Things To Do
in Marudi
Marudi is a small town in Sarawak perched along the Baram River and surrounded by dense rainforest. It serves as the administrative hub of Baram District and a gateway to the interior for visitors exploring longhouses and jungle trails. The town blends indigenous culture with Malay and colonial influences, visible in its markets, mosques, and wooden storefronts.
While not a typical nightlife hub, Marudi offers authentic rural hospitality and a base for nature and cultural adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Marudi Airport and transfer to your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Malaysian dishes. Take some time to unpack and relax before heading out to explore the vibrant town.
Visit the Marudi Heritage Centre to learn about the local culture and history. Stroll along the riverside, observing the daily life of the locals and enjoying the views of the Marudi River. Stop for lunch at a nearby eatery, savoring authentic Sarawakian cuisine.
Dine at a local restaurant renowned for its seafood dishes. As the sun sets, enjoy a river cruise to take in the beautiful landscape and watch the twilight unfold. End your day with a relaxing walk along the waterfront.
Embark on an early trip to the Niah Caves, which are a significant archaeological site. Enjoy the scenic drive through lush green hills, with opportunities for photography along the way. Once at the caves, prepare for an exciting exploration of their vast chambers and ancient paintings.
After exploring the caves, hike through the surrounding rainforest, rich in biodiversity. Look for unique plants and wildlife while enjoying the sounds of nature. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty before returning to Marudi.
Return to town and unwind with a casual dinner at a local eatery. Try the famous 'Nasi Lemak' and other local specialties. Spend the evening chatting with locals and learning more about their way of life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🥪Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences with Indigenous communities
- Affordable travel in a developing region
- Access to pristine rainforest and river trips
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Authentic rural hospitality with fewer crowds
- Limited nightlife and nightlife infrastructure
- Basic healthcare in town; longer travel for specialized care
- Rough road conditions and limited transport to interior areas
- Limited dining options for specialized diets outside town
- Remote location requiring careful planning for longer travel times
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Could you help
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Saya vegetarian" - I am vegetarian
- "Boleh saya dapatkan menu dalam Bahasa Inggeris?" - Could I get the menu in English?
- "Apa nama tempat ini?" - What is the name of this place?
Places to Visit in Marudi
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light along the Baram River with fishermen returning to shore and silhouettes of boats.
Elevated spots near the town center offer a panorama of roofs, hills, and river activity.
Colorful wood-and-palm longhouses line the river—great for cultural portraits and street photography.
Bustling lanes with market stalls, locals, and teak storefronts for candid urban shots.
Food in Marudi
Marudi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iban bamboo-cooked chicken or fish seasoned with lemongrass and herbs, typically prepared in a bamboo container and shared among family and friends.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried midin (fern shoots) with garlic, chilies, and soy sauce for a crunchy, savory side.
A refreshing raw fish dish flavored with lime, onions, and chilies, commonly enjoyed with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market where locals buy fresh river fish, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Street-side stalls offering quick bites like noodles, fried fish, and greens—great for casual meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to elders; greetings with a nod or handshake are common.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages or religious sites.
Always ask before photographing people or inside longhouses; offer to share the photo.
Use the right hand for giving/receiving items when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Marudi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up bills or leave small tips for good service in hotels and guided tours.
Cash is widely accepted in Marudi; some shops and restaurants take credit cards or mobile payments in town. For remote areas, carry cash and small denominations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to August tends to be drier and hotter with higher humidity. Ideal for outdoor walks at dawn, river trips, and photography, but carry sun protection and water.
November to February brings heavier rainfall and potential river level rises. Plan with flexible schedules, carry rain gear, and be prepared for occasional floods in low-lying areas.
Marudi at Night
Hiking in Marudi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic trekking routes from Marudi toward the highlands, offering cloud forests and visits to remote villages.
Shorter jungle hikes suitable for day trips, with opportunities for wildlife and plant life observation.
Airports
How to reach Marudi by plane.
Small domestic airport connecting Marudi with Miri and Kuching, useful for quick access to the interior.
Main gateway to northern Sarawak with domestic and international connections; serves as a hub for longer trips.
Airport serving Gunung Mulu National Park area; convenient for nature-focused itineraries and multi-day treks into the interior.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest Indigenous group in Baram, known for longhouse culture, weaving, and riverine traditions.
Communities from higher elevations nearby, contributing to regional diversity and cultural events.
Smaller communities that support local commerce and provide cultural variety.
Communities from interior areas near Marudi with distinct customs and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and community centers across Sarawak.
A common pastime on local pitches and communal grounds.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport enjoyed at villages and during local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marudi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in market stalls and restaurants—look for vegetable dishes, tofu, and plain rice with greens. Communicate politely: Saya vegetarian.