Nanga Medamit

Introduction

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Malaysia? Nanga Medamit in Sarawak is a charming riverside village that offers authentic cultural encounters, lush rainforest adventures, and a true taste of Bornean hospitality. Located in the Limbang Division, this hidden gem is perfect for travelers who want to experience traditional longhouse living, indigenous Lun Bawang and Iban culture, and the untouched natural beauty of northern Sarawak.

Location & Accessibility

Nanga Medamit is a village in Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia, about 50 km from Limbang town.

• By Air: Fly into Limbang Airport (LMN) from Miri, Kuching, or Kota Kinabalu. From the airport, it’s around 1 hour by road to Nanga Medamit.
• By Road: From Limbang town, take the Limbang–Medamit road. Hired cars, taxis, or local vans are the main transport options.
• By River: Travelers can also enjoy a traditional longboat ride on the Limbang River, a scenic route still used by locals.

History & Background

Nanga Medamit has deep cultural roots tied to the Lun Bawang and Iban communities. Historically, the area flourished with longhouse settlements, where generations lived communally under one roof. These longhouses became cultural hubs for farming, celebrations, and storytelling. Today, visitors can still explore authentic longhouses, listen to traditional tales, and witness a way of life that blends heritage with modern touches.

Local Lifestyle & Culture

Life in Nanga Medamit is community-driven and deeply connected to tradition.

• Longhouse Living: A unique communal lifestyle where families share one long wooden home.
• Festivals: Locals celebrate harvest festivals and cultural gatherings, often featuring music, dance, and food.
• Languages: Malay and English are spoken, but Lun Bawang, Iban, and Bisaya dialects dominate daily conversations.
• Daily Life: Farming, fishing, and handicraft making are the village’s heartbeat.

Attractions & Things to Do in Nanga Medamit

Top Attractions

1. Traditional Longhouses – Step inside centuries-old communal homes and interact with local families.
2. Limbang River – Enjoy peaceful boat rides, fishing, or riverside relaxation.
3. Rainforest Treks – Explore waterfalls, rare plants, and exotic wildlife.
4. Community Farms – Learn about rice planting and fruit cultivation.
5. Cultural Performances – Experience Lun Bawang and Iban songs, dances, and storytelling.

Activities & Experiences

• Longboat cruises on the river
• Guided jungle foraging and trekking
• Handicraft workshops (weaving and beadwork)
• Fishing and riverside picnics
• Cultural homestays with local families

Food & Local Cuisine

Food in Nanga Medamit is traditional, fresh, and communal.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Nuba Laya – Steamed rice wrapped in leaves (Lun Bawang specialty)
• Ayam Pansuh – Bamboo-cooked chicken with herbs
• Ikan Sungai Bakar – Grilled river fish
• Midin Stir-Fry – A local jungle fern dish

• Meals are best enjoyed in homestays or local longhouses, where you’ll be served authentic, home-cooked delicacies.

Accommodation in Nanga Medamit

• Budget: Village guesthouses and family-run stays
• Mid-Range: Community-based longhouse stays (with meals included)
• Unique Stay: Authentic longhouse homestay, where you live with locals and join daily activities

Shopping & Souvenirs

Take home a piece of Nanga Medamit with handmade crafts like:

• Woven baskets and mats
• Beaded jewelry
• Traditional textiles
• Jungle herbs and rice from local farms

Nearby Places to Visit

• Limbang Town (50 km): A lively riverside hub with markets and museums
• Lawas (70 km): Known for Lun Bawang culture and scenic paddy fields
• Padas Damit Forest Reserve: A hotspot for biodiversity and birdwatching
• Brunei Darussalam (90 km): Easy cross-border day trip for city life and shopping

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: March to September (dry season)
• Transport: Pre-arrange transport from Limbang, as public buses are limited
• Cultural Etiquette: Always remove shoes before entering homes and accept food offered by hosts
• Safety: Nanga Medamit is safe, but jungle treks are best done with local guides

Why Visit Nanga Medamit?

Nanga Medamit is a hidden gem that combines indigenous culture, rainforest beauty, and authentic Malaysian hospitality. Whether you’re exploring longhouses, tasting traditional food, or cruising down the Limbang River, this small village delivers an unforgettable travel experience. For those seeking authenticity away from crowded tourist spots, Nanga Medamit in Sarawak is a must-visit destination.