Kuching, the vibrant capital of Sarawak state, is famous for its unique blend of colonial history, indigenous culture, and rich wildlife. Surrounded by 5 waterfalls around the area, you can easily escape the bustling city life for a refreshing trip for some jungle hikes and swimming at the natural pond under the flow of water.

For residents of Kuching or travellers from other states or countries, here are the top 5 waterfalls in Kuching, perfect for a day trip in Sarawak, complete with hotel recommendations in Kuching.

Read More: 20 Things to Do in Kuching and the Best Hotels to Stay

You can enjoy a nice trip to trek the jungle and enjoy a refreshing dip at natural pools under the flow of water at these 5 popular waterfalls in Kuching and nearby spots in Sarawak:

Kubah National Park, spanning an impressive 2,230 hectares, is home to diverse endemic plants, wildlife, and the famous Rayu Waterfall. The park provides a well-marked scenic Rayu Trail, where visitors can safely and leisurely walk among the dense jungle to get to the waterfall.

Rayu Waterfall features a 10-meter drop cascading onto a wide rocky ridge. At the bottom lies a clear natural pool perfect for a refreshing dip or "waterfall massage". The waterfall is framed beautifully by vibrant hanging vines and dense ferns.

For a day trip well spent in nature, head to Susung Waterfall. Located about an hour drive away from Kuching to Bengoh Dam, visitors will then continue the journey with a peaceful 20-minute boat cruise across stunning emerald-green waters. 

After departing the boat, the guided tour will take you on a fun and scenic jungle trekking, with challenges like crossing traditional bamboo bridges and climbing rustic wooden stairs.

The waterfall itself stands roughly six storeys high. While the deep, spiraling currents immediately beneath the falls make swimming dangerous, the surrounding crystal-clear pools offer a perfect spot to dip your feet.

Arong Serait Waterfall is a hidden gem located in Kampung Selabat, about 17 km from Kuching. The waterfall features a beautiful two-tiered cascading drop framed by a lush rainforest backdrop. At the bottom lies a clear pool for hikers to take a refreshing, cool dip, after a jungle trek.

For hikers planning to spend the night under the stars by the waterflow, camping is allowed on Arong Serait Waterfall. You can ask the local guide/campsite management for info regarding location, tent rentals, and regulations. 

Located in Santubong National Park, a visit to Santubong Waterfall will take you on an accessible rainforest hike for less than an hour to reach the main falls, perfect for casual hikers. 

The main waterfall features a beautiful, multi-tiered cascade that drops into clean, crisp, and refreshing natural pools. The pool itself is a popular spot for bathing, cooling off after the hike. 

Gunung Gading National Park in Sarawak, is a premier eco-tourism destination that features a single, well-marked trail system that leads you past a series of three main accessible waterfalls. You can pick which level to suit your fitness level.

The first level (Waterfall 1) is located just 600 meters (about a 30-minute walk) from the Park Headquarters, and is highly accessible for beginners, families, and children. Whereas Waterfall 3 requires a 45-to-90-minute trek over steeper terrain for a medium-level hike, rewarded by a stunning viewpoint of the rushing waters.

Advanced hikers can continue the trek to reach Waterfall 7. This ultimate destination, located 1,650 meters (a 1.5 to 2-hour trek) from the base, will lead you through dense wilderness and dramatic, ancient fig tree formations to a secluded, powerful cascade as the finish line. 

Read More: Pantai Trombol: A Peaceful Beach Escape in Sarawak

For short trip or a weekend getaway in Kuching, spend your nights at one of these best hotels to stay in Kuching: 

Impiana by Roxy Hotel is located 10-minute drive from Kuching International Airport and about 5 minutes from AEON Mall and within a short walk or drive to Hills Shopping Mall and Jalan Padungan. 

A convenient hotel to stay, equipped with an in-house cafe and convenience store on ground floor, in-house restaurant at 2nd floor, and open-air balcony on every floor, to catch spectacular sunset scenery over Gunung Serapi. Book your stay starting from RM174/night.

Regatta, Kozi Square sits right next to Sarawak General Hospital and close to Timberland Medical Centre. The hotel is a short drive away to major landmarks such as Kuching Waterfront, Plaza Merdeka, and the Sarawak Museum.

The hotel is equipped with a rooftop infinity pool, fitness center, coin laundry, and on-site restaurant. For families traveling with kids, guests can also book the Family Room with a bunk bed starting from RM190/night.

Grand Margherita Hotel is positioned at Kuching waterfront, near local jetties where you can catch traditional tambang boats across the Sarawak River to explore colorful Malay villages like Kampung Boyan. 

You can book a room with a river view, starting from RM304/night via Traveloka, and enjoy the rooftop pool for a nice dip in the afternoon, overviewing the river and the city from above. 

Read More: 10 Best Things to Do in Bintulu, Sarawak in 2026

Pack your bags and head out this weekend, because exploring these top 5 waterfalls in Kuching is the ultimate way to experience Sarawak's wild and refreshing natural beauty and scenic rainforests.

Plan a trip to to explore the waterfalls near Kuching, Sarawak or anywhere else in the world with Traveloka, the #1 All-in-one Travel App in SEA, makes travel fun and effortless. Book flights, hotels, airport transfers, and attractions all in one place with the best price guarantee and 24/7 Live Agent Support. 

The charming "Cat City" is ready to capture your heart with its rich history, incredible food, and amazing views of the best waterfalls around Kuching and Sarawak. Experience it all while enjoying the best offer on all your travel bookings only at Traveloka.