Castles & palaces
The Astana
The Astana
The Astana is the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak, located across the Sarawak River from the main city center of Kuching. Built in 1870, the palace serves as a government seat. While the interior of the building is not open to the public, visitors can cross the river to walk through the surrounding gardens and view the exterior architecture.
Getting There
To reach the palace from the city center, you must take a traditional boat (sampan) across the Sarawak River. The boat trip is short, typically taking only a few minutes to cross from the riverbank to the palace grounds.
Duration of Visit
Since access is limited to the outdoor gardens and the perimeter of the residence, most visitors spend approximately 30 to 60 minutes at the site.
When to Visit
Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. As the site is primarily an outdoor garden area, weather conditions in Sarawak may affect your visit.
Nearby Attractions
The palace is situated close to several other landmarks, making it easy to combine with other stops:
- Darul Hana Bridge (0.2km): A pedestrian bridge offering views of the river.
- Indian Mosque (0.3km): A local place of worship located a short distance away.
- Textile Museum Sarawak (0.6km): A museum dedicated to the region's weaving traditions.
- St Thomas's Cathedral, Kuching (0.7km): The city's main Anglican cathedral.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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