By Lambe Lamis 
My coronary heart was heavy after I advised my pals that I couldn’t include them. It was our long-awaited barkada journey to Kota Kinabalu, however I wanted some adulting to take care. That was 2016. Quick ahead to 2022: my coronary heart skipped a beat after I realized my Sabah journey was lastly going to occur. Because the saying goes, “There’s a time for all the things.” Time I promised myself I’d profit from.
And the way Kota Kinabalu shocked me! In a great way, after all. KK, as it’s fondly referred to as, presents quite a lot of sustainable excursions — natour, cultour, adventour! Conquer its nationwide parks — each terrestrial and marine. Immerse within the Sabahan tradition when you roam across the cultural villages and museums. Get swept away (not actually) by the rapids of its wild rivers. Dive into the colourful underwater world.
Kota Kinabalu may not be in your bucket record, however give it an opportunity to take your breath away. When you’re questioning what’s in retailer for you on this a part of Borneo, right here’s an inventory of the issues to do and locations to go to in and close to Kota Kinabalu.
WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
Protruding imposingly from the forested grounds at an elevation of 4,095 meters (or 13,435 ft), Mt. Kinabalu is the tallest peak in Borneo and one of many tallest in Southeast Asia. Essentially the most well-known vacationer attraction in Sabah, it magnets native and worldwide hikers to its lush environment and jagged mountainscape. As for me, and plenty of others like me who missed the prospect of climbing it the primary go to, it’s one of many major causes to come back again.
Cradled inside the dense expanse of Kinabalu Park, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Website in Ranau District, it nurtures a whole bunch of species of natural world unfold throughout completely different zones. Low’s Peak (the very best level) and the textured rocky space resulting in it are a geological marvel.
Is reaching Mt. Kinabalu’s Low’s Peak one among your bucket record objects? It’s essential to be aware of the next:
- Mount Kinabalu is managed by Sabah Parks, below the Ministry of Tourism, Tradition, and Atmosphere. Sure, they’ve only one unified physique overseeing all of the initiatives concerning atmosphere, tradition, and tourism
- Sabah Parks climb permits have to be secured upfront via licensed and accredited climb operators. Right here’s the record supplied by the Sabah Tourism Board: Accredited Tour Operators
- Solely 150 hikers are allowed per day, so it’s essential to safe a slot upfront.
- All hikers should e-book lodging at Panalaban Base Camp upfront (2D1N), too. Listed here are the present lodging choices: Laban Rata Resthouse, Pendant Hut, Lemaing Hut, Mokodou and Kinotoki. Heated dormitories and rooms are provided by Laban Rata Resthouse.
- Be aware that One-Day Mount Kinabalu Climb permits are presently NOT out there.
- Climbers have to be absolutely vaccinated and should current proof of vaccination by way of MySejahtera App (Digital Covid-19 Vaccination Certificates)
- Hikers have to be accompanied by accredited mountain guides. The variety of guides will depend upon the dimensions of the group and the age of the climbers. Youngsters beneath 12 years previous have to be accompanied by absolutely vaccinated mother and father/guardians.
- The jump-off level for all hikers is the Timpohon Gate at Kinabalu Nationwide Park.
- At the moment, there are two open summit trails, each ranging from Panalaban: the Ranau Summit Path and the Kota Belud Summit Path.
- Select your package deal sort: Non-Ferrata or By way of Ferrata. By way of Ferrata (Iron Street) is really useful just for seasoned mountaineers and rock climbers.
- All hikers should comply with the Covid-19 security protocols and pointers. Examine in case you nonetheless have to submit a destructive end result (self-test RTK Antigen) a day earlier than your arrival.
For more information about reserving Mount Kinabalu hike to the summit, go to the this web site.
Location: Kinabalu Nationwide Park, Ranau, West Coast Division, Sabah
Kinabalu Park Conservation Payment: RM 15 (Grownup); RM 10 (Baby)
Climb Allow: RM 200 (Grownup); RM 80 (Baby)
Mountain Information Payment: RM 230 (16 y/o and above, 1 per 5 pax); RM 230 (beneath 16 y/o, 1 per 2 pax)
Porter Fee: RM 65 – RM 80 (10KG, one-way, relying on the route). Routes: Timpohon – Panalaban / Panalaban – Timpohon / Timpohon – Sayat-Sayat / Sayat-Sayat – Timpohon / Timpohon – Summit / Summit – Timpohon
Sabah Parks Contact Particulars: +60 88 523 500 / [email protected] / [email protected]
Overlaying a complete land space of 75,370 hectares, the sprawling Kinabalu Park is a hotspot for terrestrial biodiversity, sheltering over 100 species of mammals, greater than 350 species of birds, about 100 species of reptiles, round 80 species of amphibians, kind of 1,000 species of bugs (others are but to be specified), and extra.
