Kuching: Cat Statues, Jungle Adventures, and the Noodle Dish You'll Crave Forever
Your gateway to Borneo's wild side (and the best noodles ever).
Last updated: 22 Mar 2024 - 5 min read
If you love raw encounters with nature and real experiences, Kuching is where the authentic Borneo adventure begins.
Explore a city fueled by incredible street food and a love for cats (you'll see statues everywhere!). Venture into lush jungles to encounter orangutans, spot playful dolphins, support turtle conservation, and connect with the warmth of local tribes. Prepare to be amazed, not pampered.
Why Kuching?
- Amazing food (we mean it!): Get ready, your tastebuds are in for a treat! From Anthony Bourdain's beloved Sarawak Laksa (he called it the "breakfast of the Gods") to the bustling seafood haven of Top Spot Food Court, Kuching is a foodie paradise.
- Small-Town Charm with a Big Heart: Forget the crowds; Kuching's got a relaxed vibe that'll draw you in. People here are super friendly. Stroll the Riverfront, admire the quirky cat statues (Kuching means "cat" in Malay!), and maybe even catch a river cruise.
- Nature, Wildlife and Lost Tribes: Kuching is the perfect base to explore Borneo's wilderness. Visit ethical sanctuaries like Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, kayak through lush rainforest alongside the Orang Ulu tribe, and get to know Borneo's disappearing tribes.
Things to Do in Kuching
Kuching's magic doesn't come from anything fancy. It's the unexpected encounters, the genuine warmth of the people, and the chance to explore untouched nature that makes it special.
- Explore Kuching's Quirky Heart: Forget those picture-perfect cities; Kuching's charm lies in its unique beat. Stroll the Riverfront, marvel at the abundance of cat statues (yep, Kuching means "cat"!), and hop on a leisurely river cruise!
- Wildlife Encounters (the Ethical Kind): Kuching is your gateway to incredible Borneo wildlife experiences. We're big fans of the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre for its responsible approach. Witness those majestic creatures in their natural habitat – a truly unforgettable moment.
- Paddle Through Paradise: One of our fave expriences is kayaking down Semadang River, surrounded by lush rainforest. Expect a few thrilling rapids and a delicious home-cooked meal shared with the welcoming Orang Ulu tribe. This is authentic Borneo at its finest.
- Longhouse Adventures: Step into Another World: Sarawak's longhouses are truly iconic! Imagine a whole row of family homes under one giant roof, built on stilts – it's like a miniature village filled with stories and traditions passed through generations. For the most authentic experience, seek out the last functioning Bidayuh longhouse, or journey to a more remote Iban longhouse for the ultimate cultural adventure. Do this as a day tour, or an overnight stay for a more immersive experience.
- Calling all Nature Lovers: Bako National Park, with its diverse ecosystems, is a must. And while you're at it, take a trip to the scenic Bengoh Dam and immerse yourself in the daily life of Kampung Sting village.
- Eat Your Way Through the City: Kuching is a foodie's paradise, and we mean it! But forget that curry laksa you're used to. Sarawak Laksa is a whole different beast, and you won't regret trying it (seriously, try it for breakfast like the locals do!).
Kuching for Foodies: Where to Find the Good Stuff
- Kuching Coffee Culture: Head to quirky, old-school coffee shop Black Bean Coffee for the best local coffee in town!
- Must-Try Dish: Lau Ya Keng Kueh Chap: One of our highlights and a local favourite! We love: savory tiger prawn soup, perfectly crisped garlic pork belly, and melt-in-your-mouth kueh chap. It's a Kuching experience you won't want to miss.
- Sarawak Laksa – The Breakfast of Champions: If you haven't tried it yet, you have to! It's a spicy, tangy, fresh and has an incredible depth to it. Anthony Bourdain wasn't kidding when he dubbed it the "breakfast of the Gods". Head to Choon Hui Kopitiam for one of the best Sarawak Laksas in town.
- Seafood Haven: Top Spot Food Court is a seafood lover's dream come true. Get ready for really interesting flavour combos, and try something new – remember those edible ferns? They're a Kuching specialty!
- Taste of the Tribes: The Dyak restaurant serves up food traditionally enjoyed by the tribes, with a modern twist!
Itinerary: Your Kuching Adventure Blueprint
Head to Kuching for a long weekend from Singapore, or spend a week if you don't want to miss out on anything!
Long Weekend Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Kuching, and let the cat-itude begin! Check out Fort Margherita to learn about Sarawak’s colonial past and then stroll down the Waterfront. Explore the waterfront (or a river cruise!), seek out the quirky cat statues (there are tons!), and dive headfirst into a seafood feast at Top Spot Food Court.
