Tan Li AnnAre you a young traveller craving an adventure that pushes you beyond the ordinary? Sarawak is the destination you’ve been searching for. This vibrant corner of Malaysia is packed with thrilling experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist spots. And the best part? It’s all incredibly affordable, so you can experience it without burning a hole in your wallet!
Also read: Rainforest World Music Festival 2025: What to Expect at Sarawak’s Most Vibrant Music Festival
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With its lush rainforests, wildlife, and rich culture, Sarawak serves as the perfect gateway to explore the vast wonders of the unique island of Borneo. If you’re looking for ways to spice up your Sarawak trip, the Rainforest World Music Festival 2025 happening from 20 to 22 Jun is a must-visit. It’s the ultimate gathering for music lovers and thrill-seekers, blending global sounds with the breathtaking beauty of the Borneo rainforest. Grab your tickets starting from RM283 (~S$85) and be part of the action, watch adventure, culture, and music collide in a way only Sarawak can deliver! |
Things to do in Miri
1. Explore the hidden caves of Gunung Mulu National Park
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The newly opened Rainforest Wild ASIA cave restaurant in Singapore gives you a glimpse of the Mulu Caves, but nothing beats seeing the real thing in all its glory. If you’re into spelunking, Gunung Mulu National Park is a must-visit.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, boasts one of the world’s largest cave systems, including the famous Clearwater Cave. Get ready for an adventure through sparkling stalactites and underground rivers, all while snapping some seriously Instagram-worthy moments!
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For those seeking an extra thrill, consider the unguided Bat Exodus tour. It’s a 3.8 km walk through lush rainforest and rivers, culminating at the Bat Observatory. At sunset, you can witness millions of bats spiral out of Deer Cave in mesmerising formations, highlighting the cave’s unique ecosystem, where 2.5 to 3.5 million bats contribute to the region’s biodiversity.
2. Trek to majestic waterfalls in Lambir Hills National Park
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Less than an hour away from Miri, Lambir Hills National Park offers a variety of trails, from short and easy walks to challenging climbs for those who thrive on chasing waterfalls. The Latak Waterfall Trail is a popular and easy 20-minute trek from the park headquarters that leads to the serene Latak Waterfall.
For seasoned adventurers, the park has even more to offer with the Summit Trail which leads you to remote waterfalls and pristine forest landscapes. This trek offers sweeping views of the rainforest and a cooling dip in the Dinding Waterfall at the end. The climb may be demanding, but the reward of standing beneath a cascade of water is an experience you won’t forget!
3. Take a dive at the Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park
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Looking to swap your hiking boots for flippers? Head out to the Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park, one of Malaysia’s most underrated dive spots. Just a short boat ride from Miri, this underwater paradise features dive sites bursting with colourful coral gardens, marine life and even shipwrecks.
First-timers can join discovery dives with experienced instructors, while seasoned divers can head straight for deeper reef walls and wrecks. Not into diving? Grab a snorkel and explore the vibrant reef life from the surface, crystal-clear waters and schools of fish are just a splash away!
TripZilla Tip: The best time to explore the reefs in Miri is from late Mar to Nov, when the waters are calm and visibility is at its best.
4. Uncover Sarawak’s oil history at the Petroleum Museum
Image credit: Sarawak Museum Department | Official Website
Did you know that Miri is home to Malaysia’s very first oil well? Perched atop Canada Hill, the Petroleum Museum offers a fascinating look into the city’s rich history in the oil and gas industry and best of all, entry is completely free!
Right next to it stands the Grand Old Lady, Malaysia’s first oil well, dating back to 1910. The museum traces the discovery of oil in Sarawak and its impact on the region’s development, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
5. Step back in time at Niah National Park
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The Niah National Park is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site and for a good reason. A scenic boardwalk through dense rainforest leads to the park’s star attraction, the Niah Caves, where you’ll be greeted by towering limestone formations and ancient wall paintings.
Fun fact: The Niah Great Cave is a well-known birds’ nest harvesting site, you may spot local harvesters skillfully climbing bamboo poles to collect the prized birds’ nests!
For a deeper understanding of the site’s historical significance, be sure to visit the Niah Archaeology Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the discoveries made at the caves, including ancient artefacts and other archaeological findings.
