10 Cheap Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
What Can I Do in Kota Kinabalu on a Small Budget?
With our list of cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu you’ll make the most of your visit to this amazing city when you’re travelling on a budget. Kota Kinabalu is a dream location for thrifty travellers, and we’ve handpicked activities and locations for you to check out and have a glorious time without emptying the bank. Some of them are free and for some, there’s a small fee.
In this article, you’ll read about how to immerse yourself in Kota Kinabalu’s intriguing history, find the best spots to photograph the stunning sunset or where to go to discover some amazing architecture. Art lovers will learn where to see local art and adventurers get a hot tip on an exciting waterfall.
1. KK Heritage Walk
Discovering Kota Kinabalu’s intriguing history
Ideal para: Econômico, História, Foto
The KK heritage walk is a great way to learn about Kota Kinabalu’s history, its iconic landmarks and to find the best spots for your holiday snaps. You’re guaranteed to learn something new about this exciting city from a true expert. Your guide will lead you through sites significant to the beginnings of Kota Kinabalu, the events of WWII, British colonial era and independence.
The stops on a heritage walk might include Australia Place, Independence Field, Atkinson Clock Tower and Malaysia Monument to name just a few. Some heritage walks include a short treasure hunt, so keep your eyes and ears open for tips. The walks typically take about 2.5 hours and are conducted at a leisurely pace.
KK Heritage Walk
2. Waterfront
Magical sunsets and buzzing nightlife
Ideal para: Econômico, Alimentação, Vida noturna
The Kota Kinabalu Waterfront is the bustling centre of the city’s nightlife and a foodie heaven with its seaside restaurants, cafés and bars. This exotic boardwalk is teeming with spicy aromas wafting from the food stalls and restaurants. After an exciting day of island-hopping, what better place to pull up chair and watch the setting sun? Sip on a cool cocktail and relish delicious seafood satays, piping-hot from the grill.
The Waterfront is said to be the best place to watch the sunset over the South China Sea and it gets packed at that time of the day. To get a good view of the colourful spectacle, make sure you arrive well before 6 pm.
Waterfront
3. Masjid Bandaraya City Mosque
A majestic mosque and stunning sunsets
Ideal para: Econômico, Viagens alternativas, Foto
Masjid Bandaraya City Mosque, also known as the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, charms with its beautiful gardens and magnificent blue and gold dome. Partially built on a large pond, the building looks like it’s floating. Visit in the evening and you’ll catch the golden rays of the sunset reflecting on the water and the magical moment when all the lights are lit for the night.
Located a 10-minute drive north from the city centre, the mosque allows anyone to enter, but you must cover up. You can borrow a sarong at the tourist office by the main gate. This stunning building is an active place of worship so be mindful of the official prayer times.
Localização: Jalan Pasir, Jalan Teluk Likas, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Sunday–Thursday from 8 am to 10 pm, Friday–Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm
Telefone: +60 (0)88-205 418
Masjid Bandaraya City Mosque
4. Bukit Kopungit
Nature, history and Kota Kinabalu vistas
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto
Bukit Kopungit, also known as “Sulky Hill” in the local lingo, is a popular hiking destination located just outside Kota Kinabalu. It’s a moderately challenging 2-kilometre hike with a peak that offers panoramic views of the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the surrounding suburban area and even a glimpse of the shimmering coastline.
This a picturesque trail is a mix of paved and natural paths. Along the way, you might come across a small cave believed to date back to World War II. The climb is relatively steep, so good shoes are a must, and a hiking stick is recommended, especially during the rainy season when the trails can get slippery. Bring your camera as you’ll be rewarded with Instagram-worthy vistas.
Bukit Kopungit
5. Sabah Art Gallery
Versatile art collections and mind-boggling architecture
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto, Compras
Sabah Art Gallery displays works of art from local and international artists in a fabulous building with unique architecture. Inside, you can visit annual exhibitions and events that promote art in general and local creations in particular. Sabah Art Gallery adds new pieces to its collection continuously and encourages local talent to submit their works for selection.
The gallery building’s geometric design and octagonal layout are works of art and an attraction in itself. The walls taper outward from the base at an angle of 30 degrees giving the building its distinctive appearance. Explore traditional motifs in the subtle floor patterns at the entrance area and the 4 decorative panels on the external wall.
