Things To Do
in Kuching
Kuching, Malaysia is a vibrant city located on the island of Borneo. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences. The city is famous for its delicious street food, lively markets, and stunning waterfront area along the Sarawak River.
Visitors can explore historical sites, visit orangutan sanctuaries, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals in Kuching.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about the diverse cultures of Malaysia. Engage with local traditions and crafts.
Visit the picturesque Kuching Waterfront for a relaxing stroll and enjoy the river views. Stop by local food stalls for authentic Kuching cuisine.
Dine at a riverfront restaurant while watching the sunset. Experience the vibrant night market, sampling local delicacies.
Head to Bako National Park for an early morning jungle trek. Spot unique wildlife like proboscis monkeys and monitor lizards.
Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park’s beautiful beaches. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the trails and scenic viewpoints.
Return to Kuching and relax at your hotel. Consider an evening boat ride on the Sarawak River to see the city from a different perspective.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity with a blend of indigenous and colonial influences.
- Breathtaking natural beauty, including nearby rainforests and rivers.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western cities.
- Delicious local cuisine, featuring unique dishes like Sarawak laksa and kolo mee.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for expatriates.
- Hot and humid weather can be uncomfortable for some.
- Public transportation options are not very extensive.
- Development and amenities may be less modern compared to larger cities.
- Mosquitoes and other tropical pests can be a nuisance in some areas.
Best Activities in Kuching
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore diverse wildlife, trekking, and enjoy beautiful beaches.
See orangutans in their natural habitat and explore the rainforest.
Enjoy a peaceful excursion and admire the city's riverside scenery.
Experience challenging trekking and panoramic views at the summit.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kuching with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kuching
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering a picturesque view of the Sarawak River and the iconic Astana, a palace built in 1870, Kuching Waterfront is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Known for its stunning landscapes, including rugged coastline, sandstone cliffs, and diverse vegetation, Bako National Park provides ample photo opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Adventurous travelers can hike up Mount Santubong for breathtaking panoramic views of Kuching and the surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Food in Kuching
Kuching Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sarawak Laksa is a spicy noodle soup dish made with a base of sambal belacan, coconut milk, prawns, chicken, and bean sprouts. It's a quintessential Kuching dish best enjoyed at Choon Hui Cafe or Mom's Laksa Stall at Carpenter Street.
Must-Try!
Midin is a type of wild fern found in Sarawak, often stir-fried with belacan (shrimp paste) and chili. Sample this unique jungle fern dish at Top Spot Seafood Centre or Bukit Mata Seafood Market.
Kolo Mee is a simple yet delicious dry-tossed noodle dish served with char siu (barbecued pork), minced pork, and spring onions. For an authentic taste, head to Noodle Descendents or Hui Sing Hawker Center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kuching better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers an array of street food delicacies, from satay skewers to grilled seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to savor sambal stingray and oyster omelette at this lively culinary hub.
Carpenter Street is renowned for its bustling street food scene, offering an assortment of traditional Sarawakian delights such as kek lapis (layered cake), kueh chap (braised duck and herbal soup with noodles), and kuih celorot (sweet sticky rice rolls). It's a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kuching, Malaysia, it is important to greet people with a slight bow and a smile. Handshakes are less common, especially with members of the opposite sex, so it's best to wait for the other person to initiate physical contact.
Showing respect for elders is crucial in Kuching culture. It is customary to use respectful language and deferential gestures when interacting with older individuals. It is also a sign of respect to let elders speak first and to listen attentively to their advice.
Kuching is a melting pot of diverse cultures, including Malay, Chinese, and indigenous groups. Showing respect for each culture's traditions and customs is important. It's advisable to be open-minded and refrain from making assumptions about people based on their cultural backgrounds.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kuching with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kuching
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kuching, Malaysia, tipping is not a formal or widespread practice. It is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants or for services. However, in some high-end hotels or restaurants, a service charge may already be included in the bill. If exceptional service is provided, leaving a small tip as a token of appreciation is acceptable, but not expected.
In Kuching, Malaysia, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, especially in markets and smaller stores. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted in larger establishments and tourist-oriented businesses. It is recommended to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller local establishments. It's also advisable to inquire about card acceptance beforehand, especially in more remote or rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kuching.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kuching is during the dry season, with clear skies and sunny weather. This period is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Expect heavy rainfall and occasional storms during the monsoon season. While the city may experience occasional flooding, this period is great for witnessing lush greenery and enjoying a quieter atmosphere.
Kuching at Night
Hiking in Kuching
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular destination known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful coastal trails, Bako National Park offers a variety of hiking routes that take you through mangroves and rainforest.
Located near the Santubong Peninsula, this park features trails with stunning views of the South China Sea and Mount Santubong. It's a great spot for both hiking and bird watching.
Known for its diverse plant species and waterfalls, Kubah National Park has several hiking trails that range in difficulty and offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of Borneo.
This hiking trail leads up to the summit of Mount Santubong, providing a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of Kuching and the surrounding area.
Located near Bau, these caves have walking trails that lead to impressive cave formations and beautiful natural scenery, offering a unique experience for hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kuching through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kuching by plane.
The main airport serving Kuching, located approximately 11 km south of the city center.
Located about 400 km from Kuching, this is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and serves as a gateway to Sabah.
Approximately 500 km from Kuching, it serves Brunei's capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, and offers international flights.
Located around 550 km from Kuching, it serves Miri and offers flights to various Malaysian destinations.
About 220 km from Kuching, serving the Sibu region with domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kuching, making up a significant portion of the population, involved mainly in commerce and trade.
A collective term for various indigenous groups in Sarawak, including the Iban and Bidayuh, with a strong presence in the rural areas.
A significant ethnic group contributing to the cultural landscape of Kuching, often involved in politics and social leadership.
A smaller community primarily involved in business and local trades, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Kuching.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and expatriates from other countries, contributing to the diversity of the city.
The Soul of Kuching
Discover the essence of Kuching through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kuching, with many local teams and a strong following among fans. The state of Sarawak also has representation in national tournaments.
Rugby has gained popularity in Kuching, with a growing number of clubs and players participating in local and regional competitions.
Badminton is widely played in Kuching, with numerous courts available for public use and a vibrant community of players at all levels.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport, Sepak Takraw is very popular in Kuching, often played in public spaces and during community events.
Basketball has a significant following in Kuching, with many young people playing in schools and local leagues, as well as recreationally.
Volleyball is commonly played in Kuching, with beach volleyball gaining traction among the youth, particularly in urban settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuching.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kuching is meat-centric, several eateries like The Leaf Healthy House and Green Tomato Cafe offer vegetarian-friendly dishes such as tofu laksa, vegetable kolo mee, and tempeh rendang.
Vegan visitors can find delectable options at Vegekoma Food Truck, serving plant-based renditions of local favorites like vegan laksa and nasi lemak, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
For those looking for gluten-free choices, cafes like Earthlings and Rainforest Kitchen provide gluten-free versions of Sarawakian classics, including gluten-free laksa and gluten-free kolo mee.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kuching with these cultural adventures.
