2025 Marudi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

### 🌟 Miri's Must-Dos ❗️ A city of oil, with rainforest on one side and the South China Sea on the other ❗️ Mulu Caves, a World Heritage Site + wild blue tears beach ❗️ A mix of Chinese, Malay, and indigenous cuisine, with incredibly low prices --- ### 🗺️ Itinerary **DAY 1: Journey to the Center of the Earth** Niah National Park → Archaeological Museum to see 40,000-year-old murals → Canada Hill viewing platform for sunset → Tamu Muhibbah night market for Sarawak Laksa **DAY 2: Rainforest Adventure Mode** Mulu National Park (Pinnacles + Deer Cave bat exodus) → Lunch: Indigenous bamboo rice → Afternoon: Lambir Waterfall diving → Night exploration of rainforest fireflies **DAY 3: Relaxing Beach Day** Tusan Beach seashell collecting → Lunch: Nasi Lemak with three-color milk tea → Afternoon: Bungai Beach hot springs → Durian Cendol before returning --- ### 📸 Instagrammable Spots 1️⃣ **Niah Caves "Church of Light"** ⏰ 10:00 Sunlight penetrates the cave's skylight! Wear a long red dress and stand in the beam of light to feel humbled by nature. 2️⃣ **Mulu Pinnacles** 🗡️ Capture an otherworldly feel like in *Avatar* in the morning mist. Hiking sticks and non-slip shoes are recommended (available for rent on-site for RM10). 3️⃣ **Tusan Beach Blue Tears** 💧 On moonless nights around the new moon/full moon, step into the waves to trigger the fluorescent blue! Adjust your camera to high ISO + 30-second long exposure. --- ### 🍜 Local Cuisine 🔥 **Miri Kolo Mee**: Dry noodles with pork crackling and char siu, try "Lao Lee Kee." 🔥 **Midin Fern**: Rainforest fern shoots stir-fried with belacan sauce, crispier than asparagus. 🔥 **Sarawak Layer Cake (Kek Lapis)**: Rainbow layered cake, DIY available at Coco Cabana. ❗️ Hidden Gem: "Uncle's Curry Stingray" food truck at the foot of Canada Hill. --- ### 🛏️ Accommodation Guide ✔️ Luxury: **Mulu Marriott Resort** (Rainforest treehouses + infinity pool facing Mount Mulu) ✔️ City Center: **Pullman Miri Waterfront** (5-minute walk to the seafood night market) ✔️ Budget: **Dillenia Guesthouse** (Mixed dorm RM35/night, easy to join group tours) --- ### 🚗 Transportation Tips ✈️ Fly from Kuala Lumpur/Kuching to Miri (around RM200, AirAsia often has promotions) 🚗 Grab within the city averages RM8-15, renting a motorbike for RM40/day offers more freedom. ⚠️ Warning: Book a small plane in advance to Mulu (MASwings, RM230 round trip). --- ### 💎 Unique Experiences ✅ Witness millions of bats emerging from Deer Cave at 5 am (one of the top 10 wonders of the world!) ✅ Participate in an Iban Longhouse Homestay and learn to blowpipe. ✅ Shop for black peridot necklaces at the Sunday morning craft market (bargaining starts at 50% off). ✅ Rent a kayak and explore the Sibuti mangrove forest (watch out for playful monkeys!). --- "Compared to the crowded Semporna, this is Malaysia's ultimate hidden gem!" A symphony of rainforest, caves, and fireflies awaits you. Come and press play 🌏

