Gawai in the Headhunters' Heartland: A 3D2N Cultural Immersion in Betong & Sri Aman

3D2N Package Highlights 

• Living the Gawai Spirit: Experience the authentic and unique Iban Gawai (harvest festival) celebrations firsthand.

• Witness the Grandeur: Attend the spectacular traditional Gawai Parade at the Betong Parade Ground.

• A Night in a Longhouse: Immerse yourself in communal living with an overnight stay in a comfortable, contemporary Iban longhouse, enjoying genuine hospitality and a traditional welcome.

• Ngabang Gawai Experience: Participate in the festive "open house" dinner at Rumah Engkeranji, a modern longhouse rooted in tradition.

• Unveiling History: Guided visits to the historical Fort Alice in Sri Aman and Fort Lily in Betong, connecting you with Sarawak's past.

• Artisan Heritage: Discover the rich tradition of weaving at a captivating longhouse.

• Local Flavors & Finds: Explore the vibrant Serian farmers market and savor authentic local cuisine (2 dinners, 1 lunch, 2 breakfasts included).

• Seamless Travel: Enjoy comfortable air-conditioned transfers and the insights of an English-speaking guide throughout your journey. (Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the longhouse.)

Program Summary

D1 Pick up 9:00 pm - Depart to Sri Aman - Serian Market - Lunch Stop Lachau - Fort Alice - Hotel Checkin (D)

Sri Semangang Hotel (3 Stars Hotel)

D3 Visit a Traditional Longhouse - Transfer back to Kuching (B)

Tour Content

Embark on a 3-day, 2-night cultural immersion into the Iban heartland of Betong and Sri Aman during the vibrant Gawai (harvest festival).

• Your journey begins with a comfortable air-conditioned transfer from Kuching. Our first stop is the Serian Market, a truly local experience brimming with fascinating jungle produce unlike the city markets. We then break for lunch (own expense) at Lachau, a border town near Indonesia. Continuing to Sri Aman, the center of the Iban region, we check into our hotel. Upon arrival, we explore Fort Alice, a significant Brooke-era landmark and now the Sri Aman Heritage Museum, detailing the history of Sarawak's forts and the region's past. Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring Sri Aman town before dinner at a local restaurant.

• The next morning dawns early as we journey to Betong Town, where the grand Gawai Parade unfolds. Witness a vibrant spectacle of cultural pride as various communities, including the Iban and Malay, showcase their exquisite traditional costumes in a procession through the historic heart of the town center. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, savor the tantalizing aromas of local delicacies, and discover unique handcrafted treasures. Your guide will then lead you to Fort Lily, built in 1858 by James Brooke as a defense and administrative center. We then arrive at Rumah Engkeranji, a contemporary longhouse, for lunch and to prepare for the evening's celebrations.

• As dusk settles, the longhouse comes alive with the traditional Ngabang Gawai ceremony. Witness the solemn beauty of the Miring (prayer offerings) and the graceful movements of a welcoming dance. Awaiting you is a delectable feast of local festival foods, from sweet traditional cakes to refreshing drinks and the savory aroma of pansuh (bamboo-cooked delicacies). Embracing the "open house" spirit, you are invited to share in the warmth of the various families within the longhouse, each extending a heartfelt welcome with food and drinks on the ruai (communal verandah). As the evening progresses, the vibrant Gawai festivities continue with an after-party concert, where you can immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of a traditional musical concert, complete with captivating dance troupe performances and a lively community dance segment from 10 pm to midnight

• Our final day begins with breakfast at the longhouse before a short journey to a nearby traditional longhouse. Here, you'll enjoy a mid-morning tea with the local hosts and learn about the longhouse's history and the intricate art of traditional weaving from the longhouse chief. We then bid farewell to Betong and begin our return journey to Kuching, with a stop in Serian for a late lunch (own expense) before being dropped off at your hotel.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE LONGHOUSE (1 Night):

Your Gawai adventure includes an authentic homestay experience at Rumah Engkeranji Longhouse in Betong. This contemporary longhouse offers a glimpse into the Iban way of life.

Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed with tea, coffee, and local kuih. You'll then be introduced to your host family and shown to your bilik, where you'll share an open dormitory-style room with other guests.

Embrace the communal spirit of the longhouse! You'll be sharing the host's living spaces and basic bathroom facilities (WC, cold showers, and potentially a traditional mandi). Sleeping arrangements consist of single mattresses, pillows, and blankets on the floor. Fans are provided for comfort. The facilities are clean and comfortable, and drinking water is always available. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture on a personal level.

Price Details

3D2N Package 

• RM1,800.00 / pax

• Includes:

• 1 night Sri Aman 3-Stars Hotel;

• 1 night longhouse (longhouse style shared accommodation & bathroom), 

• Meals: 2 Dinners, 1 lunch & 2 Breakfasts

• Vehicle transfer (pickup and dropoff @ Kuching city hote?), English speaking tour guide, visit a traditional longhosue, Fort Lily and Fort Alice.

Excludes:

Alcoholic drinks (available for purchase at the longhouses) 

What to Bring? 

• Towel

• Sarong

• Ear Plugs

• Insect repellent

• Bathing suit

• Torch light

• Personal amenities such as toothbrush and toothpaste, soap and shampoo are provided.

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Hat and Umbrella