Tourism Sabah. The Malaysian Borneo and mount Kinabalu

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Welcome to the land of awe-inspiring natural scenery, lush primary rainforests, vibrant coral reefs and mysterious indigenous cultures!

Situated on the beautiful island of Borneo, Sabah is one of the thirteen states which Malaysia is made of. Sabah is the second largest state in Malaysia and shares the island of Borneo with Sarawak, Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan.

An ideal destination for backpackers, Sabah is richly blessed with nature diversity, unique cultures, fun adventure, beautiful beaches, and fantastic cuisines for the adventurous taste buds.

From mountaineering and scuba diving to wildlife spotting or just simply relaxing at the beach, Sabah is the ultimate place to go. We have it all here, from the world's largest flower; the Rafflesia, to the highest mountain is South East Asia; Mount Kinabalu, to one of the world's best dive sites; Sipadan Island.

Not only will you be amazed by the places to see and things to do here, you will also get to meet warm and friendly people in Sabah who are very hospitable. Get immersed in the unique culture and tradition of Sabah, not forgetting the sweet memories to last a lifetime.

Mt. Kinabalu : The Summit Of Borneo

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Imagine, being surrounded by the wonders of nature's lush garden dating from the dawn of time. Stand at the highest summit of Borneo as dawn peeks over the horizon to reveal Sabah's splendours far and wide. Reflect the quiet, sacred moment when you experience the most magnificent sunrise of your lifetime. Stroll amidst the treetops at the rainforest canopy walk and gaze up close at centuries wonders. Soak in the healing balm of a magic spring as colourful butterflies flutter around you. Admire the world's largest flower at your feet Or lunch next to plants that lunch on insects.

A view of Mt. Kinabalu from the Mengkabong River

You'll find it all in the Kinabalu Park Malaysia's first World Heritage designated by UNESCO in December 2000 for its 'outstanding universal values' and role as one of the world's most important biological sites.

The focal point of the park, of course, is the majestic Mt. Kinabalu. Such is the importance of this mountain to Sabah, that the capital was renamed Kota Kinabalu (Kinabalu Fort) in 1964. The highest mountain between the Himalayas and the Snow Mountains of Papua Barat (New Guinea Island), this magnificent granite massif stands at 4,095.2 m. (13,435 ft.) tall.

Malaysia's First World's Heritage

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The Kinabalu Park covers a staggering area of 754 sq. km. (291 sq. mi.). Translated, it is bigger than Singapore island! Established as a state park in 1964, this botanical paradise is blessed with an astonishing variety of flora and fauna that ranges over 4 climate zones, from the rich lowland dipterocarp forest through the montane oak, rhododendron, and coniferous forests, to the alpine meadow plants. And stunted bushes of the summit zone. Kinabalu Park has probably one of the richest flora collection in the world.

Highways and sealed roads have made the park easily accessible. Now it's an easy 2 hour scenic drive from Kota Kinabalu. It is a popular getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city where visitors can enjoy the cool invigorating air. Or, for the more intrepid to explore the forest trails or conquer Mt. Kinabalu itself. While the focus of the park is the mountain, about 80% of the visitors don't climb all the way to the peak but come simply to enjoy the serenity of this place.

The gateway to the summit of Borneo is the Kinabalu Park Headquarters, situated on the southern boundary, at an elevation of 1,563 m. (5,000 ft). Most of the Park's modern facilities are located here, from visitors' accommodation, restaurants and exhibit centres to the Park's offices where overnight visitors and climbers must register.

A minimal entrance fee is imposed at the entrance of the Kinabalu Park HQ

TRAILS OF WONDER.

Step into Wonderland and follow any of the numerous trails around Kinabalu Park, each filled with discovery. Even as the most explored and studied place in Borneo, new discoveries of rare and endemic plants are constantly being made here.

So grab a map and set off on your own or follow Park Naturalists as they take you on guided trail walks and point out the various wonders. There are also audio visual shows featuring rare flora and fauna found here. If you are a first time visitor, sign up for these shows and you'll be thrilled when you find yourself identifying the same denizens on your walks or during your climb up Mt. Kinabalu.

One of the biggest attractions of the Park is the Mt. Kinabalu Botanical Garden (Mountain Garden). Started in 1981, this 5 acre garden is an excellent showcase of the diverse plant life on the mountain, as flora from all over the park has been replanted here. Many of these plants are not only lovely to look upon but have medicinal properties too, as proven by the local Dusun community.

KINABALU PARK HQ

Below is the schedule of the audio-visual shows and guided trail walks organised by Park Naturalists at the Park Headquarters.

Mountain Garden
Time 9:00am, 12:00 noon, 3:00pm

Guided Walk
Time: 11:00am

Slide Show
Time: 2:00pm (and 7:30pm on weekends)

Poring
Canopy Walkway
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm, guided walk at 8:00am

Butterfly Farm
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm, guided walk at 11:00am (except Mondays)

Tropical Garden
Time: 1:30pm

Orchid Conservation Centre
Time: 11:00am & 3:00pm
Night Walk by arrangement only

Mesilau
Guided Nature Walk
Monday to Friday Time: 9:30am, 11:00am, 2:00pm
Saturday and Sunday Time: 7:30am, 10:30am, 2:00pm

There may be a nominal fee charged for some of these activities.

Tips To The Top

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The best time to visit the Park, especially for climbers is during the dry season in March and April. November to December is the monsoon season but do bear in mind, wet or dry periods can occur at any time of the year.

In the mountainous region, the weather can change without warning, from bright sunshine, to mist and cloud, to torrential downpour. At night the temperatures can drop to below freezing, so bring warm and extra clothing packed in plastic bags to keep it dry.

Before you climb:

Book your guide and porter through Sabah Park's Head Office in Kota Kinabalu, or through Kinabalu Nature Resorts when you make your accommodation reservations. Walkin bookings at Kinabalu Park are subject to availability, so prebooking is advisable. You can also arrange for transportation to the Power Station Road where the climb starts.
For accommodation, make your reservations with Kinabalu Nature Resorts. Call early and ensure your reservations are confirmed as accommodation facilities are usually fully booked during peak climbing periods.
Join the Park Naturalists programme at Park Headquarters It will provide information about the climb and advice on what to take. These programmes are FREE, so do take advantage of them.
Make sure you have shoes with a good grip. Tennis or gym shoes are fine.
Bring enough warm clothing. Wind and water-proof clothes for your climb are recommended. Sleeping bags are provided at the mountain huts.
Take a water bottle with you. You'll need high-energy foods for the climb like chocolate, nuts, raisins or glucose sweets.
Bring gloves, a hat and a good torchlight.

If you get wet on the way up, you will need a complete set of dry clothes and 4 second pair of shoes or a pair of sandals. Headache tablets, paper tissues, a couple of plastic bags and some plasters for cuts or blisters are all useful.

Some climbers do experience altitude sickness. Check with your doctor for advice before you climb.

Local potters can carry up to 30kg up to the mountain

Rhododenron,, along the trail

For more information contact:
Sabah Parks
Lot 3, Block K, Sinsuran Complex, 88806 Kota Kinabalu
Tel: (6088)212719 / 211881 Fax: (6098)221001
e-mail: info@ sabahparks.org.my
website: http://www.sabahparks.org.my

For accommodation, contact:
Kinabalu Nature Resort:
Tel: (6088)243629 Fax: (6088)242861
e-mail: info@KinabaluNatureResorts

The Friendly People Of Kinabalu

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The fertile slopes of Kinabalu are home to the Kadazandusun, Sabah's largest ethnic community. Traditionally rice farmers, their 'kampungs' or villages are scattered all over the hill slopes as some still practise shifting cultivation. It's not unusual to see them scampering up and down the mountain without exhaustion! And that's exactly why you'll find most of them working as mountain guides and porters.

The Kadazandusun people consider themselves the guardian of Mt. Kinabalu. They believe this is sacred ground, a resting place for the spirits of their ancestors. Earlier attempts to climb the mountain had been forbidden, as to do so would have disturbed these spirits and incurred their wrath. That was why, by the standards of other worldclass mountains, Mt. Kinabalu was 'discovered' rather late.

