The capital of Sabah state in East Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu’s location on the island of Borneo makes it ideal for those you looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The nearby rainforests and tropical islands, not to mention the breathtaking Mount Kinabalu, are all easily accessible from this lively city, so you’ll not have a minute to spare in your adventuring. Meanwhile the city itself has plenty to offer as well, from glittering malls to rickety markets, great cuisine,and a vibrant music and arts scene, Kota Kinabalu has it all.
Areas & Neighborhoods in Kota Kinabalu
Chinatown — This area, better known locally as Gaya Street, can be found in the city centre and is filled with atmospheric Chinese coffee shops and restaurants. At the weekly market, that takes place every Sunday, you can get a real sense of traditional culture and crafts.
Northern Coast — This area is a real gateway to much of the spectacular scenery the island of Borneo has to offer. As well as the beaches at Karambunai and Dalit, you will also discover the lagoon-like estuary that is formed by the confluence of the Mengkabong and Salut rivers. From here it’s possible to take to the water by boat or jet-ski and set out on an adventure around the coast. Why not check out the fascinating Mengkabong water village, or stop for a bite to eat in Salut?
Likas Sports Complex — Not just the focal point for sports in Kota Kinabalu, but in Sabah itself, this complex boasts a football stadium, playing fields, racket sports courts, a swimming pool, gym and much more. It also frequently plays host to a variety of sports events up to and including international level. So head here if you want to burn some calories yourself, or simply cheer on your favourite team.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park — If you have an interest in wildlife then this park is an absolute must. With animals including orangutans, tigers, a Sumatran rhino and much more, this park offers a delightful alternative to trying to spot these wonderful beasts in the wild. And, being only a short distance south of Kota Kinabalu. It is a perfect day-trip out from the town.
Things to See in Kota Kinabalu
Traditional sights in Kota Kinabalu include the magnificent City Mosque, which was built in a classical style, and can hold up to 12,000 worshippers. The intriguingly named Che Sui Khor Moral Uplifting Society offers wisdom that draws from Islam, Taoism, Buddhism and Christianity, and boasts an amazing 11-storey pagoda. If people watching is your thing however the central market will certainly satisfy, whilst if you simply want to look down on it all from above, just head on up to the Signal Hill Observatory Platform for a bird’s eye view down on Kota Kinabalu.
Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is a renowned coastal destination and as such offers pretty much every water-based activity possible: scuba diving and snorkelling, deep sea fishing, white water rafting and sea kayaking, sailing and yachting. And with its close proximity to the jungles of Borneo, if you’d prefer to stay on land, then there is an almost limitless array of adventuring opportunities available to you. But if that all sounds a bit too energetic, then simply make the most of the fine dining and entertainments available to you in the city.
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