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Part of the state of Sarawak, the island of Borneo, Santubong represents natural beauty and cultural heritage combined with the allure of today. Spending time at this attractive destination, one will be granted landscapes, ancient history, and a touch of real local life.
According to a local folk story, the mountain used to be a beautiful princess. Together with her sister, Princess Sejinjang, it was believed that she was deities sent down the two warring villages to bring peace to them. But an argument did arise between them, and in a burst of anger this place hit Sejinjang with a weaving rod and Sejinjang counterattacked with a pounding block.
Hence, this place became the majestic mountain with the name of Santubong, while Sejinjang became the fragmented islands nearby.
Present Mount Santubong (Source: nst)
Santubong also holds significance for early human settlement and trade. Archaeological evidence shows that as early as the 7th century A.D., it was part of a thriving trading port where ancient civilizations of China, India, and Southeast Asia descended. Excavation has revealed influences of Hindu-Buddhist elements in this area, showing evidence of this place connecting early civilizations.
The nearby Sarawak River served once as an important conduit for traders, this place had been an important trading port during the Srivijaya empire-a strong maritime kingdom that once ruled most of Southeast Asia. Beads, pottery, and ancient tools have been unearthed, offering a window to the past for the inquisitive visitor.
The daytime temperatures range from 26°C to 32°C, and the temperature hardly varies throughout the year. Thus, it is relatively warm during the year. Relief can be sought during the evenings when it cools down, especially if higher grounds are visited, like Mount Santubong. The humidity remains high, which goes without saying in rainforest conditions.
For going on a hike up Mount Santubong, exploring jungle trails, or just engaging in beach activities, one should ideally go during the dry season, which starts from May until September. This is a time when the skies are clearer, and the waters are calmer, making it the most appropriate time for outdoor exploration due to low humidity
Best time to visit (Source: Freepik)
Those seeking to immerse themselves in the culture may consider visiting in July for the Rainforest World Music Festival, one of the iconic events in Sarawak. It is located at the foot of Mount Santubong inside the Sarawak Cultural Village and holds a gathering of indigenous musicians from all over the world for three days in July.
By Air: In order to reach Santubong, first travel to Kuching International Airport (KCH). The place is connected with major cities in Malaysia and a number of international destinations.
By Car or Taxi: The most comfortable and direct way to reach this place from Kuching is by car or taxi. Renting a car at the airport or hiring a private taxi is advisable. Kuching International Airport has several outlets for renting cars.
By Bus: Economical for the budget-conscious traveler, take a local bus from Kuching to Santubong. The cheapest mode of transport by buses, they are not as frequent and it takes a little longer because of stops along the way.
The crowning glory of the area is Mount Santubong, standing tall at 810 meters. It is challenging to reach the peak, yet very rewarding to have an experience of all-around views: the coastline, rainforests, and the South China Sea. Besides, while on this hike, one could spot striking waterfalls, marvelous vegetation, and wild animals.
Mount Santubong (Source: localguidesconnect)
The Sarawak Cultural Village is nestled at the foot of Mount Santubong and serves as a living museum, allowing visitors to experience the traditional lifestyles firsthand of the diverse ethnic groups found in Sarawak. One can breathe in everything from traditional village longhouses, catch the cultural performances, or even try one's hand at local crafts.
Sarawak Village (Source: Sarawaktourism)
At the foot of the mountain, just a short drive away, there is Damai Beach. With golden sands and tranquil waters, it is an ideal spot to swim, sunbathe, or simply see the picturesque sunset over the South China Sea after a day of trekking.
Damai Beach (Source: Expedia)
A different experience could be sought at Kuching Wetlands National Park, a mangrove forest ecosystem situated just near Santubong. The park provides a haven for wildlife such as crocodiles, proboscis monkeys, and several bird species. There is a possibility to make explorations of the wetlands by boat in order to get views of these animals in their natural setting.
Wildlife Cruise at Kuching Wetlands National Park (Source: goodtitevs)
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Not to be missed, the Laksa Sarawak is a spicy-sour noodle soup in coconut-based broth with rice vermicelli, prawns, chicken, and bean sprouts. It's full of spices and herbs, which are uniquely different from the rest.
Laksa Sarawak (Source: Lotusfoods)
Other local delicacies include Umai, a dish of raw fish marinated, originating from the traditionally consumed Melanau. The fish is cured in lime juice, onions, chilies, and other spices that give it this refreshing sour taste any seafood lover will love.
Umai (Source: airasia)
For a taste of the local leafy vegetable variety, try Midin that is mostly stir-fried with garlic and sambal, a spicy chili paste. The taste is simple but full of freshness to remind you of the bounty of Sarawak's rainforests.
Midin (Source: seravaborneo)
Exotically, there's the Manok Pansoh, a traditional Dayak dish of chicken cooked inside bamboo tubes with herbs and spices. This cooking method infuses into the meat an earthy flavor that just makes it truly memorable.
Manok Pansoh (Source: reddit)
If one desires a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, Santubong is the place to be. Let Asia King Travel plan your visit according to the season that suits your interest and make sure to dive right into the rich food traditions that define this pretty region.
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