Poring Hot Spring

Poring Hot Springs is a must for every visitor who goes to Kinabalu Park. It is about half an hour's drive from Kinabalu Park. You will pass by the town of Kundasang and Ranau on your way here. The local Kadazan people call bamboo "Poring". 

Entrance to the Hot Spring

This place does have lots of bamboo trees. Upon your arrival, you will see a parking area, a reception area and a visitor centre. You can see the bamboo tree as you enter the park as shown in the picture above.

Hot Spring Pool

This hot spring was first developed by the Japanese during World War Two. One is able to see and use the many open air and indoor Japanese style baths facilities. The hot water is channeled from the source where the temperature is hot enough to boil eggs. The temperature of the water can be regulated by mixing it with the cold water which is channeled from the nearby river.

Hot Spring Stream

The hot spring is reputed to be good for health as it contains sulphur which is known for its curative properties for those with skin problems.

The open air type is more crowded and free of charge but the indoor type is for those who want to have time off by themselves. There is a fee charge for the rental of the indoor type based on the number of hours used.

Canopy Walk

Besides the hot spring, one can also explore the popular Canopy Walk. The total distance to complete the circuit is 2 km andthe Canopy Walk makes up about 200 metres of the circuit. Built some 50 m above the ground, one has to be bold and stout hearted to do this walk as the canopy can be shaky and looks flimsy at times. Take heart, these hanging bridges are testedeveryday before they are opened to the public. 

Canopy Walk

For those who stay overnight in Poring Hot Spring, you can do a bit of jungle trekking along the banks of a winding river. After an hour or so walk (shorter path route), you will be able to see a 10m waterfall. The longer path route takes 3 hoursto complete and ends with the view of a 100 m high waterfall.

Accommodation

If you choose to stay overnight at Poring Hot Spring, the facilities include Poring Chalet where a unit can accommodate 6persons. The New Cabin has 2 bedrooms which can accommodate up to 4 persons. For those who come in big groups, there is the Youth Hostel which can house a total of 64 persons.

Reservations can be made at Kinabalu Gold Resort Sdn Bhd.

Tel: +6 088 243629/ +6 088 245472 

Fax: +6 088 242861

Jungle Restaurant is the place where you unwind in the evening. As you dine, you will be able to hear the sound of insectsand the sound of the rushing water in the nearby river. You may be able to see the natural "Christmas Light" when thefire flies come out to feed on the nectar of the tree leaves as night falls. 

source: http://www.malaysiavacationguide.com

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BAKO NATIONAL PARK

Sarawak's oldest national park was established in 1957, covers a modest 27 sq. km., and is about 37km from Kuching. It's known for its extraordinary natural scenery, habitats, plants and wild life.

Its most significant features are secluded coves and rugged rocky headlands with magnificent steep cliffs that overlook the South China Sea.

The sea spray, wave action and the wind have also carved out magnificent sea arches and sea stacks at the base of the cliffs, some rearing above the waves like a mighty serpent's head.

The attractive sandstone formations appear pink with iron patterns on the cliff. Further inland, waterfalls tumble down into freshwater pools in a tranquil and idyllic jungle setting.

Bako contains an incredible variety of plant species and vegetation types, and this is one of the parks great attractions. At Bako it is possible to see almost every type of vegetation found in Borneo.

Bako is also home to approximately 275 rare proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo. The best times for seeing wildlife at Bako are just after dawn and just before dusk, when the animals are at their most active. Bako is a fascinating place for bird watching, as over 150 species have been recorded here.

Bakos extensive trail system is .....READ MORE

Source: http://www.tourism.gov.my

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Malaysia Hostels

Budget Accommodation for Backpackers

There are many Malaysia Hostels with price that is affordable that you can book online from HostelBookers. 

Comprised of two regions – Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo – Malaysia offers adventure, tropical climates, a vibrant capital city and unique culture to travelers on a budget.

Low cost accommodation can be found throughout the country and backpackers can take advantage of top quality Malaysia hostels not only in the cities but also throughout the sought-after beaches and rainforest destinations. 

Equator Hostel, Kuala Lumpur

Strategically located next to the Berjaya Times Square, Chinatown and Jalan Bukit Bintang, this hostel in Kuala Lumpur makes a great base and starting point for those arriving in Malaysia and the capital city for the first time. Spacious and laid back, the atmosphere offers a great place to meet other travelers, recover from a long flight, surf the net and plan an itinerary or get out and explore the buzzing energy of this modern city. 

Matahari Lodge, Kuala Lumpur

Brand new and located in the hub of activities, this is another Malaysia hostels that is within walking distance of all the attractions, restaurants, shopping and public transport. The staff are excellent and can help plan any stay, whether it be 24 hours in the city or a month in other Malaysian destinations. A good night’s sleep is a must after a long journey, and the rooms here are private, clean, and comfortable.

Hutton Lodge, Penang

Walk the Heritage Trail of Penang, which contributes much to George Town’s listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take in this unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in Southeast Asia. At the end of the day, head back to your Hostels in Penang , a unique colonial-style guesthouse in the city center. The garden terrace is a great place to relax and all rooms are bright, spacious and clean.

Akinabalu Youth Hostel, Kota Kinabalu

Facing the South China Sea with Mount Kinabalu looming in the background, Kota Kinabalu is an ideal costal location. With no trip to Malaysia complete without traveling to Borneo, a stay at the Akinabalu Youth Hostel also offers easy access to the beaches and rainforests; a tour and travel desk is handily on site. And if you’re not a fan of the heat (although the hostel helpfully provides both fans and air-con), try snorkeling and a variety of affordable water sports at the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. 

 


Heading On

One of the great features of backpacking around Malaysia is the ever-present possibility of extending your trip into other countries within Southeast Asia!

Few cities offer such an action-packed travel experience as Bangkok. With the Khao San Road to the fore (and plenty of Bangkok hostels , it’s a backpackers’ paradise! Over in Vietnam, the largest city is an intriguing mixture of impressive modern buildings sitting alongside scruffy street markets and Ho Chi Minh City hostels in one bustling, vibrant urban spectacle. Alternatively, for a budget stay in Singapore, Singapore hosteloffers an excellent selection of great value accommodation so you can save your money for a shopping sprees. 

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