Perfect 5-Day Kuching Itinerary 2026 | Trip.com

Planning a Trip to Kuching? ✨Our Kuching Itinerary Guide is your ultimate companion for exploring the heart of Sarawak and making the most of your Borneo getaway. Whether you’re visiting for 3, 5, or 7 days, we’ll help you discover the city’s natural beauty, diverse cultures, and laid-back charm.

From exploring lush national parks and spotting orangutans to strolling along the scenic waterfront, visiting traditional villages, and tasting authentic Sarawak laksa, Kuching has something for every kind of traveler. With its rich heritage, friendly locals, and easygoing vibe, it’s no surprise Kuching is fast becoming one of Malaysia’s most loved travel destinations. 🏞️🛶🌿

Use this in-depth travel guide to create your ideal 3, 5, or 7-day Kuching itinerary based on your interests and travel style. Whether you're a nature lover, foodie, history enthusiast, or cultural explorer—Kuching is ready to welcome you.

✨Start planning your unforgettable Kuching adventure today!

Kuching Itinerary Overview

⭐ 3-Day Itinerary: Kuching Essentials

Day 1: Iconic Highlights
Begin your Kuching journey by exploring the charming waterfront and the vibrant Main Bazaar. Visit the Sarawak State Museum to learn about the region’s rich history and diverse cultures. In the evening, stroll along Carpenter Street and enjoy local Sarawakian cuisine at a nearby food stall or café.

Day 2: Culture & Nature
Discover the beauty of Kuching’s heritage by visiting the Kuching Cat Museum and the historic Fort Margherita. Spend the afternoon at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see orangutans in their natural habitat. End your day with a relaxing walk through the scenic Kuching Waterfront Park.

Day 3: Local Markets & Relaxation
Start with a visit to the vibrant Satok Weekend Market or the Sunday Open Air Market (depending on the day). Explore the nearby Kuching Orchid Garden and take time to unwind at the nearby Damai Beach or visit a local spa for a traditional treatment.

⭐⭐ 5-Day Itinerary: Deeper Kuching Exploration

Day 1–3: Follow the 3-day itinerary for a well-rounded introduction to Kuching.

Day 4: Hidden Gems & Village Life
Visit the charming Annah Rais Longhouse to experience traditional Iban culture and crafts. Head to the Bako National Park for wildlife spotting and jungle trekking. In the evening, explore local eateries at the Top Spot Food Court for fresh seafood.

Day 5: Food & Cultural Immersion
Take a guided food tour to sample Sarawak’s famous dishes like Sarawak laksa and kolo mee. Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about the state’s indigenous communities through performances and exhibitions. Finish your day exploring the vibrant street art and cafés in the Cat City.

⭐⭐⭐ 7-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate Kuching Experience

Day 1–5: Follow the 5-day itinerary for a perfect mix of culture, nature, and local life.

Day 6: Nature & Wildlife
Spend a day at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre or visit the Matang Wildlife Centre for more orangutan encounters. Take a river cruise on the Sarawak River and enjoy the scenic views of Kuching from the water.

Day 7: Day Trip Adventures
Choose a memorable day trip from Kuching:

🌿 Bako National Park for jungle trekking and wildlife
🏞️ Kubah National Park for waterfalls and rainforest trails
🏝️ Satang Islands for snorkeling and marine life
🏡 Bau town for historical sites and local mining heritage

Unforgettable 3-Day Itinerary in Kuching, Sarawak

Planning your first trip to Kuching? This 3-day itinerary is designed to give you the perfect mix of heritage, nature, and local experiences in Sarawak’s charming capital. From historical landmarks and delicious local food to rainforest adventures and sunset river cruises, Kuching offers a laid-back yet enriching escape unlike any other city in Malaysia.

Day 1: Discover the Heart of Kuching

Morning:
Start your day at the Kuching Waterfront, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Sarawak River. Visit the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly and the striking Darul Hana Bridge. Cross over to explore Fort Margherita, a historical site offering insights into Sarawak’s colonial past.

