Ultimate Guide: Top 24 Things to Do in Kuching, Malaysia

You should not miss Bako National Park, a natural paradise. It is the oldest national park in Sarawak, teeming with wildlife. Rare proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs and a variety of bird species call this park home. Explore heavenly mangroves, rainforests, and secluded beaches connected by well-marked trails. Take photos on the cliffs of Teluk Pandan Kecil and capture the famous sea stack. Tip. Take a boat ride at sunset and enjoy the breathtaking view! In the immediate vicinity, it is worth visiting the Sarawak Cultural Village, the living museum.

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of East Malaysia at the Sarawak Cultural Village, or "Kampung Budaya Sarawak." This living museum takes you on a fascinating journey through Sarawak's diverse tribal traditions. Enjoy traditional music and dance performances or participate in craft-making workshops to make your trip memorable. Afterwards, relax at nearby pristine Damai Beach, where you can admire the sunset in the resort's tranquil setting. Don't forget to try the local delicacy Sarawak Laksa, which is available nearby!

The Malaysia-China Friendship Park in Kuching is a symbol of the close relationship between the two nations and offers a fascinating mix of architecture, landscape and cultural elements. As you tour the park, admire the ornate pagodas, dragon sculptures and statues that play an important role in Chinese folklore.

Venture into the heart of the rainforest at Semenggoh Nature Reserve in Kuching, a sanctuary for rescued orangutans where they grow up in their natural habitat. The presence of these enigmatic apes in their free-range enclosure is unmatched when they descend from the trees at feeding time. Witness the dedicated efforts to preserve the dwindling orangutan population - a truly humbling encounter! The nearby charming town of Annah Rais is a hidden treasure; be sure to explore the traditional bamboo longhouses for a glimpse into indigenous Dayak culture.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of wildlife during a visit to Jong's Crocodile Farm in Kuching. You will not only witness the awesome skills of over 1,000 crocodiles, but also meet exotic birds, monkeys and deer. You can satisfy your thirst for adventure during an exciting crocodile feeding.

The Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara Orchid Garden is a must-see for plant lovers. Nestled in a picturesque parkland, this garden is home to 75,000 plants with over 65 species of orchids. Feel the tranquility as you admire the stunning array of colors and patterns.

Venture into the heart of Kuching and visit the fascinating Darul Hana Bridge. The bridge, which is modeled after the shape of a lily, is also known as the "Golden Gate of Kuching". This pedestrian bridge offers visitors an unforgettable 360-degree view of the old and new city. An insider's tip? Schedule your visit at dusk, when the bridge is illuminated and the city skyline lights up. Just a stone's throw away, the Sarawak Museum and the picturesque waterfront invite further exploration.

Kubah National Park is a must-see in Kuching, offering nature lovers lush rainforests, impressive waterfalls, and a wide variety of species, including rare orchids and horned frogs. Take an unforgettable night hike for an exclusive look at the park's nocturnal creatures. Don't forget the famous Matang Wildlife Centre nearby, home to Malaysian wildlife such as orangutans and sun bears, which will enhance your nature experience. The paradise of Kuching is revealed!

A visit to the unique Cat Museum in Petra Jaya, Sarawak, is an unexpected adventure during a stay in Kuching, the city whose name actually means "cat." This extraordinary gem houses a collection of over 4,000 cat artifacts and memorabilia from around the world. It's a cat lover's paradise! Don't forget to take a photo with the iconic cat statues that surround the museum. Just a stone's throw away, you can immerse yourself in nature with a walk through the nearby Friendship Park.

The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita offers a rare journey through Bornean history. Here you can immerse yourself in a captivating array of artifacts, replicas and films depicting the extraordinary era of the three "White Rajahs." The fort, named after Charles Brooke's wife, features a secret underground passageway that was used as an escape route during attacks. Just a short boat ride across the Sarawak River is the bustling Kuching Waterfront, a wonderful place to relax after the tour.

Semenggoh Wildlife Center is a must for nature and animal lovers. Enjoy up-close encounters with the cheeky yet fascinating orangutans swinging on the branches - a rare sight, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can watch the feeding of the orangutans, which will amaze you! If you are lucky, you may even see hornbills in their natural habitat. Just a stone's throw away is Jong's Crocodile Farm, where you can observe these wild animals up close.

Bring life to your day at Borneo Happy Farm in Kuching! A gem for nature lovers, here you can learn about native plants, interact with farm animals, and explore an insect paradise. Why not try navigating a bamboo raft! Located just 45 minutes from the city of Kuching, this eco-friendly farm is an experience not to be missed. Afterwards, take a 10-minute drive to Pantai Pasir Pandak beach for an enchanting sunset. Every corner in Kuching is a journey into a lush and vibrant Malaysian panorama.

