Get ready. Your Instagram feed is about to pop with colourful images and memories you’ll remember forever. This is where Sarawak, located on the island of Borneo, comes into play—an exotic paradise with a harmonious balance between nature, culture and adventure that is sure to leave you mesmerized. Whether you are a frequent traveller or social media enthusiast, Sarawak is a gem that you would not want to miss out on.
Here are some of the most Instagrammable places in Sarawak that will have your pictures bursting with perfect visuals and memory.
1.Kuching Waterfront
Floating mosque at Kuching Waterfront makes a stunning backdrop for pictures
Source: iStock
A beautiful and lively promenade along the Sarawak River, Kuching Waterfront combines history, culture and a bit of modern flair. It's a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike, with breathtaking views and lots of things to do.
The famous Darul Hana curved bridge, with its colourful lights and the floating mosque, make a perfect backdrop for photos. Fort Margherita, a historical monument is a great location to capture the heritage of Kuching. The building’s colonial design lends itself to dramatic photography. Capture yourself together with the picturesque scenery of the river, traditional sampan boats and the vibrant atmosphere along the promenade.
2. Sarawak Cultural Village
Stand with the dancers in their traditional attire against a picturesque backdrop
Source: Sarawak Tourism Board
Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum located at the foothills of Mount Santubong, showcases the state’s cultural diversity, immersing visitors in the traditional lifestyles, architecture and customs of the various ethnic groups.
You can explore the traditional houses which are delightful for cultural images. Document dynamic, colourful performances of traditional dances and music. The Mount Santubong’s landscape is also lush and scenic. Keep a record of your traditional craft-making, such as beadwork and weaving. Dress up in native costumes and take a photo for your cultural palette.
3. Street Art and Murals
Capture yourself with The Early Mercers street art at India Street, Kuching
Source: Sarawak Tourism Board
Kuching is renowned for its vibrant street art and murals that add a splash of creativity to the city's urban landscape. These colourful artworks are scattered throughout the city, offering a visual feast for art enthusiasts and photographers alike.
The Early Mercers artwork at the entrance of India Street by Leonard Siaw adds a dynamic and lively touch to the bustling shopping street. Wander through the alleys of Kuching and discover hidden gems and unexpected artworks, which include the grilled cuttlefish hawker at Kai Joo Street, an old lady making red tortoise cake at Jalan Padungan, hornbills and sea turtles at Jalan Bishopgate, traders selling harvested bird nests at Jalan Carpenter and the girl with a kitten at the junction of Wayang Street and Bishop’s House. Imagine displaying yourself in framed pictures with these murals in the background.
Sibu has also embraced street art as a way to depict the life of its multicultural community and to celebrate its rich heritage. Here are some of the interesting street art spots in Sibu:
Impressive mural Dian Bian Hu stall and its owner at Jalan Tukang Besi
Mural by Brandon Tiong
A black-and-white street art displaying a group of people waiting at a bus stop, symbolizing multi-racial unity and harmony can be found in front of the Sibu Central Market. The 70s Old Bus artwork, situated on the side lane of Jalan Tukang Besi, reflects the town's history when the old bus was the main public transport in the 1960s and 1970s. Other intriguing street art features a Dian Bian Hu stall and its operator on the side lane of Jalan Tukang Besi, a labourer (coolie) who worked at the wharf during the 1950s and 1960s on Khoo Peng Loong Road, Chinese physicians and patients at Jalan Channel, delectable local delicacies at Market Road and fond childhood memories at Sibu Central Market.
These street arts not only add colour to the towns but also serve as a reminder of their unique history and cultural diversity.
4. Siniawan Night Market
An atmospheric vibrant weekend market at Siniawan Night Market
Source: chinesesarawaktourism.com
Siniawan Night Market is a bustling weekend market situated in a quaint, historic town near Bau, offering an authentic experience of local culture and cuisine. This charming market is lined with well-preserved wooden shophouses and comes alive during weekends with food stalls, traditional crafts and live music.
The atmospheric wooden shophouses with traditional architecture are a beautiful backdrop for photos. In the evening, the lanterns above the market light up for that magical and festive feel, perfect for evening shots. You can create deliciously photogenic content from the variety of mouth-watering local dishes and the way they are presented. Thanks to the endless strings of lights dangling throughout the bustling night market and lively crowd, you can easily capture dynamic and lively photos with ease.
5. Susung Waterfall, Bengoh Dam
Cherish the moments at Susung Waterfall and frame your memories
Source: Shutterstock
Located within a dense greenery and untouched mother nature is the Susung Waterfall of Bengoh Range. This waterfall with several tiers is located in the beautiful area of the Bengoh Dam, suitable for people who want an escape to nature to relax or for adventure.
