Things to do

Kota Kinabalu is an interesting mixed bag that though not as illustrious as its more publicized Malaysian peers, still has a few enjoyable things to do and activities to indulge in. Here are some nice ideas for things to do in this upcoming tourist destination.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

For visitors on the go with severe time constraints, the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park fittingly summarizes the extensive wildlife collection and natural beauty of the region. Those unable to tour the entire jungle reserves on the periphery of Kota Kinabalu can visit the Lok Kawi and spot some of the most fascinating indigenous species of animals like elephants, gibbons and Sumantran Rhinoceros along with an array of colorful birds at a well-maintained aviary. There are no means of public transportation around the park so it is best to hire a local cab from Lok Kawi town that can be reached by the local bus service from Kota Kinabalu. Fix up the return time with the cab driver to head back to Kota in the same vehicle for an approximate one-way fare of RM 40-50.The entrance fee for the park is RM20 for adults and RM10 for children.

Shop till you Drop!

Shopping enthusiasts will not be able to resist the lure of bargain hunting in Kota Kinabalu. The town is filled with shopping centers that offer designer merchandise at abysmally low rates. Visitors can pick up branded apparel, watches, bags, shoes along with hand-made carpets, shawls, wooden artifacts and fabrics patterned with natural dyes at discounted prices. Some of the best places to go shopping in Kota Kinabalu are the main street markets, Center Point Mall, KK Plaza, Karamunsing Complex and Wawasan Plaza. Visit the Sunday Flea Market for buying fresh local produce and rare musical instruments.

Monsopaid Cultural Village

Hire a cab and make a trip to the exotic Monsopaid Cultrual Village that exhibits an attractive montage of the Kadazan ethnic race. There are historical relics of the evolution and civilization of the tribe, their artifacts and daily lifestyle objects along with a hold your breath-Hall of Skulls, which houses 42 skulls as mementos of a Kandazan warrior’s wrath directed towards a bunch of enemies out to attack his town.  The entrance fee is RM50 for adults and RM10 for children.

Explore the region’s Diverse Ecology

Rent a motorbike and explore the natural and diverse ecology of Kota Kinabalu on a pleasant ride through its lush trails and exciting forest reserves. There are several small towns and villages surrounding the Kota region and most of them have some striking natural or cultural feature worth witnessing. Chuck the expensive rental vehicles and hire inexpensive bikes for a more adventurous and rugged journey.

Kota Kinabalu or KK as it’s popularly termed in Malaysia offers an array of things to do for tourists who are willing to explore the natural and cultural beauty of the region along with its rich ecology and chic shopping destinations.