best place to visit in sarawak
On the Malaysian island of Borneo, Sarawak is a showcase of natural beauty and fragile ecology.
Perhaps nowhere else on Earth is the fragile and delicate balance between humanity and nature more evident than in the Malaysian state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Verdant jungles abound and roaring rivers weave a tapestry of unspoiled nature throughout the countryside, and while commerce and industry have gained ground, the movement for preservation is working in tandem to protect fragile ecosystems while maintaining the prospect of future economic growth.
The largest of the Malaysian states, Sarawak is the home of such diversity in flora and fauna that their threatened existence has resulted in the establishment of at least ten national parks. Here, rare species of animals and plants are sheltered in sanctuary and visitors have the opportunity to observe but not disturb these wonders. Gunung Mulu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the best-known of these parks. Attracting more than 120,000 visitors annually, the park is home to over 3,500 species of vascular plants along with 270 species of birds and 81 mammal species. The towering peak of Gunung Mulu, soaring approximately 2,377 metres (7,799 feet) above sea level, dominates the lush landscape, while caves, waterfalls and stunning vegetation are visible at every turn. The easiest way to reach Gunung Mulu is by flying into a regional airport in the northeast or taking a quick trip from the coastal town of Miri. There are several other national parks worthy of exploration scattered across Sarawak, including Loagan Bunut, Kubah, Bako, Niah and Tanjun Datu.
Many visitors are lured to Sarawak each year to catch a glimpse of wildlife that may be seen in their natural habitat nowhere else on Earth, including the orangutan and Borneo pygmy elephant. Bako is the oldest national park on Sarawak and is widely renowned for its population of proboscis monkeys.
Most visitors begin their exploration of Sarawak in the capital city of Kuching, the centre of local commerce and a focal point of the ethnic diversity that is readily apparent in the region. including indigenous native peoples and others of Chinese, Malay and varied origins. The city is served by numerous airlines flying from major cities across Southeast Asia: moderately priced and upscale hotel accommodations are readily available; and short, regional flights to more remote destinations are easily obtained. Kuching is nestled along the banks of the Sarawak River. Its name translates to English as ‘cat’, so varied locales within the city pay homage to the feline, including several museums. Transportation is always nearby, with taxis and cars for hire. Visitors may stroll the streets and experience the local sights and sounds, while examining crafts and wares from vendors and storefronts.
Adventurous visitors may choose to take a short air or river excursion t erior of Sarawak, experiencing native villages whose inhabitants still pursue the ancient ways of living, hunting and gathering for sustenance and residing in native longhouses. Book these excursions early and be prepared to negotiate challenging conditions, including hikes and crossings of uneven terrain.
The Gawai Dayak festival occurs each June. and is a popular event for visitors to revel in. Celebrating the harvest and the beginning of another prosperous year, the festival includes costumed dancers, exotic cuisine and a whole month of celebration.