Kuching: A Cultural Gem on the Sarawak River
Charming and compact, Kuching is the capital of Sarawak and one of Borneo’s most captivating cities. Located along the tranquil Sarawak River, the city blends colonial charm, indigenous culture, and a rich culinary scene.
Heritage and History
Kuching’s history is woven with intrigue — it served as the seat of the White Rajahs, with Rajah James Brooke ruling from here until 1946. Colonial architecture, ornate Chinese temples, and historical landmarks make up the city’s Heritage Trail, connecting key sites like Fort Margherita, the stately Istana Palace, and a collection of beautiful churches and shrines.
Sarawak Museum
Considered one of the best museums in Southeast Asia, the Sarawak Museum showcases Borneo’s natural and cultural history. Highlights include tribal artifacts, traditional longhouse replicas, and a unique display of indigenous flora and fauna. If you’re interested in local flavors, Kuching also offers cooking courses where you can learn to make signature Malaysian dishes.
Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
Just outside the city lies the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, one of Sarawak’s top wildlife experiences. Here, semi-wild orangutans roam the forest, and you may see them during scheduled feeding times — a rare and intimate way to encounter these endangered primates in a protected environment.
Speak to someone who's been there
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Kuching, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Borneo ⟩ Kuching
Borneo ⟩ Kota Kinabalu
Borneo ⟩ Kinabatangan River
Borneo ⟩ Kinabalu National Park
Borneo ⟩ Kapalai Island
Borneo ⟩ Gaya Island
Borneo ⟩ Garama Wetlands
Borneo ⟩ Deramakot Forest Reserve
Borneo ⟩ Danum Valley
Borneo ⟩ Batang Ai
Borneo ⟩ Bako National Park
Our expert guides to exploring Kuching
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Kuching, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Kuching at its best.
