48 hours Escape to Miri, East Malaysia

Miri is a seaside town located in East Malaysia , the state of Sarawak. Not far out from Singapore, but usually requires a transit either via Kuala Lumpur or Kuching if one is flying into Miri. The fascinating history, rich culture, laid back lifestyle and breath of local cuisines is what attracts me to visit Miri for a prefect weekend escape. Here is what you can do in 2 Days 1 Night exploration of Miri.

#1) Seahorse Statue 

Being located near to the sea, this fishing village symbol naturally have to be associated to the sea. Every corner of Miri, one will bound to notice statue of seahorses. The best place to take in this iconic symbol of Miri would be at the Waterfront jetty, along the river side nearby Pullman Hotel Miri. The best time to come?  Sunset golden hours are truly magical as one will witness the sun setting in across the sea horizon in the background. Furthermore, right next to the Seahorse statue, there lies the word “Miri”. Another photo opportunity!

#2) Grand Old Lady 

Miri’s first drilled oil well also affectionately known as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ , is a historic monument and a place of interest on top of Canada Hill. Standing at a height of 30 meters, The Grand Old Lady is one of Miri’s many main places of interest and also act as an important monument in the history of Malaysia. There is a museum named the Petroleum Museum situated just next to The Grand Old Lady.

#3) Tua Pek Kong Temple 

Situated right next to the Miri Fish Market, the temple is easily accessible from the city centre. The highlight lies in 7m statue of Tua Pek Kong, erected as part of the temple’s beautification project, is touted as the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Personally, I like the rows of red lanterns hanging in the temple vicinity.

#4) Seafood Place 

Sample delicious seafood is a MUST in Miri.  The seafood here are relative cheaper than what one get in other bigger town in Malaysia (Ipoh, Penang, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur etc.) There are plenty of seafood recommend places but I had personally went to the air conditioned seafood place, where locals give good review.  <<Sea Village Restaurant>>  , Address: Jalan Pala, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia

It certainly did not disappoint me where I had ordered 4 dishes (Fish Maw Soup, Steam big prawns, Deep Fry Squid and Steamed Mussels) for 2 pax . Total damage at approximately amount of SGD$50 (Singapore Dollars)  / USD$38 (US Dollars).

#5) Borneo Heritage Handicraft Centre 

The best place to do local shopping, admiring the handicrafts made directly from the many tribal villages in the state of Sarawak is at Borneo Heritage Handicraft Centre, located within city centre.

#6) Saberkas Night Market 

A popular night market that opens every Tuesday to Sunday from 1600H to 2130H. Situated near Taman Bulatan Miri and Boulevard Commercial Centre, the strategic location that makes it a convenient go-to for Miri locals. You can shop for various goods such as local handicrafts, clothes and local products.

That is a wrap for places to explore in Miri if you have 2 Days 1 Night, making it a perfect weekend getaway. Alternatively, take a day trip to Niah National Park (about an hour’s drive). Explore the famous Niah Caves, which are rich in archaeological history.

However, if you have more time, the main tourist attraction that people comes for would be the exploration of Mulu Caves, the world most extensive cave system that includes jungle trekking, river rapids and visitation to Sarawak’s last nomadic tribes. I have written a post on exploring Mulu National Park, found in this link here.

Categories: Asia Region