Looking for the best Kundasang attractions for your upcoming trip to Kundasang? Look no further! Here’s the best guide for you!
Kundasang is a town in the district of Ranau in Sabah. It is located 6km from the well-known Mount Kinabalu National Park and 92km from Kota Kinabalu.
Whether you are looking for a place to unwind, adventure, culture or history, Kundasang has something for everyone. The best Kundasang attractions are located as you make your way towards Kundasang and at Kundasang town itself.
Kundasang Attractions: The Best 14 Attractions You Must Not Miss
- JonGrapevines & Figs Garden
- First Rumah Terbalik in Malaysia
- Indulging Sinalau Bakas
- Panataran River
- Pekan Nabalu
- Kinabalu Park
- Kundasang War Memorial
- Enjoy at Anooh Coffee
- Sonsodikon Hill
- Desa Dairy Cattle Farm
- Alpaca Club
- Sungai Moroli Fish Spa
- Poring Hot Springs
- Borneo Paragliding
DISCLOSURE
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Kundasang Attractions: The Best 14 Attractions You Must Not Miss
Kundasang attractions are located around the area and there is only one road heading to and from Kundasang.
To save you the hassle of navigating the best driving route to these Kundasang attractions, this Kundasang itinerary is listed strategically. This reduces the need for you to drive back and forth on the same road multiple times.
Thus, if you are in a group and renting a car, simply put in the location tagged into Google Maps and you’re set to go.
Let’s start driving!
1. JonGrapevines & Figs Garden
Drop by this Grapevine and Figs garden to pick up some organically grown fruits. They are grown and well taken care of by local farmers.
If you are not sure how to pick the best grapevines and figs, speak to the friendly and chatty guide. His name is Jon. He shares the best stories and tips on how to spot the best grapevines, which taste sweet.
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily, except Thursdays
Ticket price: RM 10 (USD 2.50) for adults; RM 7 (USD 1.75) for children
Location: Jalan Bantayan, 89250 Tamparuli, Sabah
Photo credits: Tamparuli Heavenly Grapes / Facebook
2. First Rumah Terbalik in Malaysia
Rumah Terbalik, when translated to English, means upside-down house. Driving towards Kundasang, you will pass this Kundasang attraction along the main road without much detour.
This upside-down house is fully equipped, just like your regular house. Visiting this Rumah Terbalik gives you an eye-opening experience and a different perspective of a traditional Sabah village house, but upside down.
Opening hours: open daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket price: RM 12 (USD 3) for Malaysians, RM 18 (USD 4.50) for non-Malaysians
Location: Mile 21, 89250 Tamparuli, Sabah
Photo credits: Upside Down House Borneo / Facebook
3. Indulging Sinalau Bakas
Sinalau Bakas is one of Sabah’s local dishes. It is a popular dish among the Kadazan-Dusun ethnic groups. ‘Sinalau’ means smoked and ‘Bakas’ means wild boar.
In mid-2023, the Sabah Wildlife Department banned wild boar hunting due to their population being on the decline, following the African Swine Flu (ASF). However, as it is a local favourite, the ban is to be lifted when the wild boar population recovers.
While the ban is in place, the meat served is pork. This local dish is sold in pop-up-like stores along the E22 highway from Tamparuli to Kundasang. Choose your favourite cut and the meat is grilled over charcoal until tender right before your eyes!
My favourite is at Sinalau Bakas Himbaan Bongol. The meat served was tender. It pairs great with fermented rice wrapped in yam leaves and the uniquely made chilli sauce (pictured). Not to forget, you can enjoy your meal at their seating areas overlooking the mountains. There is no fixed serving size, so order based on how hungry you are!
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM, daily
Location: 89150 Tuaran, Sabah
4. Panataran River
Refresh yourself with the clear, icy cold water at Panataran River. This area was formed, following the earthquake in June 2015. A few months after the earthquake, the area experienced mud floods, which then altered the physical landscape and geographical elements along the river.
While the sun is shining right onto you as you walk towards the river, you will feel the chill as you dip your legs and yourself in the river. The water comes straight from Mount Kinabalu and flows over the rocks.
Despite the rather strong current, it is safe to swim. The river is shallow. On a clear day, you will get an unobstructed view of Mount Kinabalu!
If you are an outdoor enthusiast and keen to escape the city, book one of the many campsites where you can rent tents and sleeping bags. At night, you can enjoy a memorable, peaceful night beneath the stars.