#hiddengems Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa Getting there - Sungai Melinau, 98008 Mulu, Sarawak Highlight - Located in lush rainforest of Borneo, by the Gunung Mulu National Park. Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa is an international class nature and activities destination, offering the best combination of resort activities, nature and comfort. #awesomepic Rating : 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Miri, located in Sarawak, Malaysia, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural diversity, natural beauty, and economic significance. Situated on the northwest coast of Borneo island, Miri is the second-largest city in Sarawak, serving as a hub for the oil and gas industry due to its proximity to offshore oil fields. The city's cultural tapestry is woven from various ethnic groups, including the Iban, Malay, Chinese, and other indigenous communities. This diversity is celebrated through festivals, cuisine, and traditions that showcase a harmonious blend of cultures. Visitors can experience the Gawai Dayak festival, where the Iban people celebrate their harvest and culture with dance, music, and traditional rituals. Miri's natural attractions are a major draw for tourists. The city is the gateway to Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karst formations, extensive cave systems, and unique biodiversity. The Piasau Nature Reserve offers a chance to spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife, while the pristine beaches along the coastline provide relaxation and water sports opportunities. Economically, Miri's significance is tied to its role in the oil and gas industry. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed the city into a key player in Malaysia's energy sector. This industrial growth has led to modern developments, infrastructure, and a thriving business environment. The city's skyline is marked by a mix of traditional architecture and modern structures, showcasing its transition from a small fishing village to a bustling urban center. Visitors can explore the Petroleum Museum, which traces the history of the oil industry in the region. In recent years, Miri has focused on diversifying its economy through tourism, agriculture, and education. Efforts to promote eco-tourism and preserve its natural wonders contribute to sustainable development. In essence, Miri, Sarawak, is a city that encapsulates the essence of cultural diversity, economic growth, and natural beauty. Its history, industry, and traditions form a tapestry that continues to evolve while embracing its roots. Whether exploring caves, enjoying local delicacies, or witnessing the fusion of tradition and progress, Miri offers a unique and enriching experience for both residents and visitors.

The toughest climb I've ever done. Yes it was more difficult than Mount K and more of mental challenge than anything. We trekked the 9km muddy trail to & from the camp5, survived the whole 3 days without the internet, went thru a complete mess of climbing up and down the Pinnacles, getting bruises on the legs and scratches on hands, and now having aches all over the body. Tired af but overall satisfied with the journey. #mulusarawak #pinnacle #climbingadventures

We were all hyped to be able to witness the beauty of the largest cave passage in the world. Just a walking distance of 3 kilometre from the lobby of Taman Negara Mulu. The place was huge enormous and gigantic. 2 kilometers in length and not leas than 90metres high and wide. The main chamber is 174 meters wide and 122 meters high. It is a home to 3 million bats of 12 species and deers always come here to eat guano- dropping of the bats that gove energy to these animals

we bid goodbye to Camp 5 and made our way to Kuala Litut. hiked at 8:14am for 9km & Alhamdulillah we made it for 2 hour and 19 minute boarded the boat & reached Taman Negara. we took the Rainforest Lodge (RM302 for 2 pax). we then unpacked, showered and nap before embarking on our next mission. 245pm Om brought us to Deer Cave. true beauty! this cave is the largest cave passage in d world. and it has sunk million years ago.

The day is finally here. nervous excited plus grateful because it wasnt raining that morning. if it rains, we can never hike because it is dangerous. if anyone wants to extend, it comes with extra cost woke up around 430am. breakfast at 550am (a simple but delicious) while Om the guide packed us fried rice as well. cut off time for first leg is 60 minutes. so off we went at 6.17am from Camp 5. Only 900 metre to meet Mini Pinnacle, but i cant lie how difficult it was plus slippery and sharp stones along the way. spent 15 minutes for break and taking pictures.

Gua Mulu Sarawak is an incredible destination that you definitely don't want to miss. Here are some reasons why you should visit: Jaw-Dropping Caves: Gua Mulu Sarawak is home to some of the most impressive caves in the world. The Clearwater Cave System, which is located in the park, is one of the longest cave systems in Asia and features breathtaking underground rivers, waterfalls, and rock formations. Unique Wildlife: The park is also home to a wide variety of unique wildlife, including bats, swiftlets, and cave-dwelling insects. If you're lucky, you might even spot a rare species like the Sarawak Chamber beetle or the Wrinkle-lipped Bat. Adventure Activities: If you're looking for adventure, Gua Mulu Sarawak has plenty to offer. You can take a guided tour of the caves, go river rafting or kayaking, or hike through the jungle to explore the park's many trails and waterfalls. Rich Cultural Heritage: The park is also steeped in local history and culture. The area has been inhabited by indigenous people for thousands of years, and you can learn about their way of life by visiting nearby longhouses or attending a cultural performance. Stunning Scenery: Finally, Gua Mulu Sarawak is simply a stunningly beautiful place to visit. The park is located in a remote and untouched area of Borneo, and you'll be surrounded by lush rainforest, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear rivers. Gua Mulu Sarawak is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. So why not add it to your travel itinerary and experience this incredible place for yourself?

