Atkinson Clock Tower
The most enduring landmarks in Kota Kinabalu, it stands prominently on a bluff along Signal Hill Road adjacent to the old Police Station. It was built in 1903, it was said that it built without one inch of nail. It was built in memory of Francis George Atkinson - the popular first District Officer of Jesselton during the British North Borneo Chartered Company Administration, who had succumbed to a tropical disease at the young age of 28.
This Clock Tower has the distinction of being the oldest standing structure in the whole of Sabah that survived the destruction of Jesselton town during World War II. Till today, it still serves to keep the city's time.
Legend said, there is many treasure was buried under the Atkinson Clock Tower
City Mosque
In Kota Kinabalu this gold-doomed state mosque is centrally positioned and overlooks most of the town. It reflects contemporary Islamic architecture and can accommodate 5,000 worshippers. There is a special balcony with 500 women to pray. For a panoramic view of the city and its waterfront, go up to Signal Hill nearby.
Double Six Monument
It is located in Sembulan, marking a significant tragedy in the history of Sabah. On June 6th, 1976, an airplane carrying Sabah’s fifth Chief Minister, Tun Mohd. Fuad Stephens and six other State ministers crashed, killing all on board. The Double Six monument was erected on the exact spot of the fatal crash.
Gaya Street (Sunday Market)
Also know as Bond Street, Gaya Street was located in the Kota Kinabalu Central Business District. It has been the centre of business for over a hundred years. Gaya Street is a special characteristic of Sabah. It involves the combination all the things of multiethnic. In here, you can find that there are many stall selling souvenirs pets, foods and drinks. It also show that the harmonies of the multiethnic.
Handicraft Market
A place sells all the souvenirs such as key chains, beaded bracelets and necklaces and bookmarks. It has an endless variety of carved crafts, including exotic wooden masks, picture frames and even stunning wall panels. Not be missed are the assortment of rattan baskets in all shapes and sizes.
Jari Jari Body & Mind Relaxation
You can pamper your body and relax your mind at the Jari Jari Body & Mind Relaxation wellness centre. The spa, which opened its doors in 2005, prides itself in using traditional methods to soothe the body, namely of Murut and Dusun origins.
Ka'andaman Traditional Healing Garden
It is situated within the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Cultural Village grounds, a mere 15 minutes away from the city centre. Ka'andaman, a Kadazan word which means ‘memory' or ‘remembrance', offers a myriad of stress-relieving treatments from relaxing milk baths to soothing massages by skillful therapists.
Karambunai Resorts Golf Club
The
beautifully-crafted 18-hole 6063m golf course designed by renowned American golf
architect Ronald Fream. Stretching from the edge of low hills and
reaching towards the sandy beaches, this par 72 championship course requires
both strength and strategy from the golfer with its numerous dogleg holes,
meandering waterways, bunkers and not to mention the ocean winds.
The Club is equipped with buggy facilities, golf equipment rental, open-air
driving range, practice chipping and putting greens, spacious changing and
locker rooms, Pro shop and F&B services.
Bird Sanctuary (Tropical Rainforest Sanctuary)
It was built in the swamp. So, it provides you to see and know the habitat of the creature in the swamp. Causes too many creatures at there, is attract birds to rest and eat there.
Layang-Layang Island
The island is man-made and was constructed for the Malaysian Navy and later developed for the only dive resort, Layang-Layang Island Resort. The extreme location of Layang-Layang, the pristine reefs, excellent visibility, steep walls down to 2000km and regular sightings of pelagics has given Layang-Layang a much deserved reputation of being one of the top ten dive locations in the world.
Menara Tun Mustapha (Sabah Foundation Building)
Inside are housed an auditorium, two mini-theatres, exhibition foyer, a gymnasium, kindergarten and Research library. On the 18th floor is the revolving restaurant Atmosphere where you can enjoy a different dining experience. Sabah It is the one of the fourth building which has such design. In here, there is a special restaurant known as Atmosphere. This special restaurant provides all the 360◦ of view.
Monsopiad Cultural Village
Nestled besides the Penampang River are the many traditional buildings that make up the Monsopiad Cultural village, a living museum. It is a very good place to experience the life and the cultural of the native. In here, you were told and teach how the native was eating, entertain and play. Monsopiad was a fearsome warrior who lived in the village of Kuai nearly 200 years ago.
North Borneo Railway
Have you ever ride the world old train? Train which generate by coal? Today, the North Borneo Railway runs from Tanjung Aru till Tenom town, passing coastal and rural areas, picturesque villages and small towns, a mountain tunnel and a spectacular Gorge.
Orchid de Villa
Established in 1995 and located in Inanam about 20 kilometres or 30 minutes away from KK City, the centre covers an area of 12 acres and boasts of about 50 hybrid species showcased in their Hybrid Garden. There are also 300 species of Borneo wild orchids, including some rare ones. Its main attractions are commercial orchid planting and conservation of wild orchids.
The Orchid de Villa also incorporates a fishing pond within its vicinity, a cacti garden, cottages and other amenities. Guided as well as tailor-made tours can be arranged with prior notice.
Petagas War Memorial
The heart-wrenching sacrifice of the brave and the fallen are revered at the Petagas War Memorial. The memorial was built in remembrance of those who lost their lives defending Sabah during the Japanese occupation in World War II. The Memorial is located on the exact spot where 176 Sabahan guerillas were massacred on January 21st, 1944.
Sabah Golf & Country Club
Situated along Jalan Kolam 10
minutes drive from the KK City Centre is the SGCC,
Sabah's
oldest 18-hole golf course which opened for play in 1976.
This challenging par 72, 6335m championship course was designed by Robert
Muir Graves
Sabah State Mosque
One of the most outstanding pieces of architecture in Sabah is none other than the State Mosque. With its majestic dome and stunning gold inlay motifs, the mosque sits a stone's throw away from the city centre. It is a unique combination of prevailing Islamic architecture and contemporary design.
Sabah State Museum & Heritage Village
Built in 1985, the Museum complex is sited where then British North Borneo Governor's Istana was once located. The Museum consists of the Main Building, Science and Education Centre, Heritage Village, Sabah Art Gallery and Museum of Islamic Civilization. Located on Bukit Istana Lama, a hill behind the State Mosque, the museum was built in the long house style of Rungus and Murut tribes. The museum has a wealth of historical and tribal treasures and handicraft of the indigenous people. There is also a notable collection of ceramics. The major highlights are the exhibits of life-size traditional houses belonging to six ethnic groups.
Sightseeing in Kota Kinabalu
In here, you can view the full view of the Kinabalu City. Flag raising hill is just few miles away from the street market. You can get amazing views that extend to the outlying islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and further.
Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club
Centrally located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu City and just 10 minutes from the International Airport, it offers both day and night golfing. Its signature hole is the 24th par 4, 330m (Garden Course) with the challenge provided by the sandy waste and the ocean which comes precariously close to the undulating green.
Tamu Penampang
Traders come out in full force to sell their best produce, ranging from fresh vegetables to handicrafts. Different from the Street Market, Native market only sell things like food and beverage.
The stalls there sell all kind of native food such as belut, sago worm…
Tanjung Aru Beach
Located at the end of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman and about 6 kilometers from KK City, this place is closest to the hearts of the locals, and just one visit to the beach will tell you why. Taking its name from the casuarinas or aru trees that fringe the fine sands, this is where one might get a ringside seat to the greatest sunset on earth every evening when the crimson sun dips slowly into the horizon, leaving the vast skies a brilliant red.. Foodstalls serving local food and drinks are open till late at night. Enjoy coconut and sugarcane juice, chicken or beef satay and steamed peanuts and corn, or indulge in a full-course dinner at the seafood restaurant located there. The Tanjung Aru beach is also home to Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort, the Kinabalu Golf Club and the Kinabalu Yacht Club.