All these fauna thriving in numerous inexperienced habitats encompassing 5,000-6,000 species of vascular vegetation in numerous climactic zones — lowland forest, decrease mountain forest, higher mountain forest, ultrabasic rock forest, granitic boulder vegetation, and sub alpine forest.
Essentially the most distinguished function is the magnificent Mount Kinabalu, a serious vacationer and mountain climbing vacation spot in Southeast Asia. Formally declared a nationwide park in January 1964, Kinabalu Park is the primary in Sabah. It covers three districts: Ranau, Kota Belud, and Kota Marudu. The nationwide park was established to guard, protect, and preserve the pure habitat and have, the water catchment space, and its cultural and historic heritage.
Other than Mount Kinabalu, different options are the next:
- Mount Tambayukon
- Mount Kinabal Botanical Backyard
- Poring Butterfly Farm
- Poring Orchid Conservation Middle
- Rafflesia Conservation Middle
- Poring Bamboo Backyard
- Poring Ethnobotanical Backyard
- hen watching exercise
- paragliding
- Cover Walkway
- Pure Scorching Sulfur Spring Water
Into forest bathing? Listed here are eight nature path choices:
- Kiau View Path
- Bundu Tuhan View Path
- Liwagu River Path
- Silau Silau Path
- Bukit Burung Path
- Mempening Path
- Pandamus Path
- Bukit Ular Path
Every path has its personal execs and cons, so select the one which fits your choice and curiosity. Or take all the paths in order for you and you’ve got time to spare.
The park is managed by Sabah Parks, which is below the Ministry of Tourism, Tradition, and Atmosphere. All particulars concerning the assorted species of animals and vegetation had been supplied by the Sabah Parks administration. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Website in December 2000 and was included within the ASEAN Heritage Parks record in December 2003.
Location: Kinabalu Nationwide Park, Ranau, West Coast Division, Sabah
Conservation Payment: RM 15 (Grownup); RM 10 (Baby)
Different Charges: Kinabalu Pure Historical past Gallery RM 3; Botanical Backyard RM 5 (Grownup), RM 2.5 (Baby), FREE (6 y/o and beneath); Guided Stroll RM 3 (Grownup), RM 1.5 (Baby), FREE (6 y/o and beneath); Audio Visible Show RM 2; Botanical-Guided Stroll-Audio Visible RM 8 (Grownup), RM 4 (Baby)
Sabah Parks Contact Particulars: +60 88 523 500 / [email protected] / [email protected]
Getting There: If you’re not climbing Mount Kinabalu and simply wish to do simple walks alongside its shorter trails, you may test the shared shuttle companies or the non-public companies from Kota Kinabalu metropolis middle to Kinabalu Park. The speed ranges from MYR 50 – MYR 90, one-way.
However in case you are on a funds and you aren’t in a rush, you may take the minivan/minibus sure for Ranau at Merdeka Sq. or a bus sure for Ranau, Sandakan, or Tawau at North Bus Terminal in Inanam. These autos will cross by the doorway of Kinabalu Park. The fare is MYR 15-30, a method. The journey time is about two hours.
Situated outdoors the town middle, Tanjung Aru is a 2-km seashore stretching from Shangri-La Resort & Spa on the northern finish and the Kota Kinabalu Meteorological Workplace on the southern finish. Due to its shut proximity to the city core, the seashore developed into a preferred seashore hangout place. Dealing with the South China Sea, it showcases breathtaking sunsets, portray the sky with splashes of assorted hues and depth every day, relying on the climate.
Meals stalls providing native fare line the general public seashore, significantly between Prince Philip Park and the DBKK Carpark (beside Shangri-La Resort), so count on this strip to be crowded on weekends and holidays, particularly within the morning and round sundown time.
In style actions are strolling alongside the seashore, individuals watching, meals tripping, kite flying, having a picnic, and sundown watching, amongst others.
Other than Shangri-La Resort, the seashore can be dwelling to Kinabalu Yacht Membership and Kinabalu Golf Membership. Whereas within the space, you may additionally wish to go to Perdana Park alongside Jalan Mat Salleh (Mat Salleh Avenue). Your landmark is the Prince Philip Park, positioned on the finish of Jalan Mat Salleh.
Location: Jalan Tanjung Aru, Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: The seashore is open 24/7, however the institutions alongside the seashore often function from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Entrance Payment: FREE
Take a peek into old fashioned Borneo at Mari Mari Cultural Village!
Launched in December 2008, this huge open-air museum showcases the roots and soul of Sabahans. It options completely different conventional homes of the 5 main ethnic teams in Sabah — the agricultural Dusun and Rungus, the hunters and fisherfolk Lundayeh, the herdsmen and sea gypsies Bajau, and the headhunters and warrior tribe of Murut.
