Silversea Luxury Cruises A KUCHING (Sarawak)

The Sarawak state, which is the largest of 13 states in Malaysia, was once the seat of the White Rajah Dynasty, but now ruled by a governor appointed by the Malaysian king in consultation with the state Chief Minister. Kuching is the largest city in Sarawak. with a combined population of over 600,000 people, Here, a melting pot of Malays, Chinese, Indian and the indigenous groups work side by side to create a unique community.

Discover the charms of Kuching, a city is known for its cosmopolitan mix of cultures, cuisines and architectural styles, its vibrant café scene, and most distinctively, its giant cat statues. Kuching is named for the presence of its iconic cat statues; Kuching actually means "cat" in the Malay language. The city's emblem is called Putih, an enormous statue of a white cat that welcomes visitors at the entrance.

Departing the pier, drive 40 minutes pass the Putih cat monument, to the Tua Pek Kong Chinese Temple, the oldest temple in the city, for a quick photo stop of this striking place. Make the short transfer to the center of Kuching for a stroll through the downtown. Discover Kuching's rich heritage, filled with historic colonial architecture including the Square tower, the Old Court House and the Brooke Monument. Pause at the waterfront for views of the Golden Anniversary bridge, State Legislature building, as well as the historic Astana, the former residence of the White Rajahs before enjoying a refreshing drink. Time permitting, enjoy some free time to roam around Main Bazaar road.

Then, proceed to the Sarawak Orchid Park, a 15.4-acre. Located near the Kuching Waterfront, the park showcases 75,000 plants representing 82 genera of flowers including hybrids, cultivars or endemic species of Borneo. See the native State Flower, the Normah Orchid (Phalaenopsis Bellina), or just admire the colorful display of hybrid orchids. Besides the terrestrial and epiphytic orchids, learn about the carnivorous pitcher plants which receive nutrients from digesting insects.

After the orchid garden, make a brief photo stop of the Sarawak State Mosque, also known as Masjid Jamek. The mosque was opened in 1990 and is the largest mosque in Kuching accommodating 14,000 worshippers. Make the return trip to the pier.

Explore the architecture, traditions, music, and dance of Sarawak's multi-ethnic population during this scenic, half-day visit to the Sarawak Cultural Village.

Sarawak Cultural Village

Depart the pier for the approximately 45-minutes drive to the foothills of Mount Santubong, and a visit the 17-acre (6.9-hectare) Sarawak Cultural Village. Situated next to a manmade lake, the village was created by the Sarawak Development Corporation to promote and preserve Sarawak's cultural heritage. The site offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse culture and architecture of the 'Land of the Hornbills'. The village provides a good representation of Sarawak's major ethnic groups, including the Bidayuh, Ibans, Orang Ulu, Malanau, and Penans. Browse around the village and observe the inhabitants of the various houses displaying their pua-weaving and bead work skills in making traditional handicrafts. In addition, view traditional cooking methods, and how the Penans make blowpipes and other hunting instruments.

Cultural Show

After touring the various houses, proceed to the small theatre for a 40-minute cultural show displaying the various traditional dances of Sarawak.Videos and still photos may be taken during the show. Following the performance, the coach returns you to the pier.

Discover the architectural and natural splendor of Kuching on this lovely excursion that includes a scenic driving tour and an unforgettable ferry ride along the Sarawak River. With a combined population of over 600,000, Kuching is the largest city in Sarawak - the largest of 13 states in Malaysia. The city is known for its cosmopolitan mix of cultures, cuisines and architectural styles, its vibrant café scene, and most distinctively, its giant cat statues.

Depart the pier via coach to discover this unique city on a driving tour that makes a stop for photos at the Sarawak State Mosque, also known as Masjid Jamek. The mosque was opened in 1990 and is the largest mosque in Kuching accommodating 14,000 worshippers. . Stop also at the Waterfront for a photograph of the Old Court House, Brooke Monument, Astana, the Golden Anniversary bridge and the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly building. The Astana was built in 1870 by the second White Raja, Charles Brooke for his wife and is currently the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak. The Golden Anniversary bridge, on the other hand, is a unique curved 330 meter pedestrian bridge over the Sarawak River linking both sides of the riverbank. Capture impressive photos of the Legislature Assembly building, which stands majestically on 172 acres on the other end of the park with its distinctive "umbrella" roof.

Transfer 5 30 minutes from the waterfront to board a ferry for approximately one-hour cruise along the Sarawak River. Capture views of the above sights from a new vantage point, along with many other features of Kuching such as the Square Tower, floating Masjid India mosque and the Kuching City Mosque, a stately structure rebuilt in the same style as the original building from 1852 with its gold-gilded rooftops.

See remnants of the British Empire from your river craft and watch local boats go by; small sampan boats zig-zag across the river, providing alternative transportation for the local community while local fishing trawlers take a break by the riverbanks. Capture a glimpse of local life in the mix of industry with homes of the wealthy along the riverbank.

Disembark the ferry and make the 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Explore Kuching at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kuching at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kuching at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kuching at your leisure during your half--day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.