Kundasang is a highland town that is located in the foothills of the tallest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu which is also a part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kundasang is well known for its scenic beauty, cool climate,

and strategic location that is close to Mount Kinabalu National Park.

As you might think, Kundasang especially boasts of the natural beauty that you can see throughout the area, from one of the popular tourist destinations mentioned before, Mount Kinabalu National Park, Mesilau Nature Reserve, Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, to many others. Not only is it rich in biodiversity, but Kundasang also houses several historical memorials that can be visited until now including the War Memorial. Not stopping there, Kundasang also has its own charm with numerous things to do once the sun sets.

Here are 10 things to do in Kundasang at Night:

One of the popular destinations for those seeking a challenging and rewarding hike that offers breathtaking views of the lush greenery, The usual trail is around 3.5km and moderately challenging. The trail itself features some steep climbing with uneven terrain which makes the trail require a decent level of fitness. Usually, the hike would take around 3 to 4 hours to complete depending on your pace and breaks.

If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you book a tour where they will provide a guide that will guide you through the hill. By having a guide, they can provide navigation assistance, share local knowledge about the flora and fauna native to the area, and ensure your safety on the trail. Once you decide to book a tour to hike the Maragang Hill, prepare yourself to be mesmerized by stunning views of the iconic Mount Kinabalu, the Crocker Range as well as the surrounding valley under the starry skies.

As has been mentioned before, Kundasang is a city known for its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere that can be combined with enjoying the savory delicacies in cafes and restaurants that are nestled in strategic locations here you get to savor delicious meals while getting immersed into the stunning background in the same time.

If you are looking for a mountain view restaurant and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu which is the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, then try to consider August Kitchen which offers a wide range of Asian cuisine, or Cloud's Cafe at Mountain Valley Resort that offer more casuals setting where visitors are allowed to enjoy as a cup of coffee or tea along with a light meal while taking the scenery.

Different from any other in Malaysia, Kundasang offer a unique night market experience where you get to soak in the cool mountain air while savoring the delicious local delicacies and browsing through the lining stalls offering various kinds of fresh produce and handcrafted items made by the local.

Begin your journey through the night markets in Kundasang overflowing with local atmosphere where you get to enjoy the foods from fresh grilled fish, satay to linopot which is a traditional bamboo soup, having a shopping spree purchasing various kinds of produce like fruits, vegetable flowers to local goods such as hand-woven baskets, wood carvings, batik fabric and many more.

A must-thing to do in Kunsang where you get to freely enjoy the beautiful starry night skies with the most minimal light pollution that allows you to fully immerse yourself into the night sky that comes alive with a blanket of stars that can be seen with your bare eyes during the night.

Kundasang is known for housing numerous lush greenery and secluded spots which makes the town a great spot for stargazing. Find yourself the perfect spot away from the light sources such as hiking through the mountain hill and take your time gazing at the stunning constellation of stars that are glittering beautifully above your heads.

It might not exactly located in Kudansang, But it can be reached only one hour from the center of Kundasang town. Poring Hot Spring is an excellent choice for those of you who are looking for relaxation. As the name implies, the hot spring offers an opportunity for visitors to unwind and soak themself in a steaming hot spring that is rich in mineral and believed to have therapeutic properties good for health.

Before relaxing and rejuvenating themselves in the soaking hot spring, visitors can also take a tour that will take them on an exploration through the surrounding lush forestand encountering many kinds of fascinating wildlife. For a more challenging and exhilarating experience, you may venture onto the 43-meter-tall Treetop Canopy Walkway or cool off with a refreshing dip under the scenic Kanching Waterfall.

After doing many kinds of activities and embarking on a long journey during the day, it is time for you to unwind yourself in a cozy homestay to perfectly end the day. Kundasang is known for housing various homestays, where most of the owner of the homestay in Kundasang is known for their warm hospitality. Besides, many homestays in Kundasang are nestled amidst the stunning hills that boast the breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu which are exceptionally unforgettable during sunrise or sunset.

During your homestay, you could also plan on having a night campfire party where you get to exchange scary stories with your friends and family and have a deep talk to connect more with each other

Kundasang is one popular spot to take a ton of photographs, especially for professional photographers. The town is known for its natural beauty, so the place is also rich with stunning night scenery that you need to capture to commemorate your visit.

Bring your best camera to the area and prepare to find yourself unable to resist capturing the night scenic scenes that you hardly get anywhere else including the Milky Way that can be seen due to the high altitude and minimal light pollution and the stunning starry night sky filled with twinkling stars. The night Shiloutte of Mount Kinabalu is also another scene to capture, and if you are lucky enough, you might also be able to capture the phenomenon of alpenglow there the mountain peaks are bathed in a soft pink light.

Drive for around 2 hours from the Kundasang city center and find yourself standing inside the Gomantong Cave which is known for its impressive colonies of glowworms. As you enter the caves, walk along wooden walkways and witness for yourself the incredible sight of the magical twinkling lights of the glowworm illuminating the cave ceiling. It is truly a unique adventure to experience.

Other than the bioluminescent creatures that light up under the night sky, Gomantong Cave also houses edible bird’s nests that is known as a prized delicacy in Southeast Asia. it is also one of the main collection sites in the area and if you are lucky enough, you might also be able to witness the harvesting process by the locals.

A nighttime picnic can be a truly magical and memorable experience that you can do with friends, family, and even with your loved one. Offering a unique way to appreciate the beauty of nature and spend quality time with your loved one, Picnicking at nighttime can also become one way to get closer to each other.

Plan for your picnic and choose a spot away from homestay lights for minimal light pollution such as open fields or hilltops which also offer scenic views of the lush surrounding greenery. Pack a cozy picnic blanket to make a comfortable seating area. You might also want to consider bringing a portable speaker to play calming and relaxing music to set the mood. And last, bring various easy-to-eat finger goods such as sandwiches, wraps, cut vegetable dip, fruit cheese, and crackers along with warm drinks to enjoy with friends and family under the night sky and cool breeze of the night.

Embark on an extraordinary experience through Membakut which is known for its abundant fireflies and witness the enchanting fireflies under the night sky. Go on a 2-hour drive and get ready to get immersed in the majestic sight of fireflies that are swaying freely through the air in the darkness.

There are several species of fireflies that you can witness in the area, including the Lampion firefly variety which is well known for its bioluminescent glow that varies in colors from red, orange, or yellow. Prepare your camera and enjoy the views of fireflies twinkling amongst the mangrove trees creating an unforgettable magical atmosphere.

Here are all the fun and exciting activities that you might want to add to your list during your visit to Kundasang. Starting from enjoying a nighttime picnic under the starry skies, Hike through the Maragang Hill, and enjoy the view of Kinabalu Mountain to relax in a cozy homestay and have a campfire party where you could share scary stories with your friends and family.

If you plan to visit Kundasang soon, Traveloka is more than happy to help you book the flight tickets, accommodation, and various activities and attractions mentioned above. Besides giving the best price, Traveloka often gives discounts, and combos to enhance your travel experience. What are you waiting for? Grab your Fast while the promo lasts!