within 3 min boat ride, we reached the next cave; Clear Water Cave (Gua Air Jernih). the plankwood passage near Gua Angin was closed during that time. if not its only within a walking distance. upon arriving we went for toilet break n eat. and off we went for cave exploration. OMG it was waayyyy stunning at Clear Water Cave. It is believed to be one of the largest interconnected cave systems in the world (dengan kewujudan subterranean river dalam tu). and the 9th longest (236.796km) cave in d world. as u walk around and along the cave, u wotness stunning view, endless cave tunnel, bright sky roof & nice rock formation.

within 3 min boat ride, we reached the next cave; Clear Water Cave (Gua Air Jernih). the plankwood passage near Gua Angin was closed during that time. if not its only within a walking distance. upon arriving we went for toilet break n eat. and off we went for cave exploration. OMG it was waayyyy stunning at Clear Water Cave. It is believed to be one of the largest interconnected cave systems in the world (dengan kewujudan subterranean river dalam tu). and the 9th longest (236.796km) cave in d world. as u walk around and along the cave, u wotness stunning view, endless cave tunnel, bright sky roof & nice rock formation.

While still cruising at Melinau River, the next stop Om broughts us to was Cave of the Winds just 8 mins from handicraft centre. The cave name is taken from the breezy wind that enters the cave from the grand entrance. Two important features of Gua Angin: 1. King's Chambers- it resembles the King and his soldiers 2. Sky Garden-ada sinkhole at the cave roof top my pictures don't do it justice but trust me you gonna love it. #mytripvlog #yearofrabbit

While still cruising at Melinau River, the next stop Om broughts us to was Cave of the Winds just 8 mins from handicraft centre. The cave name is taken from the breezy wind that enters the cave from the grand entrance. Two important features of Gua Angin: 1. King's Chambers- it resembles the King and his soldiers 2. Sky Garden-ada sinkhole at the cave roof top my pictures don't do it justice but trust me you gonna love it. #mytripvlog #yearofrabbit

⛳️ LAMBIR NATIONAL PARK, SARAWAK Entrance fee: RM10 (Adult/Malaysian), RM20 (Adult/Non-Malaysian) CHILD : FREE Around 30-45 mins drive from Miri City. Suitable place for picnic with family or friend. 10-15mins walk from main entrance to reach the waterfall. Recommend to wear suitable shoes, it quite slippery. If you’re looking interested in jungle tracking, you may prepared for mosquitoes repellent and be aware of leech. Small leech, you can’t even see then. So, don’t panicked aahahhaha Bring enough water too. The trail quite tough for first timer. #Lambir #miri #Sarawak

Two flights and a car ride and here you are at one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Malaysia! I personally like the route via Miri but you can get here via Kuching and KK too. My choice accommodation is in the park itself where everything is well maintained and resort-like. Heater, air-conditioning, electric kettle, comfy beds…it’s all available! Say goodbye to 4G connectivity unless you are on Digi (The locals are delighted that they can now watch YouTube uninterrupted with it.) ☘️ Walks, caving, climbing, boat rides, waterfalls…it’s all here. Just soak it in. The bat exodus is mesmerizing and discovering sleeping bats is so fun! The guides speak good English and are fun people. Visitors range from little kids to lil’ ol’ grannies. The nightwalk is a must (although photos are hard to take) as you might see sleeping birds, wild life and glowing fungi. There’s a cafeteria onsite but you can walk out to the park entrance for a few home-cafes. The food is simple and there is a good variety. Keep expectations to a minimum and you’ll be impressed! 😉 My #2023travelwish would be visit New Zealand south island and explore nature hikes there. The outdoors are therapeutic for urbanites like me. #2023travelwish #mulu #backtonature

Gunung Mulu located in preserve area in Sarawak.A must place to go for everyone. Most amazing cave I've ever visited so far. It's a famous cave system and also the natural beauty of millions year of rainforest. As a tourist alot of activities can be done here like jungle trekking, mountains climbing, flores exploring, bat exodus and so on. Please come to visit here one of the Malaysian wonders. Not forgetting to mention a very friendly Sarawak Ian particularly mulu community. #sarawak #travel

#celebratewithtrip The temple "Tua Pek Kong", a century-old ancient temple built-in the land reclamation period of Marudi since 1891. The temple has gone through 3 major fire disasters in the history of Marudi, and it has survived unharmed, surprisingly to many devotees. Worth to stop by if you are in Marudi. #marudi

