the Centre
Nature & Wildlife Areas

This 2 or 4 week multi award-winning orang-utan volunteer project, based in the Matang Wildlife Centre, focusses on the conservation and protection of Borneo's most fascinating and enchanting species - the orang-utan. Please Note: This page is solely in reference to the 2 or 4 week orang-utan volunteer project offered by The Great Projects See more..
4.5 Darul Hana Bridge (73 reviews)
- fantastic night view of Kuching Waterfront
Bridges

this suspension bridge is for pedestrian and bicycle (not for riding!) only. connects the Kuching South with its hotels and old historic Kuching centre, with the North bank of the Sarawak river where the State parliament building n Astana (Governors official residence ) and Fort Margarita (from Rajah Brooke days) and Malay houses. a photogenic and peaceful location - the bridge has several sitting and viewing areas on it for those who may just want to sit and meditate. it is a suspension bridge, so certain parts of it may seem to move with your weight as you walk - but fully cemented , so no worries. Sides are more than waist height, but children should be supervised. Sitting on the ledge of the sides of the bridge for selfie is potentially suicidal. See more..
4.5 Kuching Waterfront (67 reviews)
- Glamorous Night View of Kuching Waterfront
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks

Beautiful place to relax while walking along the river especially in the evening. You will love the amazing lightnings and the beautiful fountain show. Travel on a Sarawak river sunset cruise is great experience to enjoy the beautiful scenery. See more..
4.5 The Spring Shopping Mall (49 reviews)
- Spring hits the spot
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Shopping Malls

It's not as big as Vivacity or other megamalls, Spring packs a punch in many ways that other malls don't. The selection of shops is well-curated. Many of the stores that appear here exist only here in Kuching: Sephora and Bath & Body Works to name a few. The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly Ta Kiong supermarket offering a wide variety of imports. Their selection is immense, perfect for those seeking particular sauces from different countries. See more..
4.0 Sarawak Cultural Village (1.892 reviews)
- Lovely stroll among the long houses
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites

This is a lovely site among the jungle and mountains of Sarawak. It's a very relaxing to walk among the different types of long houses. The houses are suspended on poles, accessible through logs carved into ladders. So much of the houses' interiors will be unavailable to those without full mobility. The music and dance show is also a must, so I would time your trip to co-oncide with one of the performances. During our visit I believe there was one at 11.30 and a second at 4.30. But please do confirm the timings. I would recommend getting the 'lunch package' as they offer some interesting locals dishes for your meal. See more..
4.0 Kuching Esplanade (1.075 reviews)
- Sarawak RIver Boating is not to be missed
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Sarawak River Boating Since time in memorial, boating across the Sarawak River has been a main means of crossing the river for locals to reach the hustle and bustle of Kuching town; and only for the smallest fee imaginable, Rm1/person! Till this very day, despite Jambatan Darul Hana being recently built, working adults and students still commute across using the traditional boats. The boat ride makes for a very serene experience. As you ride on the boat, you could picture how in the previous centuries the 'rakyat' commuted through boats like these for their very sustenance. I suggest giving more than Rm1/person when your ride ends. These boatmen have been doing this for years. Give them a tip and be generous! See more..
4.0 Sarawak Museum (815 reviews)
- Worth a Visit
Speciality Museums

Nature studies, tradition and local craftsmanship come together in this 1891 museum. See more..
4.0 Sarawak Orchid Garden (419 reviews)
- Worth visiting
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

Quite tricky to find, especially as you have to cross a building site after crossing the bridge to the state legislature side of the river. It is worth the effort as the orchid garden is super. Lots to see, even if you are not a particularly keen gardener See more..
4.0 Chinese Museum (370 reviews)
- Little gem of a museum
Speciality Museums

We had not heard of this place prior to our trip to Kuching and only happened to drop in as it was just opposite our hotel. I'm so glad we did! Although small, it is well maintained and very informative. The recordings of the various dialects were fun - we didn't know there were so many Chinese dialects! The displays and write-ups were easy to understand and gave a good explanation of the Chinese culture. Admission is free but there is a collection box at the end if you wish to make a donation for the upkeep of the museum. See more..
4.0 The Old Courthouse (211 reviews)
- picturesque location
Architectural Buildings

Old Court House, Kuching This heritage building is so picturesque, photoshoots for graduations or weddings are often done here. Being the literal court house in past times, it now comprises of lush gardens with lovely cafes such as Commons & Roots and a Tourist information Centre. Directly opposite is the Sarawak River and Jambatan Darul Hana See more..
4.0 Carpenter Street (171 reviews)
- A lot of hidden gem waiting to be discovered
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

There is a lot of things you can discover here. to put it short, it's a stretch of mixed businesses that pass down generations to generations. You can find coffee shop. backpackers hostel and many more. I suggest you to co,e and eat at ALLADIN CAFE, they have the best Chicken Rice I've tasted so far. Go for the fried, roasted or steam - my personal pick is the fried! See more..
4.0 Tua Pek Kong (166 reviews)
- Cultural Knowledge
Religious Sites

Shows us cultural Knowledge Wisdom are all features that makes Kuching sought after even by me who has a Diverse Cultural History you cannot say that this is exactly like somewhere else it is special and can only be found here, those who value ancient culture timeless wisdom must visit. See more..
4.0 Kuching Mosque (131 reviews)
- Kutching Mosque
Natural History Museums • Religious Sites

