Want to explore the untouched side of Malaysia? Welcome to Sabah, a tropical gem tucked on the island of Borneo in Malaysia. With pristine and unexplored beaches, abundant water and land adventures, and natural serenity all around, Sabah is the perfect choice for a relaxing or adventurous tropical holiday.
Sabah has it all! From one of the highest Southeast Asian peaks- Mount Kinabalu, one of the world’s top dive sites – Sipadan Island, the 130-million-year-old rainforest- Danum Valley Conservation Area, to the world’s largest flower-the Rafflesia, discover everything unique in Malaysia at this inviting destination waiting with its arms wide open for you all.
Where is Sabah?
The second largest state in Malaysia, Sabah, is located on the popular Borneo Island. It shares its island with Sarawak, Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan. With Kota Kinabalu as its capital, Sabah offers rainforests, Kinabalu mountain peaks, and gorgeous beaches all in one place.
What Makes Sabah in Malaysia Famous?
Sabah is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With an incredible location and endless holiday adventures, it opens its doors to limitless possibilities. Here are a few reasons to visit Sabah in Malaysia.
Unique Wildlife Encounters: Sabah’s diverse topography brings a unique ecosystem to life in Malaysia. From Orangutans, Malaysian Sun Bear, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, to hornbills, indulge in unique wildlife encounters in Sabah.
Where to Find?
Orangutans: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Malaysian Sun Bear: Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Others: Kinabatangan River
Untouched Beaches
With pristine shores, panoramic views, and breathtaking skylines with fewer crowds, Borneo beaches are a can’t-miss! With ultimate beach activities, water adventures, and relaxing sunbaths, a visit to Sabah is a must.
Where to Go?
Manukan, Sapi, & Gaya– Snorkeling
Mantanani Island– To spend time on soft sandy beaches
Pom Pom or Mataking Island– Popular diving spot
Kalampunian Beach– For epic sunset
Mount Kinabalu Sabah in Malaysia: This place offers an incredible hiking trail to one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu. Let your adventurer out at the highest peak in Malaysia.
Endless adventures: Sabah is a land of diverse landscapes. From climbing mountains, exploring dense jungles, mountain biking, white water rafting, and quad biking to watersports on beaches, adventure is never off the charts here.
Stargazing: Is staring at the pitch-black sky with twinkling stars your thing? With more than 50 public stargazing places, Sabah is blessed with the clearest skies. Watch magical constellations, exclusive meteor showers, or never-ending astronomic events in the incredible skies of Sabah.
Top Stargazing Destinations: Kota Belud, Kundasang, Tawau, Kudat and Lahad Datu
Five Important Reasons to Visit Sabah, Malaysia
These incredible places to visit in Sabah are the reasons why you should visit this destination at least once in your lifetime.
1. Kinabalu Park
With the highest mountain peak in Malaysia, Kinabalu Park is Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site. The park is rumored to be bigger in size than Singapore. Its six vegetation zones pave the way for diverse plantations. Indulge in scenic nature trails or climb Mount Kinabalu just as you want.
Key Highlights:
- Access to Botanical Garden (Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
- Guided nature trails (Offered by Park guides at 9:00 AM, 12noon and 3:00 PM)
- Exceptional bird watching
- Thrilling mountain climbing
- Breathtaking mountain views
2. Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center
Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center, located in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, is popular for hosting orphaned or rescued orangutans. Here, one can watch orangutans in a typical jungle setting and feed them but do not hug them or get too close.
Key Highlights:
- Meet Orangutans
- Trekking
- Bird Watching
- Stay at jungle lodges
Best time to meet orangutans: 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM
3. Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
Thanks to the Kinabatangan River, the sanctuary offers rich and diverse ecosystems. It is recognized as Malaysia’s largest RAMSAR site, boasting kingfishers, hornbills, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and so much more! It is also one of only two known places in the world where 10 species of primates can be found. Visit this wildlife sanctuary for unparalleled wildlife encounters.
Key Highlights
- Morning or evening river cruise
- Exclusive wildlife spotting
- Special night walks or night cruises
- Cultural activities or homestay programs
4. Bohey Dulang
Embark on a day trip to Bohey Dulang, one of Sabah’s best-hidden gems. Located in the Tun Sakaran Marine Park Islands, it is a scenic hike up. But don’t worry, the climb is all worth it. Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking island views, and don’t forget to put your pose forward.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
5. Borneo Cultural Village
For a cultural day out in Sabah, visit Borneo Cultural Village. Boasting seven traditional houses, each with its immersive activity, will keep you engaged all day long. Use a blowpipe in Murut House, learn to ignite fire using bamboo at Tidung House, play traditional instruments at Bajau House, or have fun at the performance stage. Learn the original Borneo way of life here!
Key Highlights:
- Traditional dance performances
- Impeccable hospitality
- Short trip to Kawang Forest Centre
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily
How to Reach Sabah?
The best way to reach Sabah is by flight. Depart from any international airport to Kuala Lumpur, take a 2-hour hop, and land in Sabah in just 8 hours. Plenty Indian and Malaysian Airlines offer a comfortable journey to Sabah from India.
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Conclusion
Malaysia is more than Kuala Lumpur’s city life; it is Penang’s vibrant nightlife and Langkawi’s natural escape. Add Sabah to your radar and offer something extraordinary in Malaysia. With its diverse landscapes, serene beaches, never-ending beauty, exotic wildlife, and limitless adventures, Sabah will loot your heart immediately. So, hurry up and get your tickets to Sabah before this hidden Malaysian gem becomes everyone’s favorite.
Discover Sabah in Malaysia FAQs
Where is Sabah exactly located?
Sabah is in the northern part of Borneo Island in Malaysia. It’s a hidden gem yet to be fully explored by travelers. It comprises pristine islands and includes key attractions like Indonesian Kalimantan, Sarawak, Brunei, and more.
What makes Sabah a unique destination to visit in Malaysia?
Sabah is unique to explore in Malaysia owing to its wildlife encounters, pristine islands, scenic beaches, traditional Malaysian culture, and 130-million-year-old rainforests.
What are some of the best places to visit in Sabah, Malaysia?
Some of the top attractions of Sabah in Malaysia include the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Kinabalu Park, Sipadan Island, Mount Kinabalu, and more.