Every conventional home exhibit additionally presents the costumes, conventional expertise, customs, and day by day actions within the olden days equivalent to bamboo cooking at Dusun Home, fireplace beginning and conventional craft at Rungus Home, tree bark craft at Lundayeh Home, congkak and kuih jala at Bajau Home, and lansaran at Murut Home.
Two classes of guided tour are provided day by day — morning and afternoon. Every tour lasts about three hours, with the morning session beginning at 10:00 AM and the afternoon session at 2:00 PM. Guests have to register quarter-hour earlier than the official tour begins. Right here’s the circulate of the tour:
- Registration and Briefing on the Reception Space
- Begin Tour: Crossing the Suspension Bridge
- Go to 5 Tribal Homes with Demonstrations/Meals Tasting
- Cultural Efficiency on the Efficiency Corridor
- Lunch (Morning Sesion) or Excessive Tea (Afternoon Session)
- Finish of Tour
The cultural village’s key landmarks additionally embrace the Most important Dinner Corridor, Memento Store, Eating Hut “Leka-Leki”, and the Efficiency Corridor, the place a spectacular indigenous dance present is staged.
Restrooms are positioned on the reception space, the efficiency space, and the eating corridor space. It’s positioned 20-Half-hour northeast of the town middle.
Location: Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Each day); 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Morning Session Tour); 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Afternoon Session Tour). The schedule would possibly change, so test the official web site and Fb web page earlier than going.
Guided Tour Bundle Charges: RM 100 (Grownup); RM 90 (Baby, 5-11 y/o). These charges embrace entrance payment, in-house information, go to to five ethnic conventional homes, conventional demo & actions, cultural efficiency, and lunch/excessive tea. Examine the official Fb web page for updates and promos.
Reserving/Reservation Contact: +60 13-881 4921 / Mari Mari Cultural Village Fb Web page (@marimariculturalvillageborneo)
By the way in which, it’s greatest to get linked to the web that will help you navigate the town extra conveniently. Essentially the most budget-friendly possibility is buying a traveler-friendly native SIM card.
Take a look at Tune Speak‘s Traveller SIM. Throughout our journey, we used its Lite Plan masking 15 GB information plan with seven days validity upon activation. This allowed us to talk with our pals and households and replace our social media accounts as we explored Sabah!
Spanning 4,929 hectares, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park harbors 5 islands and their surrounding waters and reefs in Gaya Bay. It was declared a protected space in 1974, making it Sabah’s second nationwide park after Kinabalu Park. Initially, the marine park solely included Gaya Island and Sapi Island. Afterward, Manukan Island, Mamutik island, and Sulug Island had been added in 1979.
The park boasts pristine islands, white-sand seashores, snorkeling spots, and diving websites. In style actions are swimming, island hopping, seashore bumming, water sports activities, boating, diving, snorkeling, and the Coral Flyer zipline (linking Gaya Island and Sapi Island). Lodging are additionally out there on the islands, significantly in Gaya Island and Manukan Island.
Jesselton Level Jetty Terminal is the jump-off level to the marine park (and its islands), which is about three kilometers off the Kota Kinabalu mainland. You’ll be able to e-book your island hopping tour from one of many many tour operators ticketing cubicles/counters on the Ticketing Corridor positioned on the entrance of the jetty, proper after the previous wood welcome arch. The charges depend upon the inclusion and add-on actions. If you wish to go scuba diving, it’s greatest to e-book upfront with accredited dive operator.
Additionally below the jurisdiction of Sabah Parks, its headquarters could be discovered on Manukan Island, however every island has its personal satellite tv for pc workplace. The park goals to guard and preserve the marine ecosystems, together with the underwater natural world.
Location: Gaya Bay, Sabah
Conservation Payment: RM 20 (Grownup); RM 15 (Baby, beneath 18 y/o); RM 15 (Seniors, 60 y/o and above); RM 10 (beneath 6 y/o); FREE (PWDs)
Island Switch Charges: 1-Island RM 35 (Grownup), RM 30 (Baby); 2-Island RM 45 (Grownup), RM 40 (Baby); 3-Island RM 55 (Grownup), RM 50 (Baby); 4-Island RM 65 (Grownup), RM 60 (Baby). The charges are inclusive of island terminal payment — RM 7.20 for adults and RM 3.60 for youngsters. The island switch service for Tunku Abdul Rahman Park covers solely 4 islands — Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, and Gaya.
