Whether you’ve just climbed a mountain or you’re simply tired from too much time on a bus, the opportunity to unwind should not be missed. Taking a light stroll or soaking in a tub can relieve both physical and mental strains.
To slow down your travels and admire your surroundings, take a trip towards the Poring Hot Springs Nature Reserve.
Poring
As a small town on the northern end of Borneo, Poring is built to serve. Located around 25 miles (40km) east of Kota Kinabalu, the Malaysian settlement draws in visitors hoping to witness some wildlife and swim in some steaming waters. And as chance would have it, all of this can be done within a short distance.
Poring Hot Springs & Nature Reserve
Dealing in both attractions and accommodations, the Poring Hot Springs and Nature Reserve will serve as a base for your trip into Poring. With rooms averaging a little over $200 per night, plan on staying a couple days to fully enjoy everything that the area has to offer.
Hot Springs
As the most obvious attraction at the site, the naturally heated waters can serve as a relaxing pit stop after a trip to Mount Kinabalu. The facility’s baths are located outdoors, subjecting guests to whatever elements may be present. However, should you be keen on privacy, consider renting a personal bath for around $6 per hour.
Canopy Walkway
After tending to those achy muscles, consider exploring the forest from above. Standing at a height of around 135 feet (41m) and running for a distance of nearly 500 feet (150m), the Canopy Walkway runs through the dense foliage of Menggaris trees. With high handrails on either side of the walkway, visitors are able to proceed without the necessity of harnesses.
Visitors should look to pay a mere $1.50 for the experience.
Credit: Percita
Butterfly Farm
Once you’ve soared and soaked, keep your mellow adventure going with a trip to the Poring Butterfly Farm. Claiming to be the first facility of its kind in Borneo, the farm is immediately adjacent to the hot springs. After paying your $1.50 entry fee, you’re free to explore the modestly sized enclosure.
In addition to your butterfly observation, consider checking out the research currently being conducted on the farm.
Waterfalls
If you’ve still got time and energy, keep your day going with a trip to a pair of waterfalls. Starting from the Canopy Walk’s ticket booth, you can make the 20 minute venture towards the Kipungit Waterfall or up the ante with an hour-long hike to the Langanan Waterfall.
While Kipungit is a pretty sight, its features are less than magnificent. Those willing to put in the extra time will be rewarded by a stellar perspective of the nearly 500 foot (150m) high Langanan.
Credit: cornstaruk
When To Go
With no particular dry season, any trip to Poring is bound to feature at least a little rain. With that in mind, don’t limit yourself to travel during any particular month. However, if you do prefer to avoid sogginess, try out January through April.
Climate
Temperatures in Poring are reliably consistent, ranging from temperate lows of 73°F (23°C) to toasty highs of 91°F (33°C).
Getting There & Around
The easiest route to Poring for those without a car is by taxi from Ranau. Look to pay around $10 for the pleasure.
Average Costs
- Resort accommodations: ~$200
- Meal: $3-7
- Beer: $3
Do’s
- Forget a pair of sandals for your trip to the pools.
- Expect Poring to be significantly more crowded on weekends.
- Make the short trip into Ranau if you’re looking for a nice dinner.
Don’ts
- Stay at the resort longer than a night or two.
- Swim in the pools below the waterfall.
- Enter the region without first paying the parks $5 conservation fee.
Fun Facts
- Located around the nature reserve, the Rafflesia keithii is the world’s largest flower.
- The island of Borneo belongs to three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.
- Borneo is the world’s third largest island.
Feature Image Credit: amrufm
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