A Must Visit for Tourist to Kuching Sarawak
Sarawak Cultural Village is a living museum located in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. It is a must-visit destination for tourists who are interested in learning about the rich, diverse and unique tradition and cultures of Sarawak. The village is home to various traditional houses, each representing a different ethnic group in Sarawak. In this blog post, we will explore the different aspects of Sarawak Cultural Village and what makes this place so special that offers a unique and unforgettable immersive experience for visitors.
Once you arrive at the Sarawak Cultural Village, you will be greeted by friendly staff and taken on a journey through the diverse cultures of Sarawak. There are seven traditional houses in the village, each representing a different ethnic group in Sarawak.
You can explore these houses and learn about the traditional customs, music, and dances of each group. You can also watch live performances, such as the famous Sarawak Cultural Show, which features traditional dances and music from the different ethnic groups.
Sarawak Cultural Villages 7 Traditional Houses
The highlight of Sarawak Cultural Village is the collection of traditional houses. There are seven houses in total, each representing a different ethnic group in Sarawak. You’ll get to see authentic examples of Bidayuh, Iban, Orang Ulu, Penan, Melanau and Malay houses, as well as a Chinese farmhouse.
The houses are built using traditional materials and methods, furnished with authentic artifacts and decorations. They are designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and they reflect the unique cultural identities of each group. The houses are inhabited by locals who will explain the customs and traditions of their respective ethnic groups. This provides visitors with a rare opportunity to learn about the daily lives of the indigenous people of Sarawak.
The Bidayuh Longhouse, for example, is built on stilts and is made entirely of bamboo. The Bidayuh people believe that their ancestors lived in longhouses, and this tradition has been passed down from generation to generation. Visitors can learn about the Bidayuh’s way of life, customs, and beliefs by exploring the longhouse and talking to the locals.
The Iban Longhouse, on the other hand, is one of the largest traditional houses in Sarawak. It is home to several families, and visitors can learn about the Iban’s way of life, customs, and beliefs by talking to the locals. The Iban are known for their headhunting practices, which they no longer practice. They have a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about their traditional dances and music.
The Cultural Performances
Apart from the traditional houses, Sarawak Cultural Village also offers cultural performances that showcase the music, dance, and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Sarawak. Visitors can enjoy traditional dances like the ngajat and the hornbill dance, which are performed by locals dressed in traditional costumes. There are also musical performances that feature traditional instruments like the sape and the gendang. These performances are not only entertaining but also educational, as they provide visitors with a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak.
The cultural performances are scheduled throughout the day, and visitors can plan their visit accordingly. The performers are all locals who are passionate about preserving their cultural heritage. Visitors can interact with the performers, learn about their customs and traditions, and take photos with them. Participate in a traditional dance workshop: Learn some traditional dances and get a feel for the local culture by joining a dance workshop. You’ll get to wear traditional costumes and learn the moves from experienced instructors.
The performances are a great way to experience the local culture in a fun and engaging way, and they offer a glimpse into the traditions and customs of each ethnic group.
Sarawak Cultural Village Museum
The museum at Sarawak Cultural Village is also worth a visit. It features exhibits on the history, culture, and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Sarawak, as well as displays of traditional costumes, weapons, and musical instruments. The museum provides a deeper understanding of the local culture and the significance of the different traditions.
What Food to Try at Sarawak Cultural Village
No visit to Sarawak Cultural Village is complete without trying the local delicacies. Each ethnic group has its own unique cuisine, and visitors can sample them at the village’s food court. Some of the must-try dishes include the Sarawak laksa, which is a spicy noodle soup made with prawns and coconut milk, and the Manok Pansuh, which is chicken cooked in bamboo. Another must try local food is Kolo Mee, which is a dry noodle dish topped with barbecued meat and vegetables, as well as Nasi Lemak which is a fragrant rice served with fried chicken wings, small fish and special made chili paste (sambal).
The food court in Sarawak Cultural Village also offers a variety of traditional snacks and desserts that are unique to Sarawak, for example Kuih Lapis, which is a layered cake made with rice flour and coconut milk, and Kek Lapis, which is a colourful layered cake made with butter and flour.
Visitors can also participate in cooking classes where they can learn how to make traditional dishes like the Sarawak laksa or the chicken cooked in bamboo (Manok Pansuh). The cooking classes are conducted by locals who will teach visitors the techniques and secrets of Sarawakian cuisine.
The Souvenirs
Sarawak Cultural Village also has a gift shop where visitors can buy souvenirs that are unique to Sarawak. The gift shop offers a variety of traditional handicrafts, textiles, woven baskets, beadwork, pottery and other items that are made by the local artisans. Visitors can also buy traditional costumes and accessories that they can wear during their visit to the village. You may consider grab some souvenirs here to bring home with a beautiful memory while supporting the local artisans at the same time.
What other activities you can do at Sarawak Cultural Village?
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at some traditional activities, such as blowpipe shooting, weaving, or beadwork. There are also cooking classes available as mentioned earlier, where you can learn how to cook some of the traditional dishes of Sarawak.
Conclusion
Sarawak Cultural Village is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich and diverse cultures of Sarawak. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the rich culture and traditions of Sarawak. The traditional houses, cultural performances, local food, and souvenir shop make for an unforgettable experience. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who is interested in learning about the indigenous people of Sarawak and their way of life. If you’re planning a trip to Sarawak, be sure to include a visit to Sarawak Cultural Village in your itinerary.
The Best Time to Visit Sarawak Cultural Village
The best time to visit Sarawak Cultural Village is between March and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, always with clear blue skies and occasional rain showers. The peak tourist season is during the annual Rainforest World Music Festival, which takes place in July. During this time, visitors can enjoy mass scale live music performances by musicians and singers from all over the world, beside the cultural displays, and traditional food and drinks from around the world.
Getting to Sarawak Cultural Village
Sarawak Cultural Village is located about 35 kilometers from Kuching, the capital of Sarawak. It is about a 45-minute drive. Visitors can take a taxi or private car hiring services like Grab or other car to get there. Alternatively, there are also shuttle buses that operate from Kuching city center to Sarawak Cultural Village. The shuttle buses are convenient and affordable, and they operate throughout the day. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive there yourself easily.
Tips for Visiting Sarawak Cultural Village
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat as it can get hot and sunny.
- Bring cash as some of the vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Plan your visit ahead of time and check the schedule for the cultural performances.
- Respect the locals and their customs and traditions.
Hotel Accommodation Recommendation
If you’re planning to stay overnight in the Sarawak Cultural Village area or it’s vicinity, there are several hotels and resorts nearby that offer comfortable and affordable accommodations. Some famous hotels include Damai Beach Resort, Permai Rainforest Resort, and Santubong Village Resort. Besides comfortable hotel rooms, these hotels also provide free WiFi, delicious food, friendly staffs and don’t forget, the stunning views of the South China Sea.
Check out klook.com for the best priced hotels available here.
Where to Stay in Kuching
If you prefer to stay in city instead, then you can head back to Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak. Kuching is a vibrant city with a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some popular options include:
- Hilton Kuching: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Kuching and offers luxurious amenities and stunning views of the Sarawak River.
- The Waterfront Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located along the Kuching Waterfront and offers modern amenities and stylish rooms.
- Imperial Riverbank Hotel Kuching: This hotel is located in the heart of Kuching and just nearby Riverside Shopping Centre.
- Singgahsana Lodge: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Kuching and offers clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.