Places to visit in Kota Kinabalu
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Sabah is one, out of the thirteen, states of Malaysia. It is located to the east of Malaysia, bordering Sarawak, the largest state of Malaysia. Sabah is the second largest state of Malaysia and Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of the state and one of the major tourist attractions of Malaysia. Tourism has had a major role in bettering the economy of Sabah and Kota Kinabalu is one of its hotspots for tourists. Its exotic foods, beautiful sights (which are eco-related) and scenery have attracted many tourists. The capital is also a place of interest for nature and animal lovers, alike, because of its wildlife and due to the existence of certain species of animals and plants which are not seen or existent in other countries. Given all these it is no wonder that Kota Kinabalu is one the most popular cities of Malaysia. Below is a list of some of the major attractions of Kota Kinabalu.
Mount Kinabalu – this mountain is the tallest mountain in Borneo. The mountain is protected by the Kinabalu Heritage Park as a World Heritage Site. The mountain is the 20th most prominent in the whole world. It is 4095 meters above sea level and many different species of plants and animals can be found here. Many tourists who are in a physically good condition often go here for rock climbing and no mountaineering equipment or skills are required. It is easily accessible and worth checking out.
Sipadan Island – The Island rises 600 meters from the seabed and is the one and only oceanic island of Malaysia. This beautiful island was formed on an extinct volcano cone by living corals. Above 3000 species of fish can be found in the waters of the island and these waters are a breeding ground for the hawksbill turtles. Underneath the island is a turtle tomb where one can find the remains of a number of turtles that used to exist at a certain point in time. Tourists can avail the Sipadan Water Village resort during their time on the island which serves Asian and Continental cuisine, too.
Kinabatangan River – the river is the second largest river in Malaysia. It is known for its wildlife and habitats (such as the limestone caves). It is home to many species of animals, plants and wildlife creatures such as the orangutan, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Asian Elephants and the proboscis monkey. Tourists interested in venturing through the river can stay at the Proboscis Lodge (which has a friendly and hospitable staff) and go on the Kinabatangan River Cruise to explore the river and its wildlife. The sight of the sun setting and rising is truly amazing. It would be a good idea for you to go on the tour if you are a nature lover.
Danum Valley – nature lovers would also love to go jungle trekking through this valley. The wildlife here is rich and a number of rare species of animals can be found here. For those interested in wildlife, they can take their cameras along with them to capture the image of these animals in their natural habitat. Some of these animals are the Sumatran Rhino, Clouded Leopard and the Leaf Monkey. The valley is an adventurous place and many tourists come here because of what it has to offer.
Maliau Basin – the Basin is a unique place as it consists of 12 forest types. Access is limited and this is as an isolated area though one worth visiting. Tourists can go for bird watching and wildlife spotting during the day, too.