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KINABALU PARK

SCENIC

Kinabalu Park

On the rainforest-clad island of Borneo, you will find Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site. Within it stands Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia between the Himalayas and Wilhelmena in Irian Jaya (New Guinea). Revel in the wealth of rare flora and fauna and spectacular waterfalls. From the giant Rafflesia flower and many nocturnal creatures, to the spectacular trek through primordial jungle up misty peaks, and finally above the clouds to catch an awe-inspiring sunrise – this is the one adventure you will never forget.

Contact Info

Sabah Parks

Lot 45 & 46, Level 1-5, Block H Signature Office KK Times Square Coastal Highway 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges

Block B, Lot 9, Ground Floor Signature Office, KK Times Square Off Coastal Highway 88806 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Kinabalu Park, a scenic two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu – the capital of Sabah, is a dream come true for nature lovers. The park covers a staggering area of 754 sq km, has four climatic zones and also one of the richest collections of flora in the world. The majestic Mount Kinabalu is its main attraction.

A Sacred Site

The Kadazandusun, Sabah’s largest ethnic group, believe that the mountain is the sacred resting ground of the spirits of their ancestors. The Kadazandusun practise shifting cultivation on the hill slopes and serve as reliable guides and porters to visitors trekking up Mount Kinabalu.

The gateway to the mountain is the Kinabalu Park Headquarters, situated 1,563m on its southern boundary. Accommodation, restaurants and an exhibition centre are available here. This is also where you pay the entrance fee to the park and register if you are an overnight visitor or a climber. Popular attractions include the Mount Kinabalu Botanical Garden. After viewing the slide shows on the park’s rich history and biodiversity, you can explore the gardens on your own, or join the park’s naturalist on a guided walk.

You do not need any real experience in mountain climbing to conquer the highest peak of Southeast Asia, but it pays to be fit. While the summit of Mount Kinabalu can be reached in two days, a three-day climb is less strenuous and allows you more time to indulge in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Trails To The Top

Following a massive earthquake in 2015, visitors only have access to Mount Kinabalu via the new Summit Trail (along Timpohon Gate).

The new trail will take climbers from Laban Rata situated at an altitude of 3,272m, to Sayat Sayat at 3,668m before they continue on the summit trail to Low’s Peak at 4,095.2m. The new trail is slightly longer but offers beautiful views of the picturesque Ranau Valley. The terrain is also more challenging but ladders and steps are in place to help climbers. The alternative trail, is called the Kota Belud route. It takes a westerly course from Panalaban, but eventually leads to Sayat Sayat.

Climbers will pass Layang-Layang Hut (the Place of Swallows) at 2,703m above sea level and pass the Villosa Shelter and a helipad where one can catch sweeping views of the Summit Plateau. Further on you will come upon the Paka Cave Shelter, where the first explorers slept. To break their journey, climbers will spend a night at Laban Rata, which is equipped with a hostel and a restaurant.

After a short night’s rest, you need to be ready by 2.30am in order to catch the sunrise at the peak. It takes about three hours to reach the peak and there are ladders and ropes to help you over the steeper terrain. En route, marvel at the rugged landscape of cliffs, gorges, gulleys, plateaus and precipices.

At 4,095.2m above sea level and in the freezing hours of early dawn, you reach the summit of Mount Kinabalu. In an almost sacred moment, the dawn of a new day unfolds gloriously before you.

Following the vigorous descent, unwind at Poring Hot Springs, the perfect antidote for tired and aching muscles. Located at Ranau, a short drive from Kinabalu Park, the open air baths contain hot sulphuric minerals said to have curative properties. The nearby Poring Canopy Walkway provides a close-up view of the giant Menggaris treetops.

Mount Kinabalu is the location of the world’s highest via ferrata (3,800m), Mountain Torq. It is also the first via ferrata in Asia. It is certified as the first-of-its-kind by the Guinness World Records. Via ferrata comes from an Italian word, meaning ‘road of iron’. It is a protected climbing route consisting of a series of rungs, rails and cables to help climbers move safely against the mountain face. There are more than 300 via ferrata routes around the world. Via ferrata offers a whole new experience as participants can enjoy views that were previously limited to expert and seasoned climbers.

Up To The Peak

Kinabalu Park is situated about 92km from the international gateway of Kota Kinabalu. It is accessible by car, van, coach, four-wheel drive, taxi and even chartered helicopter. There are also regular buses and minibuses plying between Kota Kinabalu and the park. About seven kilometres from the park’s main entrance, you will find the town of Kundasang, home to the local Dusun farmers. Here you will find stalls selling everything from vegetables to souvenirs and handicraft items.

Tips

All climbers up Mount Kinabalu must engage the services of a registered guide on their climb. You can hire a guide and porter by registering at the park headquarters managed by Sabah Parks. Walk-in bookings at the park are subject to availability, so pre-booking is encouraged.

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.
Berjaya Hills
Just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Hills nestles amidst 16,000 acres of rugged hills surrounded by lush tropical rainforests. Here you will find a unique resort that captures the essence of different cultures of the world in a single destination.
Penang Hill
Malaysia’s oldest hill resort, situated on the island of Penang, beckons with a nostalgic charm. Set amidst a backdrop of history, heritage and cultural legacy, this hill resort offers a memorable experience with a funicular train ride, astounding natural fauna and buildings reminiscent of an era gone by.
Janda Baik
Crystal-clear freshwater streams, scenic waterfalls, lush fruit orchards and a tranquil atmosphere - these are some of the charms of Janda Baik in Pahang.
Genting Highlands
If you are looking for round-the-clock excitement in the cool highlands, the glitzy ‘City of Entertainment’, Genting Highlands, is the place for you.

01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

Itinerary

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS

MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board