1. Atkinson Clock Tower
This ancient landmark goes as far back as 1902 when it was built in the honour of Francis George Atkinson. Situated on top of a hill, off Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, the clock tower can be easily reached by undertaking a small, scenic walk. The walk takes you through well-kept gardens and once you are at the tower, you can enjoy views of the entire Kota Kinabalu city stretched in front of you.
Location: Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
2. Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is one of the most popular and scenic attractions for Kota Kinabalu Tourism. Located on the outskirts of the city, this sacred mountain stands at a height of 13,000 feet above sea level. Lying in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kinabalu National Park, the place is known for its staggering natural beauty. There are several trails that would take you to the summit of the mountain from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the rest of Sabah.
Location: Mount Kinabalu, Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia
3. City Mosque
The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is the largest mosque in the city and also one of the most beautiful buildings in the area. Since it sits on stilts above a lagoon, it gives the impression of floating in the water. The large mosque has a capacity of easily accommodating around 12,000 worshippers at one time and makes for a stunning visage.
Whether you choose to visit during the daytime when its white and blue dome reflects the colours of the sky or during the night when the place comes alive with its many lights, you are sure to have a memorable time.
Location: Jalan Pasir, Jalan Teluk Likas, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Entry Fee: Rs. 90
Timings: Daily; 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
4. Wetland Water Cruise
When in Kota Kinabalu city, one of the most popular things to do is go on a cruise on the Klias River. The river flows through the Klias Wetland Mangrove Forest and river safari through it offers some spectacular and intimate views of the forest. From the water, you can have a glimpse into the jungle kingdom with some of its most elegant denizens, including elephants, proboscis monkeys, fireflies.
Location: Jalan Bukit Bendera Upper, Kampung Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Entry Fee: From Rs. 2,800 per person
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
5. Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market
Once known as the Filipino Market, this traditional handicraft market has been sitting along the waterfront of Kota Kinabalu for decades. If you want to get a taste of Kota Kinabalu tourism and indulge in shopping of souvenirs like pearls, carved wooden memorabilia, textiles or local arts and crafts, this is the place to be.
Location: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Timings: Daily; 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
6. Signal Hill Observatory Platform
The Signal Hill Observatory Platform sits on a hillside close to Padang Merdeka in the Kota Kinabalu city. It is the highest spot in the city and affords splendid views of the surrounding cityscape and natural landscapes. When at the top, you can also enjoy unhindered views of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and the Tanjung Aru Beach.
Location: 78, Jalan Asrama, signal hills, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Timings: Daily; 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
7. Borneo Railway
Borneo Railway is one of the top and oldest attractions that Kota Kinabalu Tourism flaunts! The original lines were laid back in the year 1896 when it was used to move tobacco across Sabah. Today, the line starts from Tanjung Aru to Tenom, taking you through thick leafy forests and stunning coastlines. You can also choose to take the train to the small market town of Beaufort where you can easily spend a day exploring the vibrant culture of the area.
Location: Jalan Utama Sutera Harbour 88100, 88100, Malaysia
8. Green Connection Aquarium
It is known for its colourful marine life and there is no better way of experiencing this richness without leaving the Kota Kinabalu city than by visiting the Green Connection Aquarium. The many exhibits include touch tanks where you can come up-close-and-personal with several aquatic creatures like sharks and snakes! The place is home to giant sea turtles, eels and a wide variety of both small and large fish, which makes it an excellent place to visit with kids!
Location: 2, Jalan Tuaran, Likas, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Entry Fee: Starts at Rs. 430
Timings: Daily; 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM