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Activities & Experiences

Activities & Experiences

Malaysian Borneo Sarawak, Malaysia

Outdoor Adventures

Miri, and its surrounding areas, present many opportunities for outdoor adventure in its rich natural environment.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

  • Lambir Hills National Park: Extensive trail network for varying fitness levels.
  • Waterfall Trail (Lambir): An easy 1-hour walk, leading to pleasant waterfalls where you can swim.
  • Summit Trail (Lambir): A more strenuous trek, requiring several hours and good fitness.
  • Niah National Park: The main route involves boardwalks through the rainforest leading to the Great Cave.

Water Sports & Caving

  • Diving & Snorkeling: Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park boasts diverse corals and marine life.
  • Dive Centers: Several dive centers in Miri offer professional courses and guided trips.
  • Mulu National Park (Nearby): A short flight from Miri for more extensive and challenging caving expeditions.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Lambir Hills and Loagan Bunut National Parks offer excellent birdwatching.
  • Keep an eye out for various bird species, including hornbills.
  • Proboscis monkeys sometimes appear along riverbanks or mangrove areas.
  • Tour operators arrange specific boat trips for monkey viewing.

Mulu Wildlife via Miri

  • Daily flights from Miri make Mulu National Park accessible.
  • Mulu presents incredible wildlife experiences, including the famous bat exodus from Deer Cave.
  • Diverse birdlife and a vast array of insects and plants in its rainforest.
  • It also features challenging rainforest trekking.

Cycling Routes

  • Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited in Miri.
  • Cycling generally occurs on roads alongside traffic.
  • Mountain biking trails are not a prominent feature for tourists.
  • If you cycle, use caution due to traffic volume and driving habits.

Important Tip

For Niah Caves, a guided tour makes the experience better. A knowledgeable guide provides historical context and points out features.

Cultural Immersion

Miri presents opportunities to engage with Sarawak’s rich and diverse cultures, learning about traditions, arts, and community life.

Workshops & Classes

  • Craft Workshops: Miri Handicraft Centre or local cultural organizations may offer traditional craft workshops.
  • Hands-on Learning: These workshops present a hands-on way to learn about Sarawakian artistry.
  • Check Availability: Inquire locally upon arrival for current schedules and availability.
  • Music & Dance: Occasional opportunities to learn traditional music or dance.

Performances & Community

Cultural Performances

Check local event listings or the Sarawak Tourism Board’s calendar for cultural shows, more common during festivals.

Community-based Tourism

Formal initiatives are limited in Miri city. Some tour operators arrange ethical visits to Iban longhouses in the interior.

Language Learning

Formal short-term language classes for tourists are not widely available. Learning basic Malay phrases greatly assists interactions.

Borneo Jazz Festival

An annual international jazz festival held in Miri, usually in May, attracting local and international musicians and audiences.

Miri May Fest

The city’s anniversary celebration in May. It often features various public events, parades, and cultural showcases.

Gawai Dayak

The harvest festival of the Dayak people (June 1st and 2nd). It presents an unique opportunity for cultural immersion.

Relaxation & Wellness

Miri presents options for relaxation and wellness, allowing you to unwind after exploring its rainforests and city streets.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Hotel Spas: Major hotels like Miri Marriott Resort & Spa and Pullman Miri Waterfront offer professional services.
  • Standalone Centers: Several massage and reflexology centers provide affordable options for traditional Malaysian or Chinese massages.
  • Traditional Therapies: They present a range of treatments, from traditional massages to modern therapies.
  • Rejuvenation: Great for unwinding and refreshing yourself after exploration.

Other Wellness Options

Hot Springs/Natural Therapy

Miri lacks natural hot springs in its immediate vicinity. Natural therapy options limit to what local spas or traditional healers may offer.

Yoga & Meditation

Miri is not a prominent destination for yoga or meditation retreats. Some local yoga studios exist, mainly for residents.

Traditional Healing

Traditional massage (urut Melayu) and herbal remedies are part of Malaysian healing practices. Inquire locally if you have an interest.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Hotel Access

Some hotels grant direct beach access or large swimming pools. Miri Marriott Resort & Spa, for example, offers a resort-style pool area.

Coco Cabana

Located on the Miri Waterfront, Coco Cabana presents a relaxed, social atmosphere with cafes and pleasant views.