The Waterfront
Kota Kinabalu's one-stop dining and entertainment centre is found right here along the famous Waterfront. Located along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, the Waterfront is a popular hangout for both locals and visitors alike. As you stroll along the esplanade, be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining.
At night, paint the town red at BED (Best Entertainment Destination), one of the biggest dance clubs in Sabah. The Waterfront is also home to a myriad of shops, including the Borneo Trading Post, ideal for Sabah souvenir hunters. Dazzling lights, pulsating rhythms and a fantastic blend of energy makes The Waterfront a must-visit during your time in Kota Kinabalu.
Tun Mustapha Gallery
The Tun Mustapha Gallery opened its doors in 2006, paying tribute to one of Sabah's outstanding personalities. The late Tun Mustapha was a visionary leader who was instrumental to leading Sabah to independence. He was a freedom fighter during World War II, a nationalistic activist, an inspiring leader and Sabah's first Head of State, among many other achievements.
The beautiful gallery, located in the premises that once housed the Sabah State Assembly from 1980 to 1995, chronicles the life and times of Tun Mustapha. It offers visitors an glimpse into his triumphs and tribulations, with detailed descriptions accompanying the images displayed here.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
The marine park is a cluster of islands comprising Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug, all only 10 - 20 minute speedboat ride from the city of Kota Kinabalu. The five islands of the Marine Park are characterized by shallow waters, sumptous coral gardens and all boast splendid white sandy beaches.
Water World Theme Park
What better way to cool down under the brilliant Sabah sun than to enjoy a day at the Water World Theme Park! Situated at Taman Tun Fuad Stephens, Bukit Padang, the park is a great place to bring the family for a splashing good time. Thrill-seekers will love the Torpedo Speed Slide and Double Loop Slide. There are several swimming pools to cater to adults as well as children.
Puh Toh Tze Temple
Sabah is proud of its multiculturalism and this is often reflected in its diverse architecture. The Puh Toh Tze temple is a Buddhist temple located off Tuaran Road.
Built in 1980, the temple stands out with its traditional Chinese roofing and structure. Ten large statues of deities adorn the temple with the Goddess of Mercy, Kwan Yin, standing tall at the main entrance of the temple.
Tamu Tamparuli
Welcome to Tamparuli - home of the famous ‘Jambatan Tamparuli', a
favourite folk song of the Kadazandusun people of Sabah which tells of a hanging
bridge and the story a young girl who accidentally loses her shoe while
crossing. It Located some 42km from Kota Kinabalu, Tamparuli holds its weekly
tamu (market) every Wednesday in the town centre.
Like most tamu, this is the best place to watch the local folks mingle as they do business. Fresh produce is often on display, as well as a variety of unique delicacies such as bambangan (a sour mango-like fruit preserved in jars and often served to complement main meals) and rice wine, known as tapai or lihing. You can find just about anything here, from clothing to livestock - so it's sure to be a shopping experience like no other!
Tamu Tuaran
When in Tuaran, is sure to visit the bustling weekly tamu (market). Once a week,
the town centre comes alive with a variety of sights, sounds and smells. Early
birds can grab a variety of local delicacies for breakfast, including pastries
and cakes such as kuih lapis and fried noodles. Check out the fresh fruits and
vegetables as well as the unique local crafts. The Kadazandusun of Tuaran is
known for their handwoven baskets and the tamu is the perfect place for a good
bargain.
Tuaran Crocodile Farm
It is being the
largest crocodile farm in Sabah and estimates about 1,000 crocodiles. Experience
the adventure of these crocodiles and witness daily exciting crocodiles show.
Beaufort District
Known for its annual flooding, this so-called Venice of the East is characterized by its shops built off the ground. One of the bigger towns along the railway line, Beaufort is the transit stop for passengers boarding the railcar to Tenom, continuing on by road to Menumbok then boarding the ferry from there to Labuan.
Borneo Golf and Country Club
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this is a superbly-crafted buggy course that plays 6546 metres off the championship tees. Spread over 200 acres on a 900-acre site, the natural features of the lagoon and surrounding terrain is played up to dramatise the water hazards as well as the wastelands and bunkers, giving a strong character to the ‘Golden Bear' course.
Garama Wetland
It is another unique
eco-tourism destination for you to explore in Sabah.
Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Garama River to look out for the
curious-looking Proboscis Monkey with its over-sized nose and pot belly. They
usually hang out in small groups that consist of a dominant male and four or
five females. Feeding on leaves and seeds, they go from tree to tree and are
best sighted during the day or late afternoons. These animals are only found on
the island of Borneo.
Klias River
Located on the Klias Peninsula is the Klias Wetland, a Mangrove Forest Reserve. With the bizarre-looking proboscis monkey gaining as much popularity with the tourists as the orang utan, the Klias Wetland with its large proboscis population is fast becoming the latest ecotourism destination in Sabah.
Weston Wetland
One of Sabah's hidden treasures, Weston Wetland is a fantastic getaway for the nature-lover. Make your way to the small town of Weston. Your boat ride to the Weston Wetland Retreat begins from the 100-year old jetty by the village.
The lodge is an establishment built in the heart of Weston's swamp area, offering plenty to see and do. Lodging is basic and dormitory-style; a wooden ‘longhouse' with common bathrooms. Go on a river cruise in search of the elusive Proboscis Monkey, cheeky macaques and flying fox. Along the way, learn crab-catching the traditional way.
Kindawan Riding Centre
Imagine wind in your hair, the sun setting as its rays bounce off the South China Sea, creating a remarkable glimmer and your heart beating in exhilaration as you begin to pick up speed...
No, you're not cruising in a convertible along a coastal highway. Instead, you are sitting comfortably on a horse, galloping along a sandy beach. If you would like to add an interesting twist to your Sabah holiday, we suggest you visit the Kindawan Riding Centre in Kinarut.
Pulau Tiga "Survivor Island"
Pulau Tiga is also famous for its therapeutic natural volcanic mud. Looking for some wildlife? Say hello the island’s famous residents: snakes! Facilities on the island include a restaurant and camping site.
Make your way to the district of Kuala Penyu and hop on a boat to Pulau Tiga! The island’s claim to fame is none other than being the first ever ‘secret’ location for the hit reality series, ‘Survivor’. Hence, many refer to Pulau Tiga as Survivor Island. Located just 10km off shore on the West Coast of Sabah, you can enjoy a day trip to the island but many recommend spending at least a night or two.
Rumbia Information Centre
The information centre, located in Kampung Kasugira, also holds exhibitions on handicrafts made out of the sago plant and a demonstration on how to make sago delicacies. If you're ever in the quaint district of Kuala Penyu, be sure to swing by!
Kinabalu Park
Mount Kinabalu was the highest mountain in SEA. It has a height of 4101m (13,455ft). Many people challenge this mountain. When you reach the peak of the mountain, a certificate will be given to you.
Kundasang War Memorial
A must-visit in Kundasang is the Kundasang War Memorial. Established in 1962, this was one of the first memorials to commemorate the brave Australian and British Prisoners of War who died in Sandakan and during the infamous death marches to Ranau during World War II. The memorial also remembers the people of North Borneo who risked their lives to help the POWs.
Kapalai Island
Kapalai island – The mere name conjures the image of crystal clear waters and a floating paradise like no other. A 45-minute trip from Semporna by speedboat, Kapalai Island is one of the many beautiful diving havens in this part of the world. However, Kapalai is truly unique because it is not quite an ‘island’.
The 40 chalets are built on high wooden stilts in the middle of the ocean. Visitors can enjoy the sights of marine life in action as they stroll along the boardwalk, a sturdy construction that connects the various sections of the floating resort. The resort has 40 chalets, equipped with basic amenities, including tea and coffee making facilities.
Mabul Island
Mention Mabul Island and visions of swaying coconut trees and idyllic water villages come to mind. And that’s just above the water. Located only about 15 minutes by speedboat from the famous Sipadan Island, Mabul has gained its own recognition as one of the best muck-diving (a term used to describe limited visibility dives at shallow sites with usually sandy bottoms) sites in the world.
