f you are planning a trip to our beautiful city, there is one place you absolutely cannot miss. The Sarawak River (also similar to visiting the Kuching Waterfront) is the life and soul of Kuching. For hundreds of years, this river was the main way people travelled and traded.
Today, it is a favourite spot for tourists and locals to relax, enjoy beautiful views, and feel the gentle river breeze.
Here is our simple guide to help you enjoy the best of the Sarawak River.
Highlights of the Attraction
The Sarawak River offers many fun things to see and do:
- Sarawak River Cruise: This is one of the best ways to enjoy the river. The boat takes you up and down the water, giving you great views of the city skyline, local villages, and important buildings.
- The Darul Hana Bridge: This is a beautiful walking bridge shaped like an ‘S’. It crosses the Sarawak River, connecting the north and south parts of the city. It lights up with bright colours at night.
- Traditional Tambang Boats: You will see many small wooden boats crossing the river. These are called tambang. Taking a short ride on a tambang is a classic Kuching experience.
- Famous Landmarks: From the river, you can clearly see the grand Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building with its golden roof, and the historic Astana (the former palace of the White Rajahs).
Operating Time, Suggested Time to Spend & Dressing
- Operating Time: The Kuching Waterfront and the Sarawak River are open 24 hours a day, every day. However, the Sarawak River Cruise usually runs in the late afternoon (around 5:30 PM).
- Suggested Time to Spend: You should plan to spend about 1 to 2 hours here. This gives you enough time to walk along the riverbank, take photos, and enjoy a boat ride.
- Dressing: Malaysia is hot and humid. Wear light, comfortable clothing like cotton t-shirts and shorts. Because you will be walking, make sure to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes or sandals.
Ticket Prices
Enjoying the view of the Sarawak River from the riverside or walking on the Darul Hana Bridge is completely free.
- Tambang Boat Ride: A quick trip across the river on a wooden tambang costs about RM 1.00 per person. You pay the boat driver directly.
- Sarawak River Cruise: If you want to join the sunset cruise, the ticket price is usually around RM 65.00 to RM 70.00 for adults, and about RM 35.00 for children.
Getting There
Getting to the Sarawak River is very easy. The best place to see the river is from the Kuching Waterfront.
- Walking: If your hotel is in the centre of Kuching city, you can easily walk to the waterfront in just a few minutes.
- By Car or Taxi: If you are staying further away, you can use the e-hailing app ‘Grab’ or take a local taxi. Just tell the driver to drop you off at the “Kuching Waterfront”. The drive from the Kuching International Airport takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Photo Gallery
(Photos coming soon)
Tips When Visiting
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Sarawak River is between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM. The weather is cooler, and you can watch a very beautiful sunset.
- Bring Protection: Always bring an umbrella. It can protect you from the hot sun in the afternoon or sudden rain showers. Do not forget your sunglasses and sunscreen!
- Safety First: When getting on or off the tambang boats, step carefully. The wooden steps by the river can be slippery when wet.
Hotels Nearby
Because the Sarawak River is right in the city centre, there are many great hotels nearby. Some of the most popular ones include:
- The Waterfront Hotel: Located right next to the river, offering amazing views from the rooms.
- Grand Margherita Hotel: Kuching’s first international hotel, just a short walk from the riverbank.
- Hilton Kuching: Offers great comfort and is very close to the best river viewing spots.
Conclusion and Nearby Places to Visit
Your holiday to our city is not complete without spending some time by the Sarawak River. It is a peaceful, beautiful, and historic place that shows the true charm of Kuching.
Once you are done enjoying the river, there are many other great places to visit right next to it! You can buy local crafts and souvenirs at the Main Bazaar, try delicious local food at Carpenter Street, or learn about our history at the massive Borneo Cultures Museum.
Need to know more about Kuching, or the rest of Borneo Malaysia? Check out the topics below to learn more.
