If you haven't been to Batu Kawah Riverbank Park yet, you're missing out on one of Kuching's best new hangout spots. This place went from being just flood-prone land to an award-winning public park that locals are obsessed with. And honestly? I totally get why. [image: 1786241355110-batu-kawah-main.jpg] Source: KuchingBorneo What's So Special Here? The highlight has to be the Sky Bridge — or as locals call it, "The Frame of Batu Kawah." It's basically two 8-storey tall staircases with an elevator that gives you panoramic views of the whole park and river. Go at golden hour and watch the sky turn all shades of orange and pink. Then there's the Galaxy Tunnel — a lit-up pathway that looks magical at night. Plus the Seven Fairies sculpture, which is another popular photo spot. [image: 1786241355195-batu-kawah-riverbank-park-01.jpg] Source: Earthscape Inhabitant The Vibe It's got that relaxed, family-friendly energy. Families having picnics, kids running around the playground, couples jogging along the riverbank. One visitor on Trip.com said: "Very nice place to chill with family. The park is quite big, with plenty of space to walk around, relax, and enjoy the fresh air. Peaceful and clean." Another regular on Facebook mentioned: "This place is very serene and peaceful. There are quite a lot egrets flying here and there searching for fish. Monitor lizards also hanging around." Low-key wildlife spotting? Yes please. [image: 1786241355278-img_9368.jpg] Source: Borneo Architecture Journal What To Do There Walk or jog along the riverbank trails (15.6 acres of space) Let the kids loose at the playground Shoot hoops at the basketball court or hit the skate area Rent a sampan/kayak and paddle on the river Bring a picnic and just chill under the trees Sunset photography — seriously, this place is built for it [image: 1786241355349-batu-kawah-riverbank-park-02.jpg] Source: Earthscape Inhabitant Practical Info Lorong 2, Batu Kawa, 93250 Kuching (20-25 min from city centre) Open daily: 6am - 10pm (Sky Bridge: 8am - 10pm) FREE entry Google rating: 4.4/5 (671 reviews) [image: 1786241355422-img_9380.jpg] Source: Borneo Architecture Journal What People Are Saying Over on Wanderlog, a reviewer said: "Best place to bring your families and friends to hang out here. One of joggers' favorite place to jog or walk. Some can play basketball or skateboard." And honestly, that sums it up. It's not a fancy tourist attraction — it's a genuinely good public space that Batu Kawa residents can be proud of. [image: 1786241355483-kch-070124-sc-sim-p1.jpg] Source: Borneo Post My Take Honestly? This is what more Kuching neighbourhoods need. A proper riverside park that's clean, well-maintained, and actually fun to hang out at. The Sky Bridge alone is worth the drive out. Go in the late afternoon, catch the sunset from up high, then grab some food at the nearby Batu Kawa bazaar. Have you been to this park yet? Drop a comment and share your experience

If you're walking around Kuching city center, you've definitely seen this — the striking golden-domed Kuching City Mosque, also known as Masjid Bandaraya Kuching. It's one of those landmarks that you can't miss, sitting right in the heart of the city near the old town. This mosque isn't just for worshippers — it's open to visitors too, and honestly, it's well worth a stop if you're exploring the heritage area. [image: 1782699116420-mosque1.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons What makes it special: Masjid Bandaraya Kuching has a rich history — it was originally built as the Town Mosque (Masjid Bandar) way back in the 19th century, and was initially known as the "Pink Mosque" because of its original color. The current building you see today was reconstructed and expanded, now serving as the main city mosque for Kuching. The architecture blends modern Islamic design with traditional Sarawakian elements. The large golden dome and tall minarets make it a photogenic spot, especially during golden hour when the sunlight hits the dome just right. [image: 1782699116505-mosque2.jpg] Source: Flickr / mrlinsay What visitors say: On Google Maps, Kuching City Mosque has an impressive 4.8 rating from over 1,800 reviews — one of the highest-rated attractions in the city. Many visitors highlight how welcoming the mosque is to non-Muslims. One reviewer said: "It's beautiful and very well maintained. Non-Muslims are welcome to enter and take photos. The staff were very friendly." Another traveler on Tripadvisor noted: "The architecture is exquisite, with intricate details both inside and outside. The peaceful atmosphere is very calming, especially during prayer times." [image: 1782699116620-mosque3.jpg] Source: Mosqpedia Tips for visiting: Dress code: Modest clothing required. Women need to cover their hair — robes and headscarves are usually available at the entrance if you forget. Shoes: Remove before entering the prayer hall. Photography: Allowed, but be respectful — avoid taking photos during prayer times or of people praying. Entry: Completely free. Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Avoid Friday 12-2pm (Friday prayers). Location bonus: The mosque is just a short walk from Kuching Waterfront, Main Bazaar, and Carpenter Street. You can easily combine it with a heritage walk! [image: 1782699116768-mosque4.jpg] Source: Mosqpedia For Muslim travelers: The mosque has clean prayer facilities (male and female), shoe racks, and wudu (ablution) areas. There's also a prayer hall for women on the upper floor. The interior features beautiful turquoise-themed decoration, calligraphy panels, and large chandeliers. It's spacious and well-ventilated. Practical info: Jalan Datuk Ajibah Abol, Kampung No3, 93400 Kuching Open daily (until 9:30pm) 010-662 2029 FREE entry All welcome Have you visited Kuching City Mosque? What did you think of the architecture?