Different Charges: Tenting Payment RM 5 (Grownup), RM 2 (Baby); Diving Payment RM 50/head
Soar-Off Level: Jesselton Level Jetty Terminal
Sabah Parks Contact Particulars: +60 88 523 500 / [email protected] / [email protected]
JSK Borneo Reef – Pontoon
Touted as the biggest reef exercise pontoon in South East Asia, the JSK Borneo Reef, usually merely referred to as “pontoon” measures 12 meters excessive, 24.5 meters vast, and 37.5 meters lengthy. This two-level enjoyable middle can accommodate as much as 300 individuals, who can get pleasure from a plethora of actions equivalent to snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, and sea strolling (aka helmet diving), during which you can stroll on the ocean flooring whereas sporting an underwater helmet.
As a result of it’s inside the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the administration carefully implements strict coverage that can assist preserve and protect the encircling marine atmosphere. In an effort to assist preserve and restore Sabah’s coral reefs, the corporate units up its personal coral farm the place the ocean strolling exercise takes place.
If sea strolling is simply too adventurous for you (as a result of it isn’t for everybody), you may nonetheless catch a glimpse of the underwater world by descending into their underwater tunnel.
When you want to remain above the water however nonetheless need your share of thrills, tackle the inflatable island impediment course!
The pontoon is stationed over 100 meters off the southwest coast of Gaya Island, however you may also have an incredible view of close by Sapi Island.
From Jessselton Level Ferry Terminal, the pace boat will take guests to the pontoon in 15-20 minutes. Examine the official web site and Fb web page for the entire record of package deal choices and promos. Yow will discover the JSK Borneo Reef kiosk on the Ticketing Corridor.
Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Each day); 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM (Registration); 8:45 AM (Boarding); 9:00 AM (Departure). The schedule would possibly change, so test the official web site and Fb web page earlier than going.
Ocean Escapade Bundle: Monday to Thursday RM 149 (Grownup), RM 99 (Baby); Friday to Sunday, Holidays RM 169 (Grownup), RM 109 (Baby); FREE (0-3 y/o). The package deal consists of meal, boat transfers, all pontoon facilities ECXEPT sea strolling (separate payment).
Ocean Escapade + Sea Strolling Bundle: Monday to Thursday RM 229 (Grownup), RM 179 (Baby); Friday to Sunday, Holidays RM 249 (Grownup), RM 189 (Baby); FREE (0-3 y/o). The package deal consists of meal, boat transfers, all pontoon facilities.
Soar-Off Level: Jesselton Level Fery Terminal
Manukan Island
The crescent-shaped Manukan Island is a 1.5-kilometer island paradise blessed with willowy Casuarina Pine bushes (Agoho bushes), high quality white-sand seashores (particularly on the southeastern shoreline), and turquoise waters excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. It’s the second largest and probably the most developed within the protected space, that includes 20 models of cabins, a number of eating places, outlets, a diving middle, a museum, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, and sports activities grounds — soccer, volleyball, and sepak takraw.
Seashore sights and water-related actions are targeting the japanese aspect. The closely forested Manukan has mountain climbing trails for individuals who wish to commune with nature and additional discover the island.
The cabins are managed and operated by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges. If you’re planning to remain right here, it’s essential to e-book upfront.
Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah
Conservation Payment: RM 20 (Grownup); RM 15 (Baby, beneath 18 y/o); RM 15 (Seniors, 60 y/o and above); RM 10 (beneath 6 y/o); FREE (PWDs)
Different Charges: Tenting Payment RM 5 (Grownup), RM 2 (Baby); Diving Payment RM 50/head
Soar-Off Level: Jesselton Level Jetty Terminal
Boat Switch: Confer with Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park part. Once more, the island switch service for Tunku Abdul Rahman Park covers solely 4 islands — Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, and Gaya.
Gaya Island
With a complete land space of just about 1,500 hectares, Gaya Island is the biggest of the 5 islands. The title got here from the Bajau phrase gayo, that means “huge”. Additionally it is the closest to downtown Kota Kinabalu by way of Jesselton Level Ferry Terminal.
Its lush hilly panorama reaches an elevation of 300 meters, that includes ridges stretching throughout the island and a 20-kilometer mountain climbing path, which additionally features a plank-walk via a mangrove forest.
Police Seashore is the most well-liked seashore, nestled on the northwestern coast, going through Bulijong Bay and fronting one of many three secluded five-star accommodations on the island — the Bunga Raya Island Resort. The clear calm waters kissing the 400-meter sandy stretch of white sand is right for swimming. The opposite two upscale resorts are the Gaya Island Resort and the Gayana Marine Resort.
Gaya Island is bejeweled with colourful coral reefs, making it top-of-the-line snorkeling and diving locations in Sabah. The native settlement took over the japanese aspect of the island.
Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah
Conservation Payment: RM 20 (Grownup); RM 15 (Baby, beneath 18 y/o); RM 15 (Seniors, 60 y/o and above); RM 10 (beneath 6 y/o); FREE (PWDs)
Soar-Off Level: Jesselton Level Jetty Terminal
Boat Switch: Confer with Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park part. Once more, the island switch service for Tunku Abdul Rahman Park covers solely 4 islands — Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, and Gaya.
