Discover Authentic Indigenous Life in Kuching’s High Mountain Cloud Villages
Whenever my friends from out of town express their desire to witness the breathtaking starry sky and a sea of clouds, I whisk them away to spend a magical night in the glass dome tent here (Figure 4). Nestled far from the city lights, I’ve had the pleasure of camping here nearly 10 times, each visit more enchanting than the last.
Kampung Sapit is a hidden gem, an indigenous tribal village once isolated, perched high on a mountain at the Malaysia-Indonesia border near Kuching. The journey up the mountain is an adventure in itself, with steep roads that make it advisable to use a four-wheel drive for a safe and thrilling ride.
The homestay experience here has only recently been developed, offering a blend of simplicity and comfort. While the facilities are basic, they provide essential amenities like electricity and water, along with basic kitchen utensils, allowing you to bring your own ingredients and cook up a storm. For a truly authentic experience, the homestay also offers traditional indigenous meals for an additional fee.
If you haven’t tried them before, this is your chance to savor the unique flavors. The combination of natural beauty and delicious local cuisine is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, something you can only fully appreciate when you’re there.
If you have some free time during the day, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby natural waterfall (Figure 8), where you can splash around and enjoy the refreshing waters.
Watching the clouds dance with the wind from the high mountains, whether under a blanket of stars or a sunny sky, offers a different and mesmerizing experience. On rainy nights, the temperature drops, making the morning sea of clouds even more ethereal. As the sun rises, its golden rays pierce through the misty forest, infusing the landscape with a vibrant energy. It’s a moment of pure connection with nature, a nourishing and rejuvenating experience that can only be felt by being there.
