Bario, Sarawak

Bario (GPS: 3.73495, 115.47927) is the main town in the Kelabit Highlands in Sarawak. It occupies a valley which is 1500 meters above sea level. It has an airstrip which receives flights from Ba Kelalan, Marudi and Miri.

The people of Bario are mostly Kelabit, one of the smallest ethnic groups in Sarawak. Although there are 5000 Kelabits in Sarawak, only 1200 have remained in the Kelabit Highlands, with the rest having migrated to larger towns in search of jobs. In this highland area, you will feel the warmth of the people who have spent much of their lives in a relaxed environment. For those accustomed to city life, this place may feel extremely dull.

Possible activities for visitors include trekking the forest, which teems with rhododendrons, orchids and pitcher plants. One should also visit the Bario Asal Longhouse, one of the oldest longhouses in the area. You can also arrange to overnight there. Other longhouses are Pa Umor, Pa Ukat and Pa Berang.

Bario Gap is a man-made natural monument, or kawang. It was created in celebration of the new millennium.

Getting there

Your only option to reach Bario is by air. MASWings connects Bario with Miri via Marudi.

Bario is on the map of Towns in Sarawak

Back to Discover Sarawak mainpage

 Latest updates on Penang Travel Tips