Day Trip In Kuching (Hidden Local Spots)

So, youโ€™re heading to Kuching but only have ONE FULL DAY to explore? Challenge accepted! This charming, laid-back city is packed with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're just passing through or squeezing in a quick adventure, I've put together a list of must-visit spots to make the most of your day. โœจ 

๐Ÿ“Œ Feel free to save these images and get ready for an unforgettable Kuching experience! 

Fun Fact: Here are some of my visited local places in Kuching. I'm creating this list for my own personal reference as I tend to space out when thinking of the names of places  ( อ โ›โ€ฏโ€ฟโ€ฟ อกโ›) will constantly be updating the list, so keep coming for more!

I've divided the lists into 5 big categories. 

Historical & Cultural Places

Immerse yourself in the Borneon culture to learn more about the history and people of the land. 
๐Ÿ—ฟBorneo Cultures Museum (second largest Southeast Asia Museum)
๐Ÿ—ฟThe Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita (history of Brooke during WW)
๐Ÿ—ฟThe Ranee Museum (the story of the Queen of Sarawak)
๐Ÿ—ฟCat Museum (kucing (cat)- the name of our city)
๐Ÿ—ฟSarawak Cultural Village (explore the different ethnic groups in Sarawak)

Walks & Sceneries 

A city surrounded by nature. Stroll in these gardens/parks while enjoying the breeze and views. 
๐ŸŒบ Orchid Garden (a plethora of orchid species and unique flowers)
๐ŸŒบ Batu Kawah Waterfront (view of the Batu Kawah River)
๐ŸŒบ Darul Hana Bridge (view of Sarawak River, Dun, and city lights at night)
๐ŸŒบ Sarawak Botanical Garden (flowers, fruit trees, plants, you name it)
๐ŸŒบ Reservoir Park (a walkable park surrounded by trees)


Art Galleries

Though the art scenes are less happening and highlighted (growing and evolving for sure!), here are a few spots where you can still appreciate the vibrant local art and paintings. 
๐Ÿ–ผ Hoan Gallery (local Chinese artists)
๐Ÿ–ผ Saradise (local artists)
๐Ÿ–ผ Think & Tink (depending on pop-ups)
๐Ÿ–ผ Haus Kch (depending on events/exhibits)


Long Drives

Cars are the means of transport in this city. Expect to explore more places to experience Mediterranean weather and food. 
๐Ÿš™ Damai Beach (Permai for kayaking to the nearby islands, getting on the flying fox and enjoying the beach)
๐Ÿš™ Lundu Beaches (Pantai Pugu Jetty, Siar Beach, Sematan Palm Beach)
๐Ÿš™ Telaga Air (View the blue ocean and enjoy some good coconut shakes!)
๐Ÿš™ Bau (Caves, Lake View, Bung Hikes, Siniawan Night Market)
๐Ÿš™ Serian Market (Enjoy the local kuih muih and durians when they are in season!), KLB Garden (Further up, you can drive to a mini zoo!)


Trails & Hikes

Need an adrenaline rush to escape the mundane life in the city? Here are some of the easy-to-moderate trails that I enjoyed and that are family-friendly! 
๐ŸŒณ Matang Wildlife Centre (visit the iconic orangutans and local wildlife)
๐ŸŒณ Gunung Gading National Park (a well-tarred trail that is easy on the legs, rafflesia can be seen here, personally my favourite park)
๐ŸŒณ Mount Singai (stairway trails, which lead to a more natural trail)
๐ŸŒณ Sama Jaya Forest Park (a city park where you can still spot monkeys and insects)
๐ŸŒณ Permai Rainforest Trail (a moderate trail for those who want a challenge)
๐ŸŒณ Batang Ai Dam/National Park (speed boat experience, natural hike, staycation at the rumah panjang)
๐ŸŒณ Baki Trail Point (an easy, family-friendly trail for city folks)

Picnic Spots

In need of a getaway for a fun yet chill gathering with your family or group of friends? 
๐Ÿงบ Jangoi River Lodge Padawan (rent your BBQ spot and enjoy the fun in the river)
๐Ÿงบ Ranchan Recreation Park Serian (set up your own mat and enjoy the view of the waterfall)

(BONUS) Overnight Stays On My Pending List:
๐Ÿ•๏ธ Borneo Keranji Farm (Plan an overnight stay to chill & relax)
๐Ÿ•๏ธ Sumiran Eco Park & Resort (Group stay) 

Do you see any location that ticks your fancy? It's a sign you should plan a visit soon!

All photos by Prisc

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