Midday:
Head to Kuching Old Town and wander around Carpenter Street and India Street Pedestrian Mall. These heritage streets are filled with traditional shops, local crafts, and Chinese temples like the Tua Pek Kong Temple. Stop for lunch and try local favourites such as Sarawak laksa or kolo mee.

Evening:
Explore the Sarawak Museum Complex, which houses the Natural History Museum and the new Borneo Cultures Museum. Wrap up your day with dinner at a riverside café and enjoy the vibrant night lights reflecting off the water.

Day 2: Culture and Nature in the City

Morning:
Begin at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, located just outside Kuching. Arrive early to catch the feeding time and spot semi-wild orangutans in their natural habitat.

Midday:
Return to the city and visit Sarawak Cultural Village—a living museum showcasing traditional houses and customs of Sarawak’s diverse ethnic groups, including the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu. Enjoy a cultural performance before lunch at the nearby Damai Beach area.

Afternoon:
Relax by Damai Beach or go for a nature walk at Santubong National Park if you're up for something more active. Alternatively, explore the creative side of Kuching with a street art walk around the city or visit a local gallery.

Evening:
Cruise along the Sarawak River at sunset aboard a traditional boat. It’s a relaxing way to view the city skyline. End your day with a seafood dinner at Top Spot Food Court, a popular open-air eatery known for its fresh local catches.

Day 3: Day Trips Around Kuching

Morning to Afternoon:
Choose a day trip based on your interests:

• Bako National Park – Embark on a boat ride to one of Malaysia’s oldest national parks. Hike jungle trails, spot proboscis monkeys, and marvel at unique rock formations along the coastline.
• Annah Rais Longhouse – Visit a traditional Bidayuh longhouse in the highlands, where you can learn about local customs, taste rice wine (tuak), and enjoy a village tour.
• Gunung Gading National Park – If you're lucky, see the rare Rafflesia flower in bloom and explore the lush trails and waterfalls of this rainforest park.

Evening:
Return to Kuching for a relaxing evening. Treat yourself to a traditional Sarawakian spa or foot massage, then head to a stylish café or rooftop bar for your final night in the city. Don’t forget to grab some local snacks or crafts as souvenirs before you leave.

Amazing 5-Day Itinerary in Kuching, Sarawak

Kuching is a city where rich cultural heritage, lush rainforests, and warm hospitality come together to create an unforgettable experience. This 5-day itinerary is crafted for those who want to explore more than just the city—offering a deep dive into Sarawak’s traditions, nature, and nearby adventures.

Day 1 & 2: Explore Kuching’s Icons and Culture

Begin your trip with the best highlights of Kuching, including:

• A riverside stroll along the Kuching Waterfront, crossing the striking Darul Hana Bridge, and visiting Fort Margherita for historical insights.
• Exploring Carpenter Street, India Street, and the Old Courthouse Complex—charming heritage areas filled with local shops, Chinese temples, and colonial architecture.
• Visiting the impressive Sarawak Museum Complex, home to the Borneo Cultures Museum and Natural History Museum.
• Experiencing local flavours like Sarawak laksa, kolo mee, and traditional kek lapis at local cafés.
• Taking a relaxing sunset Sarawak River Cruise or enjoying dinner at a rooftop or riverside restaurant.
• On the second day, travel just outside the city to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see rescued orangutans in a semi-wild environment. Later, visit the Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum showcasing the homes and customs of various indigenous groups in Sarawak.

These two days offer a perfect balance of city exploration, cultural depth, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Day 3: Bako National Park – Wildlife & Nature Adventure

All Day:
Take a day trip to Bako National Park, one of Sarawak’s most popular parks and a haven for nature lovers.

• Begin with a scenic boat ride from Kampung Bako to the park entrance.
• Explore jungle trails leading to secluded beaches, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Spot proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, and exotic plants such as carnivorous pitcher plants.
• Enjoy a packed lunch or eat at the park canteen before heading back to Kuching in the afternoon.
  Return in the evening for a quiet dinner and well-earned rest.

