SABAH STATE
Gunung Mulu National Park, Kota Kinabalu
Gunung Mulu National Park is a beautiful national park situated in Sarawak that comprises caves and karst formations in the setting of the mountainous equatorial rainforest. This national park is highly renowned for its impressive collection of caves and rich dense rainforests. It is also home to a vast variety of flora and fauna, thereby offering a perfect escapade from the humdrum of city life close to the lap of nature.
A dream destination for all the wildlife and nature lovers, Kinabalu Park, encompasses around 5000 plant species and over 90 mammal species. The gigantic Mount Kinabalu range forms the major highlight of this park. This heritage park, which is also the starting point of Kinabalu trek, is conveniently located at an altitude of 1585 metres. If you want to add a dash of adventure into your trip, engage in activities like birding, mountain biking, golf, and farm tours. You can also capture the beauty of this place in your camera as a memento your way back home.
A'famosa Theme Park, Kota Kinabalu
Image Credit : Image from Michelle Maria from Pixabay
Relish in Famosa Theme park-the largest Water Theme Park in Malaysia,’ as you launch your exhilarating water adventure! Take your swimsuit and hurdle into the imperturbable kind of solstice pleasurable; fun and share the enjoyment with your friends or family, and get away from the jostle and buzz of life.
Titled after the prominent 16th-century Portuguese barricades of Melaka, A’Famosa Resort is bounded by rising and falling hills and lush scenery and is rated one of the county’s foremost vacation and outing destinations. A Famosa Resort is a little distant from the historic town of Melaka, noticeable from the North-South Highway.
It is just an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and 1 hour 30 mins drive from Kuala Lumpur. With calm pools, thrilling slides, splendid attractions, and enticing treats. There’s a little for everybody. Enjoy all day at this one of a kind theme parks.
Get together either on a business trip or on a family trip. Take indulgence in several functions, take advantage of our match and aquatic game pool here, and rest certain that your entire group or family will have electrifying time. There is a separate Kids Zone where they can enjoy the adventures that are just for their height at children’s water play area.
The Kids’ Adventure Pool with their baby slides, water springs, and a water park are all the kids' favorites. Get along with family, get dressed in your swimwear and revel in surfing at the beach. Every time the alarms yelp, a surge bounces near the shore, the shouts of exhilaration from the Wave Pool will be picking up.
Another excitement is family raft where rides are with extra fun when you get to adore them with friends and family. This standard waterslide has been a long-time much-loved for people of all ages.
Bohey Dulang Beach, Kota Kinabalu
Bohey Dulang Island is a mountainous island forged by the remains of an ancient volcano. The southern side of the lagoon is open but just below the surface is a protracted stretch of reef which represents the southern cratered fringe. The island is best known for its spectacular views at the top of its peak. It is possible to trail around the island at low tide by following the narrow edges of the beach and mangroves, although this involves scrambling over rocks or through vegetation's.
Highlights: Prepare to be greeted by a host of tropical flora and fauna during the arduous but rewarding hiking trail to the top of Bohey Dulang Peak. Majestic views of the sapphire blue lagoon await those who make it through the hour long climb.
How to Get There: Bohey Dulang is located about 35 minutes by boat from Semporna, 20 minutes from Pom Pom, 30 minutes from Mataking and 1.5 hours from Mabul.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kota Kinabalu
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Malaysia is quite popular among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread over 280 acres of land, the park is divided into two sections, the botanical and zoological side. It is run by the Sabah Wildlife Department under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.
The park is mainly family oriented and is also well-liked as a children’s zoo. The residents of the zoo include the Borneo Pygmy elephants, Orang Utan, Malayan Tiger, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Proboscis monkey, as well as a few species of Deer.
The botanical side of the park allows the visitors to go on leisurely strolls and jungle trekking along the trail. The well maintained and paved botanical trail runs for approximately 1.4 kilometres and the entire botanical component is spread over 200 acres of the area.
There is an aviary which is a very lively section of the park as you can hear a whole lot of pleasant sounds of the birds that greet the visitors who come to the park. The aviary houses many species of birds like the hornbill, parrots, pigeons, eagles and many more. The section in the zoo which is for children offers elephant rides from 10:30 am to 11:30 am and from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm every day.
Kokol Hill, Kota Kinabalu
If you are done visiting the islands and beaches and are looking for some scenic beauty in the Kota Kinabalu, Kokol Hill is a place you must go. It is a place, which can give you a perfect view of Mount Kinabalu and you can also enjoy a serene and elegant sunset with your someone special. The place is a must visit, especially if you are looking some quiet time, away from the hustle and bustle of the city amidst hills and close to the nature. You can even spend some great nights over the Kokol Hill as there are various home stays and resorts allowing you to enjoy the weather and scenic beauty of the place.
