Things to do in Mount Kinabalu
Discover the best attractions and experiences Mount Kinabalu has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore sites that carry memories of Sabah’s past near Mount Kinabalu.
Kundasang War Memorial
A memorial to allied soldiers who died in Borneo during World War II, set in the cool highlands near the village of Kundasang.
Atkinson Clock Tower
One of Kota Kinabalu’s oldest landmarks, a standing reminder of early 20th-century city days.
Petagas War Memorial
A solemn World War II memorial commemorating victims of the war near Kota Kinabalu.
Museums
Learn Sabah’s stories and traditions through local collections.
Sabah State Museum
Shows Sabah’s history, culture and natural heritage through galleries and exhibits.
Monsopiad Cultural Village
A living museum of the Kadazan-Dusun heritage with traditional house displays and performances.
Sabah Tea Factory Museum
A small museum area detailing Sabah tea production and heritage at the Sabah Tea Garden.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks of Sabah’s diverse communities.
Sabah State Mosque (Masjid Negeri Sabah)
The grand state mosque in Kota Kinabalu, a center for the Muslim community.
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque (Masjid Bandar Kota Kinabalu)
A modern and striking mosque located in the city with views of the sea.
National & Theme Parks
Stunning protected areas and nature reserves in the Kinabalu region.
Kinabalu National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed park surrounding Mount Kinabalu, with diverse trails and flora.
Crocker Range National Park
Forest-covered mountains and scenic viewpoints to explore beyond Kinabalu.
Poring Hot Springs & Nature Reserve
A rainforest nature reserve famous for hot springs and canopy walks.
Neighborhoods
Base towns and villages that serve as gateways to Kinabalu.
Kundasang
A picturesque highland village near Kinabalu with strawberry farms and markets.
Ranau
A town at the foot of the mountains offering scenic routes and farmland visits.
Kota Kinabalu
The capital city as a base for climbing Mount Kinabalu and exploring Sabah's west coast.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to enjoy the Kinabalu area without an entrance fee.
Kundasang War Memorial grounds
Stroll the grounds with views of Mount Kinabalu and memorials.
Kundasang Market
Browse local stalls and pick up fresh produce and snacks.
Scenic viewpoints along Jalan Ranau
Accessible overlooks offering photography opportunities of the highlands.
Gastronomy
Local flavors that make Sabah’s highland meals memorable.
Hinava (Sabah-style raw fish)
A tangy Kadazan-Dusun delicacy, usually served with rice.
Tuaran Mee
Delicious egg noodles in a hearty broth, a Sabah classic.
Sabah Tea and Plantation Snacks
Tea tasting and snacks at Sabah Tea Garden near Ranau.
Nightlife
Evening spots to unwind after a day of exploring Kinabalu.
Kota Kinabalu waterfront bars
Casual riverside bars with views of sunset and the sea.
City-center live music
Local bars and cafes host live performances in KK.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and family-friendly venues.
Monsopiad Cultural Village
Traditional Kadazan-Dusun performances in a living village.
Sabah Cultural Centre
Regular shows featuring Sabah’s dances and music.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
A family-friendly park with wildlife exhibits and demonstrations.
Sports
Active pursuits around Mount Kinabalu’s landscapes.
Climb Mount Kinabalu (via Timpohon/Monstad)
Trek to the summit via established routes with a permit.
Kinabalu Park Canopy Walkway
Elevated walk through the rainforest canopy for panoramic views.
Mesilau Nature Trail
Accessible trails offering lush flora and birdwatching.
Off the Track
Less-visited routes for the adventurous traveler.
Kiau Viewpoint
A dramatic overlook of the Crocker Range and valleys.
Mesilau Canyon Trail
Rugged, scenic trail through canyons and forest.
Timpohon Gate area trails
Lesser-known paths near the start of summit treks.