The Mosque was very impressionable unfortunately we did not realise how close it was to the Merdeka Palace Hotel where we were staying Every morning very very early we were woken by the chanting coming from the Mosque See more..
4.0 Kuching Wetlands National Park (128 reviews)
- Meet Mr Ehwan for the best trip
National Parks

Enjoying the nature See more..
4.0 Fort Margherita (110 reviews)
- Amazing dive into history of Sarawak
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

A must visit location if you are visiting Kuching City. The fort is easily accessible by river crossing from Sarawak Waterfront. A brief walk takes you to the fort premises. The building is well-maintained and an entry fee of RM 15 provides access to various levels of the fort housing rich history of colonial occupation and history o rajahs of Sarawak. The rooftop commands amazing views of the surrounding and distant views of the Sarawak River. See more..
4.0 Upside Down House Kuching (71 reviews)
- Haven’t laughed like this in ages!
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries • Art Museums

Upside Down House Kuching is an interactive gallery where the interior set up are built upside down. This makes it a fun and unique environment for photo and video enthusiasts and suitable for all ages! Pssstt , a new spot for family/friends activities and or even for a date idea! See more..
4.0 Malaysia-China Friendship Park (59 reviews)
- Beautiful park
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks

For something that is supposed to be a neighbourhood park, this truly an outstanding over-the-top park that deserves to be promoted to tourists and is worth a trip to the suburbs. There is a really huge statue of Admiral Cheng Ho and some tablets about the different states in Malaysia. There is tea house build to resemble the boat house in Beijing's Summer Place and a really ornate gate resembling a similar one in Kunming. There is a fish pond, lanterns, cat statues beside the park and plenty of parking. Worth a trip and worth some photos. See more..
4.0 Vivacity Megamall (46 reviews)
- A big Mal in Kuching
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Shopping Malls

Vivacity Megamall, located 10 minutes from the heart of Kuching city, is the largest premium shopping destination in Sarawak. With five floors of mixed retail and entertainment options from tenants like Parkson, TGV Cinemas, Harvey Norman, and Everrise, it also features two food courts that boasts the best of Kuching’s culinary delights. Shoppers will be spoilt for choices with much to see and do at Sarawak’s retail trendsetter. See more..
3.5 Cat Museum (632 reviews)
- Dated but it's good for a giggle!
Speciality Museums

Known as "cat city," Kuching is dotted with various feline sculptures and this unusual cat museum. Inside, see cat items from ancient times to "Hello, Kitty." See more..
3.5 Cat Monument (281 reviews)
- Nice place to click picture
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Kuching in Malay means Cat. So one can understand the significance of this monument for the city. Located very near to the waterfront one can visit this monument for clicking pictures. It is just next to Hotel Hilton. The cat statues not only gives a unique feel to the city, they are also nice photography subjects. This white cat is the Kuching South City Council Cat Statue, it was built in the 90s and is the first ever cat statue in Kuching. See more..
3.5 Jong's Crocodile Farm & Zoo (277 reviews)
- Good if your child loves crocodiles
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos • Farms

Situated at 18 1/2 Miles (29KM) Kuching Serian Highway, a 30 minutes leisure drive from Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, Land of Hornbills, Jong's crocodile farm & zoo is the first & largest captive breeding crocodile farm in Malaysia. Set amidst the charming backdrop of tall tropical trees, lush vegetation and local fruit trees, lie this unique farm with over two thousand crocodiles bred in captivity. The farm provides a perfect sanctuary for the reptiles, saving the species from extinction. There are few natural breeding ponds for the crocodiles to mate and multiple. Visitors are able to gaze at the snapping jaws, cold menacing eyes, sharp pointed teeth and powerful lashing tails of the crocs within short distance yet safe because of the metal fence. Apart from crocodiles, there are also numerous rare species of birds and animals (for example- monkeys, peacocks, sunbears, bearcats, pheasants, civets, deers, owl, eagle, fish and phyton) found only in the Borneo Island. See more..
3.5 Annah Rais Longhouse Adventure (276 reviews)
- Good taste of long house living
Historic Sites

Annah Rais Longhouse is a large & old Bidayuh Tribe's Longhouse that houses over 80 families. Majority of the us here are still live in a traditional way of longhouse's living. It has 175 years old written history to date. Visitor may participate in our Longhouse Adventure Program, which include longhouse accommodation, traditional meals & tours to surrounding tropical rainforest in search for astonishing waterfalls & natural Hot Spring. See more..
3.5 Wind Caves (243 reviews)
- A cave to yourself
Caverns & Caves

We took a bus from Kuching city to Bau using service 3. Leaving a 0740 hrs, we managed to catch the 0900 hrs service 3A to Wind Cave. The driver alighted us at the road junction and we hiked 300 m to the cave entrance. The path is well signed both inside and outside the cave. Make sure you have your own flashlight as it is pitch dark after 15 m into the cave. There are 3 interconnected passages altogether. You can hear and see lots of bats near the entrances. We spend enough time to hike back to the road to catch service 3 to Fairy Cave before 1030 hrs. See more..
3.5 Satok Weekend Market (100 reviews)
- Sarawakian market
Flea & Street Markets

I know this place from my Kuching friend. I believe that tourist won’t aware on this place, usually this is more to a wet market for local people. But here, you can get the local product such as kek lapis, kuih cincin, souvenir, handicrafts with lower price. This place is separated into diff section, wet market for fish, vegetables, solid food, food court etc. Farmer market also available every weekend, they set up the tent outside. Pay a visit here to know more on sarawakian market. Go there by grab , around 5 - 10 minus distance. See more..