The famous Kundasang Market.
IF you are in dire need of a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life, a retreat to Kundasang is your answer.
A small village-cum-town that lies along the Kundasang Valley, Kundasang is located in the district of Ranau, and a two-hour drive east of Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah.
Renowned for its spellbinding landscape, cooling air and vegetable market, it is no wonder this little Bornean town is attracting tourists in droves.
Home to predominantly native Orang Dusun and a small Chinese population, shops at Kundasang are mostly run by locals, creating a tight-knit community of rural charm.
Obligatory visits should be paid to local hotspots such as Desa Cattle Dairy farm, Kundasang War Memorial, Kinabalu Park, Kundasang Market, Rose Garden, Poring Hot Spring and Mount Kinabalu Golf Club.
The Desa Cattle Dairy farm sits on the foothill of Mount Kinabalu, an ideal destination for family vacation as children can enjoy the simple pleasure of “kampong boy” by feeding calves and goats and learn about the milking process.
The breathtaking view of the mountain peaks will leave tourists wishing they could stop time. It is hardly surprising that many see this spot as a perfect venue for taking wedding photography.
History buffs should set foot in the tranquil yet solemn Kundasang War Memorial. This garden was established in 1962 by a New Zealander to commemorate the Australians and British prisoners of wars.
A stunning vista of Mount Kinabalu from the balcony at the top of the Kundasang War Memorial.
The tales of those who tragically lost their lives in the Sandakan-Ranau marches during World War II will remind you the calamity of war.
Boasting more than 5,000 vascular plant species, Kinabalu Park is another must-see attraction as a home to many unique faunas and over 90 species of lowland mammal.
Visitors who are in awe of Mount Kinabalu but less interested with the traditional journey atop can opt for other activities such as alpine rock climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, golfing, birding, farm tours or canopy walk.
A trip to Kinabalu Park will never be complete without making a pit stop at the Poring Hot Spring. Soaking in the relaxing water is the best way to wash away your sweats and fatigue from all the climbing and trekking.
The sulphuric minerals content in the spring with allegedly therapeutic effect to sooth sore muscles and aches can’t hurt either. At the Poring Hot Springs, visitors can also look out for the Poring Orchid Conservation Centre, Poring canopy walkway, Rafflesia flower site, tropical garden and butterfly farm.
Visit the agricultural hub of Kundasang Market, a modest row of wooden stalls that stretches along the highway. Local farmers offer a slew fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers that attract bulk buyers from all over Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.
Sabah is calling you. What are you waiting for?
Check-out short term stays at Kundasang on iBilik.
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The article is first published in StarProperty.my pullout on Nov 2. Download StarProperty.my e-Mag(bit.ly/StarProperty_Emag) to read more.