Day 4: Day Trip to Annah Rais or Gunung Gading

Choose your preferred cultural or nature-themed excursion:

Option A: Annah Rais Longhouse

• Visit a traditional Bidayuh longhouse in the highlands, around 1.5 hours from Kuching.
• Take a guided walk through the village, learn about local customs, and taste tuak (rice wine).
• You may also enjoy a refreshing dip in the nearby hot springs.

Option B: Gunung Gading National Park

• Explore this lush rainforest park, famous for the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower.
• Even if the flower isn't blooming, enjoy scenic jungle trails and cool waterfalls perfect for a quick swim.
  Return to Kuching in the evening and indulge in a relaxed meal at one of the city’s top seafood restaurants like Top Spot Food Court.

Day 5: Last-Minute Shopping and Relaxation in Kuching

Morning to Afternoon:
Spend your final day at a slower pace:

• Browse for local crafts, pepper products, and traditional textiles at Main Bazaar or Plaza Merdeka.
• Enjoy brunch at a stylish café in Padungan Road or Hikmah Exchange.
• Take a peaceful walk through Kuching Orchid Garden or unwind with a foot massage or spa treatment.

Evening:
Wrap up your trip with a sunset drink or dinner overlooking the Sarawak River. Try The Granary Kitchen + Bar or Lepau Restaurant for a modern take on local cuisine. Soak in the final views of this beautiful city as you reflect on your time in Sarawak.

Amazing 7-Day Itinerary in Kuching, Sarawak

Spend a full week uncovering the best of Kuching and its surrounding regions with a perfectly balanced itinerary that combines cultural exploration, wildlife adventures, scenic escapes, and peaceful local experiences. This 7-day plan builds on the highlights of the 3-day and 5-day Kuching itineraries, while adding off-the-beaten-path day trips and deeper cultural immersion.

Days 1–5: Kuching’s Icons, Culture & Local Life

Follow the 5-day Kuching itinerary, which includes:

• Historical landmarks: Stroll along the Kuching Waterfront, cross the Darul Hana Bridge, and visit Fort Margherita for a glimpse into Sarawak’s colonial history.
• Cultural depth: Explore Carpenter Street, India Street, and visit the Borneo Cultures Museum, one of the most modern ethnographic museums in Southeast Asia.
• Wildlife encounters: Visit Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see orangutans in a semi-wild environment, and take a full-day adventure to Bako National Park, famous for its proboscis monkeys and dramatic coastal landscapes.
• Ethnic heritage: Discover the traditional homes and lifestyles of Sarawak’s indigenous groups at the Sarawak Cultural Village, and enjoy cultural performances in a lush rainforest setting.
• Relaxation and shopping: Explore Main Bazaar for souvenirs and handmade crafts, unwind at a traditional spa, and savour local delicacies like Sarawak laksa, kolo mee, and midin belacan.

These five days offer a thorough introduction to Kuching’s natural wonders, rich heritage, and relaxed city rhythm.

Day 6: Off-the-Beaten-Path Excursion or Nature Escape

Option 1: Kubah National Park
Only about 40 minutes from the city, Kubah National Park is a nature lover’s paradise.

• Hike through rainforest trails rich with orchids, ferns, and pitcher plants.
• Visit the Matang Wildlife Centre nearby to see rescued animals including sun bears and hornbills.
• Take a refreshing dip at Waterfall Trail, a scenic spot perfect for cooling off.

Option 2: Siniawan Night Market (if visiting over the weekend)
Head to Siniawan, a quaint old town that comes alive at night with its iconic weekend night market.

• Stroll through heritage wooden shophouses glowing under red lanterns.
• Sample local street food like ayam pansuh, BBQ satay, and ice kacang.
• Enjoy traditional music and the relaxed village atmosphere.
  A great way to connect with local flavours and culture in a small-town setting.

Day 7: Leisurely Farewell in Kuching

Morning to Afternoon:
Spend your final day at a slower pace. Choose from:

• Brunch and café hopping in Kuching’s trendier areas like Jalan Padungan, Hikmah Exchange, or The Hills.
• A relaxing walk through Shinjuku Gyoen-like (in local spirit!) Kuching Orchid Garden or Rafflesia Garden (if in bloom).
• Last-minute shopping at Plaza Merdeka, The Spring, or Main Bazaar for handwoven textiles, Sarawak pepper, and kek lapis.

