Kuching Hotels and Accommodation

(Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia)

Kuching is divided into 12 small districts - grouped around the old city district, along the banks of the Sarawak River, all of which were villages overtaken by the expansion of the city or were formed to house incomers to the city as it became more prosperous.

Basic and inexpensive lodging in Kuching is found all around the city, even in the upscale areas and along the waterfront, and there is also a good selection of mid-range accommodation to be found. Upscale luxury hotels are concentrated in the city centre's 'golden triangle' and along the river bank, and more hotels are in the process of being built as visitor demand steadily increases.

Where to Stay

For a river view and serious self-indulgence, the group of top-drawer hotels including the Riverside Majestic, the Grand Margherita and the top-rated Hilton give the best of everything at a price. For a more colonial heritage-oriented feel, the upscale Merdeka Palace Hotel, the oldest in town, is set right next door to the Sarawak Museum.

Comfortable serviced apartments are provided at the Somerset Gateway Kuching. Although classed as mid-range accommodation, the Damai Puri Resort and Spa - on the beach and 30 km / 19 miles from the city, gives an experience you won't forget.

Mid-range hotels in Kuching, mainly aimed at the business traveller and tour groups, provide good basic, if smaller accommodation both in downtown and along the waterfront. A good example at this price level is the Lime Tree Hotel, with boutique-style rooms and suites placed adjacent to the Chinatown district.

Affordable lodging, guest houses and B&Bs catering for budget travellers are usually clean and pleasant places to stay, and are scattered across all areas of Kuching. The waterfront Singgahsana Lodge has traditional longhouse décor and ornaments, and the new Tune Hotel opposite the Hilton is part of a chain connected to Air Asia.