Mabul is a small oval shaped island fringed by sandy beaches and perched on the northwest corner of a larger 200-hectare reef. The reef is on the edge of the continental shelf and the seabed surrounding the reef slopes out to 25–30m deep.
Mataking Island
Mataking Island was the ideal getaway for both the avid diver and non-diver. With its sparkling white sand, mesmerizing blue waters and top-class resort. Divers can gear up and explore the Eel Garden, Coral Garden, Nudibranch Garden, Turtle Playground, Lobsters Lair and Hump Head Point.
Non-diving activities include a luxurious pampering experience at Jamu Spa, batik painting, kayaking, canoeing and jungle-trekking to name a few. A must-do during your time in Mataking is to take a leisurely walk to Pulau Mataking Kecil (literally meaning Small Mataking island) which is a 20-minute walk from the main island. The best time to take this walk is in the morning when the tides are low, allowing you to walk on a sandy stretch that leads directly to the smaller island. With the sea surrounding you on both sides, you will feel almost as if you are walking on water!
Sipadan Island
Sipadan island internationally famous island that lies five degrees north of the equator in Sulawesi Sea (Celebes Sea) Sipadan is an oceanic island and was formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct undersea volcano, which rises 600m from the seabed. The geographic position of Sipadan puts it in the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world, the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin. The turtle tomb, an underwater limestone cave with labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that contain many skeletal remains of turtles makes another unique feature to divers visiting to Sipadan.
Sabah Tea Garden
With its sprawling tea plantation surrounded by pristine rainforests in the cool mountain air, the Sabah Tea Garden beckons you to indulge in its beautiful surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. A mere 2-hour drive from the city of Kota Kinabalu, the Sabah Tea Garden boasts a beautiful backdrop, Mount Kinabalu.
Sabah Tea is the only organic tea farm in Borneo and one of the few in the world. A trip to the tea garden is both educational and fun, one where visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as obstacle-crossing in the Sapaon Recreational Area, trekking along the trails to the peak of Kamunsu Hill or embarking on a night walk to check out the unique insect life. Highly recommended is the 2-day 1-night Sabah Tea Adventure package, which incorporates a tea factory and plantation tour, a course on basic jungle survival skills, understanding rivers and how to safely get across them and obstacle training. This package has been awarded the Best Tour Programme for Educational Tourism at the Malaysia Tourism Awards in Kuala Lumpur.
Visitors can opt to stay in a range of accommodation, be it a traditional long house, a cosy bungalow or-those who wish to sleep under the stars, a campsite. Other facilities include a conference room, restaurant, souvenir shop, a soccer field and tennis court. A stone’s throw away from the garden is various places of interests, including the historical Kundasang War Memorial , Kinabalu Park and rejuvenating Poring Hot Spring . Ask the friendly staff for directions and they will be more than glad to help you out. Be it for business or pleasure, the Sabah Tea Garden awaits you with unforgettable experiences and adventures. A friendly reminder: No trip to the Sabah Tea Garden would be complete without a taste of Sabah's finest tea!
Danum Valley Conservation Area
Madai - Baturong Forest Reserve Nature Centre
Tabin Wildlife Reserve
The Tabin Wildlife Reserve needs little introduction. Located 50 km northeast of Lahad Datu on the Dent Peninsula, the reserve attracts visitors from far and near each year. As the name suggests, Tabin is home to a myriad of wildlife and is most famous for sightings of the Asian elephant, the elusive Sumatran rhinoceros and tembadau (Banteng wild buffalo, Bos javanicus).
Tabin is a tropical haven for wildlife and conveniently located beside it are vast plantations which serve as feeding grounds. The highlight of any visit to Tabin is the Night Safari. However, don’t confuse this with a trip to the zoo! There is no guaranteed sighting of the elusive creatures during your night safari but if you are lucky, you might come across civet cats, buffy owls, bearded pigs, pythons and for the extremely fortunate, an elephant or two.
In the evenings, go for a dip in the refreshing Lipad River (it gets quite deep in some parts so exercise caution) or for a natural beauty remedy, why not wallow in the Lipad Mud Volcano? Many people swear by its rejuvenating properties and even bring back bottles of mud as a gift for friends! If trekking is your thing, Tabin offers interesting walks through its jungles. A good tip is to bring leech socks – the rainforest is teeming with these friendly creatures.
Want to get in touch with nature? There’s no place like Tabin.
Agnes Keith House
If you should ever stroll along the stretch of Jalan Istana in Sandakan, the much-talked about Agnes Keith House is hard to miss. With its sprawling green lawns and colonial-style wooden walls, the residence has since been restored by the Sabah Museum, in collaboration with the Federal Department of Museums and Antiquities.
This British colonial government quarters, called Newlands, was once occupied by famous American writer, Agnes Newton Keith, who penned Land below the Wind in 1939. Two books followed her first success, namely Three Came Home (1946) and White Man Returns (1951). With the exception of the second book, Land Below the Wind and White Man Returns were written in the house on the hill where she had the best views of Sandakan Bay at the front and the Sulu Sea at the back.
Newlands was rebuilt some time in 1946/47 and was the first government permanent timber dwelling to be built after the Second World War. It was built upon the ruined foundations of the original house that was destroyed during the war.
The house became home to Agnes and her family, Henry (also referred to as Harry) George Keith, who was the Conservator of Forests and their son, George. When the Keiths left Sabah in 1952, the house was occupied by subsequent Conservators of Forests, forestry officers, volunteers and other staff. Though the Keiths never retuned to Sabah, the house was always referred to as Agnes Keith's House by visitors who never stopped coming to see it.
Today the house has been restored and turned into a heritage house, providing interesting insights to life during British North Borneo. It is furnished with a reproduction of colonial furniture and antiques. A gallery on the first floor tells the story of this remarkable woman, her books and her family. A Keith time-line starts in 1873 and ends in 2004 tracing the past to the present Keiths.
Batu Tulug
Located at
Batu Putih village and 41km from the Kota Kinabatangan Township, Agop Batu Tulug
is a steep limestone cliff that stands 39 meters high and is part of the 20-25
million- year old Labang limestone formation. The word ‘agop' in the Orang
Sungai language means cave. There are three main caves, agop suriba (lower) on
the forest floor, lintaga (middle) and sawat (upper) betweeen 12-15m high.
Inside the middle and upper caves are more than a hundred carved wooden coffins
dating back 200-250 years, watched over by bats and swallows. Batu Putih village
can be viewed from here as well.
The coffins resemble different animals associated to the beliefs of the Orang Sungai but it has also been said that they are the coffins of the Chinese who once settled in the area as Chinese artifacts were found among the remains.
A site Museum since 1996, it has facilities such as an information center, stairs leading to the caves, toilets and resting huts.
Kinabatangan River
Stretching 560km from the Crocker Range in the southwest of Sabah to the Sulu Sea in the east, the Kinabatangan River sustains one of the world's richest ecosystems. The surrounding areas along the river consist of five distinct habitats - dipterocarp or dry, waterlogged and limestone forests, and freshwater and saline swamps. The lower basin of the river itself is the largest forest covered floodplain in Malaysia and has the largest concentration of wildlife in the South East Asian region.
Other than being home to Borneo's indigenous orang utan and proboscis monkey, the surrounding forest is also one of only two known places in the world where 10 species of primates are found. All the eight species of hornbill found in Borneo make the area their home.
A trip up the river at dawn or dusk is the best opportunity to see the wildlife. You might even sight an Asian elephant or a Sumatran rhinoceros wandering through the trees. Optional tours can be arranged for night safaris as well to spot crocodiles, birds and nocturnal animals.
Many major local tour companies run lodges in the Sukau area with packages that include accommodation, transportation, meals and guided tours. Alternatively, you may want to experience the homestay programme which is available at surrounding villages and which provides a good opportunity to truly experience the life of the Orang Sungai. Join in their cultural activities or even try your hand at the local way of farming!
