Kundasang Travel Guide

Explore Kundasang, Sabah's scenic mountain town, with this comprehensive travel guide full of recommendations for attractions, food, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Kundasang

Located in the state of Sabah, Kundasang is a tranquil and charming town surrounded by lush greenery and majestic mountains. This beautiful destination is popular among tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and enjoy a peaceful and serene experience in the lap of nature. With its cool weather, picturesque landscapes, and diverse array of attractions, Kundasang offers something for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Kundasang

Kundasang boasts a variety of cultural and natural attractions, ranging from historical landmarks to breathtaking vistas. Here are some of the must-visit destinations in Kundasang:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kundasang War Memorial Park: A tribute to the Australian and British soldiers who died in the Sandakan Death Marches during World War II, this park features beautiful gardens, serene ponds, and informative exhibits.

  • Desa Dairy Farm: This farm is known for its fresh milk, produced from free-range cows. Visitors can witness the milking process, pet the calves, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

  • Sabah Tea Garden: This tea plantation is nestled in the verdant hills of Kundasang, and boasts scenic trails, a tea factory tour, and afternoon tea sessions.

Natural Attractions of Kundasang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Kinabalu: The highest peak in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu is a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts, and offers stunning views of the surrounding terrain.

  • Poring Hot Springs: Located about an hour away from Kundasang, these natural hot springs offer relaxation and rejuvenation in the midst of the jungle.

  • Kinabalu Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinabalu Park is home to diverse flora and fauna, and offers a plethora of trekking and hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kundasang

Kundasang is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views and challenging terrain.

  • Mount Kinabalu Summit Trail: This iconic trail is a challenging ascent to the peak of Mount Kinabalu, and requires a permit and a guide.

  • Desa Cattle Dairy Farm Trail: This easy trail begins at the entrance of the dairy farm and winds through lush greenery and scenic hills.

  • Kundasang Valley Trail: This moderate trail offers stunning views of the valley and Mount Kinabalu, and features several waterfalls along the way.

Best Things to Do in Kundasang: Activities and Tours

Kundasang offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences.

  • White Water Rafting: This thrilling activity takes place in the scenic Kiulu River, and is suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

  • Sunrise Tour: Witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Kinabalu with a guided tour that takes visitors to a scenic vantage point.

  • Sabah Agricultural Park: A vast park that features a diverse range of crops, fruits, and vegetables, as well as a beautiful orchid garden.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kundasang

Day 1: Arrival in Kundasang, visit Kundasang War Memorial Park

Day 2: Hike Mount Kinabalu, overnight in Laban Rata

Day 3: Summit Mount Kinabalu and return to Kundasang for a relaxing afternoon at Desa Cattle Dairy Farm

Day 4: Visit Sabah Tea Garden and do a tour, proceed to Poring Hot Springs for a soak in the natural hot springs

Day 5: Go for the White Water Rafting activity, return to Kundasang for a leisurely rest of the day

Day 6: Join the Sabah Agricultural Park Tour, spend the afternoon exploring the local markets at Kundasang

Day 7: Depart Kundasang for next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Kundasang

Kundasang offers a delightful food and drink scene, with a variety of local and international cuisines to savour.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ngiu Chap: A favourite beef noodle soup that is a staple of Sabahan cuisine, made with tender beef slices and noodles in a savoury soup broth.

  • Tuhau: A Sabahan version of pickled vegetables, using a local ginger species, gives it a unique flavour. It’s often served as a side dish or condiment.

  • Hinava: A traditional Sabahan dish made with raw fish, thinly sliced with lime and shallots. It’s usually spicy, and served chilled. Make sure to try it with a side of sambal belacan.

Local Beverages

  • Sabah Tea: A refreshing and aromatic tea, produced in the sprawling tea plantations of Kundasang.

  • Tapai: A fermented rice wine, served in bamboo containers, which can be found at local markets in the area.

Where to Stay in Kundasang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kundasang offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

  • Kinabalu Pine Resorts: A private mountain retreat that offers comfortable and luxurious chalets with breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu.

  • Strawberry Garden Hotel: A clean and comfortable budget option, located in the heart of Kundasang with easy access to nearby attractions.

  • Rocky Mountain Lodge: A charming guesthouse that offers tastefully appointed rooms and stunning views of the countryside.

What to Buy in Kundasang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kundasang is known for its fresh produce and handmade crafts, making it a great place to shop for unique souvenirs.

  • Sabah Tea: Take home a taste of Kundasang with packets of freshly brewed and packaged tea from the local plantations.

  • Handmade Rattan Baskets: Kundasang is known for its handmade rattan baskets, which are great for carrying groceries, or as decorative items in the home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kundasang

Kundasang is home to a diverse mix of cultures, with a majority of the population being of Kadazan-Dusun ethnicity. This vibrant community celebrates a variety of festivals and traditions throughout the year, including the Harvest Festival.

Best Time to Visit Kundasang

The best time to visit Kundasang is from February to April, as the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Avoid visiting Kundasang during the monsoon season, which falls between November and January, as heavy rains can cause landslides and flash floods.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kundasang

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs

  • Carry warm clothing, even during the summer as it can get cold especially at night

  • Bring comfortable shoes and clothes for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking

Don’t:

  • Bring or buy single-use plastics as environmental preservation efforts are being implemented in the town.

  • Take photos or videos of locals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kundasang

Kundasang is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s advisable to avoid flashing valuables in public and to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when travelling alone.

Health in Kundasang

Visitors are advised to drink bottled water and avoid tap water, to avoid the risk of water-borne diseases such as cholera. Travellers should also be up to date with routine vaccinations such as tetanus and Hepatitis A and B.

Getting to Kundasang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kundasang

The nearest airport to Kundasang is Kota Kinabalu International Airport, which is located about 90 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a bus, taxi or rent a car to reach Kundasang.

Bus Stations Near Kundasang

Kundasang is accessible by bus from Kota Kinabalu. Buses run throughout the day and take about 2-3 hours.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire cars or motorcycles to explore Kundasang and its surrounding areas. However, some of the roads can be challenging for inexperienced drivers, so it’s advisable to exercise caution.

How to Get Around in Kundasang

Kundasang is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and motorbikes are also available for rent.

Where to Go Next from Kundasang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that visitors can explore include:

  • Kinabalu Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is located a short distance from Kundasang.

  • Kota Kinabalu: Sabah’s capital city, which is known for its bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches.

  • Sandakan: A coastal town that is renowned for its wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and crocodiles.

Conclusion

Kundasang is a beautiful and unique destination in Sabah that offers a rich and diverse experience for visitors. With its beautiful scenery, authentic culture, and thrilling activities, this mountain town is the perfect getaway for travellers looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating vacation. Follow this travel guide to experience the best of Kundasang and make the most of your trip to Sabah.

Mount Kinabalu from Kundasang Mount Kinabalu from Kundasang Kundasang Sabah War Memorial Kundasang Sabah War Memorial Kundasang Sabah Vegetable Market Kundasang Sabah Vegetable Market