Kuching, the charming capital of Sarawak, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, nature, and mouth-watering food. Known as the “Cat City” of Malaysia, Kuching offers something for every traveller — from wildlife encounters to heritage walks along the Sarawak River. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, this guide to the top 10 attractions in Kuching will help you make the most of your visit.
Here is a list of the top 10 Attractions in Kuching
Sarawak Cultural Village
Location: Pantai Damai, Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 4:30 pm
Highlights: Known as a “living museum,” this award-winning attraction showcases traditional longhouses of Sarawak’s major ethnic groups, complete with live cultural dance shows and craft demonstrations.
Facilities: Parking, guided tours, souvenir shop, washrooms.
Food Spot: On-site café serving Sarawak laksa and bamboo chicken.
Why Visit: It’s the best place to experience Sarawak’s cultural diversity in one spot, with immersive experiences for all ages.Kuching Cat Museum
Location: Petra Jaya, North City Hall Building, Kuching
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 5 pm (closed on public holidays)
Highlights: The first museum in the world dedicated entirely to cats, featuring more than 4,000 feline artifacts, rare preserved species, and global memorabilia.
Facilities: Parking, information desk, small gift shop.
Food Spot: Nearby hawker centres serving mee kolok and kolo mee.
Why Visit: Quirky, fun, and full of charm, this is a must-visit for cat lovers and curious travellers.Kuching Waterfront
Location: Along Main Bazaar Road, Kuching City Centre
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Highlights: A scenic riverside promenade lined with colonial buildings, colourful night lights, and views of the Astana and Darul Hana Bridge.
Facilities: Benches, public toilets, shaded walkways, street food kiosks.
Food Spot: James Brooke Bistro & Café and numerous food stalls.
Why Visit: Perfect for evening strolls, photography, and soaking in the city’s relaxed atmosphere.Fort Margherita & Brooke Gallery
Location: Petra Jaya, across from Kuching Waterfront
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 4:45 pm
Highlights: Built in 1879 to protect the city from pirates, this white-walled fort now houses the Brooke Gallery, telling the story of Sarawak’s White Rajah era.
Facilities: Parking, guided tours, small gift counter.
Food Spot: Short walk to waterfront cafés across the bridge.
Why Visit: A must for history lovers, offering insight into Sarawak’s colonial past and stunning river views.Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
Location: 20 km south of Kuching, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg
Opening Hours: Daily, 8 am – 10 am & 2 pm – 4 pm
Highlights: A renowned rehabilitation centre for orangutans, where you can see these gentle giants during feeding times.
Facilities: Parking, visitor centre, rest shelters.
Food Spot: Small stalls outside the centre; kopitiams along the main road.
Why Visit: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see orangutans in a semi-wild environment.Bako National Park
Location: 37 km from Kuching; accessible by boat from Bako Village
Opening Hours: Daily, 8 am – 5 pm
Highlights: Sarawak’s oldest national park, known for proboscis monkeys, diverse ecosystems, and dramatic sea cliffs.
Facilities: Basic chalets, canteen, guided treks, boat services.
Food Spot: Park canteen offering simple Malaysian meals.
Why Visit: An outdoor paradise for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.Annah Rais Bidayuh Longhouse
Location: Padawan, about 60–100 km from Kuching
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 5 pm
Highlights: An authentic Bidayuh longhouse with bamboo bridges, local crafts, and centuries-old architecture.
Facilities: Guided tours, handicraft stalls, basic washrooms.
Food Spot: Village homestays serving traditional Bidayuh dishes.
Why Visit: Offers a rare glimpse into the traditions and lifestyle of the Bidayuh community.Kuching Main Bazaar
Location: Main Bazaar Road, opposite Kuching Waterfront
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 6 pm
Highlights: Kuching’s oldest street, lined with antique shops, tribal art, and handicrafts.
Facilities: Street parking, ATMs, shaded walkways.
Food Spot: Local stalls serving ice kacang, Sarawak laksa, and sugarcane juice.
Why Visit: A treasure trove for souvenirs and an authentic taste of Kuching’s trading heritage.The Astana & Gardens
Location: Petra Jaya, across the river from Kuching Waterfront
Opening Hours: Gardens open daily; palace not open to public
Highlights: The former palace of Sarawak’s White Rajahs, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.
Facilities: Gardens, shaded seating areas.
Food Spot: Cafés along the waterfront across Darul Hana Bridge.
Why Visit: Peaceful, scenic, and steeped in colonial history — perfect for photography.Sarawak State Museum
Location: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Kuching
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 4:45 pm
Highlights: Borneo’s oldest museum, showcasing ethnology, natural history, and cultural heritage.
Facilities: Guided tours, museum shop, restrooms.
Food Spot: Nearby cafes and kopitiams in the city centre.
Why Visit: An essential stop to understand Sarawak’s past and cultural diversity.
Kuching offers a perfect mix of culture, history, nature, and delicious food, making it one of Malaysia’s most captivating destinations. From the lively Kuching Waterfront to the untamed beauty of Bako National Park, and from quirky cat memorabilia to immersive cultural experiences, this city has something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, these top 10 attractions in Kuching will give you memories to last a lifetime.