Mamutik Island
Only a kilometer south of Manukan, the triangular Mamutik Island is the smallest of the 5 islands. Its western aspect is characterised by a rocky shore, whereas the remainder of the island is fringed with sandy seashores. Not as crowded because the others, it presents an alternate seashore expertise for individuals who want a extra rugged however quieter spot.
Swimming and snorkeling are the favored actions right here, so be ready to satisfy a few of these marine wonders — clown fish, rainbow fish, anemones, surgeon fish, zebra fish, and stingray amongst others. The encircling waters are largely deep, so keep watch over your children and companions who will not be good swimmers. It’s additionally greatest to put on seashore footwear to guard your ft from damaged shells and corals.
Facilities on the island embrace altering rooms, bogs, benches, picnic huts, a restaurant, and rental store for snorkeling, diving, and tenting.
Mamutik is simply three kilometers off the mainland, so vacationers can view the town from the sandy japanese aspect of the island on a transparent day. The principle jump-off level is at Jesselton Level, however different terminals, equivalent to Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty and Tanjung Aru Seashore, have entry to Mamutik Island.
Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah
Conservation Payment: RM 20 (Grownup); RM 15 (Baby, beneath 18 y/o); RM 15 (Seniors, 60 y/o and above); RM 10 (beneath 6 y/o); FREE (PWDs)
Soar-Off Level: Jesselton Level Jetty Terminal
Boat Switch: Confer with Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park part. Once more, the island switch service for Tunku Abdul Rahman Park covers solely 4 islands — Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, and Gaya.
Sapi Island
Sapi Island is sort of a remora fish swimming beneath its companion shark — the bigger Gaya Island. Located about two meters southwest of Gaya Island and masking an space of over 10 hectares, this densely forested island is certainly dwarfed however not likely overshadowed by its greater sister. Come low tide, the sisters hyperlink arms, creating sandbar in between.
The thick vegetation gives shades for guests. Loads of picnic huts and tables are scattered round the primary seashore space. In style actions are swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The most effective spot to go diving is on the southeastern tip of the island. A few of the marine life discovered across the coral backyard are stingrays, cuttlefish, zebra fish, clown fish, and moray eels.
Be aware that it will probably get crowded on weekends and holidays, significantly the primary seashore; nevertheless, you may discover additional and discover one of many few hidden seashores while you traverse the five-kilometer nature path. Remember to put on snug seashore footwear when exploring the island. The path will lead trekkers to the very best level of the island.
Sapi can be dwelling to the wild macaques and two-meter lengthy monitor lizards. Contemplating the wildlife thriving right here, be further cautious. As a lot as attainable, don’t feed them, preserve your distance, and simply allow them to be. The macaques would possibly seize a few of your stuff to search for meals. At all times look the place you’re going to keep away from stepping on a monitor lizard.
Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah
Conservation Payment: RM 20 (Grownup); RM 15 (Baby, beneath 18 y/o); RM 15 (Seniors, 60 y/o and above); RM 10 (beneath 6 y/o); FREE (PWDs)
Soar-Off Level: Jesselton Level Jetty Terminal
Boat Switch: Confer with Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park part. Once more, the island switch service for Tunku Abdul Rahman Park covers solely 4 islands — Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, and Gaya.
Delicate or Wild? Nevertheless it doesn’t actually matter as a result of the rapids will resolve for you. This can delight thrill-seekers who’re at all times looking out for excessive actions that can make their adrenaline pumping.
Benefit from the tough experience because the raging waters from Mount Kinabalu take you on a bumpy rafting expertise alongside the Kadamaian River in Kota Belud, a city tucked about two hours north of Kota Kinabalu metropolis middle.
The entire rafting stretch is about 10 kilometers with speedy classification of Grade 1-2, so that is excellent for first timers. Our workforce had skilled white water rafting in Davao and Cagayan de Oro, each reaching the Grade 4 classification, which is the ceiling for leisure white water rapids.
Talking from private expertise, each Yosh and I acquired tossed into the water right here at Kadamaian, and I had a blast getting carried away for a second earlier than I used to be pulled again up onto the raft instantly. However that’s simply me. Yosh acquired snatched by the rapids for 3 (lengthy) minutes, and for higher or worse, I’m certain it’s now one among his most unforgettable journey experiences.
The entire white water rafting exercise lasted virtually two hours. As soon as on the jump-off level, you’ll have security briefing first. Relying on the package deal you e-book, it often consists of mild snack or lunch buffet. Don’t neglect to carry the next: further garments, dry bag, waterproof digital camera or GoPro, aqua sneakers or sandals with straps, rash guard or snug rafting outfit, towel, and sunscreen.
