PICTURESQUE
Kundasang
Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Kundasang offers an atmosphere that is largely different from any other hill resort in Malaysia. Boasting serene views of mist-shrouded hilltops, tall pine trees, clean mountain air, scenic dairy farms and tea gardens, Kundasang can make you forget that you are still in Malaysia. Remote and tranquil, this hideaway is the perfect choice for a holiday that is off the beaten track. The picturesque town of Kundasang is situated in the district of Ranau in Sabah. It is located about 6km away from Kinabalu Park, which is the site of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. Situated at an elevation of 6,200 feet, Kundasang has the distinction of being the highest inhabited town in Malaysia. This little town is dotted with several shophouses, vegetable markets and houses. Despite its size, Kundasang is never lacking in attractions.
If there is one thing that you can definitely leave behind before you head to Kundasang, it is your stress. Right from the moment you arrive, Kundasang will work its magic with its surreal views and laidback atmosphere.
With its cool air, rolling hills, green pastures, blue skies and free-roaming Friesian cows, Kundasang has earned a nickname as the New Zealand of Sabah. One of the main draws here is the Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, which exudes an ambience that is similar to a New Zealand dairy farm. A tour of the farm offers the chance to watch how the cows are fed and fresh milk is produced. After your tour, don’t miss a chance to try out the milk, yoghurt and ice cream.
If the smell of tea leaves and freshly brewed tea make your day, Kundasang has some of the region’s finest teas. The sprawling Sabah Tea Gardens produces the signature golden Sabah Tea, which is regarded as a healthier and tastier version by tea connoisseurs. Factory visits are available for a fee.
The cool mountain air and fertile soil makes Kundasang one of the best places for farming and agriculture. The town is known for its vegetable markets that are open seven days a week, stacking a medley of colourful vegetables, fruits and flowers, fresh from the farm. Set against the backdrop of wooden houses and hilly terrain, these markets are a beautiful sight to explore.
For those who cannot resist the lure of adventure, this highland destination has got you covered. Take to the skies in a tandem paragliding adventure for a panoramic view of the entire landscape. Operated by licenced paragliding operators, this thrilling ride takes gliders across paddy fields, villages and a diverse range of flora from lowland to sub-alpine.
To rest, recharge and rejuvenate, Poring Hot Springs located on the majestic Mount Kinabalu’s foothills will be an ideal option. Set into various small pools, Poring Hot Springs is ideal for a relaxing and soothing time. The sulphur-rich waters are touted to offer relief to sore muscles while possessing a host of other benefits. Poring Hot Springs is situated about 45 minutes from Kundasang. Avid climbers will seize the opportunity to climb Mount Kinabalu, which stands at a staggering height of 4095.2m. For those who prefer milder pursuits, a tour of Kinabalu Park is just as rewarding. As Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinabalu Park is an ecological haven with carnivorous pitcher plants, Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world and many endemic flora and fauna. A trek along the famous 105m long Canopy Walkway will offer a chance to take in the sights and sounds of this natural gem.
Kundasang has a poignant past that goes back to the days of World War II. Between 1942 to 1945, around 1,000 British and Australian Prisoners of War died tragically as they were taken on gruelling journeys from their POW Camp in Sandakan all the way to Ranau, situated about 250km away. The journey across the harsh jungle terrain became known as the infamous ‘Death March’ and is etched in the pages of history. Built in 1962, Kundasang War Memorial commemorates both the victims and the people of Borneo who risked their lives to help the POWs. Today the beautiful landscape stands as a grim reminder of the atrocities of war. The memorial is made up of four gardens, the Australian Garden, English Garden, Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden and Pool. Surrounded by tall pine trees and roses, the environment is akin to an English countryside.
Moving on to something lighter, the Upside Down House in Tamparuli offers an interesting and amusing experience. Featured in the Malaysia Book of Records, this house offers a unique perspective and the illusion of a gravity-defying experience. The house comes complete with furniture, and even has a porch with an upside down car parked in! Upside Down House is located about an hour’s drive from Kundasang.
Despite being a simple and quaint town, Kundasang and the neighbouring areas offer a number of small resorts and homestays. Spend a night or two to fully enjoy the quintessence of Kundasang.
Kundasang is situated in the district of Ranau in Sabah, lying along the banks of Kundasang Valley. It is located about 6km away from Kinabalu Park and 12km from Ranau town. For visitors who are flying from Kuala Lumpur, the jumping-off points are Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan. From there, you can self-drive a rented car, or book a taxi to Kundasang. The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang takes about 1 1/2 hours. The journey from Sandakan to Kundasang by road takes about 5 hours.
Tips
Bring comfortable and warm clothing as the temperature can get chilly. For self-drives, it is best to avoid late hours as the roads will be misty and may affect the vision.