Gomantong Cave
Described by WWF as 'the best-managed edible birds' nest cave in the world', Gomantong Caves in the heartland of the Gomantong Rainforest Reserve have been the focus for birds' nests for centuries.
Since the 13th century, Chinese traders have come to Sandakan in search of birds' nests, a prized delicacy among the Chinese and found nearly 100 metres up on the ceilings of the Gomantong Caves. Harvesters put their lives on the line literally, climbing networks of rattan ladders and ropes to get to the nests. The risky nature of nest collecting has only helped made the commodity a pricey one.
There are two cave complexes - Simud Hitam (Black Cave) soaring up to 90 metres high and the more accessible of the two, and Simud Putih (White Cave), where the more valuable nests are found. Simud Hitam is a five- minute walk from the registration centre. A well-maintained boardwalk gives you easy access to do some exploring or watch the skilled harvesters at work.
The resident creatures of the caves include swiftlets (from which the nests are collected) and bats among others. Outside, other birds such as serpent eagles, bat hawks and kingfishers can be seen. You might even spot an orangutan or two. You will need to make prior arrangements for exploring the more challenging Simud Putih which calls for more serious caving.
Facilities include a picnic area as well as the Gomantong Rainforest Chalet which can accommodate up to 30 people a night.
Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
In the centre of the mangrove forests of Sumawang is the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, where you can see Borneo's indigenous proboscis monkeys. This privately-owned sanctuary located within an oil palm estate gives you the chance to observe these animals up close and personal.
The remarkable males sport big dangling noses, reddish flat-top hairstyles, white tails and markings, and pot bellies. The females on the other hand, are much smaller and have up-turned noses.
A river trip can be arranged to further observe the monkeys or do some bird watching, as hornbills and kingfishers are found in the area. Take a night tour for a chance to see wild boars, flying squirrels, fireflies and crocodiles. The sanctuary also has a lodge with six air-conditioned twin-sharing rooms and a dormitory for those who wish to stay overnight.
Lankayan Island
Lankayan, a tiny jewel-shaped island located on the northeastern coast of Sabah, is part of the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area (SIMCA) and is surrounded blue-green waters and coral reefs. It is also one of Sabah's top diving spots.
The availability of jungle interior and interesting diving attracts both divers and non-divers alike to Lankayan.
14 dive sites including the Lankayan Wreck, all only minutes away from the island, offer magnificent displays of marine life ranging from giant groupers to tiny ribbon eels. Enormous whale sharks are regularly sighted between March and May, and the island is also a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles. You can watch as the baby turtles are released back into the sea.
The Langkayan Island Dive Resort has sixteen attractive wooden chalets with beach fronts and the common dining area extends to a sundeck jutting out to the beach.
Libaran Island
In the northeast coast of Sandakan lies the island of Libaran. This small island is ideal for those searching for some quiet time and in need of a relaxing trip. Many agree that the charm of this island lies in its simplicity: a long stretch of beach, crystal blue waters and beautiful sunsets. In the evening, you can enjoy a river cruise in the mangrove forest or have the unique experience of night fishing. A great place to get away from it all!
Sandakan Crocodile Farm
The Sandakan Crocodile Farm is Malaysia's largest with over 3000 of the reptiles. The original stock came from wild crocodiles found along the Kinabatangan River. The animals are farmed for their skins to be turned into shoes and bags.
Besides offering visitors an up-close look at Sabah's biggest reptiles, the farm hosts several other attractions as well, including crocodile and snake shows. It also features a mini zoo with a 100kg Amazonian fish, and a children's park.
Sandakan Heritage Trail
You can now enjoy Sandakan at your own pace. The Sandakan Heritage Trail is a comprehensive walk that covers the town's important and interesting sites which have contributed to her rich historical past. A leaflet will map out the entire trail for you and it covers about fifteen spots.
