Things To Do
in Miri

Miri, Malaysia is a vibrant coastal city located in the northeastern part of Sarawak on Borneo Island. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Miri serves as a gateway to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Mulu Caves. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, influenced by various ethnic groups, and offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm.

With its beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and lively atmosphere, Miri attracts both nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Miri City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Miri Handicraft Centre to explore local crafts and souvenirs. Then, head to Taman Selera for breakfast by the seaside.

afternoon
:

Visit the Miri City Fan, a beautiful park featuring a lake and walking trails. Afterward, explore the Miri Heritage Centre to learn about the city's history.

evening
:

Have dinner at a local seafood restaurant and take a stroll along Miri’s beachfront to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take an early trip to Niah National Park to explore the famous Niah Caves and its historical significance.

afternoon
:

After your cave exploration, enjoy a packed lunch in the park and then visit the nearby Niah River for some scenic views.

evening
:

Return to Miri and enjoy a night out at the bustling Miri night market, sampling local street food and shopping for crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
Coffee$1-2
🚌Public Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20-30
🚕Taxi Fare (within city)$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable
  • Some areas may have language barriers
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Miri

Visit one of these nice places.

Miri Marina

A picturesque place to capture sunset views with yachts and fishing boats.

Lambir Hills National Park

Offers breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls, perfect for nature photography.

Miri City Fan

A beautifully landscaped park with unique structures and water features.

Culinary Guide

Food in Miri

Miri’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the region.

Miri Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Kandar

A flavorful rice dish served with various curries and side dishes, popular among locals.

Must-Try!

Kolo Mee

A dry noodle dish typically served with minced pork, spring onions, and fried shallots.

Sarawak Laksa

A spicy noodle soup with prawns, chicken, and a unique blend of spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Miri Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food options, including grilled skewers and local desserts.

Taman Selera Food Court

A popular spot with numerous stalls serving local Malaysian dishes by the beach.

Climate Guide

Weather

Miri experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round. The dry season occurs from March to October, characterized by less rainfall and clearer skies, while the wet season spans from November to February, bringing heavier rain and occasional thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders, using proper titles.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes when entering homes or certain establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Miri is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Healthcare facilities are available, but it's wise to have travel insurance for emergencies.

Tipping in Miri

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (March to October)

Expect sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Wet Season (November to February)

Frequent rain showers; plan indoor activities and be prepared for muddy trails.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

Festive celebrations with cultural events and special food offerings.

Hari Raya (varies)

A significant celebration for the Muslim community, showcasing local customs and food.

Nightlife Guide

Miri at Night

Miri has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and night markets. Popular spots include seaside bars offering live music and local pubs where locals gather. The Miri night market transforms into a bustling hub with food stalls and entertainment, providing a taste of local culture after dark.

Hiking in Miri

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lambir Hills National Park

An excellent hiking destination with well-marked trails leading to waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna.

Niah National Park

Famous for its caves, this park offers hiking trails that lead through beautiful rainforest and historical sites.

Airports

How to reach Miri by plane.

Miri Airport (MYR)

The main airport servicing Miri, offering domestic flights and limited international connections, located about 10 km from the city center.

Getting Around

Walkability

Miri is moderately walkable, with many attractions and eateries located within walking distance in the city center. However, certain areas may lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, so it's advisable to plan routes accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Iban

The Iban are one of the largest ethnic groups in Sarawak, known for their rich cultural traditions and longhouse communities.

Chinese Community

The Chinese community is significant in Miri, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity, particularly in business and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular among locals, with many amateur teams and community leagues.

Badminton

Badminton is a favorite pastime, with numerous clubs and facilities available for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Miri is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation is limited to buses and taxis, making it essential to plan transportation ahead for specific destinations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Miri.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, check for hidden meat ingredients.

Halal Food

Most local food is halal, but it's advisable to confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Miri includes public and private facilities, with the largest being Miri Hospital. Basic medical services are available, but for serious conditions, travelers may need to go to larger cities like Kuching or Kota Kinabalu for specialized care.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide