Kota Kinabalu, the dynamic capital of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, is a stunning destination blending history with modernity whilst also brimming with cultural legacy. This captivating city is hidden amongst beautiful jungles and sparkling blue waters, and is packed with a myriad of activities that are compelling even to the most discerning traveller.
From its rich tapestry of indigenous cultures to bustling local bazaars, Kota Kinabalu offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself where the past meets the present in a symphony of brilliant colours. As one walks through its mediaeval streets plus vibrant marketplaces, the city's distinct charm and historical depth become evident, beckoning inquiry alongside discovery at every turn.
Mari-Mari Cultural Village is a living museum that preserves the best of Borneo's unique ethnic traditions. This interactive experience showcases the traditional lifestyles, rituals and legacies of five important Indigenous groups: the rice-farming Kadazan-Dusun, the longhouse-dwelling Rungus, the hunter-fisher Lundayeh, the cowboys and sea gipsies Bajau as well as the headhunting Murut.
Visitors have the opportunity to visit real traditional residences, enjoy vivid cultural performances, witness traditional demonstrations like blowpipe-making and rice wine processing, try out local handicrafts and sample traditional dishes from each ethnic group.
Please visit the official website for more information.
The Sabah State Museum is housed in the traditional style of Rungus longhouses, which harmoniously combine contemporary conveniences with Indigenous architectural features. It was founded to conserve and showcase Sabah's rich cultural legacy, natural history and archaeological riches.
Highlights include the Main Museum Building, which showcases exhibits on history, ethnography and natural history; the Locomotive Gallery, which displays vintage trains; the Heritage Village, which features traditional houses from various Indigenous groups; the Science and Technology Centre as well as the Islamic Civilisation Museum. Notable sights include the spectacular bone remains of a 50-foot Bryde whale.
Please visit the official website for more information.
The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque – also known as Masjid Terapung (floating mosque) was inspired by the beautiful architecture of the Al-Nabawi Mosque in Medina. This mosque is a stunning emblem of peace and architectural grandeur. As Kota Kinabalu's largest floating mosque, also possibly the most beautiful in Malaysia, its uniqueness lies in its ‘floating’ architecture, surrounded by a man-made lagoon offering a breathtaking vision, especially beneath a full moon.
The mosque can house between 9,000 to 12,000 worshippers and is accessible to the public with prior registration through Kota Kinabalu City Mosque Tourism Management. Visitors must dress modestly, conform to the mosque's attire requirements, obey particular restrictions such as respecting the sacred place, refraining from eating or drinking and avoiding improper conduct or mimicry of religious acts.
Please visit the official website for more information.
Gaya Street Sunday Market, which was initially known as Bond Street in the early 1900s, has grown over time into a dynamic and busy hive of activity that is popular amongst both residents and tourists alike. This historical area, which is currently restricted to traffic every Sunday morning, transforms into a bustling street market offering a diverse range of merchandise.
Visitors can explore a myriad of items including arts and crafts, batik sarongs or footwear, as well as fresh fruits, flowers, local foods, antiques, souvenirs, even pets and herbs. The market vibrantly reflects the region's heritage and customs, making it a must-visit site in Kota Kinabalu.
Finally, the North Borneo Heritage Train takes passengers on a riveting trip through Sabah's historical past, beginning in the late nineteenth century. William Clarke Cowie, Managing Director of the British North Borneo Chartered Company, established the first railway service in Borneo in 1896. This service was painstakingly restored to allow visitors to experience a nostalgic journey through Sabah's colonial past whilst appreciating Borneo's stunning scenery.
The tour's highlights include the antique Tanjung Aru Train Station, the ancient Kinarut Town with its Tien Shi Temple, Papar Town's beautiful paddy fields and the Bamboo Hut, which showcases traditional bamboo cookery. On this ride, passengers can enjoy breathtaking vistas of rivers, forests and rice terraces, whilst immersing themselves in Sabah's rural charm.
Please visit the official website for more information.
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