5 Best Sights in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Right by Le Meridien hotel, KK's Filipino Market—formally known as Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Centre—is a maze of stalls, selling a range of crafts and souvenirs from around the region. Look out for traditional woven baskets, dry-food goods, and cultured pearls. Follow your nose and you'll be led to fish and prawns being grilled slowly over little gas stoves and numerous other vendors preparing scrumptious snacks. Evening is the best time to visit.

The biggest tourist attraction in Sabah is less than a two-hour drive from KK. Mt. Kinabalu is Malaysia's first World Heritage site and—at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet)—it's the highest peak in Southeast Asia. It's a must-visit for botanists, bird-watchers, and nature lovers. While all climbers need to be in tip-top shape before undergoing the challenge, it is regarded as one of the easier mountains of its height in the world to conquer. Keep an eye out for 800 species of orchids and 600 species of ferns, as well as a glimpse of Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world. Those not feeling up for the climb can scour around Kinabalu National Park. While the wildlife is not quite as varied as what you will find at the top, there are still more than 4,000 species of flora and fauna to explore. Surrounding hot springs and treetop walks are also worth experiencing.

Originally constructed in 1886 to transport tobacco to the coast for shipping, North Borneo Railway was restored in recent years to offer travelers a chance to board an old steam train and ride through the coastal towns, rice fields, and rain forests that lead from Kota Kinabalu to the agricultural town of Papar. Two journeys take place per week (Wednesday and Saturday) year-round and last for about four hours. Breakfast and a typical "tiffin" colonial lunch is included in the ticket price and served onboard. Booking is required at least a day before departure.

Designed to resemble one of the traditional tribal long houses, this modern four-story museum houses an assortment of relics that tell the story of Sabah's history. Ceramics include bowls and jars that date back to China's Song Dynasty (960 AD–1279 AD), and among the artifacts you'll find weapons, musical instruments, and various household items that have been used over the years. Visit the natural history section to learn about animals, birds, and insects that are local to the region, and stop by the museum shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.

Named in honor of the nation's first prime minister, this marine park is a cluster of five islands. Visit the Jesselton Point jetty and hire a speedboat to take you on a 20-minute ride to the island of your choice. Pulau Sapi is a popular pick for snorkelers and offers 5 km (3 miles) of nature trails through the interior of the island for hikers, and Pulau Manukan has always been a favorite, being the most developed and offering various recreational facilities. Can't decide on just one? Negotiate a price for an island-hopping itinerary.