Kundasang is a town located in the district of Ranau in Sabah, Borneo. It is a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty and cool climate. The town is surrounded by lush green hills, beautiful valleys, and picturesque villages, making it an ideal place for nature lovers.
There are plenty of things to do in Kundasang, including visiting the Kundasang War Memorial, commemorating the deaths of Australian and British prisoners of war who died during World War II. Another popular attraction is the Desa Dairy Farm, where visitors can see cows being milked and enjoy fresh dairy products. Adventurous travelers can hike to the top of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Natural Attractions
Kundasang is known for its natural beauty, with various attractions showcasing the area’s unique flora and fauna. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Kundasang:
Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Southeast Asia, standing at 4,095 meters tall. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, with trails that range from beginner to advanced. Visitors can take a guided tour to the summit or explore the mountain’s lower slopes. The mountain is also home to various plant and animal species, including the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower.
Desa Dairy Farm
Desa Dairy Farm is a popular destination for families and animal lovers. Visitors can watch cows being milked, sample fresh dairy products, and take a farm tour. The farm is located in a scenic valley surrounded by mountains, making it a great place to take in the natural beauty of Kundasang.
Kundasang War Memorial
The Kundasang War Memorial is a tribute to the soldiers who died in the Sandakan Death Marches during World War II. The memorial is located in a peaceful garden setting and features a museum telling the marches’ story. Visitors can also take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and learn about the area’s history.
In conclusion, Kundasang offers a variety of natural attractions that showcase the area’s unique beauty and history. Whether you’re a hiker, animal lover, or history buff, there’s something for everyone in Kundasang’s natural attractions.
Outdoor Activities
Kundasang offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to different preferences and skill levels. Whether visitors want an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a stroll through nature, Kundasang has something to offer. Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Kundasang:
Hiking
Kundasang is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in Malaysia. One of the most popular trails is the Mount Kinabalu Summit Trail, which takes hikers to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. The trail is challenging and requires good physical fitness, but the stunning views from the summit make it all worth it. Other popular hiking trails in Kundasang include the Kundasang War Memorial Trail and the Desa Dairy Farm Trail.
Camping
Camping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Kundasang. Several campsites in the area offer basic facilities such as toilets and showers. Visitors can choose to camp in the forest, near a river, or on a hilltop, depending on their preferences. Some popular campsites in Kundasang include the Mesilau Nature Resort Campsite and the Kinabalu Park Campsite.
Paragliding
For visitors looking for an adrenaline rush, paragliding is a great option. Kundasang’s hilly terrain and strong winds make it an ideal location for paragliding. Visitors can take a tandem paragliding flight with an experienced instructor and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some popular paragliding operators in Kundasang include Paragliding Sabah and Sabah Paragliding.
Overall, Kundasang offers various outdoor activities catering to different interests and skill levels. Whether visitors seek a challenging hike, a peaceful camping trip, or an adrenaline-pumping paragliding experience, Kundasang has something to offer.
Local Cuisine
Kundasang is known for its fresh produce and delicious local cuisine. Visitors to the area must try some popular dishes unique to Sabah.
Tuaran Mee
One of the must-try dishes in Kundasang is Tuaran Mee. This dish is made with stir-fried egg noodles with various ingredients such as sliced pork, vegetables, and egg. The noodles are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, giving it a unique texture different from other noodle dishes. Tuaran Mee is often served with pickled vegetables and chili sauce, making it a tasty and satisfying meal.
Ngiu Chap
Another popular dish in Kundasang is Ngiu Chap, a beef noodle soup packed with flavor. The soup is made with a rich broth simmered for hours with beef bones and spices. The beef is sliced thinly and added to the soup with vegetables, herbs, and noodles. Ngiu Chap is often served with chili sauce and lime, adding a tangy and spicy kick to the dish.
Lihing
Lihing is a traditional rice wine that is popular in Sabah. This drink is made by fermenting glutinous rice with yeast and water. The resulting wine is sweet and slightly sour, with a mild alcohol content. Lihing is often served at celebrations and festivals, and is a great way to experience the local culture.
Overall, the local cuisine in Kundasang is a must-try for any visitor to the area. From Tuaran Mee to Ngiu Chap and Lihing, there are plenty of delicious and unique dishes to try that will leave you satisfied and wanting more.
Cultural Experiences
Kundasang offers a range of cultural experiences for visitors to explore. Here are a few must-visit destinations for those interested in immersing themselves in the local culture:
Tagal Tinopikon Park
Tagal Tinopikon Park is a unique cultural experience that allows visitors to learn about the traditional fishing methods of the local Kadazan-Dusun tribe. The park is located in the village of Kg. Notoruss, about 10 minutes from Kundasang town. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about the Tagal system of fishing, which involves a set of rules and regulations to ensure the sustainability of the fish population in the river. Visitors can also try fishing using traditional methods and enjoy a picnic by the river.
Sabah Tea Garden
The Sabah Tea Garden is a picturesque tea plantation about 20 minutes from Kundasang town. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plantation and learn about the tea-making process from start to finish. The tour includes visiting the tea factory, where visitors can see how the tea leaves are processed and packaged. Visitors can also enjoy freshly brewed tea at the tea house, which offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Poring Hot Springs
Poring Hot Springs is a popular destination for visitors to Kundasang. The hot springs are located in the nearby town of Ranau, about 40 minutes from Kundasang. Visitors can soak in the natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties due to their high mineral content. The hot springs are also surrounded by lush rainforest, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Visitors can also walk along the canopy walkway, which offers stunning rainforest canopy views.
