The Astana

The Astana in Kuching
The Astana, or palace, of Kuching

The Astana ('palace') was built in 1870 by Charles Brooke for his wife Margaret as her bridal gift. The well-maintained structure is now used by the Governor of Sarawak state as his official residence.

The palace is generally not open to the public, although the extensively landscaped gardens can be visited. There's a small orchid garden next to the palace, between it and the legislative complex.