Evening:
End your journey with a memorable farewell dinner at a riverside or rooftop venue. Consider Lepau Restaurant for an authentic Sarawakian dining experience or The Granary Kitchen + Bar for a modern twist.

Raise a glass to your unforgettable Kuching adventure while watching the sun set over the Sarawak River—a perfect end to your week in this enchanting city. 🌅🌿🍲

Practical Travel Tips for Your Kuching Itinerary

Make your Kuching trip smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free with these practical and thoughtful travel tips:

🚗 Getting Around Easily – Kuching is a compact and walkable city, but the easiest way to travel between attractions is by using Grab, the popular ride-hailing app in Malaysia. Public buses are available but may not always be punctual or frequent.

🎫 Plan Ahead for Tours – For visits to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, Bako National Park, or Sarawak Cultural Village, it's a good idea to book in advance, especially if you want a guided experience or need transportation arranged.

👟 Dress Comfortably & Respectfully – Light, breathable clothing is ideal for Kuching’s tropical climate. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially for nature outings. When visiting mosques or rural villages, dress modestly to respect local customs.

🍽️ Dine by the River – Enjoy a scenic meal at riverside restaurants along the Kuching Waterfront or explore rooftop dining spots like The Granary Kitchen + Bar for a unique view of the city and river at sunset.

🍜 Must-Try Local Dishes – Don’t leave Kuching without trying Sarawak laksa, kolo mee, ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo), and midin (jungle fern). Head to Top Spot Food Court, Lepau, or local kopitiams for authentic flavours.

⛅ Avoid the Heat – Plan outdoor activities like park visits or long walks in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and stay hydrated throughout the day.

🎭 Cultural Experiences – Take time to visit a traditional longhouse, watch a cultural performance at Sarawak Cultural Village, or explore local crafts at the Main Bazaar. Engaging with Sarawak’s diverse ethnic cultures is a highlight of any visit.

🛍️ Smart Shopping Tips – For souvenirs, check out Main Bazaar for handicrafts, Satok Weekend Market for local snacks, and Plaza Merdeka or The Spring Mall for modern shopping. Look out for Sarawak pepper, kek lapis, and handmade textiles.

🌿 Best Time to Visit – Kuching is a year-round destination, but the drier months from April to September offer better weather for outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting. If you're planning to visit national parks, avoid the rainy season (usually November to February) for a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Accommodation in Kuching

Kuching offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every type of traveler—whether you're seeking a luxurious riverside retreat, a boutique cultural stay, or a comfortable budget-friendly hotel in a central location. From elegant hotels with views of the Sarawak River to heritage guesthouses and modern hostels, Kuching caters to all styles and budgets.

Each part of the city provides a different experience. Staying near the Kuching Waterfront puts you in the heart of the action, with easy access to historic landmarks, museums, local eateries, and river cruises. For those who enjoy artsy cafés and cultural charm, the Old Town area around Carpenter Street and Padungan Road offers boutique stays with heritage architecture and a nostalgic vibe.

If you prefer a quieter environment, Petra Jaya or Batu Kawa provide more peaceful surroundings, ideal for families or longer stays. For nature lovers planning to visit national parks like Semenggoh or Bako, there are eco-lodges and homestays available closer to these destinations, offering a more immersive experience.

Whether you're a solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family exploring Sarawak’s culture and wildlife, Kuching’s variety of accommodations ensures you’ll find the perfect base to rest, explore, and enjoy the city’s unique charm.

Kuching Itinerary

As our guide to the perfect Kuching itinerary comes to a close, we hope you’re inspired to explore the many layers of this charming and culturally rich city. Whether you're staying for 3, 5, or 7 days, every moment in Kuching offers a unique blend of heritage landmarks, indigenous traditions, flavorful cuisine, and serene natural beauty.

Kuching is more than just the capital of Sarawak—it’s a city where history and nature exist side by side, where colonial architecture meets rainforest trails, and where every street reflects the warmth and diversity of its people. Let Kuching surprise you, captivate you, and leave you with meaningful memories at every turn.