India Street Kuching is one of the oldest streets in the city.
Back in the mid-19th century, it was known as Kling Street before it was renamed to India Street in 1928. Today, it is a fully covered pedestrian mall. The glass roof protects visitors from the hot sun and heavy rain, making it a comfortable place to walk around at any time of the year.
Lined with old shophouses painted in bright colours, it is a wonderful spot to experience the old-world charm of Kuching.
Highlights of the Attraction
When you walk through the beautiful archway of India Street Kuching, you are welcomed by the smell of spices and the sight of colourful textiles. Here are the top highlights:
- Fabric and Clothing Shops: The street is famous for selling beautiful fabrics, traditional Malay clothes (Baju Kurung), batik, and carpets. It is a great place to buy materials for custom-made clothing.
- Aromatic Spice Shops: You will find old shops selling all kinds of Indian spices, herbs, and local Sarawak pepper.
- The Hidden Mosque: Halfway down the street, there is a narrow lane leading to the Indian Muslim Mosque (Masjid Bandaraya). Built in 1834, it is the oldest mosque in Kuching. It is hidden behind the shops, making it a peaceful surprise for visitors.
- Heritage Architecture: Take a moment to look up. The upper floors of the shophouses still show the classic British colonial and local designs from the 1800s.
Operating Time, Suggested Time to Spend & Dressing
- Operating Hours: Most shops open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. On Sundays and public holidays, some shops might close early or stay closed all day.
- Suggested Time: 1 to 1.5 hours is enough time to walk around, take photos, and do a bit of shopping.
- What to Wear: Dress comfortably in light, casual clothes, as Malaysia is warm and humid. If you plan to visit the hidden Indian Mosque, please dress modestly (cover your shoulders and knees).
Ticket Prices
Good news! Because India Street Kuching is a public walking street, there is absolutely no entrance fee. It is completely free to visit.
Getting There
India Street Kuching is located right in the centre of Kuching city.
- Walking: If you are staying near the Kuching Waterfront, Carpenter Street, or Plaza Merdeka, you can easily walk there in less than 5 minutes.
- By Car/E-hailing: If you are coming from outside the city centre, simply book a Grab ride and set your drop-off point at “Plaza Merdeka”. Once you step out of the shopping mall, India Street is just across the road.
Photo Gallery
(Photos coming soon)
Tips When Visiting
- Bargain Politely: If you are buying unpriced items like fabrics or souvenirs, it is normal to ask for a small discount. Always do it with a smile!
- Bring Cash: While many shops now accept e-wallets, some older stalls still prefer cash.
- Look for the Street Art: There are some beautiful murals painted on the walls in the small lanes connecting India Street to other roads. Don’t miss them!
Hotels Nearby
If you want to stay near India Street Kuching, you have plenty of great choices:
- The Waterfront Hotel: A modern, luxury hotel located directly above Plaza Merdeka, just a one-minute walk to India Street.
- The Ranee Boutique Suites: A beautiful, heritage-style boutique hotel located along the Kuching Waterfront.
- Tune Hotel Waterfront Kuching: A great budget-friendly option just a short walk away.
- Local Guesthouses: There are many affordable and charming guesthouses around Carpenter Street for backpackers.
Conclusion and Nearby Places to Visit
India Street Kuching is a lovely reminder of the city’s trading history and diverse community. It is a peaceful, covered street that offers great shopping and beautiful sights.
Once you are done exploring India Street, you are in the perfect spot to see more of the city! Just a few steps away, you can cool down at Plaza Merdeka Shopping Mall, or walk over to the Old Courthouse for a coffee.
You are also right next to the famous Kuching Waterfront and the historical Carpenter Street, making it very easy to plan a full day of fun in the city centre.
Need to know more about Kuching, or the rest of Borneo Malaysia? Check out the topics below to learn more.
