Mount Kinabalu is a great tourist attraction that anyone should visit. One can enjoy various activities such as trekking, hiking, camping, etc. There are plenty of things to see and do besides enjoying the view from the top. The price depends on the type of accommodation and the food you want to eat. If you plan to stay overnight, then the prices will be higher. You don’t have to travel thousands of miles to enjoy nature. There are plenty of attractions near your home that you can explore easily. Here’s our guide to the top places nearby Mount Kinabalu.
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Kinabalu Park Hotel.
Just down the street from the main road of the city is the entrance to the Kinabalu Park Hotel with its forested area that offers natural beauty and peacefulness.
Tabin Wildlife Reserve. 
This reserve was established in 1980 and covers an area of 757 hectares. It has about 140 species of mammals, 350 species of birds and over 300 species of plants. The park hosts several festivals throughout the year like the Festival of Birds, Festival of Trees and Plantation Day.
Tanjung Puting National Park.
This national park is about 80 km south of Kota Kinabalu. In addition to the beautiful view overlooking the ocean, this place also has many interesting facts about its flora and fauna. Tanjung Puting is located at the confluence of the river Sungai Papanik and Sungai Mulu which makes it perfect for fishing and swimming.
Likas Waterfall.
Not too far away there is another waterfall located in Kampong Ayer. This waterfall is very calm and cool during the day and hot and steamy at night.
Sapi Heritage Village.
About 30 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu there is a village called Sapi. It is known for its unique traditional wooden houses that are more than 100 years old. The people here still live by farming using ancient methods. Visitors are not allowed to take pictures or film inside the village but you can click away outside the village when nobody is around. Take note though that they get pretty protective immediately so make sure you ask permission first before clicking away!
Mesilau Nature Resort.
Located in Mesilau, 50 km north of Kota Kinabalu city is Mesilau Nature Resort where one can experience life in Sabah’s jungle. With amenities and facilities that include butterfly gardens, bird-watching areas and even treetop walkways, visitors can relax and unwind while observing the wildlife all around them.
Gunung Ranak.
Another sight that cannot be missed if visiting Mount Kinabalu is the mountain itself which overlooks the central part of the state. Its peak reaches 2,435 meters above sea level providing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Kampung Pulau Masa.
This is a small island just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu City. But you need to sign up for an appointment through Tourist Information Center to go there.
Kinabatangan River.
For those who love water rafting tours, the Kinabatangan river is the best option. It is an ideal destination for white water rafting. The river is known to be rich in wildlife and famous for its crocodiles. Bornean sun bears are often
Malua Eco Lodge.
Located in Lahad Datu this eco-lodge provides a relaxing retreat in nature after busy days of exploring Kota Kinabalu city. Be greeted with fruits and refreshing drinks upon arrival. Staying and lodging accommodations are available at the eco-lodge. There are also daily activities such as trekking, snorkelling and kayaking for guests interested.
Gaya Island.
An untouched island paradise in Sabah’s South West region lies only 30 minutes from Kota Kinabalu by speedboat. Gaya Island is home to abundant biodiversity and is therefore considered the best spot for local wildlife viewing. Many exotic animals including horn bills, pangolins, peacocks and monkeys can be found on Gaya Island.
Tanjung Rhu Beach.
Only about 20 minute drive from downtown Kota Kinabalu will bring you to Tanjung Rhu beach. One can enjoy his time along the seashore enjoying the view of the ocean and taking pictures of a beautiful sunset.
Tunkin Waterfall.
Still relatively unknown to tourists despite being nearby Kota Kinabalu. Tunkin waterfall is commonly regarded as the largest waterfall in South East Asia. You have two choices: either climb the stairs and take the elevator for better panorama views of the falls or simply take a dip in the swimming pool at the base of the waterfall.
Final Thoughts .
Mount Kinabalu is undoubtedly among our favorite destinations! Though it is not easy to get to but the best thing is that you can travel on a tight budget, once there, we would want to come back again and again so don’t miss out this wonderful adventure when travelling to Kinabalu!