Vacation Borneo

Sarawak ‘The Hidden Paradise of Borneo’, the largest state of Malaysia, is located on the north-western shore of the island of Borneo.  Sarawak is a tourist destination poised to take its rightful place among the preferred destinations for those seeking culture, nature and adventure tourism products.

Whether it is sharing in the lifestyle of one of the many indigenous communities’ “longhouse”, exploring gigantic caves in the heart of the Borneo rainforest, or shooting the rapids on a swollen river, visitors will leave Sarawak having enjoyed a host of memorable experiences.

Sarawak is part of Malaysia, a prosperous, stable and safe country.  In Sarawak, thick jungles are only a few steps from luxurious resorts.  Modern amenities are readily available even deep in the jungle!

These unusual contrasts, where modern technology mixed with proudly-kept traditions, and wild nature co-exists alongside an efficient infrastructure, make Sarawak an endearing and unique place.

Kuching is a cosmopolitan city which is home to Sarawak’s 26-plus ethnic groups such as Bidayuh, Ibans, Melanus, Orang Ulu, Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, Berawan Lun Bawang, Penan, etc.

Revealing a side of Asia far removed from the usual destination clichés, Sarawak offers a fresh alternative that can be visited either on its own or as the perfect complement to a trip to West Malaysia, Sabah, or other Asian destinations.

Places of Interest

• Tua Pek Kong Temple which is an ornately decorated Chinese temple is the oldest temple in Kuching. It is believed to date from 1843. The well known Wang Kang festival to commemorate the dead is held here.
• Kuching Mosque was built in 1968 and its gilded cupolas make it one of the city’s most striking landmarks.
• The Malay Kampungs along the riverside next to Fort Margherita are visited by tourists to witness the beautiful traditional and modern Malay architecture.
• The Astana the imposing palace on the north bank and was built in 1870 by Charles Brooke as a bridal gift to his wife Margaret. It is now the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak.
• Fort Margherita was built in 1879 to guard Kuching’s river approaches from pirates. Named after Charles Brooke’s wife, Ranee Margaret, it is an extremely attractive and interesting building.
• The Square Tower on the Waterfront was built in 1879 as a fortress.
• Kuching Waterfront Bazaar is located in the historic Sarawak Steamship Building which is a Sarawak handicraft shopping paradise with dozens of stalls selling a wide range of handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Sarawak Museum has one of the best collections in Southeast Asia. It houses ethnographic collection, natural history displays, etc.
• Islamic Museum presents a clear picture of the rich historical heritage and special culture of the muslim community in Sarawak. The museum consists of 7 galleries set around a central courtyard garden, each with a different theme.
• Chinese History Museum traces the history of the Chinese community in Sarawak. Exhibits include the early trade routes, initial migration from various regions of China, etc.
• Cat Museum which is the world’s first and exhibits photos, feline art and cat souvenirs.
• Sunday Market is renowned for the Bidayuh tribe community selling handicrafts, forest produce, pets, fruits and vegetables, wide range of local snacks, etc and a must for weekend-visitors.
• Sarawak Cultural Village which is a unique award-winning living museum offering an excellent introduction to local cultures and lifestyles. The 17-acre site has replica buildings representing every major ethnic group in Sarawak; Bidayuh, Iban and Orang Ulu longhouses, a Penan jungle settlement, a Melanau tall house, a Malay town house, a Chinese farm house and a Chinese pagoda. Each building has a ‘storyteller’ who is expert in describing and interpreting traditional cultures and lifestyles.
• Irrawaddy Dolphin Watching is a famous activity in Sarawak. It inhabits rivers, estuaries and shallow coastal areas and on rare occasions finless porpoises and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins are sighted in the waters off Santubong, Sarawak.

Sarawak Packages:

• Hidden Treasures Of Borneo Pack #1 (397.5 KiB)
  15days / 14nights

• Hidden Treasures Of Borneo Pack #2 (398.9 KiB)
  15days / 14nights

• Fascinating Borneo (34.9 KiB)
  12days / 11nights

• Secrets-Of-Borneo (334.8 KiB)
  15days / 14nights

• Splendid-of-Borneo (391.4 KiB)
  14days / 13nights