Photograph the majestic beauty of the multi-tiered waterfalls, all of which have their own character and tranquil atmosphere. The clear natural pools at the foot of the waterfalls are great for refreshing dips and photos to frame. The diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest surrounding them make a lush, vibrant backdrop for stunning nature shots. The unique rock formations surrounding the waterfall also make for an interesting photo composition.
6. Tusan Cliff Beach
Rocky cliff and beautiful shoreline at Tusan Cliff Beach
Source: iStock
Tusan Cliff Beach, located in Miri, is a unique place characterized by its rocky cliffs and beautiful shoreline. You can see the South China Sea from this perfect location and capture lifelong memories.
The dramatic cliffs make for breathtaking landscapes and panoramic photos. The landmark Horse Head rock formation has fallen, but the beach still boasts unique rock formations worthy of snapping. When the sun sets, don’t miss out on taking romantic pictures. The pristine sandy beach and crystal clear waters lend themselves to lovely, tranquil beach photos. You might have the chance to capture the magical “Blue Tears” phenomenon on some nights when the bioluminescent algae illuminates the shoreline. It’s mesmerizing!
7. Mulu National Park
Stand with the Pinnacles at Mulu National Park for a spectacular picture
Source: Shutterstock
Located in Miri, Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit due to its amazing nature and diverse ecosystems. The Pinnacles, a jaw-dropping outcrop of razor-sharp limestone formations that climb perilously out of the forest floor, form the park's breathtaking centerpiece. For the fit adventure seeker, it’s evidence that you have conquered the hike to the imposing limestone pinnacles when you feature in the spectacular shots of the landscape.
Stand inside Deer Cave, one of the world’s largest cave passages, for impressive shots of its entrance and interior. Clearwater Cave, the longest cave system in Sarawak, with gorgeous rock formations and underground rivers, is a surreal photo op. Frame yourself on the Canopy Walkway, an exhilarating walkway suspended high above the forest floor with the rainforest as the backdrop. At night, photos of the park’s wildlife and glowing insects in their natural environment would add intrigue to your home décor.
8. Coco Cabana
Lovely waterfront restaurant with stunning sunset views at Coco Cabana
Source: kuchingsarawak.com
Coco Cabana located in Marina Bay, Miri, has a popular waterfront restaurant and bar that strikes the perfect balance between kicking back and a whole lot of beautiful scenery. A favourite among locals and tourists alike, Coco Cabana is known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood.
This bayside location offers stunning sunset views and is excellent for evening photography. The sparkling lights and relaxed vibe add dimension to the images. The clear waters provide a picturesque view for catching beautiful moments. Have your picture taken with the giant sea horse mascot next to the restaurant.
9. Tanjung Batu Beach
Ideal beach setting at Tanjung Batu Beach for photography of various activities
Source: iStock
Tanjung Batu Beach in Bintulu is a picturesque coastal haven renowned for its soft, golden sands and the clear waters of the South China Sea. This long tranquil beach offers a great spot for sunbathing, beach volleyball or flying kites.
You can also hike here. One popular trail is the Tanjung Batu Bintulu Beach Trail, which lets you walk or jog along the coastline while enjoying stunning views of the beach and the South China Sea. You might want to try the Tumbina Hill Loop, which begins at Tanjong Batu Beach and leads you through the Tumbina Hill area. This trail is known for its abundant greenery and variety of plant life. Be prepared for some steep and muddy sections during the rainy season.
The scenic beach is ideal for capturing the stunning colours of the sky as the sun sets over the South China Sea. Snap photos of yourself in action flying a kite on a windy afternoon, framed by the beauty of the sandy shores and gentle waves. Take action shots of swimming, beach volleyball or other water activities. You’ll appreciate the beautiful esplanade adorned with lush tall trees, verdant grass, pedestrian walks and lively food stalls; remember to capture these lovely moments.
10. Paku Rock Maze Garden
Capture amazing photos of unique karst rock formations at
Paku Rock Maze Garden
Photo credit: @qyshaa__
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Prepare to lose yourself in a maze of unique karst rock formations at Paku Rock Maze Garden in Bau. Delight in this historical marvel of a naturally formed stone forest that has undergone a lengthy geological evolution. Located behind the Shiwang Temple, this hidden gem was an undeveloped virgin stone forest covered with shrubs before 2021.
The labyrinth of stone paths, combined with the serene natural beauty of the forest, is excellent for photography. Stroll through this enchanting and captivating place, and you’ll find numerous spots to enrich your collection of striking pictures. Position yourself alongside the eye-catching rock and intricate stone structures for an engaging photograph. Capture and take home the tranquil moments of this natural wonder.
These spots are just a few of the many Instagram-worthy locations in Sarawak. Each offers a unique experience and stunning visuals that will make your photos and social media feed stand out. Besides the unforgettable memories and capturing those perfect shots, you can show your friends that you have visited those enchanting places in Sarawak.
Source: Sarawak Tourism Board