#celebratewithtrip A visit to Marudi, a quiet riverine town in northern Sarawak, would be incomplete without a visit to Fort Hose. Fort Hose construction began in 1889 and completed in 1901 named after Charles Hose, who was appointed as Resident of the Fourth Division in 1891. The fort was built with belian hardwood which was very durable and until now the building still in good condition. It was built at the top of the hill along the Baram River. #marudi

Fantastic hotel that is well integrated into the Mulu park experience. The rooms are really nice with a balcony overlooking the river. It has all the amenities you expect of a modern hotel with a really comfortable bed and a super modern bathroom. We stayed for 2 nights as part of our Borneo Adventure to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. We were greeted at the airport by a Marriot staff member and transferred on the back of a truck - a great experience in itself! The greeting at reception was very warm and friendly and we were very pleasantly surprised to have a free room upgrade to a suite. The suite was huge with a separate living room, large bedroom, very nice bathroom, and large balcony with views to the river. The 2 tours to the caves conducted by the Marriot were excellent and we were lucky to see the bat migration on our first evening tour. The breakfast and dinner buffets were both good although it would be nice to have an al a carte option in the evening. Wifi is only available at the lobby and there are van shuttle service to Mulu Airport and also Mulu national park. #tripblazers #awesomepic #nationalpark

The famous Pinnacles’ at Mulu consist of a series of 45 meter high, razor-sharp limestone spikes that tower above the surrounding vegetation, mid-way up the slopes of Gunung Api. The trek to view them is one of the most popular in the park. But be warned, the Pinnacle Summit Trek is a tough and challenging one. The trail itself is very steep (near vertically parts) and requires a certain level of fitness. The Pinnacles Summit Trek is usually done as 3 day / 2 night trek. The first stage is a 1-2 hour boat trip along the Melinau River to Kuala Berar. If the water level is low, the boat has to be pushed over rocky sections so the trips takes longer. Base Camp 5 is relatively easy 7.8 km walk from Kuala Berar, following flat jungle terrain and taking 2-3 hours. Camp 5 is situated near the Melinau Gorge which separates Gunung Benarat from Gunung Api. There is hostel –style accommodation at the camp, and cooking facilities. The Melinau River in front Of Camp 5 is Crystal clear and ideal for a swim after the trek from Long Berar. The real hiking begins the following morning. The trails is 2.4 km in length but rises some 1,200 meters from Camp 5 to the viewpoint, passing through lowland dipterocarp forest before climbing steeply through moss forest. Here the trees are a lot smaller and everything is covered in slippery green moss. Limestone debris also litters the trail so trekkers must proceed with care. The last section of the trails near vertical, with rope section and 15 aluminums ladders strategically positioned to help with the climb. The vegetation is sparse although orchids, rhododendrons and pitcher plants thrive in the area, and can be seen at the side of the trail. After some tough climbing you finally come out onto a rocky outcrop where the stunning views provides a good reward for all the effort. The viewpoint area is made up of a number of Pinnacles, rocks and vegetation. After taking some photos and a short rest and a last glimpse of the Pinnacles, it is time to begin the descent back to Camp 5 and the second overnight stay. It is very difficult to put an exact time on how long it takes to trek to the Pinnacles’ viewpoint. Fit and experienced trekkers should be able to reach the top in 2-3 hours. The not so fit but to determine generally take around 4-5hours. Most people spend an hour or so at the top before coming down. For many the descent is actually more difficult and therefore takes longer, so the return trip can take anything from 5 to 10 hours depending on fitness level. #tripblazers #awesomepic #pinnacle

Cruise up the Melinau river in a longboat and visit a Penan longhouse & market at Batu Bungan. 2nd stop at Cave of the Winds where you have to negotiate a long ramp and a few stairs. 3rd stop Clearwater where the subterranean river emerges from the cliff face. Take 200 stairs to enter the cave to marvel at the Monophilia Pendula endemic to Mulu. Clearwater is one of the biggest cave systems in the world, measuring over 220km in length. Swimming inside the cave is not permitted, however a cool down in the natural crystal-clear waters at the picnic deck is a must. Float with the fish and enjoy the rainforest around you. #tripblazers #awesomepic #caves

