Making the most of a stay in Sarawak

Dec 1
10:49

2010

Sandhya Mahedvan

Sandhya Mahedvan

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In this piece we cover the Malaysian state of Sarawak in beautiful northern Borneo. Travellers will discover must see locations and learn more about the area's local people and history.

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Sarawak is by far Malaysia’s largest constituent state in terms of land area,Making the most of a stay in Sarawak Articles and it lies on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Borneo as a whole has territory belonging to both Indonesia and the Kingdom of Brunei as well as Malaysia. It is this diversity that contributes to Borneo’s rich cultural tapestry against the backdrop of a beautiful and secluded environmental paradise.

Many tourists are drawn here by the compelling local Malaysian people including the Bidayuh, Kelabit, Chinese and Malay inhabitants. Between them the natives have forged a strong and distinctive identity that stands out in a truly unique manner. Another strong influence exerted here is from Western cultures after long spells of partial English rule lasting right through to 1963.

Most of Sarawak’s quaint and inviting towns and villages are situated on higher ground inland as the coastline regions are dominated by wetland. It is these wetlands, however, that house some of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating natural habitats. In addition, there is the mountainous terrain of Sarawak in which you’ll find peaks like Mount Mulu, part of a mountain range some 50-90 million years old!

Sarawak’s largest and arguably most vibrant city is Kuching. This is also northern Borneo’s main international trade hub, with excellent transport links both within and outside other Southeast Asian nations. Parts of Sarawak are dense jungle and so the most popular means of localised travel is often by motorised canoe. In some cases light aircraft and even helicopters are used to reach less hospitable areas.

Perhaps Sarawak’s most prized asset is the Mulu National Park situated in Miri. Rightly recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is packed with lush, untouched rainforest and fascinating cave networks for the explorer in you! Part of the draw of visiting Mulu National Park is in the journey to reach it in the first place. This only adds to the location’s allure and appeal, but be reassured that visiting is well worth the effort. For those with an adventurer’s instinct this place is up there with the world’s ‘must-see’ destinations. No matter what your individual niche, you’ll find something interesting at Mulu, be it trekking, caving, climbing or camping.

Sarawak’s landscape and natural settings have been superbly preserved over millions of years to make a visit here one of the most authentic travel experiences on the planet. The Niah caves, for example, hold evidence of prehistoric man dating back an estimated 40,000 years. Nearby lies the earliest recorded settlement in all East Malaysia.

Borneo is a popular destination for those interested in conservation and environmentalism. With a truly unique mix of species here, Sarawak is also fascinating for nature enthusiasts. Wetland and habitat restoration can be an extremely rewarding activity for those seeking a break that makes a real difference!

Sarawak’s extensive coastline, although inhospitable for settlement due to wetlands, does possess some gorgeous and secluded beaches. The Damai beach is a particular highlight.

For those interested in a once in a lifetime holiday with a difference, Sarawak and East Malaysia as a whole is the place for you! It is particularly highly recommended for those with an explorer’s spirit and natural curiosity!