South East Asia Pearl
Known as “cat city†(Kuching means cat in Malay), Kuching is the capital of Sarawak, Malaysia’s largest state. Among the popular attractions are the Sarawak Museum, Tua Pek Kong Temple and the world’s first Cat Museum in the KuchingCity North Hall. This laidback city is also the gateway to some of Sarawak’s famous tourist attractions-Mulu National Park and Bako, home of the proboscis monkey. Close by is Gunung Gading National Park; home to the rare rufflesia flower
which can grow up to one meter in diameter. There is also the fantastic scenic backdrop of the rugged mountain peaks that make up the park and you can go on an enjoyable walk or challenging jungle trek. Also close by are the beaches of
Pandan and Siar. Shop at the nearly 900m newly developed waterfront where numerous historical buildings have been restored with modern additions such as the observation tower. During the daytime, the Waterfront offers excellent views of the Astana, Fort Margherita and the Malay kampungs which line the north bank of the river, but at night-time the waterfront really comes alive; it seems that half of Kuching is out meeting friends, watching a show or just taking the air.
Currency Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Climate Tropical-moderately hot with substantial rainfall
Best time to visit Year round
Unique festivals Baleh Kapit Raft Safari (April); Gawai Dayak/Harvest Fesival (June),
Rainforest World Music Festival (July), Sarawak Regatta (September)
Activities Bird watching, cave exploration
Must visit Sarawak longhouse; the waterfront
Must try Sarawak laksa, kolo mee (noodles)