Experience the quirky charm of Kuching - the city of cats! The iconic cat statue is a must-see. Immortalize your trip with a photo next to this symbol of the city, which shows the locals' fondness for cats. Tip: Visit the statue at night, when it's lit up especially beautifully! It's also just a short walk to the historic landmark of Jalan Carpenter Street, with its traditional Chinese shopkeepers, and the bustling, vibrant Kuching waterfront.

Discover the charming whimsy of Upside Down House Kuching, an upside-down delight and a unique photo opportunity. Each room is not only a spectacle, but also carefully designed with intricate details turned upside down in a surreal setting.

The Sarawak Museum in Kuching will leave you spellbound. This museum is a great exhibition of Bornean ethnography and natural history and fascinates with its rich collection of artifacts about the local tribes and wildlife. Don't miss the life-size traditional tribal houses in the museum garden. A short walk from the main complex will take you to the old colonial Sarawak Museum building - a hidden gem that still bears the touch of the Brooke dynasty.

Check out the breathtaking beauty of the Kuching City Mosque! This bright pink landmark, which features both Islamic and British colonial architecture, is a photographer's dream. At dusk, the glass facades reflect a panorama of the setting sun. Experience the tranquil atmosphere outside of prayer times. Don't miss the opportunity to drop by Carpenter Street, just a few minutes away - a lively museum full of tempting street food and fascinating antique stores!

A trip to Kuching is not complete without a visit to the "Old Court House", a historical jewel of royal rank. Behind the ornate facade is an impressive assemblage of colonial-era architecture and the work of the High Court. Tread the worn floors of hallways where many a judge, lawyer and central figure has passed. Captivating stories are waiting for you to discover. An added bonus is the proximity to other attractions such as the famous waterfront and the Chinese Museum, all within walking distance.

Discover the living history of Sarawak's Chinese community at Muzium Sejarah Cina. Take in the tributes to Chinese pioneers, marvel at historical artifacts and explore interactive exhibits. This is an insider's history lesson in a historic building. Just a short walk away, the Tua Pek Kong Temple awaits. This 200-year-old temple offers serene views of the Sarawak River and is the perfect end to your day of cultural exploration in Kuching. Surprisingly, both attractions are free to visit.

A trip to the Wind Caves in Kuching is undoubtedly a captivating experience. Marvel at the exquisitely designed natural limestone formations and experience the surreal beauty of this underground wonderland. Listen to the unique harmony as the wind swirls through the cave. Another benefit is the presence of harmless bats, which you should not disturb. Nearby are the Fairy Caves with their breathtaking stalagmite and stalactite formations - a must for adventure seekers.

Discover the magnificent Golden Anniversary Bridge in Kuching. A testament to the 50th anniversary of Sarawak's independence, this pedestrian bridge offers a panoramic view of the city that is perfect for photographers and spectators alike. The stunning nighttime lighting makes it a must-see after dark. It is also an ideal place to witness magnificent sunsets against the backdrop of the distant mountains. And don't forget that it's just a short walk from the vibrant Kuching Waterfront with its diverse food stalls and lively art scene.

A trip to Kuching is incomplete without a visit to the "Masjid Jamek", one of the oldest mosques in the city. Its stunning architectural details provide a tranquil sanctuary in the midst of the bustling city. The bright green dome and tall minarets tell stories of historic Islamic influence. At sunset, you'll be treated to a breathtaking sight as the mosque is illuminated. Located in Kampung No. 2, the mosque offers a tranquil riverside atmosphere. Nearby is the impressive "Istana Merdeka", a magnificent wooden palace that is well worth a visit.

Tua Pek Kong Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Kuching dating back to 1843, is a journey into culture. The exceptionally well-preserved temple treats its visitors to bright red and gold decorations, intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere. You will be drawn into a world of Chinese mythology and Taoist traditions. Those who climb to the top of the temple are rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of Kuching. The temple's close proximity to the picturesque Padungan waterfront offers the opportunity for extended exploration.

Immerse yourself in history with a visit to St. Thomas Cathedral, a remnant of colonial Malaysia. Admire the beautiful stained glass windows that testify to the artistry of the Anglican church. With its peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. An interesting detail: The bell tower houses a bell from the late 1800s. After immersing yourself in history, head to the nearby Chinese History Museum, just a 5-minute walk away. Experience culture and history in close proximity.

Visit Padang Merdeka, the heart of Kuching, which bears witness to Malaysia's history. This sprawling square is a fusion of cultures, which is especially evident during the annual festivals. The surrounding hawkers offer authentic Sarawakian cuisine, which you should definitely try. Unique feature: the fascinating Brooke Monument, which tells of the stories of past local heroes. Proximity to other attractions? Definitely. Square Tower and the Sarawak Museum are just steps away, promising enriching and fulfilling cultural experiences.