Location: Kadamaian River, Kadamaian, Kota Belud, Sabah
Getting There: Essentially the most handy approach is to e-book a package deal tour with roundtrip switch between Kota Kinabalu and the jump-off level in Kadamaian.
When in Kota Kinabalu, don’t cross up any alternative to stuff your face with delicious seafood!
KK is surrounded by the richest waters on the planet, offering scrumptious bounty to metropolis’s standard eating places and meals meccas just like the Waterfront Seafood Evening Market alongside Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens and Api-Api Evening Meals Market at Gaya Avenue. You’ll be able to get pleasure from them grilled, deep-fried, steamed, or topping your favourite noodle dish.
One other standard culinary model is Welcome Seafood Restaurant with three spacious branches: Asia Metropolis (KK Metropolis Middle), Inanam (North KK), and Penampang (South of KK). We dined at Asia Metropolis department and the place was actually full of diners, locals and vacationers alike. Out of doors and indoor seating can be found.
We had their bestselling kam hiong crab (kam heong crab), a preferred Malaysian dish that mixes Malay, Chinese language and Indian influences. Kam heong actually means “golden perfume”, referring to the candy, fragrant scent that steams out from its sauce, which is cooked with chillies, curry, and different spices. Welcome takes pleasure of their particular sauce, which is a superb mix of salty and spicy.
We additionally had their dry butter prawns, deep-fried squid (calamari), and fried fish in sweet-and-sour sauce.
Kota Kinabalu serves as a key gateway to the North Borneo areas, welcoming individuals from numerous cultures. This made Sabahan delicacies eclectic, however largely mixing native with different Southeast Asian and Chinese language flavors.
However probably the most intriguing delicacy might be sinalau bakas, a local Kadazandusun deal with. The title interprets to “smoked wild boar”. Many roadside eateries and stalls may give you a style of this meaty goodness, however most tour operators let friends attempt it at one of many stalls on the way in which to or from Kinabalu Park. Sadly, we didn’t get to do that ourselves because the stalls had been closed after we dropped by.
Bak kut teh is a staple dish, extra like a consolation meals, that’s often served at dinnertime. However prior to now, farmers often consumed the steaming sizzling mild broth early within the morning earlier than they go to the fields. Actually means pork rib tea, the pork is cooked or added (when meat are already partially cooked) in a cloudy natural broth. Some eating places provide hen, seafood, and beef except for pork. Innards and dimsum balls may also be added.
Malaysian bak kut teh is served with you char kway (fried dough). Locals often eat the meat by dipping them in a soy sauce with chili and minced garlic. Chinatown (or Gaya Avenue space) is dotted with eating places serving bak kut teh, and one among them is Sin Kee, which we had the pleasure of attempting after we visited.
You’ll additionally discover Filipino meals spots all through the town together with Tambayan at Kainang Pilipino at Api-Api Middle. Owned and run by a Pinay immigrant, this 24-hour-open restaurant has a menu that boasts numerous Pinoy favorites from scorching plates of sisig to icy desserts like halo-halo.
Immerse within the Sabahan tradition and expertise the approach to life of the locals right here!
This bustling strip of business institutions, each previous and new, dates again to 1902. Initially named “Bond Avenue” through the British colonial interval, the road developed from an industrial buying and selling railway monitor — transporting rubber between Tenom and the wharf in Jesselton Harbour, which was then the primary gateway to North Borneo earlier than industrial flights had been made out there — right into a busy industrial road the place many outlets and eating locations flourished.
Spanning from Lintasan Deasoka close to the Kota Kinabalu Metropolis Corridor and Mandarin Lodge all the way in which to the previous Jesselton Submit Workplace, Gaya Avenue is dwelling to previous household companies handed from era to era, most of them are espresso outlets and eating places operated by Chinese language households; therefore, the world can be dubbed because the Chinatown of Sabah. The tip of the road close to the KK Metropolis Corridor is marked by a Chinese language arch gate erected in 2005.
On Sundays, it transforms right into a pedestrian-only road the place common market honest is held, significantly within the morning. Native retailers, in addition to international merchants (Indonesians, Filipinos, and so forth.), promote numerous varieties of things and merchandise: agricultural produce, native snacks and road meals, arts and craft, flowers, souvenirs, footwear, garments and textiles, and plenty of others.
Location: Kota Kinabalu Central Enterprise District, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Avenue Truthful Hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Sundays). The schedule would possibly change, so test first with Sabah Tourism Board earlier than going.
Contact Element: +60 88 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board)
Plaza 333 is a industrial advanced housing leisure and meals institutions, from homegrown eating places to fast-food chains to bar and eating places.