Localização: 14, Jalan Shantung, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +60 (0)88-268 748
Sabah Art Gallery
6. Kota Kinabalu Wetlands
A hidden paradise
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura, Famílias
Kota Kinabalu Wetlands is a paradisiac bird sanctuary with trails in an exciting and otherworldly mangrove forest. It’s home to 80 species, including herons, kingfishers, common ioras, ashy tailorbird and colourful sunbirds. Keep your camera ready as you might spot mud skippers and monitor lizards too. At the visitor centre, you’ll learn about the wildlife and everyday life at the sanctuary.
This unique and tranquil oasis is located a 10-minute drive or 45-minute walk from the city centre. You can go on a self-guided walk for as long as you like or book a guided tour or a bird-watching session. To beat the heat of the day and witness the wildlife at its most active, arrive early.
Localização: Off, Jln Bukit Bendera, Upper Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malesia
Abre: Tuesday–Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
Telefone: +60 88-246 955
Kota Kinabalu Wetlands
7. Gaya Street Sunday Market
Treasures and traditions
Ideal para: Compras, Foto
Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or simply want to experience a true Malaysian market, the Gaya Street Sunday Market is a must-visit for any traveller to Kota Kinabalu. Every Sunday morning, the entire stretch of Gaya Street is transformed into a vibrant open-air market. The market boasts a wide range of products, from fresh produce and local crafts to souvenirs.
You’ll find many locals here shopping for their weekly groceries and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to flex your negotiation skills. Many vendors don’t accept credit cards, so bring cash. The market gets crowded later in the morning, so if you want to avoid the crowds, arrive early.
Localização: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malesia
Abre: Sunday from 6 am to 1 pm (closed Monday–Saturday)
Gaya Street Sunday Market
8. Sri Pasupathinath Alayam
A unique Hindu temple with a beautiful garden
Ideal para: Econômico, Viagens alternativas, Foto
A 15-minute drive from the city centre leads you to the beautiful Sri Pasupathinath Alayam. This temple is a pivotal part of the Hindu community in Kota Kinabalu, and it welcomes everyone to learn about Hindu traditions. The temple is surrounded by a lotus pond and gardens, creating a tranquil place to meditate or simply get away from city life. The temple’s architecture is a blend of Hindu and modern styles. In addition to the main building, there are several smaller shrines and statues around the grounds.
Photography is allowed in the temple grounds, but not inside the main temple building. There’s no strict dress code but do dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.
Localização: No. 4, Jalan Khidmat, Off Jalan Kolam, Bukit Padang, Sabah, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Abre: Daily from 7 am to noon and from 7 pm to 9 pm
Telefone: +60 (0)88-239 154
Sri Pasupathinath Alayam
9. Kokol Hill Elf
Instagrammers’ favourite spot with spectacular views of the city
Ideal para: Econômico, Viagens alternativas, Foto
Sitting at 800 metres above Kota Kinabalu, Kokol Hill Elf is every photographer’s dream, offering Instagram-worthy views of the city and a cool mountain breeze. Escape the city heat to this fun viewpoint where you can take selfies inside whimsical decorations, including giant mushrooms, bird nests and fairy houses. Kokol Hill boasts several gigantic swings, including the iconic ‘Bali Swing’ with a guaranteed adrenaline rush and stunning aerial views of the coastline and Mount Kinabalu.
In the surrounding park, you’ll find cafes, restaurants, refreshments and live music. You can reach Kokol Hill Elf in 30 minutes from the city centre by car or book a tour with one of the tour operators that offer transportation packages to Kokol Hill Elf.
Abre: Daily from 10 am to 7 pm
Telefone: +60 (0)16-831 3220
Kokol Hill Elf
10. Ulu Kionsom Waterfall
A majestic waterfall surrounded by pristine nature
Ideal para: Econômico, Foto
The 12-metre Ulu Kionsom waterfall cascades down multiple tiers, surrounded by lush greenery. The sight and sound of the gushing water are truly mesmerising. You can take a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear pool beneath the waterfall, but be aware of the strong currents. For a chance to spot wildlife, venture into trails of the surrounding jungle, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
The waterfall is accessible by a well-maintained trail but consider swapping your flipflops for sturdier shoes. The walk takes about 30 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. There are changing rooms and toilets available but bring your own swimwear, towel, insect repellent, sunscreen and water.
Localização: Jalan Kionsom, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Sunday–Wednesday from 8 am to 6 pm, Thursday from 5 am to 6 pm, Friday from 8 pm to midnight, Saturday from midnight to 6 pm
Ulu Kionsom Waterfall
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