Located approximately 90 Km from the capital of the Malaysian
state of Sabah is a heaven for botanist and nature lovers. Kinabalu Park
covers an area of 754 sq.km and includes vegetation types ranging from the rich lowland
dipterocarp zone through the montane oak , Rhododendron and Conifer Forest to the Alpine
Meadow plants and stunted bushes of the summit zone - an area that probably has one
of the most richest flora in the world. The Rafflesia , the
largest flower in the world along with the Nephentes (
Pitcher Plants ) and more than 1,000 species of Orchids
are found in the Kinabalu Park.
Beside that, it also contains the granitic massive of Mt. Kinabalu. At 4,093 metres, it is
South East Asia's greatest challenge for climbers. Mt. Kinabalu is the highest
mountain between Northern Burma and New Guinea, it is part of Sabah's
beautiful Crocker Range and the 2,572 metre Mt. Tambuyukon.
Preserved for posterity, the Kinabalu Park is one of the world's
most unique ecological systems: having beauty, splendour and charm to delight any category
of visitors. The park opens at all seasons. It is self-contained
with all the facilities for the casual visitors as well as campers. Those who wish to have
a longer stay, nearby hotel or park's chalets are available.
Poring Hotsprings is 43km further to
the northeast where natural open air sulphur health spas, a canopy walkway through the
rainforest tree crowns andperhaps a chance to see the Rafflesia
(if one is lucky ) are possible. Also, an orchid garden
containing most of the native species, and a butterfly farm are some of the attraction at
Poring. The Forest Canopy walkways is constructed high up in the
forest canopy for use by scientists to conduct research. With magnificent views, tourists
can walk on it, seeing new insights into the canopy.