Kuching, the vibrant capital of Sarawak in Malaysia, lies on the northern coast of Borneo, a region I knew little about before my visit. However, with its affordable, frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur, Kuching emerged as a tempting alternative for a city getaway.
Landing on a late-night flight, I found myself instantly smitten with Kuching, even before dawn broke on our first day. The city struck a familiar chord, reminiscent of Brisbane with its sprawling suburbs that stretch almost to the airport, fenced-in backyards, and a modest city center that hugs the Sarawak River.
Despite our brief 48-hour stay, which left us eager to return for a more thorough exploration of Borneo, here are nine compelling reasons why Kuching should be on your travel radar.
The Wildlife
Kuching serves as an excellent gateway into the wilds of Malaysian Borneo, making it an ideal base for rainforest treks or river expeditions. Although our time was limited, we managed to visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve, home to a group of semi-wild orangutans. Situated on the outskirts of the city, the reserve is easily accessible by public bus or taxi, and the low entrance fee means you can afford multiple visits.
The Food
Malaysia is renowned for its street food, and Kuching is no exception. In fact, while I found Penang’s food scene a bit underwhelming, Kuching’s culinary offerings were truly impressive. Choon Hui Cafe, the city’s most famous eatery, is a must-visit, particularly for its prawn laksa and popiah. Additionally, Kuching won us over with its gula apong (nipah palm) ice cream, kaya (coconut jam and pandan) on thick toast, and Nyonya dishes like deep-fried Hainanese Chicken with buttermilk sauce.
Festivals & Celebrations
The rich cultural tapestry of Kuching is reflected in its vibrant festival calendar, packed with religious and cultural events. During our visit, we experienced a lively mix of festivities, including a food festival, a pop-up craft bazaar along the waterfront, and a Chinese spirit festival complete with a large bonfire in front of the main temple.
The Textiles
Kuching is a haven for textile enthusiasts, with a multitude of batik sellers and fabric shops stocked with imported materials. For those seeking authentic pieces, the Textile Museum Sarawak and Tun Jugah Collection are among Southeast Asia’s finest institutions to explore.
Vibrant Laneways
The colorful laneways of this city are a sight to behold, with India Street and its offshoots particularly standing out. The city’s commitment to brightening its streets with vibrant hues adds a lively charm, and during our visit, we even saw workers repainting some of the facades.
The Architecture
Kuching’s architecture is a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The streets are dotted with a mix of grand colonial offices, ancient-looking apartment blocks, dilapidated shophouses, and majestic temples, offering a glimpse into the region’s multicultural past. The waterfront and the smaller streets leading away from the river are home to some of the city’s most striking buildings.
Spice Markets
A stroll down Mosque Lane, a narrow alley off India Street, leads you to some of Kuching’s busiest spice markets. After spending a year in Thailand and Cambodia, where wet markets often have the overpowering smell of fish paste, it was a welcome change to immerse in the vivid colors and rich scents of Kuching’s Middle Eastern-style spice markets.
Arts & Crafts
The Main Bazaar in Kuching is a bustling marketplace filled with stores offering everything from antique longhouse items to contemporary crafts. Popular souvenirs include rattan-woven products like floor mats and bags, as well as wooden artifacts that showcase the local craftsmanship.
Sarawak Culture
Kuching, being the capital of semi-autonomous Sarawak, is a cultural melting pot. This unique identity is reflected in the city’s various cultural displays, including the tiled murals on the esplanade that mimic the patterns of Sarawak’s iconic woven rattan mats.
