Have you ever taken a trip to the highest peak in Southeast Asia? You might put Kundasang on your bucket list. Kundasang is a hill station in the district of Ranau in Sabah, Malaysia. Lying along the bank of Kundasang Valley within the Crocker Range, and neighboring to Pekan Nabalu town, Kundasang is situated around 6 kilometers away from Kinabalu National Park and the closest town to Mount Kinabalu. Due to its settlement on the mountainous geographical terrain, Kundasang is a haven for highland scenery with cool climate. You can find numerous farms and gardens here, along with a market selling fresh local produce, flowers, and souvenirs. You’ll also always be pleased by the scenic views of rolling hills and valleys.
If Kundasang can offer you with a wide range of as-pretty-as-picture natural landmarks for your adventures, it can also get you pleasurable stays. Kundasang is the perfect blend of nature and relaxation; Kinabalu Park Area, Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, and Poring Hot Springs are ideal places to stay for those seeking peacefulness and outdoor activities, while Kundasang Town Area is for budget travelers and those wanting easy access to local shops, restaurants, and other conveniences.
Everywhere in Kundasang actually offers its own unique experience for everyone. Discover the best of both worlds in Kundasang: stunning nature and comfortable stays. Now, prepare yourself for Kundasang’s adventures by seeing some details about where to stay, what to do, how to get around the town, along with how to tackle the best hotel deals in Kundasang!
Kundasang is located in Sabah, near Mount Kinabalu, so the town may have limited public transport options, compared to larger cities in Malaysia. Some popular public transports around the area are:
Shared vans in Kundasang operate between the town and nearby towns, like Ranau and Kota Kinabalu. It’s typically available from early morning until late afternoon. Approximate fare from Kundasang to Kota Kinabalu is RM 15 to RM 20, while RM 5 to RM 10 for a trip from Kundasang to Ranau.
Taxis in Kundasang are also available, but they’re not as common as in larger cities. Hence, arrange a taxi in advance as you want to take a trip with this mode. Depending on the driver and vehicle type, a journey from Kundasang to Kota Kinabalu by taxi can cost around RM 100 to RM 150, but always try to negotiate the prices with the driver before starting the trip.
Public transports can be limited around Kundasang, so many tourists tend to consider renting a car from Kota Kinabalu to have more flexibility to get around Kundasang. The prices for car rentals from Kota Kinabalu can vary, depending on the type of vehicle. You can also check out Traveloka for car rental services.
As a sanctuary for scenic nature in Southeast Asia, Kundasang has plenty of tourist attractions for nature-infused experiences, such as:
Operational hours: 8.30 am to 5 pm daily
Kundasang War Memorial is a memorial dedicated to the British and Australian soldiers dying in the Sandakan POW and recognizing the suffering and sacrifice of the native populations of Sabah. It’s a picture-perfect spot, featuring 4 beautiful gardens with towering pine trees and blooming roses.
Operational hours: 8 am to 4 pm daily
After strolling in Kundasang War Memorial, head to Poring Hot Springs for a relaxing and rejuvenating session. Dip yourself into a hot sulfur bath to help you reduce stress, relax tense muscles, and cure skin diseases. You can combine with trekking through the trails leading to 2 famous waterfalls: Kipungit and Langganan Waterfall.
Operational hours: 8 am to 5 pm daily
Included as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kinabalu Park is another destination you can’t miss in Kundasang. Best for hikers and natural wanderers, Kinabalu Park is the most biodiverse place on earth, offering a variety of nature trails, rare plants, and stunning scenery.
Operational hours: 8 am to 4 or 5 pm daily
Located only 6 kilometers from Kundasang, Mesilou Highland Strawberry Farm is a charming area offering a combo of natural beauty and culinary delights. Take part in strawberry-picking sessions and have a bite of delectable classic strawberry shortcakes and creamy strawberry cheesecakes, as well as a glass of refreshing strawberry juice.
