Mention the word “Sabah”, the first thing that comes to most travellers’ mind is Mount Kinabalu. It is no doubt a major tourist attraction, given its widely-known reputation as the highest mountain in Malaysia and also among the tallest in South East Asia. But no visit in Sabah would be complete without passing by a little town called Kundasang. Located in the district of Ranau, Kundasang is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you plan your next trip to Kundasang, here are the 7 must-visit places that you can’t afford to miss.
1) Kinabalu Park
Nature lovers, rejoice! This is the place you wouldn’t want to miss it for the world. Located just 6km away from Kundasang, Kinabalu Park is a starting point for those who wish to climb the Mount Kinabalu. Climbers must register at the headquarters office prior to the hike. It is also compulsory to hire a local mountain guide, while the estimation time of hike to reach the summit usually takes 2 to 3 days. Even if you are not a climber, you can always enjoy the picturesque view of Mount Kinabalu as well as the lush greenery and cool temperatures.
2) Desa Dairy Farm
Thanks to Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang, you don’t have to travel all the way to New Zealand to see the cattle grazing in the wide open fields. You can visit the farm to witness how the milk is processed at 3 pm every day. Other activities you can do at Desa Dairy Farm includes taking photos of the cattle and even a chance to feed the calves with bottled milk. After you are done, don’t forget to shop some of their fresh milk products and dairy ice cream as well!
3) Kundasang War Memorial
Amidst the beautiful scenery of Kundasang lies a bleak history that can be witnessed in Kudasang War Memorial. The memorial park is dedicated to British and Australian soldiers, who were captured and killed by the Japanese troops on the infamous death marches to Ranau during the World War II. You can take photos while visiting the memorial park, which comprised four unique gardens: the Australian Garden, the English Rose Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden.
4) Strawberry & Rose Garden
The Strawberry & Rose Garden is located just opposite Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Kundasang. You can visit to learn and take photos of the fresh strawberries and different types of roses planted in the garden. Best of all, you can purchase some of their reasonably-priced strawberries and roses.
5) Kinabalu Pine Resort
If you plan to stay overnight or even a few days in Kundasang, you should consider booking a place at Kinabalu Pine Resort. The resort is particularly popular among many travellers, thanks to its exact spot that allows you to immerse the majestic view of Mount Kinabalu. Each room in the wooden cabin comes with WiFi access, satellite TV channels and a water heater in case you are feeling too cold during the shower. You can visit this page for more info.
6) Mesilau Nature Park
Here is another park near Kundasang that allows you to get in touch with nature. You can take a stroll while enjoying the sights of various trees, flowers and other plants. The chilly weather is also a major plus here. If that’s not enough, you can take a break at the rest house where you can savour a cup of freshly-brewed Sabah tea. Imagine drinking hot tea in the midst of a cooling environment. Now, that’s the kind of experience worth cherishing for.
7) Cabbage Roundabout
The Kundasang town itself may have been small. But it’s not without its own unique attraction. If you pass by one of the roundabouts, you will see a concrete replica of a giant cabbage overlooking the hilly landscape. It is definitely Instagram-worthy and just so you know, Kundasang also happens to be the largest cabbage producer in Sabah.
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