#bucketlistreboot #hiking #miri #gooutside I’ve climbs quite a lot of mounts in Kuching, like the Santubong, Matang, Sentah, Gading, Singai, and etc. Some of the mount was really challenging when going up to the summit, but non of the mounts are as tough as the Lambir Mount. By far that’s the toughest one I’ve ever climb!!! When we go hiking on mountain trails, normally its just ascend, then descend. But if your at Lambir, its not consistent, you may ascend at start, then descend until the foot hill, then have to ascend again. Just when we tough its flat trail ahead, it surprise us with some hidden trails, some rope climb, some river crossing, or ascend a steep and long trail. We started our journey at around 7.15AM from Miri town, and it took us nearly ½ hour drive to reach the Lambir National Park. We paid RM10 each for the entrance fees, and off we go. Here I would like to highlight about the entrance, there are two. One it’s at the back of the hostel (1.5 KM to a checkpoint), and another one it’s at the main entrance at the front of the park HQ (2.2 KM to the same checkpoint). The differences are 0.7 KM, but this can save you a roughly one hour of very tough walking distant. My cousins and I don’t know about the short route, so we just ascend by using the main entrance. The hike was tiring and fun at the same time when you do it with family members who share your passion for nature!

Due to original flight cancelled, rerouted to alternative by transit to Mulu, before touching down, the greenish of the forest captured my attention, my eyes telling is so beautiful. short transit time, can’t go for any activity, just sit at the park restaurant, enjoying the chat with my friends and listening to group of travels sharing their happiness on the tracking experiences, sound of the inserts and river, all about natural. *line coverage is poor, choice is use of telco-Digi

#0yentravel When I visited Gunung Mulu National Park, I was able to feel the natural beauty of Borneo. What made a particular impression on me was the trekking course through the rainforest. As I walked through the jungle, the humid air, the chirping of birds, and the occasional wild animal sightings took me to a different world from my everyday life. There was a wide variety of plants, and I was surprised and excited every time I found a rare flower or tree. It was easily accessible from Mulu Airport, well-developed as a tourist destination, and the accommodation was comfortable. In particular, when I participated in a nature observation tour within the park, I was able to learn more about Borneo's ecosystem from a local guide, and I was able to feel its charm even more deeply. I think Gunung Mulu National Park is a place that nature lovers should definitely visit.

#0yentrip Deer Cave is known as one of the world's largest open limestone caves, located in Gunung Mulu National Park. I first walked through the jungle for about an hour to get there, and the rare plants and insects I saw along the way were very impressive. The entrance to the cave is so overwhelmingly large that it leaves you speechless. Once inside, you are enveloped in a mysterious atmosphere created by the vast space and stalactites. The bats that live in the cave fly out all at once in the evening, and the sight is truly spectacular. I was moved by the magnificent view of the sky covered with bats. It's a place where you can feel the power of nature, and I'm really glad I visited.

#johorbahrutrip This is the national park that took care of all the caves expedition in this area. Very simple and down to earth set up. Nothing fancy but things are well coordinated. You can approach the office to arrange guided tour and they are super friendly in explaining all the details to you. Guides are knowledgeable and helpful. Price for guided tour is reasonable too. We really enjoy our time here.I love this park, it is full of nature, animals and insects around. I recommend visiting the Deer Cave and watching the bat exodus in the afternoon. Also, it is better to go back to your hotel and leave the park before 7 or 8pm after you have finished your tour.

#johorbahrutrip The national park is deep jungle territory that is still mostly pristine primary forest. It is remote but worth a trip to be isolated in nature whilst still having a good mix of light/easy, intermediate and advanced activities within nature for all interests and capabilities via the national park HQ. Definitely worth ateast one 5 day visit. I would like to come back a. 2nd time to do a few more activities I never got the chance to do!

#springwander Borneo Restaurant in Mulu Marriott is the perfect spring dining spot, offering a sumptuous dinner experience nestled in the heart of a lush rainforest resort. Surrounded by nature’s tranquility, enjoy a delectable feast featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients. The open-air ambiance, combined with the sounds of the jungle, creates a magical dining experience, making it an unforgettable way to savor the beauty of spring in Mulu.

#springwander Visiting Mulu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an incredible spring adventure, offering a journey through breathtaking caves and lush rainforest. Explore its awe-inspiring limestone formations and immerse yourself in the beauty of vibrant spring flora along the way. Don’t miss the chance to drop a postcard in the cave’s unique first post box, making your visit even more memorable. This one-of-a-kind experience combines nature, adventure, and history, creating the perfect spring getaway.