Kundasang isn’t only a perfect destination to go for holidays; it also features a variety of best hotels that can ensure you unique stay experiences. Located in multiple areas adjacent to a range of attractions, the best hotels in Kundasang are higher-rated accommodations offering the guests with excellent services and amenities. Experience the epitome of luxury in Kundasang with the lodges below:
1. Mile 36 Lodge – price starts from RM 66,01/night
2. OYO 89969 Mount Hill Villa Kundasang – price starts from RM 196,94/night
3. OYO Home 90430 Mountain Resthouse – price starts from RM 61,43/night
4. Ayana Holiday Resort – price starts from RM 183,73/night
5. OYO Home 90339 Sosodikon Inap Desa – price starts from RM 108,03/night
Is this a honeymoon trip? Great! Kundasang is one of ideal and couple-friendly destinations in Malaysia. Located in the highlands of Sabah, Kundasang is known for its cool climate, scenic views, and proximity to various fascinating sights in Mount Kinabalu. In addition to its adjacency with exciting natural landscapes, the town offers privacy and serenity, apart from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a more ultimate couple’s retreat. Check out some hotel lists in Kundasang for couples below:
1 .Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Kinabalu Park – price starts from RM 724,11/night
2. Sakura Villa Mesilau Kundasang – price starts from RM 589,56/night
3. Happy Village Kundasang – price starts from RM 300,00/night
4. Fairy Garden Resort Kundasang – price starts from RM 160,08/night
5. J Residence – price starts from RM 756,91/night
6. Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Poring Hot Springs – price starts from RM 155,17/night
7. Mesilau Mountain Retreats – price starts from RM 1,030.02/night
Taking your kids for Kundasang trips? No worries–hotels in Kundasang don't only welcome couples, but also those with kids. Surely, you’ll have convenient access to many natural attractions scattered throughout the area, along with family and children facilities provided by the properties. Picnic area, recreation room, spacious and comfortable guest rooms, kitchenette, and pools are several compulsory hotel’s amenities to make your kids’ stay more enjoyable. Here are some of the family accommodations in Kundasang:
1. Kundasang Mount Garden – price starts from RM 135,45/night
2. Celyn Resort Kinabalu – price starts from RM 202,02/night
3. Kupi-Kupi & Stay – price starts from RM 89,08/night
4. Nulu Nulu Farmstay – price starts from RM 63,13/night
5. Wind Valley Farmstay – price starts from RM 280,27/night
No response is actually necessary for this question, since every corner of Kundasang is scenic, so wherever you choose to stay, you can always start the day with appreciating the town’s natural beauties. Mount Kinabalu, Sosodikon Hill, and Kundasang Strawberry Farm are some picturesque areas in Kundasang. Picture this: you wake up to the lush vegetation and breathtaking sunset with the mountain views in the background–what an amazing moment to start the day! Take a look at some hotels below to get those spectacular experiences:
1. Wayn Zen Rose Cabin – price starts from RM 92,78/night
2. Skyville Zen Resort – price starts from RM 121,84/night
3. OYO HOME 90285 Pogimpaan Homestay – price starts from RM 63,82/night
4. Lodge 37 – price starts from RM 59,85/night
5. Lodge 37T – price starts from RM 52,27/night
6. OYO 90284 Kampung Stay Kilimu – price starts from RM 111,52/night
If you plan on having a vacation to Kundasang, you’d better take flights to the nearest airport from the town, Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Kundasang is only an hour and 16 minute driving distance from the airport, so staying around is also okay. Staying near the airport can help you maximize your travel efficiency. Here are some hotel’s lists near Kota Kinabalu International Airport:
1. Sabah Luxury Cozy Family Suite – price starts from RM 2,102.05/night
2. Casuarina Hotel – price starts from RM 96,80/night
3. The Atelier Boutique Hotel – price starts from RM 131,48/night
4. Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Kota KInabalu – price starts from RM 1,429.48/night
5. KWEN Suites-Tanjung Aru InfinityPool Seaview/Airport View – price starts from RM 221,52/night
6. Seapark Condotel – price starts from RM 118,18/night
7. C’haya Hotel – price starts from RM 149,62/night
8. Golden Hill Hotel – price starts from RM 66,97/night
9. Megah D’Aru Hotel – price starts from RM 124,27/night
10. Lintas Platinum Hotel – price starts from RM 140,00/night
There are several tips to enhance your trip experience in Kundasang by allowing you to save money on accommodations. They are:
Since Kundasang is a popular tourist destination, hotels can fill up fast. Therefore, it’s recommended to book at least 1 to 2 months in advance, especially when you plan to visit during peak seasons, like school holidays and festive periods.
Hotels usually offer unsold rooms at reduced prices. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, looking for last-minute deals can be a good strategy to reserve hotels during the low seasons. Check for the deals a few days before your arrival.
Prices for accommodations in Kundasang are typically lower during the off-peak seasons (rainy season in November to March or non-holiday periods). Due to less demand, hotels often reduce rates to attract visitors. However, expect occasional rain during the visit.
Traveloka often offers package deals bundling flights with hotels at discounted rates. Keep an eye on the deals for potential savings.
Kundasang provides a variety of accommodation options, from luxury to budget-friendly ones. Homestays and small guesthouses often offer a more affordable and authentic experience.
Staying slightly outside the main tourist area of Kundasang may offer cheaper accommodations. Look for hotels/lodges in nearby areas, like Ranau, only a short drive from Kundasang, for more reasonable hotel rates.
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Total Accommodation | 57 Properties |
Popular Hotel | Mile 36 Lodge, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Kinabalu Park |
Popular Landmark | Kinabalu Park, Desa Cattle Dairy Farm |