Kuching

Kuching, the capital of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo, sits along the calm Sarawak River. In the city center, you'll see buildings from the British colonial era, while orangutans and proboscis monkeys inhabit nearby national parks. Try local dishes like Sarawak laksa, and spot cat-themed statues throughout the city. You can easily walk between colorful Chinese temples and busy markets in Kuching's compact layout.

Walking Through Central Kuching

The main area of Kuching extends along the south bank of the Sarawak River. Walk the waterfront promenade to orient yourself. You'll see food stalls, small shops, and historic structures like the Square Tower. Cross the river on a traditional sampan boat to view the Astana palace and Fort Margherita on the opposite shore. In the center, explore Chinatown's narrow streets with their ornate temples and coffee shops serving local food.

Cat-Themed Attractions

Kuching's name means "cat" in Malay, and you'll notice feline references throughout the city. Look for cat statues placed around town, including a large white cat with an outstretched paw near the airport. Visit the Kuching Cat Museum to see over 4,000 cat-related items, from paintings and sculptures to mummified cats. This unusual collection shows how people have depicted cats in different cultures throughout history.

Sarawak's Cultural Heritage

At the Sarawak Museum, you can learn about the region's indigenous cultures. The ethnographic collection includes clothing, weapons, and musical instruments from various ethnic groups. For a more interactive experience, go to the Sarawak Cultural Village, where you can see recreations of traditional longhouses and watch cultural demonstrations. In Kuching, the Textile Museum displays examples of local weaving techniques.

Nature and Wildlife Excursions

Several national parks are easily accessible from Kuching. Bako National Park, about an hour away, has hiking trails through mangrove forests where you might spot proboscis monkeys. At Semenggoh Nature Reserve, you can watch semi-wild orangutans during their twice-daily feedings. Gunung Gading National Park has the giant rafflesia flower, which blooms periodically throughout the year.

Kuching's Food Scene

Kuching's cuisine reflects its Chinese, Malay, and indigenous influences. Start your day with Sarawak laksa, a spicy noodle soup that food critic Anthony Bourdain praised highly. For lunch, try kolo mee, which consists of springy noodles topped with minced pork and shallots. Have dinner at Top Spot Food Court to sample fresh seafood prepared in various styles. Before you leave, taste kek lapis, a colorful layered cake that's a local specialty.

Getting Around Kuching

You can walk to most places in Kuching's center. For longer trips, use the local bus system or take a taxi. Ridesharing apps like Grab also operate in the city. To visit attractions outside Kuching, you can join an organized tour or rent a car. The airport connects to other Malaysian cities and some international destinations.