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Mount Kinabalu is considered one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Southeast Asia: a towering mountain standing tall at 4,095 meters, situated on the Malaysian state of Sabah, island of Borneo. It is the highest peak in the Malay Archipelago and a great destination for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking an out-of-this-world travel experience.
It is thought that the name "Kinabalu" was taken from the Kadazan-Dusun indigenous words "Aki Nabalu," meaning "Revered Place of the Dead." The mountain also has spiritual significance to the local people, who hold the mountain in reverence. Over time, this place has become a matter of pride for Malaysia and a symbol of the varied ecological topography that has come to define this part of the world.
History of Kinabalu (Source: RiverJunkie)
In 1964, it was designated as Kinabalu Park, which covers the surrounding areas and protects its peculiar flora and fauna. The huge national park provides shelter to thousands of plant types, rare animals, and incredible bird varieties, hence this place is a must-visit site for wildlife lovers and trekkers.
Climbing to the peak of Mount Kinabalu itself is indeed a thrilling adventure that provides great views of the surrounding landscape. The normal route, called Ranau Trail, takes hikers through dense tropical rainforest, cloud forests, and up to the granite plateau leading to the summit. Though tiring, it is quite a challenging climb and, when one finally stands at the top, gives a sense of achievement and the possibility of watching a beautiful sunrise over Borneo.
Mount Kinabalu Summit (Source: MountKinabalu)
Not much beats soaking in the Poring Hot Springs after a day of hiking or exploration. About 40 kilometers away from the park headquarters are the natural hot springs, set amidst lush greenery and offering a tranquil setting for the park visitors to relax. In addition to the hot springs, it has a butterfly farm, an orchid garden, and a 41-meter-high canopy walkway above the ground to enable one to enjoy a dramatic view of the surrounding rainforest.
Poring Hot Springs (Source: Hotonsen)
Not only the towering mountain, but this park is also famous for diverse flora and fauna. The botanical garden within the park premises is ideal for lessons on unique plant species that thrive in this region, most of them endemic to Kinabalu. The garden boasts a fine display of orchids, medicinal plants, and carnivorous pitcher plants that give one a good initiation into the botanical treasures of Borneo.
Kinabalu Park Botanical Garden (Source: Traveloka)
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The Desa Dairy Farm is a quaint little spot nestled away in the Kundasang Valley, often known as the "New Zealand of Malaysia." Rolling green pastures and herds of Friesian cows make this farm a tranquil picture.
Visitors can do more here than breathe in the fresh mountain air: they can sample some farm produce, such as cold milk, yogurt, and cheese, and even feed the cows and calves themselves. It offers a panoramic view of Mount Kinabalu, hence it is an excellent place for photography.
Desa Dairy Farm (Source: AmiTravel&Tour)
The Kundasang War Memorial is a poignant stop for those interested in learning about Sabah's history. It is dedicated to the many Australian and British airmen who lost their lives during the Sandakan Death Marches in the Second World War.
Its beautiful, garden-style grounds are divided into three gardens: the Australian Garden, the English Garden, and the Borneo Garden-representing the three countries of the tragic episode. Its calm environment and educating exhibitions make it an ideal place for contemplation in quest of peace and understanding of the past of the region.
Kundasang War Memorial (Source: Wikipedia)
The best time to visit this place is in the dry season, usually from March through September. In these months, the weather conditions are much more consistent. Rain chances will be relatively low, leading to clearer skies and more ideal conditions for climbing and seeing views.
This is peak season, from June to August, but if one prefers to go when the course is not that crowded, then plan for March, April, or September. Notably, the mountain weather is normally unpredictable, it is cool at the summit. A visitor is thus advised to have layered clothing and be ready for the changeable weather.
Best time to visit (Soure: Agoda)
By Air: The nearest airport to this place is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), which is well connected with direct flights from major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Hong Kong. From the airport, travelers can take a taxi or bus to the city center.
By Road: From Kota Kinabalu, take a bus or minivan, or hire a taxi to Kinabalu Park or to the town of Kundasang on the mountain gateway. Travel time usually takes approximately 2 hours over a distance of about 90 km.
Booking a Tour: Most tourists prefer to book a tour package for Kinabalu, covering transport, park entrance, accommodation, and at least a guided trek up to the summit. Climbing Mount Kinabalu requires a permit and a mountain guide, hence, it has a daily quota for climbing, which makes booking a tour easier to handle and also guarantees availability.
More than a mountain, this place is an adventure destination that offers the best of nature and equally rich cultural heritage. Whether your idea of adventure is conquering the summit as an avid hiker, exploring diverse flora and fauna as a nature lover, or simply relaxing within breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, this place has something for everyone. Continue to plan the tour during the best season and head straight out of Kota Kinabalu to catch every bit of your destination with Asia King Travel.
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