Waterfront Promenade

Kuching


The south bank of Sungai Sarawak along Main Bazaar and Jln Gambier is a lovely tree-shaded promenade, with walkways, lawns and food stalls. It's a fine place for a stroll any time a cool breeze blows off the river, especially at sunset. In the evening the waterfront is ablaze with fairy lights and buzzing with people as tambang (small ferries) glide past with their glowing lanterns. The views across to the Astana, State Assembly, Darul Hana Bridge and musical fountain are mesmerising.

Sunset river cruises (RM20) are a popular way to experience Kuching's waterfront. The water level is kept constant by a downstream barrage.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kuching attractions

1. Chinese History Museum

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Housed in the century-old Chinese Court building, this museum provides an excellent introduction to the nine major Chinese communities – each with its own…

2. Kucing Kucing

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Perhaps the nicest of Kuching's several statues of kucing (cats) is Gaye Porter's life-size bronze sculpture of playful felines cavorting on the lawn…

3. Tua Pek Kong Temple

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Tua Pek Kong, atop the red wedding-cake structure on Jln Padungan at the end of Main Bazaar, is the most popular temple in town for Chinese residents.

4. Hong San Si Temple

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Thought to date to around 1840, this fine Hokkien Chinese temple with intricate rooftop dragons was fully restored in 2004. There's a big celebration here…

5. Bishop's House

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Kuching’s oldest building, the Bishop's House was constructed – in 1849, with admirable solidness – by a German shipwright.

6. Hin Ho Bio

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It's easy to miss this temple, tucked away on the roof of the Kuching Hainan Association. Go up the staircase to the top floor and you'll come to a vivid…

7. Fort Margherita

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Built by Charles Brooke in 1879 and named after his wife, Ranee Margaret, this hilltop fortress long protected Kuching against surprise attack by pirates…

8. Kampung Boyan

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This sedate, old-time Malay kampung (village), filled with joyously colourful houses and a profusion of flowering plants, is a world away from the glitz…