This year, I chose to explore East Malaysia, with Kuching being my top pick on the map. My interest in cityscapes and Malaysia's cultural history made Kuching an appealing destination. During my research, I discovered that the British arrived in Sarawak in the 19th century and established their rule as English Rajas. Borneo and Sarawak are home to numerous tribes that have inhabited the area for centuries. The ethnic heritage of many Malaysians can be traced back to these tribal origins.
How to travel to Kuching from Kuala Lumpur?
Numerous flights depart daily from Kuala Lumpur, taking approximately 2 hours to arrive in Kuching. I reserved a morning flight from KL, arriving in Kuching around noon.
I opted to reserve accommodation close to the Kuching Waterfront. The Grand Margherita (4-star) received excellent reviews on Agoda and is conveniently situated within walking distance of the Sarawak Riverfront. Its proximity to the shopping malls, food courts and restaurants make it an ideal choice for visitors.
Once I settled into my deluxe room at the hotel, I decided to have lunch nearby. Jalan Padungan, just a short walk away, is teeming with a variety of restaurants and cafes. The street offers a diverse selection, with both sides lined with mid-range and budget hotels and hostels. I found out that this area is popular among backpackers and budget travellers.
Chong Choo Cafe is a popular breakfast place located near the hotel. This cafe is popular with local crowds offering egg and toast & a number of popular local breakfast favourites.
Jalan Pundangan - a great place for budget hotels and cafes
I opted for a local café offering noodle and soup dishes. The fishball soup with vegetables was priced at less than RM 10. On my way back, I decided to enjoy a cup of coffee at Tun Juggah Shopping Mall. The mall's ground floor featured several bookstores, a fried chicken outlet, and a massage parlour run by a visually impaired couple. The food court there is also an excellent choice.
In the evening, a band was performing at the hotel bar, so I decided to relax with some music and drinks before exploring the night market at the waterfront. The waterfront buzzes with energy on weekend nights, attracting visitors from all over the city. Numerous food stalls line the area, offering local dishes, snacks, and desserts. Cake Lapis, a multi-layered sponge cake, is a regional specialty that you must try when in Kuching.
Beautiful Kuching Waterfront at night time
I strolled to the opposite end of the waterfront near Jalan Main Bazaar. The area is dotted with several seafood restaurants that remain open until the early hours of the morning. I planned to return here during the week for dinner.
Jalan Carpenter is a favoured spot for backpackers, featuring numerous quality hostels and bars that attract foreign tourists. The area is also home to many Chinese restaurants, providing an authentic Asian experience, as they are frequented by Asian visitors.
Sarawak River Cruise in Kuching
The next day I decided to visit Fort Margherita which is located on the opposite side of the Sarawak River. The beautiful Fort was built in a879 as a stronghold against pirate attacks. The Fort is located on the top of the hill commanding a great view of the river from both directions.
Today the fort is a museum of many artifacts and documents covering early exploration by the British in the region and photographs of the wildlife as well as the tribes who lived in the region. The first has a small goal and hanging area which shows that prisoners were also held in the building during its operational years.
For lunch, I chose to try some genuine Sarawakian cuisine, including Laksa, at the charming James Brooke Bistro & Cafe. The menu offers an impressive blend of local and Western dishes. The open seating area provides a view of the Sarawak River and Istana, with the bustling Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman on the opposite side.
A luxury cruise operates in the evening costing around RM 60. However, a single-engine boat tour is also a great way to explore the Sarawak River and its beautiful surroundings. From the the river you can see The Royal Palace, the Old abandoned Brooke Dockyard and plenty of beautiful houses built on stilts along the Riverfront.
Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman is lined with numerous cafes and restaurants. Carpenter Lane and the nearby bazaar are best explored on foot, allowing you to enjoy the local shops offering household items and local products.
Along Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, you will find several tour operator agencies where you can arrange trips to the national parks and extended regional tours in Sarawak. Much of the island is blanketed in lush tropical vegetation, providing a habitat for unique bird species and wildlife.
What other hotels are available along the riverfront?
The riverfront area is lined with several luxury hotels including Hilton and Riverside Majestic. You can also book Airbnb as well as homestays through various online platforms.
If you're planning a trip to Kuching this year, I highly recommend booking a hotel near the riverfront to enjoy the best of Kuching.
Some Beautiful pics from my trip to Kuching