These include the 100-year old Masjid Jamek, the Pryer Memorial, a granite structure erected to honour the founder of Sandakan, William B. Pryer, the Tourist Information Centre, the WW11 memorial and much more. Climbing the Stairs with a Hundred Steps will lead you to a beautiful view of Sandakan town and bay. It also brings you to the Agnes Keith House.
From restored colonial buildings like the Agnes Keith's House and the English Tea House, to places of worship - St. Michael's and All Angels Church, Sam Sing Kung (Three Saints) Temple and Goddess of Mercy Temple, this one hour walk takes you back to over 100 years.
Sandakan Memorial Park
It is commemorates a tragedy and atrocity. The tragedy was the death between January and August 1945, within sight of Allied victory in the Pacific war, of approximately 2400 Australian and British prisoners of war held by the Japanese in the Sandakan POW camp, North Borneo
Sandakan Town
Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary
The Sepilok
Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre was set up in 1964 to rehabilitate orphaned
baby orang utan. Set in the lush 4,300-hectare Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve,
the Centre under the administration of the Wildlife Department of Sabah attracts
tourists and researchers alike, giving them the opportunity to watch the orang
utan up close in their natural habitat. A boardwalk leads you to a viewing
gallery and feeding platform where the apes are fed milk and bananas twice a day
at 10.00am and 3.00pm by rangers. Feeding time also attracts long-tailed
macaques to the area.
While orang utan rehabilitation is still the primary goal at Sepilok, it also
focuses on public education on conservation, research and assistance on other
endangered species such as the rhinoceros.
Visitors are restricted to walkways. Some orang utan have become familiar with
people but touching them is strongly discouraged, and while the apes are
naturally shy and gentle, the more mischievous ones may try to grab your camera
or hat, in which case you should call for a ranger as trying to wrestle the 200
pound apes may not be a good idea.
For the more adventurous, there is trekking through mangrove forest. As this is under the Forestry Department, you will have to get a permit from them before trekking the 5km trail which runs through Sepilok Laut. You can also arrange for a boat return or accommodation in chalets in the forest.
St. Michael's and All Angels Church, Sandakan
The historical city of Sandakan is home to many buildings and monuments, each witness to the change of time and events over the years. One of the oldest buildings is none other than the St. Michael's and All Angels Church.
The construction of the first stone building in Sabah began in 1893 and was only completed in the 1906. Designed by New Zealander Mr. B.W Mountfort, the building was first constructed with belian wood, followed by brick and finlly stone, which is said to have from the nearby Buli Sim Sim while the white stones that adorn the windows and doors are from Hong Kong.
The stones were delivered from Buli Sim Sim by prison labour at RM1.25 per cubic yard. A cubic foot of stone weighs approximately 140 lbs and each stone was painstakingly laid atop each other. During the 1906 Michaelmas Celebration, celebrated on 30 September, the nave and transepts were finally dedicated. Three services were held that day to celebrate the goodness of God and the faith of His people.
The western porch (the main entrance) of the Church was not completed and dedicated until 1925 - 32 years from the date of its construction. The Church avoided major damages during the Second World War in the 40s and remains one of the very few stone buildings in the whole of Sabah. The Church was also one of the many places where the Prisoners of War who trekked the Sandakan Death March spent a night before continuing the march.
The beautiful stained glass windows found here were donated by Australians to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the end of World War II.
Turtle Island Park
The Turtle Island Park (gazetted 1977) lies 40km north of Sandakan in the Sulu Sea and consists of Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan islands. The park is a safe haven for the endangered green and hawksbill turtles and gives you the rare opportunity to watch turtle landings. Selingan, the largest of the islands, houses the park's headquarters, a turtle hatchery, tourist accommodation and basic facilities. The other two islands are more for conservation activities.
As turtle landings usually occur after dusk, an overnight stay would be the best plan to see the turtles as they come ashore to lay their eggs, but shining a light on them or using camera flashes should be avoided as either can be stressful on the creatures.
Turtles lay their eggs throughout the year, but the best time to head there is between July and October when the sea is calmer. Observe the collection of eggs, tagging of mother turtles and releasing of baby turtles into the sea.