Lawas
· MY

Lawas

Lawas, Sarawak, Malaysia

Lawas, located in the northern region of Sarawak, Malaysia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. This charming town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical…

#Lawas#Sarawak#Malaysia#rural town#Borneo
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Lawas.

Top Hotels in Lawas

Top Flights to Lawas

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Lawas.

Tours

Santubong River Sunset Cruise

A relaxing cruise along the Santubong River, perfect for those wanting to enjoy a beautiful sunset over Sarawak's coastal waters.

Limbang Esplanade

Experience the serene views of Limbang River and enjoy local food from nearby food stalls.

Shopping

Lawas Market Visit

Browse through the local market, featuring fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and other local goods.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Lawas.

Currency
RM | MYR | Malaysian Ringgit
Population
46200.0
Languages
Malay, Malay, Kedayan, Bisaya, Chinese
Average weather
Lawas
Jan
rain
30°23°
Feb
rain
31°23°
Mar
rain
31°23°
Apr
rain
32°24°
May
rain
32°24°
Jun
rain
32°24°
Jul
rain
32°24°
Aug
rain
32°24°
Sep
rain
31°24°
Oct
rain
31°24°
Nov
rain
31°24°
Dec
rain
30°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Lawas.

What people love

Lawas, located in Sarawak, Malaysia, is a lesser-known destination that offers unique and exciting experiences for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Lawas include:

  1. Authentic Cultural Experience: Lawas is a place where you can immerse yourself in the local culture of the Lun Bawang and Kelabit ethnic groups. You can witness traditional dances, music, and rituals, as well as visit local markets to interact with the friendly locals.

  2. Natural Beauty: Lawas is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lush forests. You can explore the area through trekking, hiking, or even river cruising to discover waterfalls, caves, and wildlife.

  3. Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination: Lawas is not as heavily visited by tourists compared to other parts of Sarawak, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a more authentic and less crowded experience.

  4. Adventure Activities: In Lawas, you can engage in various outdoor activities such as jungle trekking, bird watching, fishing, and even visiting the nearby Batu Danau Lake for water sports.

  5. Local Cuisine: Lawas offers a taste of traditional Sarawakian cuisine, including dishes that are unique to the region. You can enjoy local delicacies such as bamboo chicken, wild boar curry, and other flavorful dishes.

Overall, traveling to Lawas can provide you with a memorable and enriching experience, allowing you to connect with nature, culture, and the local community in a more intimate setting.

So, if you are looking for a destination that offers a mix of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and adventure, consider visiting Lawas in Sarawak, Malaysia.

What to know

Traveling to Lawas, located in Sarawak, Malaysia, can be a unique experience, but there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

  1. Limited Accessibility: Lawas is relatively remote compared to more urban areas in Malaysia. While there are flights to Lawas Airport, they are limited and typically involve small aircraft. Overland travel can be challenging due to the region's geography and weather conditions, particularly during the rainy season when roads may become difficult to navigate.

  2. Infrastructure and Amenities: Being a smaller town, Lawas may not have the extensive infrastructure or amenities that travelers might expect in larger cities. This includes limited options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment. Visitors should be prepared for basic facilities.

  3. Weather Conditions: Lawas, like much of Sarawak, has a tropical climate with high humidity and significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon season. This can affect travel plans and outdoor activities.

  4. Healthcare Facilities: Access to healthcare services in Lawas may be limited compared to larger urban centers. Travelers with specific medical needs should plan accordingly and consider the availability of medical services.

  5. Cultural and Language Barriers: While English is widely spoken in Malaysia, rural areas like Lawas might have fewer English speakers compared to urban centers. Understanding and respecting local customs and languages can enhance the travel experience but may require some preparation.

  6. Limited Tourist Attractions: Lawas is not a major tourist destination, so the range of tourist attractions and activities might be limited. Visitors usually go for specific interests such as exploring local culture or nature rather than seeking a wide array of attractions.

Despite these challenges, some travelers find the remote and authentic experience of visiting places like Lawas rewarding. It offers an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Sarawak in a more off-the-beaten-path setting.

Lawas is a small town located in the northeastern part of Sarawak, Malaysia. It holds a unique geographical position as it lies between the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, and it is also adjacent to Brunei. Here is a detailed history of Lawas, highlighting significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

  • Early History: Lawas has traditionally been inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Lun Bawang and Kedayan people. The area was part of the larger Brunei Sultanate before colonial influences took hold.

  • Colonial Era: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lawas was part of the territories administered by the British North Borneo Company and later the Brooke family, which established the White Rajahs in Sarawak. The area was eventually integrated into the British colonial administration.

  • World War II: During World War II, Lawas, like much of Borneo, came under Japanese occupation. The area saw resistance activities from local guerrilla forces and Allied operations.

  • Post-War and Formation of Malaysia: After World War II, Lawas became part of the British Crown Colony of Sarawak. In 1963, Sarawak joined the Federation of Malaysia, and Lawas became part of the Malaysian state of Sarawak.

Significant Events

  • Independence and Development: The integration of Lawas into Malaysia brought development and modernization, although the area has remained relatively rural compared to other parts of Sarawak.

  • Border Issues: Due to its location, Lawas has occasionally been involved in border disputes and discussions, particularly concerning its proximity to Brunei and Sabah.

Historical Figures

  • Local Leaders: Various local leaders from the indigenous communities have played significant roles in the socio-political landscape of Lawas, advocating for the rights and development of indigenous peoples.

Important Landmarks

  • Pasar Besar Lawas: The central market that serves as a hub of activity where locals and visitors engage in commerce and experience the local culture.

  • Merarap Hot Springs: A natural attraction located in the Lawas district, known for its therapeutic hot springs, drawing both tourists and locals seeking relaxation.

  • Lawas Airport: A small airport that connects the town to other parts of Sarawak and Malaysia, facilitating travel and economic activities.

  • Tamu Lawas: A traditional open-air market significant for its cultural and economic importance, where local products and crafts are sold.

Cultural Aspects

  • Local Festivals: The area celebrates various local and national festivals, which reflect the rich cultural diversity of its inhabitants, including the Lun Bawang Festival which showcases the traditions of the Lun Bawang people.

Overall, Lawas is a region characterized by its cultural diversity and strategic location. It serves as a gateway between Sarawak, Sabah, and Brunei, maintaining a blend of traditional lifestyles and modern development.