About the Place
Bung Jagoi, located in Bau, Sarawak, is an ancestral hilltop village considered the birthplace of the Dayak Bidayuh Jagoi community. Situated around 280 metres above sea level, this hidden gem lies near the Malaysia–Indonesia border, surrounded by over 500 hectares of untouched rainforest. With a history dating back over 175 years, Bung Jagoi is one of the oldest cultural settlements in Borneo, offering a rare insight into Bidayuh traditions, rituals, and indigenous knowledge systems.
The name “Bung” means summit in the Bidayuh dialect, and true to its name, the village offers commanding views of the surrounding jungle landscape. Once abandoned due to migration, Bung Jagoi is now being revived as a living heritage museum and eco-tourism destination.
Highlights
- Baruk (Skull House) – A round ceremonial house storing enemy skulls, symbolizing ancient warrior traditions.
- Traditional Rituals – Discover Ayun Bolih, Gawea Podi, and Gawea Mukah, unique to the Bijagoi community.
- Bung Tesen Sunset Trek – Enjoy a short 15-minute trek from the old village to a hilltop viewpoint.
- Libuan Dowon Waterfall – Trek to a 7-tier waterfall and enjoy refreshing dips in natural pools.
- Ayak Bikubu – A traditional bamboo water system used by Bidayuh villagers to channel mountain water.
Things To Do
1. Trek to Bung Jagoi
- Start your journey at Kampung Duyoh, about an hour’s drive from Kuching.
- Register at the Visitor Information Centre before starting a moderate 1-hour uphill hike to the heritage site.
2. Explore Cultural Heritage
- Walk among 15 remaining stilt houses and visit the Baruk where sacred skulls are kept.
- Learn about ancient Dayak Bidayuh rituals and hear oral histories passed down through generations.
3. Experience Local Traditions
- Witness the Dayung Bolih (priestess) perform the Ayun Bolih swing chant.
- Enjoy a Bidayuh lunch with bamboo-cooked chicken (Ayam Pansuh), rice in leaves, sambal serai, and wild vegetables.
4. Waterfall Adventures
- Book eco-packages for night walks, adventure treks, and waterfall visits to:
- Libuan Dowon (7-tier waterfall)
- Labuan Duyoh
- Libuan Pinomu
Top Stay
Bung Jagoi Homestays – Kampung Duyoh & Surroundings
Stay with Bidayuh hosts in traditional homestays offering:
- Clean rooms with basic amenities
- Local dishes on request
- Custom cultural or hiking tours
Booking & Info:
+6014-884 9694
bungjagoitourism.wixsite.com/booking
Facebook: Bung Jagoi Tourism
How to Get There
From Kuching:
- By Car: 1 hour drive to Kampung Duyoh, Bau
- By Bus: Bus to Bau Town then taxi or Grab to Kampung Duyoh
- By Foot: Register at the Visitors Information Centre, then hike ~1 hour uphill to reach Bung Jagoi
- Facilities: Toilets available on the trail; hike is suitable for all fitness levels
Nearby Attractions
- Wind Cave Nature Reserve – Limestone cave filled with bats and unique formations
- Fairy Cave – A grand cavern popular for rock climbing and caving
- Mount Krian, Bung Ngiraja, Bung Podad – Hill trekking and panoramic views
- Bung Bratak Heritage Centre – Cultural museum and eco-lodge celebrating Bidayuh traditions
Top Food Experience
Traditional Bidayuh Lunch at Bung Jagoi
Pre-arranged packages include:
- Ayam Pansuh – Bamboo-cooked chicken
- Rice in leaf wrap – Natural and portable
- Sambal Serai – Spicy lemongrass paste
- Local vegetables – Often wild foraged
Served during full-day eco-tour or cultural tour packages.
Summary
Bung Jagoi is a treasure trove of culture and nature—perfect for travellers seeking a unique Sarawakian experience. From trekking and cultural immersion to waterfalls and traditional food, every aspect of Bung Jagoi offers a rich story of the Dayak Bidayuh legacy.
This eco-heritage destination is best suited for:
- Cultural explorers
- Adventure hikers
- Nature lovers
- Heritage photographers
- Curious travellers wanting an off-the-beaten-path trip in Borneo
Quick Facts
Feature | Info |
---|---|
Elevation | 280m above sea level |
Location | Bau, Sarawak |
Tribe | Bidayuh Jagoi (Bijagoi community) |
Main Attractions | Baruk, Bung Tesen, waterfalls, rituals |
Language | Bidayuh dialect, Malay, English |
Best Visiting Time | March to October (dry season) |
Come for the trek, stay for the stories – Bung Jagoi awaits your footsteps.
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