Miri is the second-largest city in Sarawak, positioned on the north-west coast of Borneo near the Brunei border. The city grew on oil wealth — Sarawak’s petroleum industry began here with Malaysia’s first commercial oil well in 1910 — and has a prosperous, well-maintained character that sets it apart from some of East Malaysia’s more transit-focused smaller cities.
For most international travellers, Miri is primarily the jumping-off point for Mulu National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing the world’s largest cave chambers and some of Southeast Asia’s most dramatic karst formations. A two-night Miri base paired with a two-night Mulu excursion is the standard pattern, with flights between Miri and Mulu taking 35 minutes.
The city has good accommodation across all tiers, concentrated around the waterfront, the commercial centre near Bintang Megamall, and the areas surrounding the airport.
Budget Accommodation: Approximately MYR 80–200 Per Night
Miri Backpackers Lodge (City centre) — A well-run backpacker hostel in the commercial centre with dormitory and private rooms, a common area with good information on Mulu flights and package options, and reliable wi-fi. A popular base for solo travellers organising last-minute Mulu trips. From approximately MYR 40 dorm, MYR 100–160 private as of 2026.
Mega Hotel Miri (City centre) — A large mid-budget hotel that consistently offers competitive rates for its room size and facilities. The Mega has a pool, a café, and central access to the Bintang Megamall and the nearby handicraft market. Rooms are dated but well maintained. A practical choice for the price. From approximately MYR 130–250 per night as of 2026.
Dynasty Hotel Miri (City centre, Bintang Megamall area) — A long-established local hotel with a range of room types, a ground-floor food court, and walking distance to the main shopping and dining district. Reliable and central. From approximately MYR 120–240 per night as of 2026.
Mid-Range Hotels: Approximately MYR 250–600 Per Night
ParkCity Everly Hotel Miri (Bintang commercial district) — A reliable four-star with a pool, gym, a good breakfast spread, and consistent room standards. Well positioned for the commercial centre and an easy taxi to the waterfront restaurants. The ParkCity Everly is one of the better-value mid-range choices in Miri — rates are competitive for the quality offered. From approximately MYR 250–480 per night as of 2026.
DoubleTree by Hilton Miri (Waterfront) — The DoubleTree sits on the Miri waterfront with South China Sea views from upper floors. The Hilton brand standard delivers: well-maintained rooms, good fitness facilities, consistent service, and the signature warm cookie check-in. Positioned near the Miri Marina and the seafood restaurants on the waterfront. From approximately MYR 350–650 per night as of 2026.
Marina Bay Hotel Miri (Waterfront marina) — A waterfront hotel in the marina precinct with sea-facing rooms and good views across the bay. Well-sized rooms, a pool, and direct proximity to the waterfront dining strip. From approximately MYR 280–500 per night as of 2026.
Luxury Hotels: Approximately MYR 600–1,500+ Per Night
Pullman Miri Waterfront (Miri Waterfront) — The flagship luxury property in Miri: an Accor five-star with an enviable South China Sea position, large rooms, a rooftop pool, a spa, and multiple dining options. The Pullman’s rooftop pool bar is arguably the best sunset spot in the city. An excellent base if the budget allows, particularly for a treat after returning from a rustic Mulu experience. From approximately MYR 600–1,400 per night as of 2026.
Mulu Marriott Resort and Spa (Mulu National Park, 35 min by air) — Technically at Mulu rather than in Miri, but the logical luxury pairing for travellers combining both. The Marriott is the only full-service resort within Mulu National Park, with air-conditioned chalets, a pool, a restaurant, and the park caves within walking distance. Packages include cave tours with park ranger guides. From approximately MYR 800–2,000 per night as of 2026.
Getting to Miri
Miri International Airport (MYY) is served by Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and MASwings from Kuala Lumpur (approximately 2 hours), Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and other Malaysian cities. Taxis from the airport to the city centre take approximately 15 minutes and cost MYR 20–35 as of 2026; Grab is available.
From Miri, MASwings turboprop flights to Mulu Airport take 35 minutes (MYR 100–250 each way). Book these well in advance as the small aircraft fill quickly during peak season.
Mulu Caves and What to See
The Mulu National Park caves are the primary excursion from Miri: the Deer Cave (contains the world’s largest cave passage), the Clearwater Cave system, and the Pinnacles limestone formation. Entrance fees to the park are MYR 30 for the main show caves (as of 2026); guided tours are required and must be booked through the national park or the Marriott. The bat exodus at sunset from Deer Cave — millions of wrinkle-lipped bats spiralling out in a dark river — is one of the great wildlife spectacles of Borneo.
The Miri things to do guide covers the Mulu logistics and the city’s own sights including Canada Hill and the handicraft centre. Start with the Miri city guide for transport and planning.
Browse Miri and Mulu tours, compare travel insurance, or get a Malaysia eSIM.