Sarawak

Land of the Hornbills. Ancient longhouses, the vast Mulu Caves, and the culture of Kuching.

Misty view of sharp limestone karst pinnacles rising above dense jungle vegetation in Gunung Mulu National Park, Borneo
Dramatic limestone pinnacles shrouded in mist at Gunung Mulu
Slimguy, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Introduction

Sarawak is Malaysia’s largest state and one of the most diverse destinations in Southeast Asia. Located on the island of Borneo, it is famous for ancient rainforests, unique wildlife, and the rich cultures of indigenous communities such as the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu. For many travelers, Sarawak offers a deeper and more adventurous side of Malaysia.

Most trips begin in Kuching, the relaxed capital city set along the Sarawak River. The city combines historic streets, waterfront promenades, modern museums, and easy access to nature. From here you can visit orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, trek through Bako National Park, or explore cultural traditions at Sarawak Cultural Village.

Beyond Kuching, Sarawak opens up into one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the region. Gunung Mulu National Park is home to some of the largest caves on Earth, while rivers like the Rajang connect remote longhouse communities deep in the interior. This guide covers the top places to visit, how to get around, and how to explore Sarawak’s rainforests, wildlife, and living cultures.

Top Attractions in Sarawak

Getting there and around

Information on how to reach Sarawak and how to get around once you're there is covered in a separate guide. This includes available transport options, entry points, and local mobility.

Sarawak Access Guide Coming Soon

Hotels

Accommodation options in Sarawak vary by area, price range, and travel style. A dedicated guide breaks down where to stay and what types of lodging are available.

Sarawak Hotel Guide Coming Soon

Restaurants

Dining options in Sarawak range across local food, casual eateries, and sit-down restaurants. For an overview of what and where to eat, see the full food guide.

Sarawak Restaurant Guide Coming Soon

About The Malaysia Guide

The Malaysia Guide is an independent travel guide reference written by locals for exploring destinations and attractions across Malaysia.