Mamutik Island, Kota Kinabalu
In the group of five islands among the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the Mamutik Island is the second furthest. Though the waters of Mamutik Island is not as clear as the Sapi Island, but you do get to indulge in some amazing water sports activity and some world-class beach side cafes and restaurants serving the lip-smacking Malay and continental cuisines. There are also some beautiful souvenir shops from where you can take some to your family or friends.
Location: The island is located in the downtown area of Kota Kinabalu and is off the coast. From the hotel Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, you can reach to the Jesselton Jetty point with 2 minute drive or by taking a 10-minute walk from where there are boats available regularly to reach the island.
Pulau Kapalai Beach, Kota Kinabalu
Beautifully impressive and romantic but the island is actually a sand bank island and is one of the most enchanting islands in Sabah Borneo. What makes this beach special is that the resort is a stand-alone unit with no one else around it. Usually when the tide is down, the sand bank becomes a spectacular beach, otherwise, they have an elevated man-made beach deck with special white sand where you can chill.
Highlights: This private island is well known as the romantic paradise for special honeymooners and exclusive private weddings.
How to Get There: The unique Kapalai Island stands above a huge sand bank which is about 1 hour by boat from Semporna in east coast Sabah. It is also a 10 minute boat ride from the well-known Mabul Island.
Lankayan Beach, Kota Kinabalu
Lankayan Island is a tiny tropical coral resort island in the Sulu Sea, northeast of the island of Borneo, in the state of Sabah. This beautiful little island with thick tropical growth and sandy beaches offers an absolutely pure tropical wildlife experience. It's situated in a National Park region. A Turtle Rehabilitation centre is present on the island and is open to the visitors and you can watch egg laying and turtle hatch lings at times.
Highlights: The island is also one of Sabah's top diving spots with the availability of jungle interior and interesting diving attracts both divers and non-divers love to tour Lankayan.
How to Get There: The island is also one of Sabah's top diving spots with the availability of jungle interior and interesting diving attracts both divers and non-divers love to tour Lankayan.
Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Kota Kinabalu
Are you a wildlife enthusiast looking for an ideal location to spot vibrant wildlife of Sabah? If yes, then Tabin Wildlife Reserve is an apt place to visit in Sabah. A tourist spot enveloped with immense natural beauty, Tabin reserve welcomes you with a bundle of priceless experiences.
It is spread across an area of 1120 Sq Km which remains covered with mangrove forest. The most important animal species found in the reserve include gibbons, elephants, macaques, red-leaf monkeys, and orangutans. On your visit to Tabin Wildlife, soak in the charm of its natural surroundings or spend your time capturing its exotic wildlife in your camera.
Location: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a beautiful collection of five Malaysian islands that are situated off the Borneo coast around six kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is a wonderful place for people who look forward to indulge in underwater activities or relax on the white sandy beaches. The fundamental attraction of this national park is the vast variety of aquatic life found in the surrounding waters of the park.
Mount Kinabalu
Located on the west coast of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain peak in Malaysia, standing at a whopping height of 4101 meters. This humongous mountain is abundant in the different species of flora and fauna at various altitudes. It is renowned for its biodiversity of plants that serve as a vast array of natural habitats for animals to thrive. The fantastic views and the thrill urges visitors to go trekking on this mountain.
Borneo Kellybays
If you have not visited this aqua paradise in Sabah, your trip is incomplete. Situated amidst dense mangrove forest along the Southern China Sea, Borneo Kellybays is a perfect place to delve into the marine world. It is a must-visit spot for all the adrenaline junkies who just never get enough of adventure and fun.
From banana boating and crab-catching to Mangrove kayaking and beach volleyball, there are a plethora of activities that this place offers. If you get some extra time, relish its cool streetside desserts or try your hand on Blowpipe Dart shooting or Batik painting. Borneo Kellybays is also a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists.
Location: Jalan Kampung, Kampung Laya Laya, Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia
Mari Mari Cultural Village
Nestled away from the bustling city, Mari Mari Cultural Village introduces you to the traditional and simple Malaysian lifestyle. The village has turned into a museum which has beautifully preserved ethic Borneo culture. If you wish to delve into the history of Borneo, head straight to this small hamlet and learn some interesting facts about the city.
Mari Mari Cultural Village features five diverse ethnic tribes, including Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. A visit to this village is a perfect opportunity to learn about the culture of Borneo tribe and enjoy the live art events performed by tribal people. For all the history buffs and culture geeks, Mari Mari Cultural Village is the most prominent spot among all the Sabah tourist places.