It was only in 1851 that Sir Hugh Low led an expedition up the mountain. A compromise with the locals was reached and a sacrifice to appease the spirits was made at the halfway point.

This spot was named Panar Laban, a Dustin word meaning 'Place of Sacrifice'. The local guide sacrificed a white cockerel and seven eggs to appease the mountain spirits. This ritual is performed annually to this day.

The name 'Kinabalu' is derived from the Kadazandusun words 'Aki Nabalu' where 'Aki' literally means 'ancestor' and 'nabalu' is the word for 'mountain' thus, the sacred resting place of the ancestral spirits. Legends of the Kadazandusun have told of the supreme deities creation of the world and Mt. Kinabalu. There are also folklores of a mythical dragon guarding a treasure trove of pearls. These myths take on a more surreal presence when you are up in the mountain, in the silence and mist of the swirling clouds.

All climbers are advised to always behave respectfully and be on good behavior.

Trails To The Top

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Climbing Mt. Kinabalu can be done in 2 days but a more comfortable climb in 3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the rich biological diversity. While it does not require special skills to do the climb, you must at least have the basic fitness level. Park regulations state that all climbers have to engage the services of a registered guide on their climb. If you wish, porter services are also available. Book your mountain guide and porter through Sabah Parks or Kinabalu Nature Resorts. You can pay when you register at the Park Headquarters.

The Laban Rata resthouse where most climbers stay overnight.

The are 2 trails up Mt. Kinabalu and both meet at Layang-layang. The Mesilau Trail was just recently opened and offers more opportunities for viewing flora and fauna. The Summit Trail is the main route taken by most climbers as it is a simpler and shorter approach.

Starting from Park Headquarters, climbers must walk 41/2 km. up to the Timpohon Gate at 1,866.4 m. where the Summit Trail starts. Nearby, lies Carson's Falls where you can refresh yourself. From here, depending on your fitness level, it is an approximate 4 to 5-hour climb for the day.

The Sayat-Sayat Hut: The highest shelter on the mountain.
The trail winds up a steep staircase of gnarled tree-roots to a mossy world of drifting clouds and orchid-draped trees, where pitcher plants and rhododendrons abound. You'll come upon the First Summit Trail Shelter at 1,981.7 m. where on a clear day, a view of the road that links Kota Kinabalu city to the Park can be seen. The Second Shelter at 2,081.4 m. is your point of entry to the zone of Low's Pitcher Plant, so look out for these oddly-shaped plants with pitcher containers. The mossy forest continues on past to Karamborongoh, where you'll find the Sabah Telecoms Station at 2,252.2 m. Interestingly, the name Karamborongoh is derived from the local plant that the Dusun people use to ward off evil spirits. The Third Trail Shelter is further up the ridge.

Layang-layang (Place of Swallows) is where the Mesilau Trail meets the Summit Trail at 2,740 m. As you climb higher, you will pass a forest of bent and twisted silvery-grey trunks with peeling bark. At about 3,200 m. there's a helipad where you can catch a magnificent view of the Summit Plateau. Look around for Paka Cave. This was where the first explorers slept.

Panar Laban - the 'place of sacrifice' - was where Sir Hugh Low and his local guides performed a ritual sacrifice to appease the ancestral souls for their 'disturbance' to the spirit world. Nearby is the Laban Rata resthouse and cafeteria where you'll stay the night before continuing the climb the next morning.

Villosa Shelter

The Challenge Of The Peak

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It's about 30 minutes to the top from the Summit Plateau

After a night of rest, it's off again on the climb to catch a magnificient sunrise on the summit. Most climbers leave at 3.00 am for a 3‑hour track but again, this depends on your fitness level. In the dark, you can see the beam of torchlights as the procession of climbers trudge higher and higher. There are ladders, hand railings and ropes to help you over the steeper parts.

An hour from Panar Laban, you'll see the Sayat‑sayat Hut. At 3,668 m. this is the visitor's highest shelter on the mountain but it only provides basic facilities. Back on the climb, you'll walk across the bare granite slabs that stretch endlessly ahead, in an eerie moonscape of stone. The vegetation comprises of stunted shrubs and tough grasses in the crevices. It is the survival of the fittest here.

