Translated from original post by @Muhammad Faiz Asmadi - Trip ke Sabah, Kundasang
After a long hiatus from updating this blog, I’m finally back to share my experience from a truly breathtaking trip to Sabah Kundasang. Since many people have been talking about their vacations here—especially on social media—I hope this post helps those planning their getaway.
For easier reading, I’m splitting this post into two parts:
Part 1: Activities in Kundasang
Part 2: Activities in Kota Kinabalu (KK)
This entry will highlight what we did, some handy tips, and our budget. Just to note, I went on this trip with two friends, so all costs were split three ways.
During our time in Kundasang, we experienced the stunning landscapes that this area offers. Every moment of our trip to Sabah Kundasang was filled with beautiful memories.
✈ Day 1 – 27 Jan 2017 (Friday)
We flew from KLIA2 at 11:30 AM and landed in KK Airport. After waiting for a friend based in Sabah, we hit the road toward Kundasang. If you don’t have local contacts, I highly recommend renting a car—preferably a month in advance.
The drive from KK to Kundasang takes about 2 hours, with winding roads similar to Cameron Highlands. If you're not confident driving on hilly terrain, it could be challenging. Thick fog in the evening can also reduce visibility, so try to reach Kundasang before sunset.
🛣 Interesting Stops on the Way:
Upside Down House
Nabalu Town – Famous for local produce and handicrafts
Kinabalu Park
Strawberry Garden
📝 TIP: Use Waze for easy navigation! Just key in your hotel name or attraction of choice.
We stayed at Ayana Holiday Resort, just a few kilometers from Kundasang town. It was a cozy and convenient base for our adventures. After checking in and resting, we had dinner in town—where halal food options are plentiful. To avoid long waits, try dining early.
That night, we just relaxed and planned our activities for the next day.
Majestic view of Mount Kinabalu
Our trip to Sabah Kundasang wouldn't be complete without visiting the local markets and engaging with the friendly locals.
🌤 Day 2 – 28 Jan 2017 (Saturday)
We kicked off early at 6:30 AM and headed to Kinabalu Park, just 1.3 KM from Ayana. The cool weather and fresh mountain air were invigorating! We paid RM3 per person for entry and avoided the tourist crowd by going early. Don’t forget to wear layers!
🐮 Desa Dairy Farm Village
We arrived before 8:00 AM. There was already a queue as it hadn’t opened yet. The narrow road and uphill drive require extra caution.
Entry fee: RM5/pax
Activities: Feeding cows and goats, tasting fresh dairy products, and enjoying the picture-perfect scenery.
We had breakfast here—waffles, hotdogs, fresh milk, and ice cream—all delicious!
Kundasang Dairy Farm
♨ Ranau Highlights
After the farm visit, we drove to Ranau, which took about 45 minutes. We visited:
🛁 Poring Hot Spring
Entry fee: RM3/pax (also covers Kinabalu Park)
Expect big crowds and limited parking
Canopy Walk: RM5/pax (Extra fee if you want to take photos)
Wear proper walking shoes—15-minute hike!
Poring Hot Spring
🐟 Tagal Sg. Moroli (Fish Spa)
Entry fee: RM5/adult
From Poring: 30 minutes' drive
Each session lasts 15 minutes
Fish food (pellets) sold at RM0.20/plastic
TIP: Avoid rainy weather and bring extra for camera fee (RM1/pax)
Poring Hot Spring: The entrance ticket is RM3 per person, which also provides access to Kinabalu Park. Expect large crowds, making parking challenging. If you want to use a private pool, be prepared for a wait. There are open bathing areas, restrooms, and food vendors available. Besides bathing, we also enjoyed the Canopy Walk for RM5 per person, but photography is not allowed unless you pay an additional fee. The hike to the Canopy Walk takes about 15 minutes, so wear comfortable clothing.
Fish Spa
🍃 Sabah Tea Garden
Entry: Free!
Offers scenic tea plantations and local products
Great spot for photos and tea tasting
Be cautious on steep, narrow roads—mornings or evenings are best times to visit
We returned to Kundasang around 2:30 PM for lunch and explored the local market. That night, we had dinner at Hidayah Restaurant, which I highly recommend! Their chicken wings (RM1.50 each) were a hit, and the meals were generous and affordable.
🏔 Final Thoughts on Kundasang
Sabah Tea Garden
Kundasang is a dream for nature lovers—cool climate, gorgeous views, and peaceful nights. Staying at Ayana Holiday Resort was perfect. You won’t even need air-conditioning! There’s still so much to see, so if you can, stay an extra night or two to fully explore the area.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll take you along on our adventures in Kota Kinabalu!