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Kinabalu National Park

Kinabalu National Park, and Mount Kinabalu is a World Heritage Site in Sabah, Malaysia. The Park is well-known worldwide for its botanical and biological species biodiversity, with many species found only within Kinabalu National Park and are not found anywhere else in the world. Over 800 species of orchids, 600 species of fern, and home of the largest single flower in the world, the Rafflesia.

There are some 326 species of birds in the Park, and on any visit, you can always see plenty of bird watchers. There are plenty of trails in the park, one of which will lead you to a small waterfall. Another takes you to the Canopy Walk, a tiny hanging walkway that is exciting to walk on. It is also possible to cross path with a snake on the trail, but most encounters are fleeting.

Getting There
Kinabalu National Park is some 100km from Kota Kinabalu city, or just over an hour away by car. Buses, taxis, and tours are available if you want to visit. Going by bus is the cheapest option, a taxi should cost about RM20 per person but you will share the ride with 4 other persons.

Accommodations are available within the Park, or you could try the motels along the main road. Most are within easy walking distance, comes with hot showers and a restaurant. Depending on which motel you pick, a rough guide of RM60 will get you a comfortable and clean stay.

The nearest town is Ranau, some 30km away. I’m not too sure of the distance, we tend to measure the time it takes to get there rather than distance. This is due to the traffic and winding mountain road. In this case, it is about 30 minutes. If you want to go there, just stand outside the Park entrance and wait for a bus or van that has Ranau on it.

What You Should Bring
Although there are quite a number of restaurants in the Park and in the motels, do bring along your favorite snacks and water. Most eateries and shops close early, and it’s a long drive to the nearest town. Although most motels are clean, bring along a towel and toiletries. The climate is cool and can get a little wet sometimes, an spare shirt and a light jacket wouldn’t hurt.