Things To Do
in Limbang
Limbang sits in northern Sarawak, Malaysia, bordered by Brunei along the Limbang River. The landscape blends rainforest, mangroves and traditional longhouse culture. Visitors use the town as a gateway to river cruises, markets, and nearby border towns.
The area is renowned for its cultural diversity and easy access to Brunei via the river and road networks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Limbang Fort, a historical site that dates back to the 19th century. Explore the remnants of this colonial fort while enjoying the serene river views. Next, take a leisurely stroll along the nearby waterfront, soaking in the fresh morning air and observing local life.
After lunch at a nearby café, head to the Limbang Cultural Heritage Museum to discover the rich history and diverse cultures of the region. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that reflect the traditional lifestyles of the various ethnic groups in Limbang. Spend some time browsing the local handicraft shops to pick up unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a riverside dinner at a restaurant that specializes in traditional Malay cuisine. Relish dishes like Nasi Goreng and Satay while listening to the gentle sounds of the river. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the waterfront, watching the lights twinkle on the water.
Start your morning with a guided tour to the nearby Bukit Mas Nature Reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for exotic wildlife such as monkeys and various bird species while hiking along the trails. The sounds of nature will accompany you as you explore this beautiful sanctuary.
After a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, continue your exploration of the reserve, perhaps visiting some hidden waterfalls for a refreshing dip. Take the opportunity to photograph the stunning flora and fauna unique to this part of Malaysia. Engage with your guide to learn more about the ecosystem and conservation efforts in the area.
Return to Limbang and unwind with a quiet dinner at a local eatery, sampling fresh seafood dishes. As the evening progresses, enjoy the vibrant night market where you can taste local street food and shop for handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals, who often share stories about their culture and traditions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏Budget hotel room per night | $15-30 |
| 🚍Local transportation (short ride) | $2-8 |
| 🧁Snack or street food item | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural blend of Malay, Indigenous, and Bruneian influences
- Scenic river town with easy access to nature and Brunei border
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Rural transport can be slower and weather-dependent
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sila" - Please
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Boleh saya bayar dengan kad kredit?" - Can I pay with a credit card?
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Limbang
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the river with boats, silhouettes of stilt houses, and soften-edged tropical silhouettes.
Architectural details and daily life scenes along the riverbank provide authentic cultural imagery.
Bustling stalls and colorful produce create vibrant street photography opportunities.
Wide views of the river, boats, and surrounding forested banks under changing light.
Food in Limbang
Limbang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iban-style chicken cooked in bamboo with lemongrass and herbs, often served with rice.
Must-Try!
River fish grilled over charcoal with a tangy sambal and lime.
Sago starch served with a spicy dip and accompaniments like vegetables and meat; Brunei-Sarawak fusion cuisine.
Sticky rice wrapped in leaves and filled with savory or sweet toppings; a Sarawak staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market offering fresh produce, river fish, snacks, and handicrafts.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering quick bites, grilled skewers, and local drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and polite phrases in Malay; use the right hand for giving or receiving; show respect to elders and religious sites.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or some mosques; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or longhouses.
Safety
Tipping in Limbang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Malaysia, but small tips (5-10%) for good service are appreciated in hotels and restaurants when a service charge is not included.
Cash is widely accepted in Limbang, with most urban shops and restaurants accepting Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit/debit cards are increasingly common in larger establishments, but carry cash for markets and rural spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with clearer skies; ideal for outdoor activities and long river strolls. Pack sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Frequent afternoon showers and heavier rainfall; plan indoor cultural visits or short hikes on dry paths; carry a light rain jacket.
Limbang at Night
Hiking in Limbang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside path offering forest views and birdwatching opportunities.
Forest trails near the Brunei border with biodiversity highlights.
Airports
How to reach Limbang by plane.
Main regional airport serving Sarawak; about 2-3 hours by road from Limbang, depending on border crossing and traffic.
Brunei's international gateway; convenient if visiting Brunei by cross-border routes from Limbang.
Farther away but serves as an alternative gateway for broader Sabah travel; longer transfer to Limbang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in Limbang with traditional cultures and mosques.
Local Dayak groups with distinct languages and crafts.
Long-standing presence with shops and eateries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among youth and communities; local matches and school games occur regularly.
Common in community centers and indoor gyms.
River and stream fishing is a common leisure activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Limbang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many non-meat dishes are available; look for vegetable curries, tofu dishes, or request vegetable-only preparations; inform the staff about any animal-based stock.