You reach your final destination at Low's Peak, the summit of Borneo at 4,095.2 m. As you wait in the cold, dawn gradually creeps over the horizon, illuminating the darkness with the light of a new day. In clear weather, you can almost see all of Sabah spread out below.

Victoria's Peak

From this vantage point, you'll also see a dramatic drop more than 1,000 m. down ‑ Low's Gully. A chasm stretching 16 km. in length, it separates the summit plateau into the western and eastern plateaux. Other peaks on the mountain are Victoria's Peak (4,090 m.), Donkey Ears Peak (4,054 m.), South Peak (3,921.5 m.) and St. John's Peak (4,090.7 m.) on the western plateau. On the eastern plateau, stand King Edward Peak (4,086 m.), Mesilau Peak (3,801.3 m.) and King George Peak (4,062.6 m.). These peaks are only for experienced climbers as it is a challenging climb that requires ropes. A special permit from the Park authorities is required before a climb.

At around 10.00am, clouds usually begin to form. These swirling clouds could obstruct visibility, so it is advisable that you decent by then.

Stunning Flora & Fauna

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FLORA & FAUNA

This botanical paradise of Borneo is home to an estimated 1,200 species of orchids, 26 species of rhododendrons, 9 species of Nepenthes pitcher plants, over 80 species of fig trees, over 60 species of oaks and chestnut trees, 100 species of mammals, 326 species of birds... the list just goes on! It's no wonder Kinabalu Park has continually attracted to naturalists and botanists from around the world and bee proclaimed an area with the richest diversity of flora and flora. This treasure trove is simply stunning!

FLORA

The forests of Kinabalu are some of the richest in the world with an estimated 5,000 flowering plants, and this does not include the innumerable mosses, ferns and fungi. Wild orchids grow in abundance and range in size from a pinhead to huge stems over 2 m. in length. Look out for the exceptionally beautiful Slipper Orchids. They command much commercial interest with the Rothschild's Slipper Orchid so preciously coveted, it is considered the 'Kinabalu Gold'.

The world's largest pitcher plant can also be found in Kinabalu Park. The insecteating Rajah Brooke's Pitcher Plants have pitchers that can hold up to 3.5 litres of water! While nineteen SDecies of the beautiful Begonia plants have been documented, with probably half the number endemic. The Begonia Chongii - a rare Begonia plant found on the west side of the mountain - is the recent discovery. It was named in honour of YAB Datuk Chong Kah Kiat, Sabah Chief Minister, is recognition of his enthusiastic support for the natural environment and protection of Sabah's Parks.

FAUNA

This Wonderland features some of the most amazing creations of nature. Since animals are not easily seen, you'll find patience a virtue that will be blessed with rare and captivating sights!

A stroll past the street‑lamps at Headquarters on dark wet nights or in the very early mornings, will reveal moths, beetles and other insects in all shapes, sizes and colours. Some are camouflaged in delicate mossy greens and greys, while others flaunt bright contrasting colours of red, black and white.

Don't be surprised if you find 'twigs' that walk and 'leaves' that fly! Look closer and you'll find that they are actually insects.

Of course, this abundance of insects and plants play a big hand in supporting a thriving bird population. Over 300 species have been recorded in the park. The Grey Drongo, with white eye-ring and forked tail, and the heavy, long-tailed Malaysian Treepie, are two of the commonest at Park Headquarters. Higher up, you will find the small green Mountain Blackeyes and the larger red-breasted Mountain Blackbirds.

Surrounding Wonders Of Kinabalu Park

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A visit to the Kinabalu Park is not complete without a jaunt to Poring. Well known for its Hot Springs, it's the perfect place to visit after your climb up Mount Kinabalu. Soak away the sores and aches of muscles in the hot sulfuric minerals of this spring.

The water is claimed to have curative powers and is popular with the locals. After your rejuvenation, stay a night or two to enjoy the other attractions around this area.

