Travel Info
Welcome to Kuching!
Welcome to Kuching, the charming capital of Sarawak on the island of Borneo. We are delighted you are joining us for the LSVT BIG Course Kuching organised by Kuching Parkinson’s Society (KPS) and Laila Stroke Care Centre (LSCC). Here are some practical travel, transport and local information to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
HOW TO GET TO KUCHING: Flights & Connections
Destination airport: Kuching International Airport (KCH)
Kuching is well connected with domestic flights across Malaysia and frequent services from Singapore; many international travelers connect via Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Singapore (SIN), Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN), or Kota Kinabalu (BKI). For direct pricing and schedules from your city, check major carriers and flight aggregators.
From Australia: There are no direct flights from Australia to Kuching – typical routing is via Kuala Lumpur (KUL) or Singapore (SIN). Check carriers for the best connections.
Arrival Tips:
- Aim to have your travel documents (passport, visa if required, course registration confirmation) ready at arrival.
- Kuching is in Malaysia Standard Time (UTC +8).
Airport to 56 Hotel (Block B):
- Grab (ride-hailing): Grab operates in Kuching and is widely used for airport and in-city transfers (app-based booking). Using the Grab app is usually convenient for solo travelers and small groups. https://www.grab.com/my/download/
- Taxis / Airport Shuttles: Metered taxis and hotel transfer options are available at the airport. Check with 56 Hotel or your chosen hotel for shuttle services when booking.
WEATHER & WHAT TO PACK: Month of July
Kuching’s climate is tropical. July is typically warm and part of the drier season – expect average daytime highs around the high 30s – low 20s °C, humidity and occasional showers. Light breathable clothing, a light rain jacket, sun protection and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
LOCAL TRANSPORT: Getting around Kuching
Grab (ride-hailing): The most convenient way to get around the city for individual travelers. It is simple to use and often cheaper than street taxis. Download the Grab app and set up an account before arrival. Payment can be made via cash or credit card. https://www.grab.com/my/download/
Taxis: Metered taxis operate in Kuching; negotiate or ask the driver to turn the meter on.
Car rental: Useful if you plan day trips outside the city (e.g. Bako National Park). Driving is on the left. To be safe and ensure smooth rentals and compliance, check in advance with your respective country’s transport authority on the necessity to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive in Kuching.
Public transit & tourist buses: There are local bus services and tourist shuttles. For bus services, you can check local timetables/schedules at these sites:
Useful Links
www.bemcgroup.com.my/city-public-link
www.busasia.my/biaramas-consumer/consumer/city-bus-schedules
FOOD & DINING: Kuching highlights
Designated as a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy in 2021, the first in Malaysia, Kuching offers a great food experience. Some of the local must try foods are ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo), midin (jungle fern), umai (raw fish), tuak (rice wine), Sarawak laksa, kolo mee, and tropical fruits.
TOP DAY TRIPS & ATTRACTIONS: Within easy reach from Kuching City
For brochures, maps and advice on local attractions and city tours, you can drop by the main Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in Kuching located at Sarawak Tourism Complex (Old Court House) at Jalan Barrack.
Kuching Visitor Information Centre
Business hours:
Monday - Friday, 9am - 6pm
Weekends & Public Holidays: 9am - 3pm
Kuching Waterfront and the Darul Hana Bridge
A scenic riverside promenade with food stalls, evening strolls, city views, and sunset watching. Great for an easy evening walk close to many city centre hotels.
Kuching Heritage Route
A 2 hour self-guided walking route that takes you through heritage sites such as the Old Courthouse, Textile Museum, Tua Pek Kong temple and Fort Margherita.
Borneo Cultures Museum
Located in the centre of Kuching City next to Padang Merdeka, it is the largest museum showcasing the rich natural and cultural heritage of Borneo through interactive, modern exhibits across five floors, featuring indigenous cultures, biodiversity and history with striking architecture inspired by traditional crafts.
Sarawak Cultural Village
A living museum that showcases Sarawak’s ethnic heritage; good for a half-day cultural introduction.
Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
Well-known orangutan rehabilitation centre with scheduled feeding sessions (mornings and afternoons). It is about 30-45 minutes from Kuching city centre; you can reach it by car, local bus or Grab. Check feeding times before you go.
Bako National Park
Famous for wildlife (including the rare proboscis monkeys), rainforest trails and coastal scenery. It is a popular day trip - drive or take a bus to Bako village, then a short boat ride to the park. Book in advance, if possible.
For enquiry or ease of booking local tours or if you wish to extend your trip and explore more of Sarawak, you can contact
Amansar Travel and Tours at https://amansar.com/
PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL VISITORS
Currency & Payments
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shopping centres. For markets and smaller vendors, carry some cash. ATMs are widely available.
Language
Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) is the national language; English is widely spoken in Kuching, especially in hotels and tourist areas.
Electrical Plugs
Malaysia uses Type G (three-pin rectangular). Standard voltage 230V, 50Hz.
Mobile & Connectivity
Local prepaid SIM cards (with data packages) are inexpensive and easy to buy at the airport or city shops. Major Malaysian telcos offer good coverage in Kuching.
Health & Safety
No special vaccinations are generally required beyond routine immunisations; however, check official travel health advice for updated guidance and any requirements. Drink bottled water if you prefer – tap water in larger hotels is typically treated but many travelers still prefer bottled. Always carry insect repellent for outdoor trips.
Visa & Entry
Visa requirements vary by nationality and may change – please confirm with your country’s embassy or official Malaysian immigration resources well before travel.
Local Etiquette
Sarawak is culturally diverse. Dress modestly when visiting places of worship or rural communities. It is polite to remove shoes when entering private homes or certain religious sites.