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Main Bazaar

4.5
·26 reviews·Kuching, Malaysia

A bustling waterfront street in Kuching, famous for its vibrant craft markets, delicious local food, and unique Sarawak souvenirs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning to early afternoon

Shops close by 5 PM

CrowdMedium
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Home made chocolates

Main Bazaar

Best Time

Morning to early afternoon

Shops close by 5 PM

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling waterfront street in Kuching, famous for its vibrant craft markets, delicious local food, and unique Sarawak souvenirs.

4.5
(26 reviews)

"The most-visited place in Kuching, find the best Sarawak souvenirs, layer cakes, art, and antiques here."

Vertical photo
TIP

Taste Before You Buy :cake:

Sample the delicious 'kek lapis' from different shops before making your purchase. You'll find many varieties!

Shop for Souvenirs :gift:

Main Bazaar is the best place for Sarawak souvenirs, crafts, and clothing. Prices are often better than India Street.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kek Lapis Sarawak

Kek Lapis Sarawak

Various shops along Main Bazaar

Indulge in the vibrant, multi-layered Sarawakian cake. Sample generously before choosing your favorite flavor!

Sarawak Crafts & Souvenirs

Sarawak Crafts & Souvenirs

Main Bazaar stalls

Discover unique handmade crafts, textiles, and local art that capture the spirit of Sarawak.

Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Food stalls and eateries

Savor authentic Kuching flavors like Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge from long-standing local eateries.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Main Bazaar closes around 5 PM, so plan your visit for the morning or early afternoon to maximize shopping time. It's a popular spot, so expect crowds, especially on weekends.

Souvenir Savvy

This is your go-to for Sarawak souvenirs, from unique crafts and clothing to the famous 'kek lapis' (layer cake). Taste samples before buying, as quality and price can vary between shops.

Best Times

When
Morning to early afternoon
Why
Shops close by 5 PM
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Places to visit in Kuching, Sarawak ! Confirm tak menyesal #placetovisitkuching#kuchingsarawak #kuchingfoodie#jalankuching#travelsarawak#fyp
@fizaz119
10.9K likes • 728.5K views

Taste Before You Buy :cake:

Sample the delicious 'kek lapis' from different shops before making your purchase. You'll find many varieties!

Shop for Souvenirs :gift:

Main Bazaar is the best place for Sarawak souvenirs, crafts, and clothing. Prices are often better than India Street.

This hidden spot serve delicious kolo mee and yun tun! Operating for 20 plus years! 📍 Kolo Mee Yun Tun 🍽 Non Halal 🌍 Belakang Syn Wah Hui, Jalan Bazaar Kuching #MakanLokal #sarawak #supportlokal #Foodie #foodporn #food #kolomee #kolomeesarawak
@sarawak.foodie
10.4K likes • 301.4K views
Kalyan 02-01-2024 KALYAN RAJDHANI NIGHT MILAN NIGHT MILAN DAY MAIN MUMBAI MAIN BAZAR KALYAN NIGHT #kalyan #rajdhani #rajdhanight #mainbazaar #mainbazar #mainratan #dpboss #milanday #milannight #mpl #dream11
meena_matka_official
1.2K likes • 106.1K views

Arrive Early :clock:

The bazaar closes around 5 PM, so aim to arrive earlier in the day to explore all the shops.

Explore Nearby :world_map:

It's conveniently located near India Street and the Waterfront, perfect for a full day of sightseeing.

For business enquiry: 9619458960 Address : Shop No. 43, Main Bazaar, Kopri Colony, THANE (E) - 400603. #diwali #2025 #crackerbusiness #newbusinessidea #business #idea #offer #reels #market #explorepage✨ #businessowner #thane #business #market #clothes #diwali2025 #mumbai #navimumbai #viralpost❤️ #offer ( offer , Diwali’s businesses, only , offer , Mumbai , cracker , new business , idea , )
wholesale.wala_business_
3.4K likes • 168K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Taste Before You Buy :cake:

Sample the delicious 'kek lapis' from different shops before making your purchase. You'll find many varieties!

Shop for Souvenirs :gift:

Main Bazaar is the best place for Sarawak souvenirs, crafts, and clothing. Prices are often better than India Street.

Arrive Early :clock:

The bazaar closes around 5 PM, so aim to arrive earlier in the day to explore all the shops.

Explore Nearby :world_map:

It's conveniently located near India Street and the Waterfront, perfect for a full day of sightseeing.

Try Local Eats :food:

Don't miss out on local specialties like Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge from the eateries here.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(26 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Main Bazaar is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and wide selection of Sarawak souvenirs, especially the famous 'kek lapis'. Visitors appreciate the variety of crafts, clothing, and local food options, often finding better prices here than elsewhere. While it closes relatively early, it's a great spot for a day of shopping and sightseeing.

"Where you can find alot of kek lapis. Please taste all before decide where to buy. As every shop is nice to eat 😆. Found some sarawak clothes and souvenir here is cheap compare to India street."

Monica Liau

"Great place to shop, materials, spices shops of all sorts. Also near India street and the Waterfront. Great place to spend a day shopping and sight seeing."

Borneodaya

"The most-visited place in Kuching is the main bazaar, and it is here where you can find the best Sarawak souvenirs, layer cakes art, and antiques. I've been coming here for years and seen some of the businesses still thriving while Covid19 shuttered some of them.

Anyone visiting Kuching will definitely come here, and just to walk from one end to the other will take you about an hour, considering you stop to buy things. The place closes at around 5.00 PM, so please come early if you want to do shopping along Jalan Main Bazaar."