Though positioned outdoors Kota Kinabalu, over six kilometers south of the town middle, it nonetheless attracts individuals, each younger and previous, to its numerous meals institutions. Additionally it is one of many favourite hangout spots for nightlife amongst locals.
Location: Kobusak Industrial Centre, Penampang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: The entire advanced is open 24/7, however every institution has its personal working schedule. Examine the official Fb web page or web site of the institution you want to go to.
Getting There: It’s fairly difficult to go right here in case you re taking the general public transportation, so one of the simplest ways is to take a Seize service from Kota Kinabalu. The journey time is about 20 minutes.
This place is THE memento haven! Also called the Filipino Market, it’s composed of outlets managed largely by residents originating from the Philippines.
With stalls flanking a portion of Tun Fuad Stephens Avenue, this waterfront market is a well-liked purchasing vacation spot for locals and vacationers searching for particular objects and even attention-grabbing items that they “immediately want”. Wink wink. With seemingly countless array of choices, it’s unimaginable to depart empty handed. Follow your bargaining expertise and study useful phrases of their native language for higher possibilities of getting reductions.
A few of the merchandise bought listed below are native handicraft, musical devices, garments, materials, conventional garments, jewellery, equipment, key chains, and extra. Must you get hungry, meals stalls and seafood pop right here and there.
Location: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Each day). The schedule would possibly change, so test first with Sabah Tourism Board earlier than going.
Contact Element: +60 88 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board)
“The Floating Mosque”
Ensconced in a diamond-shaped artifical lagoon, Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu (aka Kota Kinabalu Metropolis Mosque) covers an space of about six hectares on Pasir Avenue alongside the shores of Likas Bay. The mosque is connected to the southeastern aspect of the lagoon the place the doorway can be positioned.
Formally opened in February 2000 after Kota Kinabalu acquired its metropolis standing, the mosque attracts not solely worshipers but additionally vacationers with its blue and gold dome and 4 minarets. The trendy Arabic architectural fashion was impressed by the second holiest web site within the Islam faith, the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. Additionally it is one of many standard pictures topics in Kota Kinabalu.
Non-muslims are welcome to go to the mosque outdoors prayer instances and should put on correct apparel — no sleeveless and shorts. Cowl up clothes could be rented from the administration. All guests are additionally required to register at Kota Kinabalu Metropolis Mosque Tourism Administration. Observe the foundations and respect the place.
Be aware that this isn’t the town’s major mosque. That title belongs to Sabah State Mosque (Masjid Negeri Sabah) in Sembulan.
Location: Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM to five:30 PM (Saturday – Thursday); CLOSED (Fridays). The schedule would possibly change, so test first with Kota Kinabalu Metropolis Mosque Tourism Administration earlier than going.
Entrance Payment: RM 5/head
Cowl Up Rental: RM 5 – RM 10
Contact Particulars: +60 88 435 891 / [email protected]
From its humble beginnings at a shophouse alongside Gaya Avenue in 1965, the Sabah State Museum now sits on a 17-hectare land at Bukit Istana Lama, the place the previous palace of the British North Borneo Governor was located.
From the gathering of pictures and diaries of George Cathcart Woolley, the museum’s treasured possessions burgeoned into a large assemblage of artifacts, installations, and displays housed in a number of galleries by class — historical past, arts, ceramics, brassware, pure historical past, archaeology, ethnography, and Islamic civilization amongst others.
From the devoted palms of Sabah Society, the administration duties of the museum was bequeathed to the State Ministry of Neighborhood Providers in 1981 earlier than it was handed over to the State Ministry of Tradition, Youth and Sports activities. Lastly, in April 1984, the museum transferred to its new dwelling the place it’s presently positioned. The present museum advanced dates again to 1985.
Other than the museum’s major constructing, the advanced additionally hosts a zoo, a botanic backyard, and a heritage village with a number of of Sabah’s indigenous teams’ conventional homes. The museum is positioned close to Sabah State Mosque.
Location: Sabah Museum Advanced, Bukit Istana Lama, Jalan Muzium, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Each day). The schedule would possibly change, so test the official web site earlier than going.
Entrance Payment: RM 15/head
The Sign Hill Observatory Platform is below renovation till September 2023, however individuals can nonetheless trek to the highest and nonetheless get good views from completely different spots across the hilltop.
As the very best level in Kota Kinabalu, Sign Hill is among the greatest locations to absorb panoramic views of the town, Gaya Bay, and a few of the islands of TAR Marine Park.
Benches are supplied by the sidewalk must you get drained otherwise you simply wish to spend extra time admiring the breathtaking surroundings.
Padang Merdeka and Gaya Avenue are the 2 entry factors to the trailhead. Padang Merdeka primarily caters to guests who decide to drive, whereas Gaya Avenue caters to those that wish to go there on foot.
