Kinabalu Geopark – UNESCO-Listed Mountain & Biodiversity Hotspot** 🏔️🌿

#kotakinabalutrip Located in **Sabah, Malaysian Borneo**, **Kinabalu Geopark** is a **UNESCO Global Geopark** centered around **Mount Kinabalu** (4,095m), Southeast Asia’s tallest peak. This **ancient geological wonder** boasts **unique rock formations, ultra-diverse ecosystems, and rich Indigenous culture**. --- ### **Why Visit Kinabalu Geopark?** ✔ **Mount Kinabalu Summit Trek** – A **bucket-list climb** through cloud forests and granite peaks. ✔ **Ultra-Biodiverse** – Home to **5,000+ plant species**, including the world’s largest flower (*Rafflesia*) and *Nepenthes* pitcher plants. ✔ **Geological Marvels** – **Glacial-polished granite** cliffs, hot springs, and **60-million-year-old rocks**. ✔ **Kadazan-Dusun Culture** – Learn about Indigenous traditions in **Kundasang** villages. --- ### **Key Attractions:** #### **1. Mount Kinabalu Summit Hike** ⛰️ - **2D1N trek** via **Timpohon or Mesilau Trail** (permits required). - **Panoramic sunrise views** at Low’s Peak (4,095m). - **Cost**: ~RM1,500–2,000 (guide, permits, hostel included). #### **2. Poring Hot Springs & Canopy Walk** 🌿 - **Soak in sulfur baths** after hiking. - **40m-high canopy walkway** through rainforest. #### **3. Kundasang Valley** 🏞️ - **"New Zealand of Borneo"** – Rolling hills, dairy farms, and **war memorials**. - **Desa Cattle Farm** – Fresh milk with Kinabalu views. #### **4. Kinabalu Park HQ** (World Heritage Site) - **Botanical gardens**, trails, and **Rafflesia spotting** (seasonal). --- ### **Visitor Info:** 📍 **Location**: Kundasang, 90km from Kota Kinabalu (2-hour drive). ⏰ **Park Hours**: **7:00 AM – 5:00 PM** (climbing permits issued until 10:30 AM). 🎟️ **Fees**: - **Park Entry**: RM15 (Malaysians), RM50 (foreigners). - **Climbing Permit**: RM200–300 (mandatory). - **Guide Fee**: RM350–500/group. --- ### **Pro Tips:** - **Book climbs 3–6 months early** (limited daily permits). - **Acclimatize 1–2 days** in Kundasang to avoid altitude sickness. - **Pack warm layers** – Summit temps drop to **0–10°C**. --- ### **Did You Know?** - Kinabalu’s granite formed **10 million years ago**—younger than Machinchang (Langkawi)! - Local tribes believe the mountain is a **sacred resting place for spirits**.