6D5N Kuching Batang Ai Longhouse

<p>Arrival at Kuching International Airport, meet & greet by driver and transfer to check into Hotel. Rest of the day at own leisure. Overnight at Kuching</p>

<p>We begin with a visit to Sarawak Cultural Village – Popularly known as the ‘Living Museum’, the Village is a showcase of a kaleidoscope of Sarawak’s cultures and traditions. On arrival, you will explore the 7 authentic replicas of ethnic houses. Chinese Farm House, Malay’s Stilted House, Melanau Tall House, Penan Hut as well as Longhouse of the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu. Displayed in each house are the many artifacts made by the individual dwellers. Demonstration of arts and crafts like beadwork, wood and bamboo carvings, “Pua” weaving and straw weaving can be seen while touring the Village. You will also be entertained with 45 minutes of the traditional dances of the various ethnic tribes of Sarawak at the Village theatre @ 1130-1215 hours. Lunch served at a local restaurant followed by a visit Borneo Cultures Museum – Sarawak Museum was established by Charles Brooke the Second Rajah in 1860 and thanks to the great naturalist, Alfred Russell Wallace for his influence. They realized their intentions by setting up a temporary museum at the Market place, along Gambier Street Kuching in 30th October 1886. Later a proper museum was built at its present site and opened its door to the public on 4th August 1891. The museum grew slowly maintaining the indigenous pride, identity and tradition of our people, Sarawakians. It survived the Second World War. Even standing on a sounder footing when Sarawak gained its independence through the formation of Malaysia in 1963. As the result, Sarawak Museum enjoys the international recognition not only as a superb museum but also as a research centre in Borneo where Sarawak Museum Journals are published annually for the world circulation since 1910. Evening, join in the Sarawak Sunset River Cruise (1730-1900) – A cruise along the Sarawak River is a relaxing way to enjoy the various phases of the city and retrace the trip James Brooke made when he first arrived in Sarawak. You will sail past the Waterfront, Brooke Dockyard, the 100 year old Malay Kampung, Fort Margherita, Astana, Square Tower and the Industrial Estate. As you sail toward the sea colourful fishing boats will appear in abound and nearby Bako after the Chinese and Malay villages are the houses and mansions of Kuching’s affluent society. The constant changing of this living scenery gives you the best picture of the history and lifestyles in Kuching. After tour, transfer to Hotel for overnight. <strong>Overnight at Kuching</strong></p>

<p>Checkout and depart for Batang Ai Iban Longhouse (Nanga Mengkak Longhouse) by overland (approximately 5hrs+) passing through rural Sarawak, pepper gardens, rice fields and oil palm groves. We will stop at the colourful and native market in Serian town where a variety of jungle products such as edible ferns, bamboo shoots and unusual tropical fruits are on display. Continue journey and upon reaching Batang Ai Jetty, a native Iban longboat awaits you for an hour’s boat ride across the Batang Ai Hydro Power Dam – boat ride will journey through tropical rainforest to reach the Nanga Mengkak Longhouse, home of the Iban tribe. Relax on the ruai (common verandah) and spend time with the Iban people and understand their history and culture with beliefs. After dinner with Iban family, participate in the Warriors Dance (Ngajat), merry making and enjoy some local rice wine (Tuak & Langkau) <strong>Overnight stay at longhouse – multi sharing and please be prepared for slight discomfort due to basic amenities</strong></p>

<p>Wake up to the sound of birds and frogs. After a simple local breakfast but appetizing, get ready for the day’s long trek – The long trek will go through scenic jungle trails crossing steams/river and encounter a wide array of flora and fauna. You can partake in fishing and help to collect edible ferns and bamboo shoots for a Picnic Lunch inside the rainforest. Return to Nanga Mengkak on the same route. <strong>Overnight at longhouse – multi sharing and please be prepared for slight discomfort due to basic amenities</strong></p>

<p>After breakfast, witness a blowpipe demonstration, followed by a mock cock fighting demonstration. Depart from longhouse by longboat for an hour’s ride Continue by overland to return to Kuching. Lunch en route and visit Semenggoh Orang Utan Wildlife Centre. Unlike in a Zoo, the Orang Utans are set free in a 653 hectare forest reserve. Here, young Orang Utans, who were either orphaned or rescued from captivity, are trained to survive in the wild. Upon arrival at the Sanctuary, you will be able to catch a glimpse of the Orang Utans during their feeding time. Spot their delicate nests watch their skillful movements at the tree tops and also their interesting behaviour during feeding time (Feed time @ 1500 hours) Return to Kuching and check into hotel. Overnight at Kuching</p>

<p>Breakfast at the hotel Free at leisure until transfer to Kuching International Airport for your departure flight</p>