Admire Poring's delightful Butterfly Farm where you'll find several species of colourful and striking butterflies

Borneo's first-this farm features a garden, nursery, and hatchery for the purpose of research, education and preservation of endangered species. Opening hours, are from 9.00am to 4.00prn every Tuesday to Saturday

With over 1,200 species of orchids found within Kinabalu Park, it's not surprising that the Poring Orchid Conservation Centre has the largest live collection of the Sabah Orchid. You'll also find several other rare and endemic wild orchids as this centre is active in its conservation. Nearby is the Tropical Garden where you'll find mousedeers and deers relaxing under the gaze of colourful birds in the aviary.

A must visit for all visitors is the Poring Canopy Walkway. Stroll amidst the treetops of the Menggaris Tree - the king of the forest - and admire the view of the rainforest from a different perspective. The canopy walkway is 157.8 m. long and 41 m. high!

The world's biggest flower
Raffiesia - is also one of the hardest to find. Fortunately, Sabah is known to have the largest concentration of the Rafflesia population. This exotic flower takes up to 15 months to bud but only lasts 7 days in bloom. For a chance to view this spectacle, do ask Park Rangers or research staff on your trip.

Events Around The Year

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MT. KINABALU INTERNATIONAL CLIMBATHON

Heard of the Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon? Proclaimed the 'Toughest Mountain Race in the World', it is held every year on the slopes of Mount Kinabalu. A challenging 21 km. run, it attracts top mountain runners from around the world. While it takes 2 days for a normal climb, these champions have been known to complete the race in less than 3 hours!

MOUNTAIN BIKE
For a more scenic activity, join the Mt. Kinabalu Mountain Bike Challenge. Ride past mountain villages on rainforest trails that Sir Hugh Low may have tracked on his way to the top.

HANG GLIDING
A recent addition to the Sabah calendar of events is the Motorised Para Glider Tour of Malaysia. Hang gliders come by invitation to fly across the highlands, beaches and islands. It's a spectacular way to enjoy this magnificent paradise.

GOLF
For more relaxing pleasures without the pressure of competition, enjoy a round of golf at the prestigious Mount Kinabalu Golf Club in Pinusuk Plateau. Designed by Robert Muir Graves, this masterpiece is set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kinabalu.

Getting To Kota Kinabalu & Mt. Kinabalu

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Kota Kinabalu - the international gateway to the rest of Sabah - has direct flights to and from the main capitals in the region, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Kaoshiung, Tokyo, Seoul, Brunei and Manila.

From Kota Kinabalu, you can take a comfortable car or bus ride to the Kinabalu Park. There are regular buses plying this 83 km. route. The buses leave at 7.30am and arrive at the Park Headquarters entrance about two hours later. The return trip to Kota Kinabalu is also vice-versa. Four wheel drive vehicles, vans, coaches and helicopters are available for charter.

Tips On Eco-Paradise

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Climate:

Equatorial/Tropical, with occasional rain-showers

Average Temperatures:
Lowlands - 32 degrees Centigrade.
Highlands - 21 degrees Centigrade.
Currency: Travellers' cheques and foreign currencies can be changed for Malaysian Ringgit at banks and hotels. Most major hotels charge a nominal fee for currency conversion.

Major Credit and Charge Cards:
VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club

Banking Hours:
Mondays to Fridays - 9.30 am till 3 pm

Local Time:
Standard Malaysian Time is 8 hours ahead of GMT.

Electricity:
240 volts AC/50-Cycle system

Language:
Bahasa Malaysia is the national language.
However, English is widely spoken.

Entry Requirements:

A valid passport (and visa wherever applicable) is required.
A Social or Tourist Visit Pass does not permit the holder to take up employment, business or professional work in Malaysia.
The Business Visit Pass allows foreign visitors to enter the country for business negotiations or inspection of business premises. These passes however, cannot be used for employment purposes or for supervising the installation of new machinery or the construction of a factory.
No fee is charged for a Business Visit Pass issued for a period of up to three months. A fee of s imposed for each month thereafter.

For more information, please contact:

Sabah Tourism Promotion Corporation (STPC)
or:
The Malaysian Diplomatic Mission in your country,
Tourism Malaysia office,
Malaysia Airlines or your tour operator.