Ever wondered what makes Sibu the hidden gem in Malaysia? This charming town, often called the gateway to central Sarawak, boasts a captivating mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Below, you’ll discover nine must-see Sibu attractions that capture its true spirit.
Let’s dive in and explore why Sibu is a destination worth visiting!
Sibu Attractions
Sibu is famous for its vibrant blend of diverse cultures, scenic riverside landscapes, and unique local delicacies. Known as “The Swan City,” it sits along the mighty Rajang River, the longest in Malaysia, offering visitors a picturesque backdrop and a peek into the town’s trading heritage.
Sibu is also celebrated for its thriving food scene, with specialties like kampua noodles and kompia buns that attract food lovers from all over the world. Now, let’s delve into some of the must-see spots in Sibu that make this town truly unforgettable!
Sibu Attractions: Places to Visit
Here are nine famous attractions in Sibu that we just know you’ll love as much as we do.
1. Sibu Central Market
Sibu Central Market is Malaysia’s largest indoor market and is an absolute delight! Take a leisurely stroll through this vibrant market and discover a world of colorful stalls selling the freshest produce, exotic fruits, and traditional snacks like Sarawak laksa.
For the best experience, be sure to bring some small change, as most vendors only accept cash.
- Location: Jalan Channel, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Admission Fees: Free
2. Bukit Lima Nature Reserve
Bukit Lima Nature Reserve is an absolute must-see! It’s one of the most interesting places in Sibu, offering a tranquil escape into a world of lush greenery.
There are easy walking trails through a beautiful peat swamp forest, perfect for birdwatching and spotting unique wildlife. And don’t forget to pack insect repellent—it’s a must to keep mosquitoes at bay!
- Location: Lorong Sentosa 5, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Admission Fees: MYR 10 (USD 2.23)
3. Tua Pek Kong Temple
Tua Pek Kong Temple is an iconic Sibu tourist attraction known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Its vibrant red and gold details create a truly magical atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and admire the stunning view of the Rajang River.
If you want to capture perfect photos, be sure to visit in the late afternoon. It’s the ideal time to capture those memories without the midday heat!
- Location: Jalan Temple, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Daily, 24-hours
- Admission Fees: Free
4. Sibu Heritage Center
Sibu Heritage Center is the best place in Sibu to dive into the town’s rich cultural history. This small but informative museum showcases exhibits on local traditions, early settlers, and the town’s growth over the years.
Take your time exploring the interactive displays that tell the story of Sibu’s diverse communities. We suggest visiting on a weekday, when it’s less crowded if you want to enjoy a more immersive experience and more space to explore the fascinating exhibits.
- Location: Jalan Central, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Admission Fees: Free
5. Lin’s Swan Garden
Lin’s Swan Garden is one of the most picturesque attractions in Sibu, perfect for a leisurely stroll among beautiful sculptures and greenery. The highlight of this beautiful garden is a large swan statue with 12 zodiac animal statues placed around it.
If you visit in the evening, you’re in for a treat! The garden’s lighting creates a magical ambiance, making it the perfect spot to relax after a busy day exploring Sibu.
- Location: Persiaran Brooke, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: 24 hours, daily
- Admission Fees: Free
6. Jade Dragon Temple
After enjoying the tranquility of Lin’s Swan Garden, make your way to Jade Dragon Temple, another must-see among the things to do in Sibu. This stunning temple is adorned with intricate dragon carvings, vibrant colors, and detailed architectural designs that leave you in awe.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during Chinese New Year, you’ll be blown away by the temple’s beautiful lighting and the incredible celebrations that will make your heart sing!
- Location: Sibu-Bintulu Road, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Admission Fees: Free
7. Sungai Merah Heritage Walk
Looking for a journey into Sibu’s past? Sungai Merah Heritage Walk is one of the top Sibu attractions and places to dive into the town’s past.
Come along on this lovely riverside walk, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and learn about Sibu’s fascinating trading history. Along the walk, you’ll encounter well-preserved heritage buildings and traditional shophouses that harken back to Sibu’s early days.
- Location: Pekan Sibu, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Daily, 24-hours
- Admission Fees: Free
8. Bawang Assan Longhouse Village
After soaking in the history at Sungai Merah Heritage Walk, head to Bawang Assan Longhouse Village. Here, you can explore authentic longhouses and learn about the Iban people’s way of life.
If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, you’ve got to visit during the Gawai festival! You’ll get to enjoy traditional dances, music, and feasting. It’s a great example of what to do in Sibu for anyone seeking cultural insight.
- Location: Bawang Assan, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Admission Fees: MYR 170 (USD 37.93)
9. Sibu Night Market
You’ve got to visit Sibu Night Market if you want to experience delicious street food! Here, you’ll find a variety of snacks like ayam penyet, grilled satay, and the famous Sibu laksa. Beyond the food, you’ll find stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, and toys, making it a perfect spot for both foodies and souvenir hunters.
You’ll want to go with an empty stomach because the food stalls are just too tempting.
- Location: Jalan Market, Sibu
- Opening Days and Hours: Daily from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Admission Fees: Free
As you can see, these Sibu attractions offer a delightful mix of culture, history, and truly one-of-a-kind experiences. What do you think? Which spot are you most excited to visit? Click the button below to explore more and plan your trip with Airpaz!
