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Sabah, located in the
northeast section of the huge island of Borneo, is also known
as the land below the wind because it is positioned
below the typhoon belt. With an area of more than 74,000
square kilometers, it is no surprise that it is the second largest
state in Malaysia and also a state with some amazing
tourists attractions and places of interest. Sabah is
the perfect travel destination for tourists looking for
great outdoor adventures and eco tourism. This
comprehensive travel guide on Sabah allows you to choose
and learn more about all the main attractions located in
this famous tourist area.
 Overlooking
the South China Sea in the west and with both the Sulu
Sea and Celebes Sea in the east, Sabah is a haven for
naturalists because of its ecological systems and is
world renowned for its spectacular view. Kota Kinabalu, its capital
city,
serves as the gateway to the varied attractions of the
state. Known as Jesselton during the British era,
unfortunately, it
was totally destroyed during the last World War. The
present day town has blossomed into a thriving
commercial centre and holiday destination and it is one
of Photo: Pulau Sipadan in Sabah the busiest town in this part of the world.
A short
boat-ride away takes one to the islands of Tunku Abdul
Rahman Park, a haven for camping and sea sports. A two
and a half hour ride from the town brings you to the 754
square kilometers Kinabalu Park and Mount Kinabalu, the pride of
Sabah. This 4095 meters peak is easily accessible and is a
favorite for jungle-trekking and mountain-climbing and
offers a breathtaking view of the lush surroundings. If
you are lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of
the exotic Rafflesia, the world's largest flower.
 The world's largest Orang
Utan Rehabilitation Centre is located at Sepilok, a
20-minute drive from the town of Sandakan. Here, one
can observe first hand, these primeval apes (in their
natural habitat) roam and play in non-captive breeding
and this place is definitely a place that you should not
missed visiting. Further south, in the interior of the state, lies the Danum Valley Conservation area, a lowland tropical
forest endowed with an abundance of flora and fauna.
Several hours away into the hinterland of Sandakan at
Sukau, nature lovers will have a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime experience of sighting the unique proboscis
monkey in its natural habitat, a variety of wildlife
and perhaps, the rare clouded leopard.
Photo: Mount Kinabalu
Sabah is an enchanting
mosaic of cultural diversity with at least 31 indigenous
groups with their rich cultures and interesting
traditions. The tamu, a weekly open bazaar, offers a
vivid glimpse into the colorful blend of local cultures.
The tamu is where natives gather to trade in farm
produce, local curios, handicraft, food and even
buffaloes. Kota Belud is a favorite spot for tourists to
capture this exotic occasion and they can also witness
first hand the daily activities of the locals.
 For those who are keen to
taste the thrills of whitewater rafting, Sabah is the
perfect destination. Its fast flowing rivers and
turbulent rapids have attracted an increasing number of
rafting enthusiasts and has become a favorite among
tourists who come here seeking water adventures. The Padas River offers a
challenging and heart-stopping experience of this sport.
The Kiulu River is also another popular spot for
whitewater rafting as well as wholesome family fun.
The engrossing thrill of
turtle-watching can be experience on the beautiful islands of Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan
which are Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary located
about forty kilometers from Sandakan. Here, tourists can
witness almost every night, especially during the peak
season between July and September, turtles crawling to
the beach to lay eggs. Layang-Layang, an oceanic atoll
located 165 nautical miles north-west of Kota Kinabalu,
is the ultimate destination for serious divers. Its 2000
meters drop provides excellent wall-diving and the
opportunity to see fascinating seascapes and encounter
diverse species of sea creatures and corals such as
turtles, manta rays and sharks. The island is also a
sanctuary for numerous migratory birds and you will
never run out of things to do while you are here
vacationing.
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