Annah Rais Longhouse | Kuching

The Annah Rais Longhouse, located about 60 kilometers south of Kuching in the Padawan district of Sarawak, is one of the most well-preserved and accessible Bidayuh (Land Dayak) longhouses. It offers visitors an authentic experience of traditional Bidayuh culture, architecture, and lifestyle. This living cultural site provides an opportunity to learn about the heritage of one of Sarawak's indigenous communities.

Overview

• Community: Home to the Bidayuh people, one of the major indigenous groups in Sarawak.
• Location: Set against the backdrop of lush rainforests and near the foothills of the Borneo Highlands, it is a serene and scenic village.
• Type of Longhouse: A traditional Bidayuh bamboo longhouse, combining communal living and modern influences.

Key Features of Annah Rais Longhouse

1. Traditional Architecture

• Structure: The longhouse is a raised wooden structure supported by stilts, with a bamboo floor and an ironwood frame.
• Baruk (Head House): The Baruk is the traditional ceremonial and storage house of the Bidayuh. It is round in shape and serves as a communal space for rituals, meetings, and storing skulls from past headhunting days (no longer practiced).
• Tanju (Veranda): A communal open area where residents socialize, dry produce, or perform daily activities.
• Modern Touches: While the longhouse retains its traditional design, some parts have been modernized with zinc roofs, satellite dishes, and electricity, reflecting a blend of old and new.

2. Cultural Insights

• Visitors can learn about the Bidayuh way of life, including:
  • Weaving: Watch locals weave mats, baskets, and handicrafts using natural materials like rattan and bamboo.
  • Farming Practices: The Bidayuh are traditionally rice farmers. You may see evidence of their agricultural practices in the surrounding fields.
  • Traditional Cuisine: Taste dishes cooked with bamboo and local ingredients, such as manok pansoh (chicken cooked in bamboo) and wild jungle vegetables.
  • Music and Dance: Experience traditional Bidayuh music using gongs and bamboo instruments, as well as their unique ceremonial dances.

3. Communal Lifestyle

The longhouse serves as a community hub where families live in separate apartments but share communal spaces. This structure promotes close-knit relationships and cooperative living.

Activities for Visitors

1. Cultural Tours

• Guided tours are available, where locals share the history, traditions, and stories of their ancestors.
• Learn about the Bidayuh’s headhunting past (now a historical narrative) and their spiritual beliefs.

2. Homestay Program

• The homestay program offers a chance to live with a Bidayuh family, participate in their daily routines, and enjoy traditional meals.
• Overnight stays allow visitors to experience the peacefulness of longhouse life and nighttime sounds of the jungle.

3. Hot Springs

• Nearby Annah Rais Hot Springs is a natural geothermal spot where visitors can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters. It’s a popular stop after exploring the longhouse.

4. Jungle Trekking

• Explore the surrounding rainforest with guided treks, which may include visits to nearby waterfalls or learning about medicinal plants and jungle survival techniques.

5. Handicrafts and Souvenirs

• Purchase authentic handmade crafts such as woven baskets, beaded jewelry, and textiles directly from the villagers.

Visitor Information

1. Getting There

• By Car: Annah Rais Longhouse is about a 1.5-hour drive from Kuching. It is accessible by private vehicle or taxi.
• By Tour Package: Many local tour operators in Kuching offer day trips or overnight tours, often including transportation, a guide, and meals.

2. Best Time to Visit

• The dry season (March to October) is ideal for visiting, as it makes trekking and outdoor activities more enjoyable.
• Visiting during Gawai Dayak Festival (1–2 June), the Dayak harvest festival, offers a vibrant cultural experience with traditional dances, rituals, and feasting.

3. Entrance Fee

• A small fee is typically charged for entrance, which goes toward the community's upkeep. Additional costs apply for guided tours or homestay arrangements.

Why Visit Annah Rais Longhouse?

The Annah Rais Longhouse offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Bidayuh culture and traditions in a serene rainforest setting. Whether you are exploring the architecture, tasting traditional food, or engaging with the local community, a visit to Annah Rais Longhouse is an enriching cultural journey. Its accessibility from Kuching makes it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in Sarawak’s indigenous heritage.