Tenom Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, culture, and food in Tenom, Sabah, Malaysia. Plan your trip with our comprehensive Tenom travel guide.


Introduction to Tenom

Tenom is a small town located in the interior of Sabah, Malaysia. It is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and sprawling paddy fields. The town is best known for its unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure activities.

In this comprehensive Tenom travel guide, we will take a closer look at the must-visit attractions, best things to do, top hiking/biking routes, local food and drink scene, where to stay, and local culture and customs. We also provide practical information on transportation options, safety and health, and nearby destinations to help you plan your trip to Tenom.

List of Places to Visit in Tenom

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Tenom Heritage Museum - This is a must-visit museum for those interested in learning about the history and culture of Tenom. It showcases the unique heritage of the Murut ethnic group, and houses an impressive collection of traditional artifacts and handicrafts.

  2. Tagal Tinopikon Park - This cultural village provides an authentic experience of the Rungus way of life. Visitors can witness traditional fishing practices and learn about their customs and traditions.

  3. Tenom Agricultural Park - This park is a great place to explore the agricultural heritage of Tenom. You can learn how coffee, cocoa, and rubber are grown and processed, and even sample some of the local produce.

Natural Attractions of Tenom: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Trus Madi - This is the second highest mountain in Sabah, and is a popular destination for experienced hikers. The trek to the summit takes around 3 days, but the stunning views from the peak are well worth the effort.

  2. Ulu Temburong National Park - This park is located just a short drive from Tenom, and is home to some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world. Visitors can explore the forest canopy on a thrilling zipline or hike through the lush jungle trails.

  3. Tenom Pangi Riverside - This scenic spot is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can swim in the cool river waters, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tenom

  1. Maliau Basin Conservation Area - This is a challenging but rewarding trek for experienced hikers. The 7-day trail takes visitors through some of the most remote and untouched rainforests in Borneo, with breathtaking views and encounters with rare wildlife along the way.

  2. Tenom-Keningau Nature Trail - This 37km trail runs through some of the most scenic areas of the town, with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trail is perfect for both hiking and biking, and offers a great way to explore the rich natural heritage of Tenom.

Best Things to Do in Tenom: Activities and Tours

  1. Rafting Adventures - Tenom River offers some of the best rafting experiences in Sabah. Visitors can choose from half-day or full-day tours, and enjoy thrilling rapids and scenic views along the way.

  2. Coffee Plantation Tour - Tenom is famous for its rich and flavorful coffee. Visitors can take a tour of a local plantation, learn about the coffee-making process, and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee in the picturesque countryside.

  3. Cultural Experiences - Tenom offers a unique blend of cultures and traditions that are well-worth exploring. Visitors can take part in traditional dances, try local delicacies, and learn about the history and beliefs of the local people.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tenom

Day Activities
1 Visit the Tenom Heritage Museum and explore the town center
2 Experience the Rungus culture at Tagal Tinopikon Park
3 Trek to the summit of Mount Trus Madi
4 Enjoy a rafting adventure on Tenom River
5 Visit the Tenom Agricultural Park and sample some local produce
6 Explore the Ulu Temburong National Park
7 Relax at Tenom Pangi Riverside and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Tenom

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Nasi Kerabu - This is a traditional Malaysian dish made from blue-colored rice, served with a variety of side dishes such as grilled chicken or fish, vegetables, and sambal.

  2. Sinalau Bakas - This is a popular Murut dish made from smoked wild boar meat. It is usually served with rice and a spicy dipping sauce.

  3. Kopi Tenom - This strong and flavorful coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers. It is made from locally grown coffee beans and has a unique aroma and taste.

Local Beverages

  1. Tuak - This is a popular drink made from fermented rice or sugar palm sap. It has a sweet and slightly sour taste and is often served during festive occasions.

  2. Bandung - This is a refreshing drink made from milk, rose syrup, and ice. It is a popular drink during hot and humid days.

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

  1. Hotel Emas Tenom - This hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation, with a prime location in the town center.

  2. Tenom Parkview Hotel - This hotel offers spacious and modern rooms, with great views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  3. Murut Guesthouse - This traditional guesthouse provides an authentic Murut living experience, with comfortable rooms and friendly hosts.

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

  1. Tenom Coffee - This locally grown coffee is a perfect souvenir for coffee lovers. It comes in different varieties and flavors, and can be found in most local markets and souvenir shops.

  2. Handicrafts - Tenom is known for its unique handicrafts, such as woven baskets, beadwork jewelry, and wood carvings. These make great souvenirs to bring home to family and friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Tenom

Tenom is home to a diverse mix of cultures and traditions, with a strong influence from the indigenous Murut people. Visitors are advised to respect the local customs and beliefs, dress modestly when visiting cultural sites, and request permission before taking photographs of people or cultural artifacts.

Best Time to Visit Tenom

The best time to visit Tenom is during the dry season, which lasts from March to October. This is a great time to explore the natural beauty of the town, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and river rafting.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tenom

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites
  • Try local delicacies and coffee

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people or cultural artifacts without permission
  • Engage in disrespectful behavior or language in public
  • Disrupt or damage natural habitats and wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Tenom

Tenom is a relatively safe town, but visitors are advised to take the usual precautions when traveling in an unfamiliar place. This includes avoiding dark and isolated areas at night, keeping valuable items out of sight, and being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Tenom

Visitors to Tenom should be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. It is important to use insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing to protect against mosquito bites. Visitors are also advised to drink only bottled or boiled water, and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of illness.

Getting to Tenom: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tenom is located around 2.5 hours by car from the city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital. Visitors can also take a bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tenom, which takes around 3 hours. There are also daily flights from Kota Kinabalu to Keningau, which is located just a short drive from Tenom.

Airports Near Tenom

  1. Kota Kinabalu International Airport - This is Sabah’s main airport, located around 2.5 hours by car from Tenom.

  2. Keningau Airport - This small airport is located just a short drive from Tenom, and is serviced by daily flights from Kota Kinabalu.

Bus Stations Near Tenom

  1. North Bus Terminal, Kota Kinabalu - This is the main bus station in Kota Kinabalu, with regular services to Tenom.

  2. Tenom Bus Terminal - This is the town’s bus station, with services to other nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private car or taxi to travel to Tenom from Kota Kinabalu.

How to Get Around in Tenom

The best way to get around Tenom is by car or motorcycle. Visitors can rent a car or motorcycle from the town center, or hire a taxi to get around. Bicycles are also available for rent, and offer a great way to explore the town’s scenic areas.

Where to Go Next from Tenom: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Kota Kinabalu - This bustling city is the gateway to Sabah’s rich cultural and natural heritage, and offers a wide range of attractions and activities.

  2. Kinabalu Park - This park is home to Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, and offers some of the best hiking and adventure activities in Sabah.

  3. Keningau - This town is located just a short drive from Tenom, and offers a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as great hiking and adventure opportunities.

Conclusion

Tenom is a hidden gem in Sabah, with a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure activities. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a food enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Tenom. We hope this comprehensive Tenom travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to this charming town.

On the train to Tenom On the train to Tenom Tenom Agriculture Park Tenom Agriculture Park