LOCATED about two hours away from the city of Kota Kinabalu, Kota Belud emerges as a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking an escape from the ordinary. Offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes and serene camping experiences, this picturesque town invites travellers to spend a night under the stars in various campsites, each promising a unique connection with the natural wonders that surround them.
MULTIPLE CAMPSITES, ONE SPECTACULAR EXPERIENCE
Kota Belud boasts multiple campsites, each contributing to a magical night's sleep under the vast expanse of the cosmos. Notable among these are Tegudon Tourism Village, Nohutu Eco Tourism Campsite, and Polumpung Melangkap View Campsite.
These carefully selected locations offer unobstructed views of Mount Kinabalu and the gentle flow of nearby waters, providing campers with an unforgettable backdrop to their outdoor adventure.
For those hesitant to embrace the full camping experience, fret not. These campsites cater to all comfort levels by providing kampung-style cabins and essential camping gear for rent. Whether you choose the simplicity of a tent or the cosiness of a cabin, the essence of sleeping in the heart of nature remains intact.
TEGUDON TOURISM VILLAGE
Tegudon Tourism Village (TTV) beckons as an idyllic escape, merely 15 kilometres from the 'Cowboy' town and a brief 1.5-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu. Opt for an Express Bus from the Terminal Bus Station at Jalan Padang, Bandaran Berjaya, departing between 8.30am to 2pm at an estimated cost of RM10. Upon reaching Kota Belud town or the taxi stand, a swift 30-minute taxi ride will transport you to Tegudon Village.
Visitors at TTV can immerse themselves in nature by setting up their own camp or conveniently renting from the TTV centre. Those desiring extra comfort can opt for basic hut rentals.
Beyond the charming accommodations, Tegudon Tourism Village invites adventure enthusiasts to explore the natural wonders in its vicinity. Hiking expeditions with local guides to Bukit Bendera and the enticing Wasai Waterfall promise breathtaking views of hilly terrain and Mount Kinabalu.
The cool waters of the Wariou River offer a refreshing escape, providing opportunities for playful splashing or leisurely tubing, surrounded by a dynamic landscape that captivates from sunrise to stargazing nights.
NOHUTU ECO TOURISM CAMPSITE
Nohutu Eco-Tourism in Kota Belud stands as an idyllic retreat, offering an immersive camping experience amidst nature's splendour.
Nestled alongside the Panataran River, this campsite affords breathtaking views of the countryside, with visible hill silhouettes, glimpses of Mount Kinabalu, and crystalline waters from the mountain.
Accommodation choices range from bamboo and hobbit huts to camping tents, allowing guests to connect with nature while maintaining comfort.
Communal bathrooms, leisure activities, and hidden gems like the small lagoon make Nohutu Ecotourism a haven for those seeking tranquillity.
From Kota Kinabalu, easy access is ensured through taxis or minibusses, providing a gateway to explore Kota Belud's charms.
POLUMPUNG MELANGKAP VIEW CAMPSITE
A mere 90-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu unveils the tranquil haven of Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site, an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts.
Situated in a quiet valley beside the enchanting Sungai Panataran, campers revel in the mesmerising spectacle of clear, azure waters cascading over rocks.
Sourced directly from the mountain, the water remains refreshingly cool, even on the sunniest days. Geological shifts post-earthquake have sculpted the landscape, presenting a unique setting endorsed by Melangkap locals.
The campsite offers tent rentals, from cosy two-men to spacious eight-men options, along with various amenities, including pillows, sleeping bags, fans, chairs, huts, and an indoor hall.
For a complete camping experience, guests are encouraged to bring their own food, with gas cookers and riverside barbecue pits provided. Additional facilities encompass communal washrooms, showers, changing rooms, a cafeteria, and a small grocery store.
Whether for a day visit or an overnight camping experience, the entrance fee of RM3 or RM6 per person respectively makes Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site an accessible retreat for all.