The trailhead from Gaya Avenue is on the aspect the place the Sabah Tourism Board workplace is positioned. It’s on the finish of the road between the Previous City Espresso store and Jesselton Lodge. You’ll spot the path signal from the Kota Kinabalu Neighborhood Corridor (Dewan Masyarakat DBKK). You’ll attain the highest in kind of 10 minutes.
Location: 78, Jalan Asrama, Sign Hill, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Path Head Soar-Off Level: Kota Kinabalu Neighborhood Corridor close to Gaya Avenue
Opening Hours: 24/7 (Hilltop Space); CLOSED for Renovation (Observatory).
Devoted to Monsopiad, the legendary headhunter warrior of the Kadazandusun individuals, the biggest ethnic group on this aspect of Borneo.
Privately owned and managed by the direct descendants of Monsopiad, the heritage village was constructed on the very web site the place the famend warrior lived about 300 years in the past. Aiming to spotlight the life and time of Monsopiad and the wealthy historical tradition of the Kadazandusun, it was opened to the general public in 1979, that includes cultural actions just like the Sumazau dance, the Kadazan cuisines, and the standard bamboo fireplace lighting.
The preferred attraction is the Home of Skulls (Siou Do Mohoing), the place 42 skulls grasp on show as trophies and proof of Monsopiad’s power and energy as a warrior and defender of his village. Different options are the huge monolith, the suspension bridge, the standard restaurant, the Grainery (Tangkob), and Monsopiad’s Most important Home (Kotos di Monsopiad) the place some objects together with padi grinders, ceramic jars, bamboo instruments, and costume, are showcased.
The heritage village is positioned in Penampang, only a few minutes’ drive south from Kota Kinabalu metropolis middle.
Location: Kampung Kuai Kandazon, Jalan Putatan Ramayah, Penampang, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday, Wednesday – Sunday); CLOSED (Tuesdays). The schedule would possibly change, so test the official web site or Fb web page earlier than going.
Cultural Efficiency Schedule: 11:00 AM (Morning Session); 2:00 PM (Afternoon Session)
Bundle Tour Fee: RM 55 (Grownup); RM 50 (Senior Citizen, 60 y/o and above); RM 35 (Baby, 4-12 y/o); RM 30 (PWD). These are worldwide charges inclusive of guided tour, tour information, cultural actions, cultural present, complimentary drinks, and complimentary present.
Contact Particulars: For reserving and inquiries, contact +6011-14196484 / +6011-14196488 / [email protected]
Nestled off the northwestern coast of Sabah, this group of three islands is a fast day journey from Kota Kinabalu, offering different seashore vacation spot possibility for vacationers who wish to take in the solar and swim in an uncrowded tropical paradise. Other than swimming and seashore bumming, the frequent actions are diving, snorkeling, and birdwatching.
Mantanani Besar, the biggest of the three and the most well-liked, homes a number of scuba diving resorts. Nature trails additionally scribble throughout the island. The opposite two islands are Mantanani Kecil, housing a small dive lodge, and Lungisan, the smallest of the three. The waters surrounding the islands are dwelling to coral reefs, dugongs, and different marine creatures.
Getting There: The jump-off level is Kota Belud, which is about an hour’s drive north of Kota Kinabalu. From Kota Belud mainland, significantly Kuala Abai Jetty, the journey time by speedboat to the islands is sort of an hour.
You’ll be able to e-book a tour package deal inclusive of roundtrip transfers from Kota Kinabalu, boat transfers, lunch, snorkeling gear, jetty and entrance charges. Two choices can be found — Snorkeling Solely or Snorkeling + River Cruise.
As international locations proceed to ease their COVID-19-related journey restrictions, many airways are additionally reopening routes for industrial flights. AirAsia Philippines has just lately resumed its Manila-Kota Kinabalu service twice every week. Journey time is over two hours.
Every reserving is inclusive of a complimentary 7kg carry-on baggage allowance. For a hassle-free and extra snug journey, you would possibly wish to test its Worth Pack, which covers 20kg check-in baggage allowance, commonplace choice, a meal, and Tune Defend insurance coverage (for bags delay & 1 hour on-time assure safety). In the meantime, their Premium Flex possibility permits you to change the date and time of your flight as much as two instances.
For comfort, seamless reserving of flights and accommodations, and nice offers, you might wish to obtain and test the corporate’s fully-integrated platform, the airasia Tremendous App, providing flight reserving and different supplementary companies and merchandise equivalent to on-line purchasing, insurance coverage, and ride-hailing and supply companies (when relevant/out there).
Written by Asta Alvarez
Images and extra phrases by Yosh Dimen
Our latest journey to Kota Kinabalu was made attainable by AirAsia Philippines.