Must see sights in Kuching - Five places for the novice wanderer

Unless you are staying at a classy place like Citadines Uplands Kuching, a visit to the Astana, which was the residence of the White Rajah's of Sarawak would make you wish if you could find a place to stay in Kuching that is as amazing. It enjoys a scenic location on the banks of the Sarawak River and has been built according to the colonial style in the late 1800s. As the Astana is currently occupied by the Governor of Sarawak, you will not be able to see the inside of the place. However, the lawns and the gardens are a sight to behold. If possible, visit once again during the night to see the place lit up in all its grandeur.

Taking a stroll along the waterfront of Kuching, especially towards the evenings, is one of the best things to do in the area. The waterfront is the southern bank of Kuching River, which divides the capital into two. As the night falls, the walkway gets filled with hawker stalls and street food. It is about a km in length. If you are willing to spend a couple of hours here, you can start by visiting the oldest Taosit temple in Kuching, watch the sunset, and then have dinner the local way at a hawker stall.

Tua Pek Kong Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Kuching. It was built in 1843 and is located near the waterfront. The colourful exterior of the temple attracts many a visitor, even if they do not know the historical significance of the place. Very few people visit the temple, though, preferring to visit the more popular attractions instead. However, if you are a fan of culture, Tua Pek Kong Temple is a must visit, as it is the rightful entry point to the numerous annual festivities and cultural activities in Kuching.

Sitting proudly on the northern bank of the Sarawak River, Fort Margherita was built in 1879 by the Second White Rajah in order to fend off pirate attacks on the city. The Fort is named after his wife, Margaret. The Fort may not function as a stronghold against pirates today, but it is where Brooke Gallery is located. The Gallery is a place with historical documents, relics, and artefacts on the history of Sarawak, with a special focus on its functionality under the White Rajahs.

No tourist exploration of Kuching would be complete without visiting the Sarawak Cultural Village. It has an open-air museum, a traditional village, and a Rainforest Music House. It is the best place to understand the culture that enriched and created what you see in your daily wanderings around the city. There are many tours and programs that you can join in order to understand more about its ethos.