Ticket price: RM 3 (USD 0.65) for a day visit, RM6 (USD 1.30) for camping overnight
Location: Panataran River, Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site
5. Pekan Nabalu
Pekan Nabau is a favourite pit stop en route to the various Kundasang attractions. Pekan is a Malay word, that means town.
At Pekan Nabalu, there is a row of shops selling local handicrafts and locally grown fruits, nuts and leafy greens. Tarap is a native fruit in Borneo, which looks similar to a mini jackfruit. It’s a must-try when you are in Sabah and you can easily get them at any stalls here.
Another fruit that is a must-try while you’re here is red and orange durians (pictured). These durians are seasonal and are not as pungent as the ones you have heard about. Stall owners typically sell them in small portions at affordable prices for you to taste them!
After shopping, walk towards the end of the row of shops to the lookout point to have a mesmerizing view of Mount Kinabalu before continuing your drive to Kundasang.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Pekan Nabalu, 89150 Nabalu, Sabah
6. Kinabalu Park
Kinabalu Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which covers a 754 sq km area. This national park features the highest mountain the Himalayas and New Guinea, known as Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu stands tall at 4,095m (13,435ft).
Every year, Kinabalu Park is visited by nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. There is a variety of activities that you can do, from enjoying the various unique plant species in the Botanic Garden to hiking the various local trails and Mount Kinabalu with your friends.
Here are my tips for you:
- To fully enjoy yourself at the park, prepare to spend at least 2 days to enjoy the lush rainforest
- Plan ahead if you are keen on hiking Mount Kinabalu for the best chance of securing a climbing permit and a tour guide. There is a limit on the number of climbing permits implemented by Sabah Park to ensure your safety
- Staying at one of the resthouses in Kinabalu Park gives you the best view of the mountain in the morning and on a clear day
Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entrance ticket: also known as the conservation fee. RM 10 (USD 2.50) for Malaysians, RM 50 (USD 11) for non-Malaysians
Location: Kinabalu Park Headquarters
7. Kundasang War Memorial
History buffs, drop by this War Memorial! This war memorial was opened in 1962 to commemorate the Australian and British prisoners of war who died during World War II.
There are 4 gardens to represent the different aspects of war and nationalities. As you enjoy the serene atmosphere, this allows you to remember the heroes of war.
Opening hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Location: Kundasang War Memorial
Photo credits: ashikinarffn / Foursquare
8. Enjoy at Anooh Coffee
Do your legs need some rest from all the walking in town? Head over to Anooh Coffee to enjoy a cup of local coffee and tea. Among all the coffee shops I’ve visited in Kundasang, this coffee shop gives you the best view and ambience! There is a large outdoor seating area for you and your friends.
While you sip your hot coffee or tea, enjoy the cool mountain hair, pollution-free! I’d recommend you to try the Iced Sabah tea.
Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 9.30 PM
Drink prices: RM 5 (USD1.25) – RM 16 (USD 4)
Location: Anooh Coffee
9. Sonsodikon Hill
Sonsodikon Hill is located approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) from Kundasang town centre and 2.5 km (1.5 miles) from Desa Dairy Cattle Farm. The road to the starting point is narrow and the drive is quite an incline. Thus, allow yourself some extra minutes to navigate the drive.
The hike at Sonsodikon Hill is beginner and children-friendly. It is a 250 m (820 ft) walk on a pebbled, clearly marked path. So, if you are visiting solo, you need not worry! Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a small bottle of water. You need not hire a guide for this hike.
There is a viewing point at the peak, which is a nice spot to take an Instagram-worthy shot. The view of Mount Kinabalu and the villages on the hillside is spectacular, especially on a clear, sunny day. You will be able to enjoy the various beautiful flowers blooming along the hiking trail.
As this hiking spot gives you the best view of Mount Kinabalu compared to the other hiking trails, during sunrise and sunset, the area gets a little crowded.
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Peak hours: sunset and sunrise hours
Ticket price: RM 5 (USD 1.25) for Malaysians, RM 10 (USD 2.50) for non-Malaysians
Location: Sonsodikon Hill
10. Desa Dairy Cattle Farm
This is one of the most visited Kundasang attractions. The Desa Dairy Farm combines great natural beauty and agriculture education for everyone. To avoid the crowd, visit the farm in the morning.
