Top 5 Must Do's

Kota Kinabalu is a relaxed, slow-paced and laid back Malaysian region that has a few nice, relatively undiscovered attractions and activities. Here is a comprehensive guide to the must do’s in this land of natural and cultural beauty.

1. Go on a Shopping Spree!

Kota Kinabalu is one of the favorite shopping haunts for visitors making a trip to Malaysia. The shopper’s haven is filled with old-fashioned flea markets, Sunday bazaars and chic, up market malls that sell everything from designer apparel and accessories to local handicrafts, fabrics, carpets and a whole lot of other items. The best part about shopping in the city is that most stores housed inside the malls offer great bargains and discounts on high-end brands, and visitors can also haggle for neat prices at the flea markets and the local Handicraft Market. The Karamsuing Complex, Wawasan Plaza, Centre Point Mall and KK plaza are good places to shop, along with the Sunday Flea bazaars spread all around the region. The main streets of Kota also feature some nice boutiques, where designer merchandise can be picked up for less.

2. Trek through Kota Kinabalu’s Wilderness and Small Villages

Kota Kinabalu’s diverse ecology and pleasant natural settings present several opportunities for trekking through the surrounding trails of the town. The region encircling Kota has many tiny hamlets and culturally rich towns that are worth exploring on foot or in a rented vehicle. For the more adventure-seeking tourists, there are some vast jungle reserves housing several species of wild animals and birds in the vicinity. Carry along plenty of food and water, and wear comfortable attire and walking shoes.

3. Visit the Loh Kawi Wildlife Park

This is the largest and most well-organized Wildlife Park in the region. The Loh Kawi is an expansive natural reserve featuring wild animals and birds amidst indigenous forest plantations. The park also houses an informative and interesting reptile center. There are several peaceful spots inside the reserve for visitors to relax after a tiresome wildlife spotting trek.

4. Cultural Village

The Monosopaid Cultural Village is a nice place to view snapshots of the culture and lifestyle followed by the local Kadazan tribe. There are artifacts, religious objects and a fascinating Hall of Skulls that displays 42 skulls belonging to the enemies of the region, who once tried to attack it.

5. State Museum

Visit the State Museum located in the center of Kota Kinabalu, to go through an extensive collection of artifacts, paintings and scriptures that are significant to the history and culture of the Sabah State. 

Kota Kinabalu, though quiet and laidback in outer appearance, offers several things to do for people who are willing to explore its unconventional beauty.