Kundasang - All You Need To Know 2024 | Sabah, Malaysia

Located in the beautiful highlands of Sabah, Malaysia, Kundasang is a favorite spot for locals and tourists, especially during school and public holidays. It offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in Southeast Asia, along with cool weather and lush green scenery that provide a refreshing break from the usual heat. Kundasang is a gateway to Mount Kinabalu National Park, where you can hike, watch birds, and see diverse wildlife. Visitors also enjoy the lively local markets, a famous dairy farm with fresh products to try, and the touching Kundasang War Memorial, which honors wartime history. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Kundasang promises an unforgettable time in Sabah's highlands.

－Top Things to do in Kundasang－

• Climb Mount Kinabalu: Scale Southeast Asia’s highest peak for spectacular views and an exhilarating trekking adventure.
  
• Climb Maragang Hill: Hike this lesser-known hill for breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding countryside.
  
• Enjoy Ranau Paragliding and Kundasang ATV: Experience thrilling activities like paragliding over stunning landscapes and ATV rides through rugged terrain.
  
• Explore Sabah Tea Garden: Take a guided tour of the scenic tea plantation, learn about tea production, and enjoy panoramic vistas.
  
• Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Kinabalu Park: Discover diverse ecosystems, rare plants, and wildlife in this internationally recognized biodiversity hotspot.
  
• Hike Sosodikon Hill: Trek to the top for panoramic views of the Kundasang valley and surrounding mountain ranges.
  
• Visit Pekan Nabalu for Local Souvenirs and Fruits: Browse bustling markets for unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and fresh fruits, a perfect spot for cultural immersion.
  
• Visit Desa Farm Dairy: Experience farm life amidst picturesque views of Mount Kinabalu, taste fresh dairy products, and interact with farm animals.
  
• Experience Natural Fish Spa: Enjoy a unique foot spa experience as fish gently exfoliate your feet in cool mountain waters.
  
• Visit Alpaca Club: Interact with adorable alpacas, feed them, and learn about these gentle creatures in a picturesque setting.
  
• Visit Rafflesia Flower (seasonal): Discover the world’s largest flower in bloom, a rare natural wonder that blooms under specific conditions.
  
• Visit Kundasang War Memorial Park: Reflect at the serene memorial park honoring WWII soldiers, surrounded by peaceful gardens.
  
• Try Sinalau Bakas, Smoked Wild Boar Meat: Sample this local delicacy known for its smoky flavor and cultural significance in Sabah.
  
• Try Bakso Kundasang: Indulge in Indonesian-style meatball soup, a popular dish in Kundasang’s culinary scene.
  
• Stay at Scenic Homestays: Immerse yourself in local hospitality and daily life by staying with friendly locals in charming homestay accommodations.
  
• Visit Poring Hot Spring & Suspension Bridge: Relax in natural hot springs, walk across a thrilling suspension bridge, and explore nearby rainforest.
  

Feeling overwhelmed planning your itinerary? Join our KKday Signature Tour to explore the cultural, culinary, and natural wonders of Kundasang hassle-free!

－Recommended Local Food to try in Kundasang－

1. Sinalau Bakas (Smoked Wild Boar): Traditional smoked wild boar meat with a rich, smoky flavor.
2. Jeruk Tuhau (Preserved Wild Ginger Shoot): Crunchy wild ginger shoots preserved in vinegar and spices.
3. Jeruk Bambangan (Preserved Bambangan Fruit - Wild Mango): Tangy preserved wild mango, a unique Sabahan delicacy.
4. Sup Babi (Pork/Wild Boar Soup): Hearty soup with pork or wild boar, infused with local herbs.
5. Bosou (Preserved River Fish with Rice): Fermented river fish mixed with rice, known for its bold taste.
6. Linopot (Leaf-Wrapped Rice): Fragrant rice wrapped in leaves, steamed with chicken or fish.
   

－Recommended Souvenir to buy－

1. Sabah Tea: High-quality tea grown in the cool highlands of Sabah, packaged in unique tins or boxes.
2. Tapai and Lihing Wine: Traditional rice wines offering a taste of indigenous Sabahan flavors and culture.
3. Tenom Coffee: Rich and flavorful coffee beans from Tenom, available in whole bean or ground form.
4. Snacks: Crispy peanuts, kuih cincin (crispy biscuits), amplang (fish crackers), and Sabah chocolate, perfect for snacking or gifting.
5. Stingless Bee Honey: Medicinal honey with a unique taste, harvested sustainably from Sabah’s rainforests.
6. Handicraft and Artwork: Handmade rattan baskets, beadwork, textiles, and artwork depicting local scenes and wildlife.
7. Musical Instrument: Traditional gongs or kulintangan (percussion instruments) used in Sabah’s cultural performances and ceremonies.

－Accessibility－

1. By Car:
   - Route: Take the Jalan Tuaran Road (AH150) from Kota Kinabalu towards Tamparuli, then continue on AH150 towards Ranau.
   - Driving Time: About 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
   - Road Conditions: Generally good, but be careful on winding mountain roads, especially in rain.
   - Scenic Stops: Look for viewpoints along the way to enjoy the scenery.
2. By Bus:
   - Bus Terminal: Buses to Kundasang leave from Inanam Bus Terminal in Kota Kinabalu.
   - Location: Inanam Bus Terminal is in Inanam district, about 10 km northeast of Kota Kinabalu city center.
   - Frequency: Buses depart regularly, but check schedules in advance, especially during peak times.
   - Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
   - Tickets: Buy tickets at the terminal or on board.
3. By Minibus:
   - Departure Points: Minibuses also leave from Inanam area or specific points in Kota Kinabalu.
   - Availability: Minibuses have flexible departure times.
   - Travel Time: Similar to buses, around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and stops.
   - Tickets: Purchase from the minibus driver.
4. Organized Tours:
   - Tour Operators: Many in Kota Kinabalu offer day trips or multi-day tours to Kundasang.
   - Services: Tours include transport, accommodation, meals, and guided activities.
   - Booking: Book through tour agencies or from KKday!
5. Self-Drive:
   - Car Rental: Rent a car from Kota Kinabalu.
   - Navigation: Use GPS or maps to navigate via Jalan Tuaran (AH150) towards Ranau.
   - Fuel and Stops: Plan fuel stops as petrol stations are limited outside Kota Kinabalu.