This cattle farm is about 200 hectares and rears the highest milk-producing cattle breed, known as the Holstein Friesian breed. Walk and be mesmerized by the cows grazing in the pastures while enjoying the cool air.
Check out the viewing panel in the restaurant to see how the milk is packaged and commercialised. Due to the importance of hygiene in the manufacturing space, visitors are to view the manufacturing process through the viewing panel.
For some fun activities, walk further through the shops to the cow barn. Grab a milk bottle and feed those hungry calves. As you return through the restaurant, grab a cup of yoghurt or ice cream with your favourite toppings at the restaurant. They are the creamiest I’ve tasted! Just before you leave, remember to purchase a box of milk to go!
As the visit to the Desa Dairy Farm is highly educational, especially for young children, expect many families with young children and school excursions on the weekends and school holidays. Do remember to get a ticket online via this website, as this helps with crowd control.
Opening hours: opens daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket price: Adults – RM 5 (USD 1.25); Children – RM 4 (USD 1)
Location: Desa Dairy Cattle Farm
11. Alpaca Club
Whether or not you are visiting Kundasang with a child, a trip to Kundasang is incomplete without a trip to the Alpaca Club. The Alpaca Club is a miniature petting zoo.
Drop by the Alpaca Club after visiting the Desa Dairy Cattle Farm and spend the next hour admiring the adorable alpacas! These alpacas have been brought from Australia! With the amazing and serene backdrop, you will feel as though you are not in Malaysia.
These alpacas are friendly. Thus, you could get up close to feed, pet and hug them in their neck area! You can learn about their personalities and even call them by their names! However, be kind to them, especially in their tail and ears area. If these furry animals get uncomfortable, they may split saliva onto you.
There is no reservation required. So, walk in and purchase your tickets at the counter. Keep your phone fully charged as you take lovely photographs and selfies with these constantly smiling alpacas!
If you are looking for a unique experience of living at a petting zoo, there are a few homestays at the Alpaca Club. These cosy homestays give you a majestic view of Mount Kinabalu.
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket price: Adults – RM 15 (USD 3.20); Children (4 – 12 years) – RM 10 (USD 2.20); Children (4 and below) – RM 2 (USD 0.50)
Location: Alpaca Club, Kundasang
Photo credits: Alpaca Club Facebook
12. Sungai Moroli Fish Spa
Fancy a unique fish spa experience? Head over to Sungai Moroli to experience a fish massage.
“Sungai” means river. These fishes in the river are 200mm – 250mm, with the largest one in the area weighing up to 20kg (44 lbs)! These fishes are trained by the villages to perform these massage activities.
If you ask if this activity is safe, it is!
After paying a minimal entrance fee, which includes a packet of fish food, there are guides to guide you to the river. These guides are amiable, sharing with you the best tricks to get those large fish to your feet!
It is a slightly ticklish feeling at the beginning as the fishes nibble off the dead skin from your feet and legs. For an enjoyable experience, avoid wearing long trousers as they may get wet when you are enjoying your massage.
Opening hours: opens daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket price: RM 5 (USD 1.25)
Location: Sungai Moroli Fish Spa
13. Poring Hot Spring
If you prefer a more laid-back, relaxing activity to sit, daydream and soothe the aching muscles, a trip to Poring Hot Springs is definitely for you! This hot spring is named “Poring” after a species of giant bamboo that grows abundantly approximately 40km (25 miles) from Kinabalu Park Headquarters.
This hot spring bath was established during World War II. At this hot spring, there are outdoor and indoor bathing facilities. You can opt for the indoor bathing facilities if you prefer more privacy.
Photo credits: ALYMA2013 / TripAdvisor
After resting those muscles, take a walk on the 43m (141 ft) tall canopy walkway. Keep an eye out and spot the Rafflesia flowers. These Rafflesia flowers are the largest in the world. They grow as big as 107 cm (3 ft 6 in) in diameter and weigh 11kg (24lbs).
Remember to bring your swimsuit and a change of clothes. There are changing and shower facilities available.
To waterfall-hunting enthusiasts, Langanan Waterfall is located at Poring Hot Spring. Put on your walking shoes and hike ~3.7km (2.3 miles) to a 120m waterfall.
