The short answer
The Astana: what visitors should know first
Go for the view and the story, not for an interior tour. The palace is not normally open to the public, though the gardens can be reached by boat across the river. Combine it with Fort Margherita, and check current garden access before you cross.
History and context
The story behind The Astana
Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah, built the Astana as a residence and wedding gift. Construction is recorded from 1870 to 1888. It was first called Government House and consisted of three joined buildings.
It has since been altered for use as the official residence of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak.
Useful facts
The Astana facts at a glance
- Location
- North bank of the Sarawak River, opposite the waterfront
- Experience type
- Heritage viewing and garden visit
- Built
- 1870 to 1888, by Charles Brooke
- Current use
- Official residence of Sarawak's Governor
- Access
- Palace not normally open; gardens reached by boat
Why it matters
Why The Astana is worth your time
The Astana is the best-surviving symbol of the Brooke period, when the White Rajahs ruled Sarawak from Kuching. Construction began in 1870 and finished in 1888, and Wikipedia records it as a wedding gift from Charles Brooke to his wife, Margaret Alice Lili de Windt. It began as three separate buildings joined by narrow passages.
Today it serves as the residence of Sarawak's head of state, so it is a living part of the state's government, not a museum piece. Seeing it alongside Fort Margherita and the modern Legislative Assembly building shows three layers of Sarawak's history within a short stretch of riverbank.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The waterfront view
The whole building is easiest to appreciate from across the river.
- 02
Tambang crossing
A short boat ride gives an everyday experience of the river.
- 03
Heritage Trail link
It joins Fort Margherita and the Legislative Assembly building on one walk.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The easiest way to see the Astana is from the Kuching Waterfront, where it sits low and white across the water among trees. Walk to the Darul Hana Bridge end of the promenade for an unobstructed view, and look at how the building was assembled from separate parts rather than designed as one block.
To get closer, take a small riverboat, known locally as a tambang, from the waterfront to the north bank. Boatmen usually expect a small fare; agree it before you board. From the landing you can walk to the gardens and onward to Fort Margherita, which is the logical second stop.
Because the palace itself is a working residence, expect barriers and guards. Respect signage and do not photograph security staff. If the gardens are closed on the day, the waterfront view and a coffee on the south bank are a perfectly decent substitute.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm garden opening before you cross the river
- Agree the boat fare before boarding
- Do not expect interior access
- Go in late afternoon for softer light
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- North bank of the Sarawak River, Petra Jaya, opposite the Kuching Waterfront
- Time needed
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Best time
- Late afternoon from the waterfront
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Seeing it from the south-bank promenade is level and shaded in parts. The river crossing is by small boat, which involves a step down and up; take a hand if you need one.
- Tickets and access
- The palace is the official residence of the Governor and is not normally open to the public. The gardens are open to visitors; confirm access before crossing.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near The Astana
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Seeing it from the south-bank promenade is level and shaded in parts. The river crossing is by small boat, which involves a step down and up; take a hand if you need one.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can I go inside the Astana?
The palace is not normally open to the public. The landscaped gardens are open and can be reached by boat across the river, but check current rules.
Who built the Astana?
Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah of Sarawak, built it in the 19th century as a gift for his wife.
How do I get there?
The simplest way is a small riverboat from the Kuching Waterfront. It can also be reached by road along the north bank.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
