Photo by: CLL Adventure Sdn Bhd
By Geena Roslyna
Making your way to Kundasang for Timpohon Run and the 33rd Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon this 17th and 18th October 2026? Don’t just show up for the run and head home! From exploring a glowing forest, cycling above the ground, discovering village gems and chasing waterfalls, there’s plenty more to explore around Kundasang and Ranau.
Here are 10 spots to add to your itinerary while you’re up in the highlands.
1. Enjoy the countryside views at Desa Dairy Farm
You’ve probably seen the photos, but nothing beats seeing Desa Dairy Farm in person. With its green pastures, black-and-white Friesian Cows, and Mount Kinabalu in the background on a clear day, it’s easy to see why this place is called the “New Zealand of Sabah”.
While you’re there, feed the cows, pick up some fresh dairy products, including milk and ice cream, and enjoy the cool highland air. Just remember to check the latest visitor arrangements before making your way over.
Best for: First-time visitors, families and anyone who wants to take those classic Kundasang photos.
2. Wander through a glowing forest at Forest Jewel
Photos by: Sabah Bossku
Think Kundasang is all about mountain views and green landscapes? Watch how the newly-opened Forest Jewel transforms in the area during nighttime.
Located in the Mesilau highlands, this attraction features an illuminated forest setting with twinkling lights and decorative installations. It’s a refreshing change of scenery once the sun goes down, especially if you’re looking for somewhere to visit after a day of exploring.
Bring your camera along, and check its opening hours and visitor arrangements before heading over.
Best for: Evening outings, couples and travellers looking for a unique photo spot in Kundasang
3. Take in the greenery at Sabah Tea Resort
Trade the mountain views for rows of green tea bushes at Sabah Tea Resort.
Set amid the countryside of Ranau, the tea plantation offers a slower-paced experience where you can enjoy the scenery, learn more about locally grown tea and take a break over a warm cup of your favourite brew.
Visitors can stay the night and enjoy watching the sunset and sunrise the next day. If not, it’s also a nice stop for a day-trip if you’re travelling with people who would rather enjoy a scenic drive with a relaxing lunch or high tea.
Best for: Tea lovers, couples and anyone who needs a slow day out.
4. Meet the Goats at Sably Goat Haven
Head to Sably Goat Haven for a fun farm visit where you can get up close with goats and enjoy a slower pace away from the usual sightseeing spots. It’s a nice stop for families, animal lovers and anyone looking to add a little something different to their Kundasang road trip.
Photos by: Sably Goat Haven
Just remember to check ahead for the latest visitor activities and opening hours before making your way there.
Best for: Families, animal lovers, and a relaxed farm visit
5. Get up close with fluffy residents at Ranau Rabbit Farm
If your idea of a holiday involves adorable animals, add Ranau Rabbit Farm to your itinerary.
Located in Kigiok Village, the farm lets visitors interact with rabbits and enjoy a relaxed outing surrounded by the greenery of Ranau. It’s also a family-friendly stop for those travelling with children.
Photo by: Ranau Rabbit Farm
And if you’re visiting with friends, you’ll probably find yourselves spending more time taking photos with the fluffy residents than you originally planned.
Best for: Families, animal lovers and travellers looking for a laid-back stop.
6. Try 3 Adventurous Activities at Mont K SkyBike
Right next to the Ranau Rabbit Farm, Mont K SkyBike offers a spectacular way to take in the scenery around Kigiok Village.
First, ride on the SkyBike, Borneo’s first sky-cycling experience where visitors pedal a bicycle securely harnessed to a suspended cable in the air. Then, try the Mont K Zipline that lets you soar above the farm’s green landscapes. Last but not least, there are also giant swings called the Genipis 360 which lets you have that unobstructed 360-degree backdrop of Mount Kinabalu for that perfect Instagram shot!
Photo by: Mont K Skybike
With three activities to choose from, it’s a great addition to your highland itinerary, especially if you’re travelling with friends or family. Be sure to check the latest operating hours, safety requirements and weather conditions before visiting.
Best for: Adventure seekers and travellers looking for a unique experience.
7. Stand before a towering waterfall at Langanan Waterfall
For those who want to swap roadside photo stops for a proper nature adventure, Langanan Waterfall is worth considering.
Located within the Poring area, this impressive waterfall stands at more than 120 metres tall and is reached via a forest trail. The trek takes approximately two hours, so this isn’t one to squeeze between breakfast and lunch.
The journey through the lowland rainforest is part of the experience, but you’ll need to plan ahead, wear suitable footwear and check trail conditions before setting off.
If you’re taking part in the race, consider saving these spots for after race day so you can explore at your own pace and give yourself time to recover.
Best for: Nature lovers and hikers who are prepared for a longer trek.
8. Soak in the hot springs at Poring
After a busy race weekend or a day spent exploring the highlands, a visit to Poring Hot Springs could be just what you need.
Located in Ranau, this popular attraction is known for its natural hot spring pools, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak surrounded by tropical greenery. You can also explore the surrounding rainforest and look out for nearby attractions such as Kipungit Waterfall, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone who wants to unwind while enjoying Sabah’s natural beauty.
Photo by: Sabah Travel
Best for: Families, nature lovers and travellers looking for a more relaxed outing.
9. Take a moment at Kundasang War Memorial
Not every stop has to be about chasing views or finding the next Instagram-worthy spot.
The Kundasang War Memorial is a place to learn about the prisoners of war who suffered during the Sandakan Death Marches in World War II, as well as the local people who helped them.
Its gardens offer a peaceful setting for reflection, while the memorial itself provides a meaningful look into a significant chapter of Sabah’s history.
Photo by: Murphy Ng
Set aside some time to explore the grounds and read about the people remembered here. It’s a reminder that Kundasang has stories worth discovering beyond its natural beauty.
Best for: History enthusiasts and travellers who want to learn more about Sabah’s past.
10. Hike Up Sosodikon Hill for scenic views
If you’re up for a short, easy hike with rewarding views, put Sosodikon Hill on your list. This hiking trail is a great option for travellers who want to enjoy the outdoors without committing to a full-day trek.
The trail leads up to an open hilltop where you can take in the surrounding highlands and rolling green landscapes. It’s a lovely spot for photos, especially on a clear day, and a good way to add a little outdoor adventure to your Kundasang itinerary.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for changing weather, as the trail can become slippery after rain.
Best for: Casual hikers, photography lovers and travellers looking for a short outdoor adventure.
Planning a Kundasang getaway?
With so much to see around Kundasang and Ranau, it’s tempting to squeeze everything into one weekend. But these attractions are spread across the district, so it’s worth grouping nearby stops together rather than rushing from one place to another.
If you’re taking part in the Timpohon Run or Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon, remember to leave enough time to rest before and after the race. For longer hikes such as Langanan Waterfall, plan a separate outing and check current access and weather conditions.
And before setting off, check opening hours, admission arrangements and any booking requirements with the respective attractions.
Last but not least, a trip to Kundasang doesn’t have to end when the race does. Sometimes, the best part of the journey is discovering what else is waiting around the corner.