Here’s my tip for you if you are not driving: request some help from your homestay’s reception to arrange a return ride to the hot spring. While Grab transport services are available, it may take a while to get a ride later in the evening.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Last entry is 3:00 PM
Ticket price: RM 10 (USD 2.50) for Malaysian adults, RM 50 (USD 11) for non-Malaysian adults. Children’s tickets are half-priced
Location: Poring Hot Spring
Photo credits: AhJian / TripAdvisor
14. Borneo Paragliding
Would you want to get your adrenaline rushing to your brain? Opt for a 5-7-minute paragliding ride and enjoy the surrounding lush greenery from the sky like a bird.
You need not worry if you’ve not experienced paragliding before. The instructors at Borneo Paragliding are well-certified and a double safety check will be performed. Just before your flight, you will also be briefed on all the safety instructions before your ride.
To enjoy the best deals, keep an eye out on Borneo Paragliding’s Facebook page.
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tour price: RM180 – RM350 (USD 38 – USD 75), depending on the paragliding site
Photo credits: Borneo Paragliding Facebook
What is so special about Kundasang attractions?
Kundasang is one of the best towns to unwind. The unique mountainous geographical terrain at Kundasang is very similar to New Zealand, enabling you to experience New Zealand vibes without getting a hole in your pocket.
Kundasang is the best stopping point to enjoy the stunning view of Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia. If you have hiked up Mount Kinabalu the day prior, as you sit and relax your sore muscles, you will be in slight disbelief that you were just up there yesterday!
Located 1,900m (6,400ft) above sea level, Kundasang is the highest settlement in Malaysia. It offers cooler temperatures, so it is great sweater weather. So, take your mind off your toughest problem and enjoy yourself in nature!
How to get to Kundasang?
Although Kundasang’s attractions are popular among locals and tourists alike, getting to Kundasang is a little tricky. However, here’s how you can get there, whether you are travelling solo or in a group.
- Hitchhiking
If you’re travelling solo, an option is hitchhiking. Malaysians are friendly and helpful, so you need not be afraid to ask the locals if they have an extra space in their car.
- Public transport
Taking the minibus is one of the cheapest ways and the best option for solo travellers. It departs from Kota Kinabalu town centre (near Dreamtel hotel) and drops you off at Kundasang town centre.
The journey takes approximately 4 hours and the ticket fare is RM 30 (USD 7). There is no fixed schedule for the frequency of the service as the minibus leaves when it is full. A minibus can fit 10 to 15 passengers, depending on the amount of luggage.
Here’s my tip for you: Head to the bus terminal as early as 8:00 AM to catch the first minibus to Kundasang.
- Car Rental
Renting a car is the most and best-preferred travel option, especially if you are in a group. This gives you the most flexibility and enables you to stop and enjoy the stunning view. A 5-seater sedan will cost you RM 120/day (USD 25/day)
There are various ways to rent a car:
1. SoCar, a car-sharing service in Malaysia
2. At one of the rental companies at Kota Kinabalu airport
3. Private companies in Kota Kinabalu
I opted for Option 3 and rented my car with Fiefiey Car Rental. The process from getting the best quotation from the team until returning the car after my trip was seamless. The rental cars provided are new and the response was the team was quick. I highly recommend them.
- Public hire
Hiring a driver is an alternative option if you miss public transport times or prefer not to drive. You could inquire about the price from the Taxi Terminal. Price ranges from RM 200 to RM 250 (USD 50 – 60).
Best time to visit Kundasang Attractions
Kundasang can be visited and is open all year round. Generally, there is less rainfall between January and April. Heavy rainfall is expected from May to December.
However, as Kundasang is geographically located near the mountains, the weather is unpredictable.
The “best time” is dependent on your planned activities.
- March to September: for dry weather to hike Mount Kinabalu
- November to February: to enjoy the cool weather. Temperatures drop to as low as 7°C (44°F) at night
- June to July: for warmer temperatures
Spend at least 4 days to enjoy the best attractions in Kundasang!
What to bring to Kundasang Attractions
To help you prepare well for your trip to the attractions in Kundasang, bring these items with you!
- A comfortable sweater: It’s sweater weather at Kundasang
- Walking shoes
- Woollen socks
- A rain jacket: The weather is unpredictable in the mountains. A rain jacket will help keep you dry
- Mosquito repellent
- Torchlight: Enabling last-minute hiking to catch the sunrise
There you go, folks! Those are the 14 best Kundasang attractions to visit. Spent at least 4 days in Kundasang for the best memories with your friends and family!