Location: Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Kiulu White Water Rafting Centre
The 15-Km long river of Kiulu facilitates bountiful of water sports activities for the visitors. From paddling through the dense water to overcoming rapids, there are endless activities that will thrill your senses. Though the rapids are of lower grade, you can expect a lot of adventure on your way ahead.
This white water rafting trip is suitable for all those who are seeking a relaxing trip. If you are a beginner, who wants to kickstart their water sports adventure journey, here is a golden opportunity for you. Since the rapids here are not of a higher level, you can also accompany your kids to this spot. Once you are done with water sports, sit on the river banks and bask in the warmth of nature.
Location: Tamparuli, Kota KInabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Kapalai Island
Located at just about 15km from Sipadan Island, Kapalai Beach is known as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. There is only one resort here. The rest of the beach is not inhabited at all. Today, much of the beach has eroded off and only a few sand bars are remaining.
Highlights – Many years of erosion has reduced Kapalai Island where only a few Malay style wooden chalets are seen. It is not exactly a beach, but a sand bar, on which you can undertake walks during low tides, to feel the water splash all over you. Located on the Ligitan Reef, Kapalai Island excellent diving spots in Mid Reef and The Jetty. Do try out the house reef dives at this island.
Location – A couple of hours away from Borneo Island and is connected to the more famous Kota Kinabalu by daily flights.
Sipadan Island
Located at 600m from the sea bead, Sipadan Island has the unique distinction of being the first and only oceanic island in Malaysia.
Highlights – The waters of Sipadan Island are home to over 3000 species of marine life and coral reefs, making the island one of the top five diving destinations of the world. Don’t miss spotting green & hawksbill turtles, bumphead parrotfishes, barracuda, whale sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and many more varieties of marine life here. At the sea bed, you will find a turtle tomb covered by limestone caves, containing the skeletal remains of turtles. During 1933, this Island was declared as a Bird Sanctuary. When you dive here, you will drop 2000metres down to the sea bed.
Location – Celebes Sea, off east cost of Sabah state in Borneo Island.
Turtle Islands National Park
Nestled in the centre of Turtle Island, this national park from Sabah provides shelter to several endangered turtle species. Turtle Islands national park is enveloped by three surreal islands including Gulisaan, Selingan, and Little Bakkungan.
Though this park is mainly popular for its sea turtles, there are several other enthralling activities to engage in. From indulging in sports like zip-lining to setting off on mountain expeditions, here, you can find more than one ways to set your adrenaline racing.
On your visit to the beautiful home of turtles, be a witness to all of their activities, right from egg-laying to nesting. For a wildlife enthusiast, this is an ideal opportunity to peep into the world of turtles.
Location: Sabah, Malaysia
Danum Valley Conservation Area
Spread across 440 Sq Km in Central Sabah, Danum Valley Conservation is home to a vast variety of animal species including Sambar Deer, Flying Squirrels, red-leaf monkeys, king cobras, and gibbons. If you are lucky, you will also be able to spot its vibrant cat species that include leopard cat, marbled cat, and flat-headed cats.
If you happen to be at this complex ecosystem, don’t forget to the old-age burial site of Kadazandusun which is complete with ceramic spirit jars and Belian coffins.
Location: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Sprawled over 40 square kilometres on the ground of Kabili Forest Reserve, this rehabilitation centre is known to give new life to orphaned orangutans before sending them back to the forests. The reserve is inhabited by 200 orangutans who form the major highlight of this place.
Sepilok Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is swarmed with people from all across the globe who wish to see this rare animal species living in their natural habitat. If you are someone who loves to spend undisturbed time amidst nature, here is a perfect place to visit in Sabah.
Location: Sandakan, Malaysia
Mengalum Island
Nestled away from the boisterous city crowd, Mengalum Island is a hidden-gem featuring its white sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes. The beauty of this island is not restricted to land, but it also extends to its turquoise blue waters. If you ever dreamt of swimming like a fish deep into the water, you have this place all to yourself for living this dream.
On this aquamarine journey, you will come across several aquatic creatures, including corals, fishes, butterflyfishes, and mackerels. If life under the water has always intrigued you, Mengalum Island is a must-visit Sabah tourist place for you.
Location: South China Sea, Sabah, Malaysia
Gaya Island
With its rich aquatic life and untouched rainforests, Gaya Island is an absolute treat for nature buffs and water sports enthusiasts. From Kayaking to scuba diving and snorkelling, there is a vast range of activities that one can engage in on their Gaya trip.
The island, which is the part of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, comprises two prime resorts including Gayana Eco Resort and Bunga Raya Island Resort. If you want to make a stay on the island, these two resorts are the perfect retreat for the travellers. The best thing about this trip is that you get to cover the distance from Kota Kinabalu to Gaya Island on a special boat called Gayana.
Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Kinabatangan River
Flowing from the Crocker Range to the Sulu Sea, Kinabatangan is the longest river in Sabah. The river passes through varying habitats including oxbow lakes, mangroves, dipterocarp forests, and Nipah. Being a part of Sukau-Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, this pristine river offers tremendous opportunities to spot the exotic wildlife.
On a visit to this place, you will get to witness rare species like Orangutans, crocodiles, and hornbill. While travelling through Kinabatangan, you will pass through bountiful of small and untouched hamlets such as Bilit, which stand as an epitome of beauty.
Location: Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
Poring Hot Springs
Your Kinabalu tour is incomplete without a visit to Poring Hot Springs. This place is often frequented by locals and tourists who want to release their stress by stepping into the warm sulphuric mineral spring. In addition to Poring Hot Spring, you can also explore tropical gardens, butterfly farm, Poring canopy walkway, Rafflesia flower site and Orchid conservation centre.
With its alluring landscape and relaxing environment, it is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Sabah.
Location: Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia
Mabul Island
A tiny island off the south-eastern coast of Sabah boasting fine beaches of coconut trees, soft white sand and aquamarine waters, Mabul Island is one of the world’s top rated destinations for muck diving. What’s more, Mabul Island also boasts one of the world’s most concentrated reserves of small marine life that includes species like frog fish, scorpion fish, cuttlefish and various shellfish. Visitors here can easily stroll around the island within an hour to explore attractions like the traditional villages with their thatched huts.
Highlights: Mabul Island is a popular place to stay for travellers that plan to dive at one of the worlds' best dive spots and also venture out to the more secluded areas, you will find some truly fantastic beaches.
How to Get There: It is about 40 minute’s boat ride from the mainland of Semporna.
Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu
Popularly known as Floating Mosque, Majid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu is another well-known tourist place to visit in Sabah. The mosque boasts traditional Islamic architecture with a slight hint of modern architectural style in it.
The entire place is dotted with moat and swinging palm trees, which add to its aesthetic appeal. Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu Majid overlooks Likas Bay which forms a perfect view for the visitors. If you are a non-muslim who has never been inside a mosque, this is a golden chance for you to learn about the old-age Islamic traditions. However, before stepping into the mosque, you have to borrow appropriate clothing from the outside booth.
Location: Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Klias Wetland
Around 125 Km away from Kota Kinabalu, this coastal wetland is spread over a vast area of 130,000 hectares. The Wetland, which is also the flood plain for Padas River, boasts a huge river channel network. Klias provides shelter to a substantial population of proboscis monkeys.
It is also home to other wildlife species including monitor lizards, hornbills, estuarine crocodiles, and silver-leaf monkeys. If you are eager to spot a proboscis monkey, visit Klias during the evening time when a swarm of monkeys gather at the riverside. If you are lucky, you will get to see fireflies shining in the darkness. A typical Klias Wetland visit covers wildlife river cruise tour.
Location: Jalan Beaufort, Kampung Kota Klias, Sabah, Malaysia
Sabah State Museum
The Sabah State Museum is located in the same place where, once, the British North Borneo Governor’s Istana was situated. Built in the year 1985, the museum consists of the Main Building, Science and Education Center, Heritage Village, Sabah Art Gallery and the Museum of Islamic Civilization. The inside of the museum is loaded with many galleries, which include the Natural history, Ceramics, Ethnography and the exhibits of Archaeology. If you love experiencing traditional things, there is a heritage village on the grounds of Museum, which allows you to enter and behold the different vintage and traditional houses of various unique groups from Sabah. The place also organizes the timely cultural activities.
How to reach: You can take the Bus No. 13 from the main City Hall and the ticket will cost you around 1 MYR per person only.
Sepanggar Island
Clearly visible from Kota Kinabalu City centre, Sepanggar Island is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Sabah that will take your life down a few notches and help you relax in its calm environment. The island is surrounded by tropical rainforests on the one side and sandy beaches on the other. A true paradise for nature buffs, Sepanggar is blessed with exotic flora and fauna which leave you in awe of them.
Go for a long walk along the sandy beach or soak in the charm of the sun-kissed island; the choice is all yours. You can also embark on a trek to the South Sea and admire the alluring views of Gaya Bay, South China Sea, and Likas Bay. While returning from the trek, take a dip into the blue sea and engage in water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving.
Location: Sepanggar Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Signal Hill Observatory Tower
Do you want to relish the bird's eye view of Kota Kinabalu? If yes, then head towards Signal Hill Observatory Tower and capture some of the best shots of Sabah. The mesmerising views of Kota Kinabalu, its coastline, and lush green patches from the highest point of the city are totally worth it.
One can also catch a glimpse of Likas Bay, Abdul Rahman Park and Tanjung
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