5 Things to do in Sarawak, Borneo
updated the 7 June 2016 à 10:04
Transport yourself to the island of Borneo and take in some of the delights quaint Sarawak has to offer.
Home to nearly 2.5 million people, Sarawak has more than 40 ethnic groups, which make it a cultural haven. Learn about the head-hunters, visit longhouses, attend a traditional mock-wedding and feast on the food! Here are our 5 must-see places when you visit this nearby getaway.
The Fairy Caves (Gua Kapor)
Getting to this marvel of stalactites and stalagmites isn’t a difficult affair, despite it being 50km away from the main city area. Get a tour guide at an affordable price and the agency will provide an air-conditioned bus to drive you to the caves in slightly more than an hour. Once you get to the caves, be prepared to witness a wonder. The limestone walls glimmer in certain corners of the dark cave and you need to be cautious when walking because it’s quite wet inside. Get ready to climb steep steps but once you’re at the very top of the inside of the cave, you’ll find that you’ll have an aerial view of the amazing greenery inside the cave as well as the huge cavern of limestone formations. A must-visit for sure.
Sarawak Cultural Village
If you want to learn a little bit more about the grisly details of the traditions of head hunters in Sarawak and about traditional Iban (the original settlers of Sarawak) longhouses, food and cultural practices, make this a priority on your touring agenda. There is possibly no better way to learn about Sarawakian culture than this. Join in traditional dances, learn how to shoot an arrow with your mouth and enjoy some traditional food at the canteen and be sure to take plenty of photos.
Similajau National Park
Bintulu another major city in Sarawak after Kuching and Miri, is a place you must visit, if only for the Similajau National Park. It is a great getaway option for people in the central parts of Sarawak as it is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in all of Malaysia. The park is home to several species of mammals, birds, reptiles and flaura and fauna. There are several trekking paths as well, in addition to a sprawling beach with soft white sand. Spend the entire day there and believe us, you won’t tire of it.
The Cat Museum
Kuching is known as the ‘Cat City’, but ironically, you don’t see as many cats around as you’d expect. However, since it is named after cats, you can be sure to see cat ornaments available at every little store you visit. If you’re a feline fan, be sure to visit the Cat Museum located at the Kuching North City Hall Headquarters Building. The cat is believed to be a symbol of good luck and hence it is revered. You can spend hours at the museum, only because it is teeming with exhibitions. Who knew one animal could have so much to show for itself?
Satok Weekend Market
A getaway in South East Asia, or for that matter for all South East Asians, is incomplete without a visit to the local market. This is the largest market in the capital city and opens at midday on Saturday. Don’t expect to find cheap Ray Bans or sarongs and things you are used to finding at Chattachuk in Thailand or in Goa’s bazaars. This market will give you a real feel of rural village life in Sarawak, with vendors selling the freshest of fresh produce and local cakes and desserts. If you’re tired of store-bought goods, be sure to load up on some Sarawak delights to take back on your short flight home.
Diya-Maya Tsering Bhalla
