The Astana or better known among locals as Astana Sarawak is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, the governor of Sarawak.
It sits proudly at the banks of the Sarawak river, impossible to miss from the Kuching Waterfront.
It was built in 1870 by the second White Rajah, Charles Brooke, as a wedding gift to his wife, Margaret Alice Lili de Windt.
The residence was originally three separate buildings, with each connected to the other by short and narrow passageways.
It has since undergone major renovations and alterations to become what it is today.
On 4th July 2023, it was confirmed that the Sarawak government is planning to turn the Astana into a museum which highlights documentations of previous Governors and Head of State.
What to expect
The palace not open to the public, but the landscaped gardens can be reached if you take a boat ride across the Sarawak River. This however is rather rare.
Below are some photos of the Astana from outside.
How to go to Astana Sarawak
The Astana Sarawak is accesiable by boat as well as land. To go here, just cross the Darul Hana Bridge from the Kuching Waterfront, and walk towards the Astana which will be on your left.
A map showing the location of the Astana can be seen below.
Opening hours
The Astana is not open to public and therefore do not have any opening hours.
More about Astana
If you need more details on the Astana, check out the links below.
