Kuching, Malaysia

Kuching

SarawakMalaysia

food and drink

Why You'll Love Kuching

Welcome to Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak in Malaysia! Friendly locals and vibrant culture await you in this charming city.

Kuching, also known as the "City of Cats," is home to historical landmarks, delicious food, and stunning natural scenery. Take a stroll through the city center and visit the iconic Cat Statue, or explore the sprawling waterfront and picturesque Sarawak River.

Indulge in local flavors such as Sarawak laksa, Kolo mee, and midin, a type of fern that's only found in Borneo. Don't forget to visit the bustling markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts to take home.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Bako National Park or Semenggoh Wildlife Centre will give you a glimpse of the diverse wildlife and lush rainforests that surround the city.

Kuching is also known for its lively festivals such as the Rainforest World Music Festival and the Kuching Festival. These celebrations showcase the city's rich culture and traditions.

Overall, Kuching is a city with something for everyone. Come and experience the warmth and hospitality of the people of Kuching, and discover the treasures that this unique destination has to offer.

Getting to Kuching

To get to this destination from Kuching, Malaysia, you can take a flight to Kota Kinabalu International Airport in Sabah, Malaysia, and then take a connecting flight or ferry to the nearby island where the destination is located.

The closest city to Kuching is Singapore., in Sarawak.

Travelling from Kuching International Airport to Kuching

When to Visit

The best time to visit Kuching, Malaysia is between May and October when the weather is dry and pleasant.

Weather and Climate

Kuching, Malaysia experiences a tropical rainforest climate. The weather is generally hot and humid throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 32°C (90°F).

From December to February, the temperature is relatively cooler, with average highs of 28°C (82°F) and lows of 23°C (73°F), and it tends to be drier. This is a popular time for visitors.

From March to June, the temperature and humidity start to climb, providing sweltering conditions ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 33°C (91°F).

From July to November, the monsoon season brings heavy rainfalls and thunderstorms, with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). It's not the best time for tourism, but you can still enjoy indoor activities and watch the lush vegetation come to life.

Costs When Visiting

In Malaysia, the currency is the Ringgit (MYR).
Some sample costs when travelling around Kuching are:

Food:
- Local street food: RM3-10 per dish
- Restaurant meals: RM10-30 per person
- Fine dining: RM50-150 per person

Accommodation:
- Hostels: RM20-50 per night
- Budget hotels: RM50-100 per night
- Mid-range hotels: RM100-250 per night
- Luxury hotels/resorts: RM250-500+ per night.

Safety Rating

Kuching, Malaysia is generally considered a safe destination. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crimes are rare. However, travelers should still exercise caution and take steps to ensure their safety, such as avoiding areas with high crime rates and not walking alone at night.

In terms of safety for women, Kuching is generally a safe destination. However, women should still take precautions such as dressing modestly and being aware of their surroundings. It is also a good idea to avoid traveling alone at night.

Malaysia is a multicultural country with a diverse population, and Kuching is known for being a welcoming and tolerant city. Racial and religious tolerance are generally high, and there are laws against discrimination. However, LGBTQ rights are not yet recognized in Malaysia, and discrimination against the LGBTQ community is not uncommon.

Overall, Kuching is considered a safe destination with a welcoming and tolerant culture. Travelers should take sensible precautions and be respectful of local customs and sensitivities.

Local Population

The population of Kuching, Malaysia is approximately 700,000 people. The majority of the population is made up of ethnic Malays and Chinese, with smaller populations of indigenous groups such as the Dayak and Iban. Islam is the predominant religion in Kuching, followed by Buddhism, Christianity, and Taoism. Malay and Mandarin are the most commonly spoken languages, but English is also widely spoken. In terms of gender breakdown, there is a fairly even split between males and females. Racially, the breakdown is approximately 67% Malay, 26% Chinese, and 7% indigenous groups.

Things to Do

Some of the activities that are common for tourists in Kuching, Malaysia include visiting the Sarawak Cultural Village, exploring the Bako National Park, taking a river cruise on the Sarawak River, visiting the Cat Museum, climbing the Matang Wildlife Centre, strolling through Kuching City Centre, and trying out local food and drinks at the Carpenter Street Market.