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Entertainment & Nightlife

Miri’s entertainment and nightlife present various options, from live music to late-night dining, mostly for a local crowd with some tourist-friendly venues.

Live Music & Performances

  • Live Music Venues: Some pubs and bars in the city center or along the waterfront feature live bands.
  • Theater Spaces: Limited, Miri City Fan complex amphitheater occasionally hosts public events or concerts.
  • Event Schedules: Check local listings for any scheduled shows during your visit.
  • Local & International: Bands often play a mix of local and international cover songs.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs

A few nightclubs operate in the city center, playing various music styles from pop to electronic dance music.

Bar Districts

Areas around Miri Times Square and certain sections of the waterfront feature clusters of pubs and bars.

Late-night Dining

Many hawker centers remain active into the night, providing food and a lively atmosphere.

Bar & Pub Scene

Good for relaxed evening drinks. You can easily walk between venues in these concentrated areas.

Late-Night Eats

Many hawker centers remain active into the night, presenting food and a lively atmosphere for late dining.

Socializing Spots

Nightclubs present opportunities for dancing and late-night socializing, mainly catering to a local crowd.

Nightlife Advice

Relaxed Evening
  • For a relaxed evening, visit the pubs and cafes around Miri Times Square.
  • You might find live music and a pleasant atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a quiet drink or social gathering.
Night Market Vibe
  • Hawker centers stay open late, offering food and a lively social setting.
  • Explore the bustling atmosphere of a pasar malam.
  • Sample a wide array of local flavors in one go.

Further Information

Miri does not have formal pub crawls organized for tourists. You can easily walk between venues in concentrated areas like Miri Times Square.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, souvenirs, and everyday items in Miri’s diverse shopping locations.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • Tamu Muhibbah (Central Market): Find fresh produce, local snacks, and some handicrafts daily.
  • Night Markets (Pasar Malam): Rotate locations weekly, offering street food, clothing, and household items in a bustling atmosphere.
  • Local Souvenirs: Good for authentic, locally made items directly from artisans or co-operatives.
  • Affordable Goods: These markets often present affordable options for unique finds and everyday items.

Artisan Crafts & Souvenirs

Miri Handicraft Centre

This center dedicates itself to demonstrating and selling Sarawakian handicrafts. It is a good place to buy authentic, locally made items.

Souvenir Recommendations

Consider Pua Kumbu (hand-woven textiles), wood carvings, Sarawak Pepper, or Kek Lapis Sarawak (layer cake).

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans directly; avoid items made from endangered species like certain shells or animal parts. Research before you buy.

Luxury & Boutique

  • Luxury and boutique shopping options are limited in Miri.
  • Shopping malls like Bintang Megamall and Permaisuri Imperial City Mall offer a mix of international and local brands.
  • These malls also house cinemas and food courts.
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Shipping & Customs

  • Major shopping malls may offer shipping services for larger purchases.
  • Inquire about customs regulations for your home country before buying significant items.
  • For US residents, consult the US Customs and Border Protection website for details on what you can bring back.
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Shopping Insight

  • Buy souvenirs at the Miri Handicraft Centre to guarantee authenticity.
  • This action also directly supports local artisans and their communities.
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Shopping Advice

Authentic Purchases
  • Buy your souvenirs at the Miri Handicraft Centre.
  • This guarantees authenticity and supports local artisans.
  • This action directly benefits the local community.
Market Exploration
  • Tamu Muhibbah is ideal for experiencing local life and finding unique produce.
  • Night markets (Pasar Malam) offer a lively atmosphere and diverse goods.
  • Find affordable clothing, accessories, and household items.

Additional Guidelines

When purchasing handicrafts, try to buy directly from the artisans or from reputable co-operatives to guarantee fair wages.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Highlights

  • Rainforest Treks: Lambir Hills and Niah National Parks offer diverse trails.
  • Marine Exploration: Diving and snorkeling in Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Birdwatching, proboscis monkeys, and Mulu National Park access.
  • Camping Options: Designated campsites in national parks for nature lovers.

Cultural & Urban Experiences

  • Culinary Adventures: Explore unique Sarawakian dishes at hawker centers and restaurants.
  • Cultural Workshops: Opportunities to engage with traditional crafts and arts.
  • Relaxation: Hotel spas and local wellness centers for massages and rejuvenation.
  • Local Markets: Discover authentic souvenirs and local products at markets.