Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia. Whenever people heard of Sarawak, they think of the thick rainforest of Borneo, the never-ending rivers and the longhouses of the indigenous tribes.
It is a diverse and bustling city full of both modern towers and old colonial buildings. We have compiled some great tips on how you can enjoy your escapades to Kuching, Malaysia.
How To Get To Kuching, Malaysia
Getting to Kuching from the capital city of Malaysia is pretty easy. With cheaper regional flight options like Air Asia, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air, flying into Kuching city is easier than ever. You can also fly from any major cities in Malaysia to Kuching and the flight will usually take about 2 hours. From Singapore, you can expect 1 hour and 30 minutes flight. The prices per flight ticket range between $49-$100, depending on the season and demands.
Where To Stay in Kuching, Malaysia
Kuching does offer both budget hotels and luxurious resorts. Depending on your preferences, you can easily find the one that suits you the best. We have listed 5 best accommodations in Kuching, Malaysia.
1. Telang Usan Hotel, Kuching
The price starts at $29 and it can go slightly above $50 but it will never be more than that. Considered as a 3-star hotel in both Kuching city and Miri city, Telang Usan hotel is your best bet for something in the lower price range but still has good hospitality.
2. Lot 10 Boutique Hotel, Kuching
If you are looking for something that offers modern vibe, go ahead and stay at Lot 10 Boutique Hotel. The location is very close to a food market, so you will not spend too much time driving around looking for meals of the day. The price starts at $38 and it’s a 3-star hotel.
3. Riverside Majestic Hotel, Kuching
It is easy to spot Riverside Majestic Hotel due to its strategic location which is right at the heart of the city. It’s a 4-star hotel featuring most of the high-end amenities found in most upscale hotels. The price starts at $34 for a room per night.
4. Grand Margherita Hotel, Kuching
This 4-star hotel is situated along the Sarawak River, offering the tranquility of the scenery especially early in the morning and late evening. It is a riverfront hotel, so you can expect good water view from your room. Nearby attractions include the Main Bazaar, Kuching Waterfront, and Fort Margherita. Price starts at $34 per night.
5. Pullman Hotel, Kuching
It stands on top of Mathies Hill, overlooking the city of Kuching. Pullman Hotel offers 5-star comfort and it is just within a walking distance to commercial center and most tourist attractions in Kuching. The price starts at $60 per night.
Where To Eat in Kuching, Malaysia
There are so many good spots to eat whenever you come to Kuching. It’s a city full of diversity, which means you can expect food from different races and ethnicities can easily be found at every corner of the city. We have listed 5 good spots you can satisfy your palate.
· James Brooke Bistro Café
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Café, casual, cozy and quiet.
9:00AM-10: 30 PM (Monday-Sunday)
· Zinc Restaurant & Bar
38, Tabuan Rd, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Casual, Cozy and great cocktails
6PM-12AM (Everyday except Mondays)
· Topspot Food Court
off, Jalan Padungan, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Open food court and variety of local cuisines.
5PM-11PM (Monday-Sunday)
· Bla Bla Bla
27, Jalan Tabuan, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Casual, cozy and good for kids.
6PM-11: 30 PM (Everyday except Tuesdays)
· Lepau Restaurant
395, Ban Hock Road, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Casual, cozy, kids-friendly. Serves authentic Dayak and Orang Ulu cuisines and popular Sarawakian local dishes.
11AM-2PM (Monday-Saturday), 5:30PM-11PM (Monday-Saturday), Sundays closed.
What To Do in Kuching, Malaysia
There are plenty of activities and good places you can visit while visiting Kuching. From old colonial buildings full of histories between the British empire of the Brooke Family and the Dayaks to modern places, you will always be able to find things to do in Kuching, Sarawak.
- Visit Sarawak Cultural Village. It is a living museum full where you can learn more about the indigenous people of Sarawak and their customs. There are live performances and also tours across the village.
- Chinese History Museum. A museum dedicated to people of Chinese descent in Sarawak. Opening hours are from 10AM-4PM, every day.
- Bako National Park. If you are looking to explore a protected coastal area of Kuching with unusual rock formations, cliffs and pristine beaches, head over to Bako National Park.
- Fort Margherita. Built-in 1879 by the second Rajah of Sarawak, Charles Brooke, this all-white old fort is now one of Kuching’s main attractions. A very important landmark during Brooke Dynasty.
- Semenggoh Nature Reserve. A primate rehabilitation center in Siburan sheltering many species of birds and of course, orangutans, themselves.
- Kuching Waterfront. Good peaceful spot to enjoy the museum, park, river, and history of Sarawak. Easy place to find food too.
Conclusion
Kuching has many great spots which you can explore. Getting by around the city is a lot easier if you drive a car or simply take a taxi. Public transportation is reliable but considering how busy Kuching can be, it is best to navigate around by driving yourself. You should consider traveling to Kuching as it is one of the best cities to explore all over Malaysia.
