North Borneo Railway Train Ride from Kota Kinabalu to Papar
4 h
By train
About this activity
Ride the North Borneo Railway train from Kota Kinabalu to Papar to experience the days of the British Colonial Office, when people traveled by steam train into the heart of Sabah. The trains are refurbished to re-create the atmosphere of stepping onto a train in the 1900s. The North Borneo Railway runs for 36 miles (60 km) between Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah, and Papar, an agricultural town, known as the rice bowl of Sabah.
Board the train at Tanjung Aru Station. As the train pulls out of the station, travel into the countryside and admire the pastoral landscape. Continuing to the coast of Lokawi Bay, take in the picturesque views of the South China Sea. Stop at Kinarut, a traditional trading village, then visit Tien Shi Temple, a Buddhist temple at the foot of the hill, and explore the local shops nearby.
Reboard the train and pass through Kawang, home to the Kawang Forest Reserve. Cross the Papar River over a steel bridge to arrive in Papar, where you can visit the local wet market to get a taste of simple rural life in Sabah. Meander around the area and meet the friendly locals. Then, hop on board the train for a scenic ride back to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a typical tiffin colonial lunch.
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Board the train at Tanjung Aru Station. As the train pulls out of the station, travel into the countryside and admire the pastoral landscape. Continuing to the coast of Lokawi Bay, take in the picturesque views of the South China Sea. Stop at Kinarut, a traditional trading village, then visit Tien Shi Temple, a Buddhist temple at the foot of the hill, and explore the local shops nearby.
Reboard the train and pass through Kawang, home to the Kawang Forest Reserve. Cross the Papar River over a steel bridge to arrive in Papar, where you can visit the local wet market to get a taste of simple rural life in Sabah. Meander around the area and meet the friendly locals. Then, hop on board the train for a scenic ride back to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a typical tiffin colonial lunch.
Included
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Entry/Admission - North Borneo Railway
Not included
- Gratuities
Additional
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
Features
Tourism
90%
Cultural
75%
Sport
15%
Adrenaline
15%
Reviews
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The experience was unique and most enjoyable. The food on the train was memorable and the service from the staff was extraordinary. However you must bank on a whole day because the delays caused by the train having to build up steam made the trip a whole day trip, not one that ends at 1.40pm.
We had a really nice time - what an adventure. The final destination was not that interesting but the train journey itself with breakfast and lunch was something very special. Certainly would recommend this trip. Keith and Valerie from the UK
A very interesting and fun tour. A must do. The service and food was top notch.