For travelers with a layover in Kuching, the proximity of KCH to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 60 minutes via Taxi / Ride-hailing (Grab), and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Kuching, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Malaysia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Kuching is roughly 60 minutes from KCH via Taxi / Ride-hailing (Grab). Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in MYR. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into Kuching
From KCH, the Taxi / Ride-hailing (Grab) gets you to Kuching in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Ride-hailing (Grab) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at KCH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kuching itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Kuching layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$6 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$21 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Kuching, two standouts are:
- Kuching Waterfront & Darul Hana Bridge — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Sarawak Museum Complex — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KCH, you can spend time at Plaza Premium Lounge KCH or try Sarawak Handicraft & Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
In Kuching
If you make it into town, Choon Hui Cafe (Sarawak Laksa) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Lepau Restaurant.
Inside KCH
If you’re staying in the terminal, Old Town White Coffee is your main option. Marrybrown KCH works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at KCH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Malaysia and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at KCH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Malaysia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kuching is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Kuching.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.