Things To Do
in Lawas
Lawas is a small town located in the northern region of Sarawak, Malaysia. It is known for its diverse cultural heritage, with a mix of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the nearby Lawas River, visit traditional longhouses, and enjoy local delicacies at the markets.
- "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 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Lawas River. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café overlooking the water.
Explore the local markets and shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't miss trying the famous Lawas Laksa for lunch.
Wind down your day by taking a stroll along the riverbank at sunset. Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant and enjoy the local cuisine.
Head out early to explore the nearby Bukit Mas, known for its scenic views. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy at the summit.
After descending, visit the Lawas Waterfall for a refreshing swim. Have lunch at a local eatery nearby.
Return to Lawas and savor a meal of grilled seafood at one of the riverside restaurants. Enjoy the sounds of the evening while relaxing by the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic communities.
- Lush natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Growing tourism industry with various attractions.
- Friendly local residents and a strong sense of community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited infrastructure and public transport options.
- Economic opportunities may be less compared to urban areas.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in larger cities.
- Potential for seasonal flooding in certain areas.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options.
Best Activities in Lawas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush rainforests and diverse wildlife in Lawas through organized jungle treks.
Embark on a serene river cruise to admire the scenic beauty and spot local flora and fauna along the riverbanks.
Enjoy a day of fishing in the rivers or coastal areas, where you can catch a variety of freshwater and saltwater fish.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lawas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lawas
Visit one of these nice places.
Bukit Kuda offers panoramic views of Lawas, including the river and surrounding areas, making it a great spot for photography.
Pulau Lawas, an island located off the coast, provides stunning views of the sea and is a popular spot for photography and enjoying the coastal landscape.
The hike up Gunung Murud offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Food in Lawas
Lawas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local freshwater fish dish fried and served with a tangy and spicy sauce, commonly found at Warong Azizah.
Must-Try!
A traditional Iban dish of chicken cooked with local herbs in bamboo, available at Restoran Terapung Lawas.
A refreshing and spicy fish salad, often served at Pasar Tamu Lawas or local street food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lawas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers an array of fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional dishes like Sarawak laksa, mee kolok, and grilled seafood.
Along this street, one can find various street food stalls offering a wide selection of local favorites such as satay, rojak, and grilled fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lawas, it is important to greet people respectfully, especially elders, using the appropriate language and gestures. Handshakes are common among men, while women may nod or offer a gentle handshake.
Respect for various religious beliefs is important in Lawas. It is customary to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending ceremonies. It is also polite to remove shoes before entering a mosque or a home.
When dining with locals in Lawas, it is polite to wait for the host to initiate eating, and it is customary to use your right hand for eating. It is also courteous to accept food or drinks offered as it is a gesture of hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lawas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lawas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Lawas, Malaysia. It is not expected or mandatory to tip in restaurants, taxis, or other service industries.
Payment in Lawas, Malaysia is commonly done in cash, although some establishments may accept credit or debit cards. It's important to carry enough cash for transactions, especially in more rural areas where card payment facilities may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lawas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Lawas, with less rain and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Expect clear skies and sunny days.
Expect heavy rainfall and humid conditions during this season, making outdoor activities challenging. This period may not be the best time for visiting Lawas due to the wet weather.
Lawas at Night
Hiking in Lawas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot near Lawas that offers a moderate trek with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
A scenic hill providing an easy hiking trail, perfect for beginners and families, with lush greenery and a peaceful environment.
Known for its challenging trails, Layar Hill is great for experienced hikers seeking adventure and panoramic vistas.
A well-known destination for nature lovers, featuring various trails with stunning views of the Borneo rainforest.
About an hour's drive from Lawas, this national park offers multiple hiking trails amidst rich biodiversity and beautiful waterfalls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lawas through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lawas by plane.
The closest major airport to Lawas, located approximately 130 kilometers away in Miri, Sarawak.
Located around 150 kilometers from Lawas, this is the main airport in Brunei and serves international destinations.
Approximately 200 kilometers from Lawas, it is the second busiest airport in Malaysia, serving various domestic and international flights.
Located about 250 kilometers from Lawas, this airport supports both domestic and international flights.
This airport is situated roughly 350 kilometers from Lawas, serving international flights primarily to Southeast Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group, primarily consisting of Malay and indigenous communities.
A significant minority group engaged in various trades and businesses.
A smaller minority group involved in various sectors, including labor and business.
Includes various other ethnicities and communities present in the area.
The Soul of Lawas
Discover the essence of Lawas through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Lawas, played at both amateur and professional levels, with various local clubs and teams participating in tournaments.
Badminton enjoys great popularity in Lawas, with many recreational players and local tournaments held, particularly in schools and community centers.
A traditional sport in Malaysia, Sepak Takraw is commonly played in Lawas, showcasing local talent and often played in community gatherings.
Basketball is widely played among the youth in Lawas, with outdoor courts available and participation in local leagues.
Rugby has been gaining popularity in Lawas, with schools and clubs promoting the sport and contributing to its growth within the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lawas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Lawas is known for its seafood and meat dishes, some restaurants and cafes like Restoran Lawas Baru and Coffee Story offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes upon request.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes like Umai, seafood, and fresh fruits which are readily available in the area.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lawas with these cultural adventures.