Things to do in Kuching
6. Enter Sarawak’s living museum at the Sarawak Cultural Village
Image credit: Sarawak Cultural Village | Official Facebook
For a deeper dive into Sarawak’s indigenous cultures, head to the Sarawak Cultural Village, a sprawling 17-acre living museum at the foot of Mount Santubong. Here, you can explore authentic replicas of traditional longhouses belonging to Sarawak’s major ethnic groups, including the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu communities.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Sarawak’s rich heritage through captivating cultural performances, from rhythmic warrior dances to traditional music played on indigenous instruments. In addition, the village plays host to the annual Rainforest World Music Festival which brings together musical talents and communities from around the world for a weekend of incredible music and fun. It’s one of the most unique experiences in Sarawak that you won’t want to miss!
7. Encounter majestic turtles on Satang Island
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Just off the coast of Kuching, Satang Island is teeming with marine life and a serene escape for nature lovers. Part of the Talang-Satang National Park, the island serves as a nesting ground for endangered Green and Hawksbill Turtles, offering a rare glimpse into conservation efforts aimed at protecting these majestic creatures.
Beyond its ecological significance, Satang Island invites visitors to unwind on its white sandy beaches or explore the vibrant underwater world. Snorkel through shallow waters teeming with marine life, where you might spot angelfish darting between corals, a curious pufferfish, or even a majestic turtle gliding past.
8. Discover Sarawak’s rich craft heritage at the Sarawak Craft Council
Image credit: Sarawak Craft Council | Official Facebook
Sarawak is known not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its rich tradition of handicrafts. As a World Craft City, Kuching is home to the Sarawak Craft Council, a hub dedicated to promoting local craftsmanship and preserving centuries-old techniques.
Here, you can discover a wide array of traditional Sarawakian handicrafts, including intricate beadwork, handwoven fabrics, and the famous Sarawakian rattan baskets. Many of these crafts are produced by indigenous artisans who infuse their work with centuries-old techniques. Whether you’re looking to buy a souvenir or simply appreciate the artistry, the Sarawak Craft Council offers an authentic and hands-on look into the region’s vibrant craft scene.
9. Embark on a food tour around Kuching’s lively streets
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Kuching, designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, is a haven for food enthusiasts looking to embark on a culinary adventure. Known for its blend of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cuisines, Kuching offers a diverse food scene that’s perfect for those seeking new flavours.
A food tour in Kuching will introduce you to the famous Sarawak laksa and manok pansoh (chicken cooked in bamboo), as well as tribal favourites like midin and umai. Explore the bustling Carpenter Street or Siniawan Night Market where you can savour the best of Sarawak’s street food, from fresh seafood to sweet treats like cendol and matterhorn.
10. Learn all about Sarawak’s folklore and history at the Borneo Cultures Museum
Image credit: Sarawak Museum Department | Official Website
To truly round off your exploration of Sarawak, a visit to the Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching is a must. This cutting-edge museum offers a fascinating journey through the history, traditions, and vibrant cultures of Borneo. With exhibits showcasing everything from indigenous arts to traditional garments, you’ll gain insight into the diverse communities that make up this unique region.
The museum also highlights Sarawak’s folklore through interactive displays and multimedia installations, ensuring that visitors of all ages will be captivated by the stories passed down through generations.
Sarawak’s natural wonders are less than 2 hours from Singapore. There are daily direct flights to Kuching and Miri via Scoot and AirAsia, along with 3 Scoot flights a week to Sibu. It’s the perfect spot for a quick getaway or an extended adventure! For an unforgettable experience, time your visit to the Rainforest World Music Festival 2025, happening from 20 to 22 Jun. This year’s festival will feature global performances, including acts from Russia and beyond, promising a unique musical journey amidst the lush Borneo rainforest. Tickets are now on pre-sale for RM283 (~S$85) from 1 Apr to 19 Jun 2025, grab yours before it’s gone! |
Get ready for your next adventure!
So, what are you waiting for? With easy access to Kuching, Miri, and Sibu, it’s time to pack your gear and get ready to discover this affordable adventure capital of Borneo. Get out there, explore the unexplored, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Brought to you by Sarawak Tourism Board