- Day 2: Fuel up with a legendary Sarawak Laksa at Choon Hui Kopitiam (even Bourdain was a fan!). Then, it's time to connect with nature and the friendly Orang Ulu tribe on a Semadang River kayaking adventure – delicious home-cooked lunch included! Round off the day with a taste of Dayak cuisine at The Dyak. If you're not into kayaking, you can also go on a cycling adventure to see lush nature and a defunct goldmine!
- Day 3-4: Get comfy and experience true Bidayuh hospitality at a cozy homestay. Expect delicious food, nature treks straight out of an adventure movie, and even jungle cooking! Bonus: you'll get to see the majestic orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. Don't worry - it's ethical!
Extend Your Adventure: Days 5-7
- Day 5: Get curious about the quirky creatures (proboscis monkeys? They're totally a thing!) at Bako National Park.
- Day 6: Embark on a mission to spot playful dolphins! Best part is you also get to lend a hand with turtle conservation on Satang Island.
- Day 7: Discover the scenic beauty of Bengoh Dam and delve into the warmth of Bidayuh life at Kampung Sting village.
We really fell in love with Kuching's quirky charm, its warm people, and those flavors that linger in your memory long after you leave. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this Borneo gem won't disappoint. Trust us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kuching and what makes it unique?
Kuching is the capital city of the state of Sarawak, a state nestled on the island of Borneo in Malaysia. Its name means cat city - you'll see cat statues everywhere! Located on the Sarawak River, it boasts stunning natural beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere that sets it apart from bustling Kuala Lumpur. Get ready for encounters with orangutans, delicious Sarawak Laksa, and exploring fascinating museums like the Sarawak Museum. Its rich cultural heritage influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian, and indigenous ethnic groups creates a vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and a fascinating history to explore.
What are must-visit places in Kuching?
- Kuching Waterfront in the city centre: Stroll along this riverside landmark, check out the quirky cat statues, and admire the Astana.
- Semenggoh Nature Reserve: Observe majestic orangutans in a responsible, ethical sanctuary. It's one of the best places in Malaysia to spot orangutans.
- Bako National Park: Explore diverse ecosystems, spot proboscis monkeys, and maybe even encounter some macaques!
- Longhouses around Kuching city: They are a must to understand their unique culture and traditions. You can either go to a Bidayuh longhouse (which are closer to the city of kuching), or further out to an Iban longhouse. They’re like living museums! Travellers tend to want to see Iban longhouses as they are more remote and authentic, but if you only have time for a day trip, and want to see an authentic Bidayuh longhouse, there is one last functioning one near Kuching. The others are fairly touristy! As for Iban longhouses, the most well-known one is Batang Ai, but that is fairly touristed.
How can I experience local culture in and around Kuching?
- Explore the lively markets of Chinatown, admire the historic Tua Pek Kong Temple, and browse the traditional handicrafts at the Main Bazaar.
- Visit Kampungs (villages), like Kampung Sting, for a glimpse of traditional life.
- Learn about Sarawak's heritage, including the fascinating era of the White Rajahs, at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly and Fort Margherita.
- Embark on a longhouse adventure to connect with the fascinating Bidayuh or Iban tribes.
- Delve into Sarawak's history at the Sarawak Museum and learn about the vibrant Chinese community at the Chinese Museum.
What are the must-dos for nature lovers in Kuching?
Here's where to go:
- Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is your best bet for seeing Malaysian orangutans. It's one of the best reserves in Asia, and one of the best places to spot orangutans.
- Cruise the mangroves of Kuching Wetlands National Park to search for Irrawaddy dolphins.
- Bako National Park offers outdoor activities and wildlife galore, including those curious proboscis monkeys.
- For a special treat, seek out the rare Rafflesia, the world's largest flower, at Gunung Gading National Park.
- Seek out the beauty of Sarawak's orchids, either on a guided nature trek or by visiting a dedicated orchid garden.
What are some unique things to do in Kuching?
- Embark on a Semadang River kayaking adventure, enjoying lush rainforest and a homecooked meal with the Orang Ulu tribe.
- Seek out Sarawak Laksa at Choon Hui Kopitiam – a breakfast favorite!
- Learn about Sarawak's history and admire local art at the Brooke Gallery.
- Explore the world of cats (Kuching means "cat"!) at the Cat Museum.
- Head on a longhouse adventure, where you can learn about the unique local culture, visit waterfalls and even learn jungle cooking!
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