David “The Explorer” Hogan Jr

What People Like

Great souvenir shopping
Delicious Kek Lapis
Authentic local food

What People Dislike

Closes early (5 PM)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Main Bazaar is centrally located in Kuching, Sarawak, and is easily accessible by Grab (ride-sharing app) or local taxis. It's also a pleasant walk from many hotels and attractions along the waterfront. TikTok

Yes, Main Bazaar is very walkable and is situated right next to India Street and the Kuching Waterfront, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Reddit

The bazaar is a street lined with shops. Simply walk along Jalan Main Bazaar to explore the various stalls and eateries. It can take about an hour to walk from one end to the other if you stop to browse. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Main Bazaar is a public street market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore the area. Reddit

Most shops in Main Bazaar typically open in the morning and close around 5:00 PM. It's best to visit earlier in the day to ensure you have enough time for shopping. Reddit

There are no entrance fees for the shops themselves. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Main Bazaar is renowned for Sarawak souvenirs, including 'kek lapis' (layer cake), handmade crafts, local textiles, art, and antiques. TikTokReddit

You'll find numerous shops selling 'kek lapis' along Main Bazaar. It's recommended to taste samples from different vendors before deciding on your purchase, as each shop offers unique flavors and quality. Reddit

While some vendors might be open to negotiation, especially for larger purchases, it's generally a fixed-price market. However, it's always worth a polite inquiry. Reddit

Yes, Main Bazaar offers a good selection of Sarawakian clothing and accessories, often at competitive prices compared to other tourist areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

You should definitely try local Kuching specialties like Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge. There are several long-standing eateries serving these dishes. TikTok+1

Yes, many of the popular local eateries, especially those serving pork dishes like Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge, are non-halal. TikTok+1

Expect casual eateries and food stalls offering authentic local flavors. It's a great place to experience the local food scene. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant stalls, colorful 'kek lapis' displays, and the general bustling atmosphere of the bazaar make for great photo opportunities. The proximity to the waterfront also offers scenic views. TikTok

Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the general atmosphere and products. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their specific displays. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Main Bazaar offers a lively environment that can be engaging for families. The colorful displays of 'kek lapis' and souvenirs can capture children's attention. Encourage them to try sampling different cake flavors, which can be a fun activity. The proximity to the waterfront also provides opportunities for family strolls. TikTok

Keep in mind that the bazaar can get crowded, so holding hands and keeping a close eye on children is advisable. The closing time of 5 PM means you can easily fit a visit into a family's daytime schedule without it being too late for younger ones. Reddit

🛍️ Budget Travelers

Main Bazaar is a fantastic spot for budget-conscious travelers looking for souvenirs and local experiences. You can find a wide range of Sarawakian crafts, t-shirts, and fridge magnets at prices generally lower than in other tourist areas. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to try affordable and delicious local food like Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge from the street eateries. Sampling 'kek lapis' is also a budget-friendly way to taste local delicacies, as many shops offer free samples. TikTok+1

foodie Travelers

For food lovers, Main Bazaar is a culinary adventure. It's the place to go for authentic Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge, often prepared by vendors with decades of experience. TikTok+1

Don't leave without trying the famous 'kek lapis'. Take your time to sample various flavors and textures from different shops – it's a delightful way to discover the diverse tastes of Sarawak. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Kuching's Commerce

Main Bazaar, also known as Jalan Main Bazaar, is a historic and vibrant street in Kuching, Sarawak. For years, it has been a central hub for commerce, attracting locals and tourists alike. The street is lined with a diverse array of shops, offering everything from traditional Sarawakian crafts and souvenirs to delicious local food. Its proximity to other key landmarks like India Street and the Kuching Waterfront makes it an essential stop for any visitor exploring the city. Reddit

The bazaar's enduring appeal lies in its authentic local experience. Many businesses here have been operating for generations, showcasing a rich heritage of trade and craftsmanship. You can find unique items that reflect the culture and traditions of Sarawak, making it a prime location for finding meaningful souvenirs. Reddit

Beyond shopping, Main Bazaar offers a glimpse into the daily life of Kuching. The bustling atmosphere, the friendly vendors, and the aroma of local delicacies create a sensory experience that is quintessentially Kuching. It’s a place where history, culture, and commerce converge, offering a memorable visit for all. TikTokReddit

Culinary Delights of Main Bazaar

Food is a significant draw for Main Bazaar, with several local eateries serving up beloved Kuching specialties. Among the most popular are Kolo Mee and Pork Porridge. These dishes are often prepared using recipes passed down through generations, ensuring a taste of authentic Sarawakian cuisine. TikTok+1

Many of these food stalls are non-halal, catering to a diverse palate. Visitors are encouraged to sample the various offerings, as each vendor may have their own unique twist on these classic dishes. The casual dining atmosphere adds to the charm, allowing you to savor the local flavors in a relaxed setting. TikTok+1

Beyond these signature dishes, you can also find other local snacks and beverages. Exploring the food options at Main Bazaar is an adventure in itself, providing a delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture and culinary traditions of Kuching. TikTok

Shopping for Authentic Sarawakian Treasures

Main Bazaar is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to purchase authentic Sarawak souvenirs. The street is packed with shops selling a wide variety of items, from intricate handmade crafts and traditional Sarawakian clothing to unique art pieces and antiques. Reddit

A must-try and must-buy item is 'kek lapis', a visually stunning and delicious layered cake unique to Sarawak. The variety of flavors and designs is astounding, and it's highly recommended to sample from different shops before making a purchase, as each vendor offers a distinct taste and quality. Reddit

Compared to other tourist spots like India Street, the prices for souvenirs at Main Bazaar are often more competitive, making it an excellent place to find gifts and mementos. The experience of browsing through the stalls, interacting with local vendors, and discovering unique treasures makes shopping at Main Bazaar a rewarding part of any Kuching visit. Reddit

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