I crossed the river to see the Astana in Kuching. Little did I know this isn’t actually a tourist attraction as it is only open once a year to the public.
Boat across Kuching River
So make sure you check in advance before going! At least I got a couple of pictures of this nice palace from outside the gate.
The Astana through the front gate
The Astana is the most important historic building in Kuching and the name is a derivative of ‘istana’ meaning palace in Malay, it was a gift from Charles Brooke to his bride Margaret and built in 1870. For a 140year old building, it looked in very good shape!
Another quick tour to the colonial part of town to show my loyal readers the textile and handicraft museum. This colonial area is right in the middle between Chinatown and Little Lebanon (which has India street behind that too), a good example of Malaysian cultural diversity (all 3 of these photos were taken in the same spot).
Sarawak Craft Council
Entrance to Kuching Chinatown
Little Lebanon
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