KINABALU PARK, SABAH
Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia's richest biodiversity hotspots
Overview
Kinabalu Park is Sabah's most famous national park,
covering more than 750 square kilometres around the majestic Mount Kinabalu.
Established in 1964, the park became Malaysia's first
UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 due to its outstanding biodiversity,
geological significance, and conservation value.
The park is home to thousands of plant species, hundreds of bird species,
and numerous rare mammals, making it one of the most biologically diverse
regions in the world.
Visitors come to enjoy nature trails, mountain scenery, birdwatching,
photography, and as the gateway to the Mount Kinabalu summit climb.
Facilities at Kinabalu Park
- Visitor Information Centre
- Botanical Garden
- Nature Trails
- Mountain Climbing Registration Office
- Accommodation and Lodges
- Restaurants and Cafés
- Souvenir Shops
- Restrooms and Public Facilities
- Picnic Areas
- Parking Facilities
Areas Open to Tourists
- Park Headquarters
- Botanical Garden
- Silau-Silau Trail
- Liwagu Trail
- Kiau View Trail
- Timpohon Gate
- Mountain Garden
- Viewing Platforms
How to Access
By Car / Taxi
- Located approximately 90 km from Kota Kinabalu
- Journey takes around 2 hours by road
- Parking available at the park headquarters
From Kota Kinabalu
- Approximately 2 hours by car
- Grab and private transfers available
- Popular day trip destination
From Kota Kinabalu International Airport
- Approximately 2.5 hours by road
- Private transport services available
Other Transport Options
- Guided tours
- Tour coaches
- Hotel transfer services
- Private charter transport
Transportation services listed on this website are for reference only and may vary over time.
Please verify with the respective provider for the most up-to-date information.
Entrance Fees
- Park Entrance: Applicable for local and international visitors
- Botanical Garden Tours: Additional fees may apply
- Mountain Climbing Permit: Separate permit required
- Guided Nature Walks: Optional guided tours available
- Photography: Personal photography generally permitted
Prices and opening hours listed on this website are for reference only and may vary over time.
Please verify with Sabah Parks for the latest information.
Visitor Experience
-
Nature Trails:
Explore well-maintained rainforest trails featuring unique flora and fauna.
-
Biodiversity Discovery:
Observe rare orchids, pitcher plants, insects, birds, and endemic species.
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Mountain Views:
Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu from various points throughout the park.
-
Cool Climate:
Experience refreshing temperatures compared to lowland tropical regions.
Key Tips for Visitors
-
Arrive Early:
Morning hours often provide the clearest views of Mount Kinabalu.
-
Bring a Light Jacket:
Temperatures can be considerably cooler than Kota Kinabalu.
-
Wear Comfortable Shoes:
Many trails involve walking on uneven surfaces.
-
Carry Rain Protection:
Afternoon showers are common throughout the year.
-
Allow Several Hours:
The park offers numerous trails and attractions worth exploring.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Mount Kinabalu
- Poring Hot Springs
- Canopy Walkway
- Desa Dairy Farm
- Kundasang Town
- Sosodikon Hill
- Kundasang War Memorial
- Ranau Town