Poring Hot Springs | Kota Kinabalu

Poring Hot Springs is a popular natural attraction located in the Kinabalu Park area in Sabah, Malaysia. Situated about 40 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, Poring Hot Springs is famous for its therapeutic hot springs, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. The site offers a variety of activities and is known for its peaceful environment, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature exploration.

Overview

• Location: Poring Hot Springs is located in the Ranau district of Sabah, within the Kinabalu Park. It is about a 2-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu and is easily accessible by car or through guided tours.
• Climate: The area experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year. The temperatures in Poring Hot Springs are usually warm, but the surrounding rainforest provides a cool atmosphere, especially during the evening.

Top Attractions and Activities

Hot Springs and Sulfur Baths:

• The main attraction at Poring Hot Springs is the natural hot springs. These are sulfur-rich mineral springs, believed to have therapeutic properties, particularly for relieving muscle pain, joint pain, and skin ailments.
• Visitors can soak in the public hot spring pools or opt for a more private experience in individual bathhouses, where they can enjoy the warm, soothing water. The sulfur content in the water is thought to have healing properties, making this a popular activity for those looking for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• The temperature of the water in the pools varies but is generally warm, typically around 40-50°C. The area is well-maintained and provides facilities for visitors to enjoy a calming soak.

Canopy Walkway:

• One of the must-do activities in Poring Hot Springs is the Canopy Walkway, which offers a unique perspective of the rainforest. The canopy walkway is a suspended bridge that allows visitors to walk through the treetops, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest.
• The Canopy Walkway is located within the Poring Hot Springs Nature Reserve, and the walk takes you high above the forest floor, providing the chance to spot various birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
• The walkway is 170 meters long and stands at a height of around 40 meters. It offers a thrilling experience and the opportunity to appreciate the rainforest from a completely different angle.

Nature Trails and Hiking:

• Poring Hot Springs is situated within a rainforest, and visitors can explore several nature trails around the area. These trails take you through lush jungle, offering a chance to discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
• One of the popular trails is the Sunduan Trail, which leads to the Betung Waterfall, a scenic spot where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply take in the beauty of the cascading water.
• Other trails include those that lead to natural hot spring pools, providing opportunities for photography and wildlife observation along the way.

Betung Waterfall:

• The Betung Waterfall is a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall located near the Poring Hot Springs area. It can be reached by a short hike along the Sunduan Trail. The waterfall is surrounded by tropical greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment.
• The cool, fresh water of the waterfall offers a refreshing experience after a hike, and many visitors take the opportunity to swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.

Butterfly Farm:

• Located within the Poring Hot Springs area is the Poring Butterfly Farm, where visitors can observe a variety of local butterfly species in a beautiful garden setting. The farm also houses various other insects and some small reptiles.
• The butterfly farm is a great place to take photos and learn about the life cycle of butterflies. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the surrounding flora and fauna that attract these butterflies.

Rafflesia Viewing:

• Poring Hot Springs is a popular spot for those interested in Rafflesia, one of the world’s largest and rarest flowers. Rafflesia arnoldii, known for its foul odor (often described as the smell of decaying flesh), blooms occasionally in the region, and guided tours are available to spot these remarkable flowers when in bloom.
• The flowering season of Rafflesia varies, but it typically blooms between March and May. Visitors can join tours to see the flowers in their natural habitat, though sightings are not guaranteed due to the rare and unpredictable blooming cycle.

River and Stream Exploration:

• The area around Poring Hot Springs has several streams and rivers where visitors can explore and enjoy the surrounding nature. Some streams have natural swimming spots, while others offer the chance to cool off after a long hike or hot spring soak.

Wildlife Watching:

• The rainforest around Poring Hot Springs is home to diverse wildlife, including various species of birds, insects, and monkeys. Birdwatching is particularly popular in the area, with species such as hornbills, trogons, and leafbirds commonly spotted in the canopy.
• Visitors may also encounter other creatures like monkeys, lizards, and butterflies while walking along the nature trails.

Facilities and Accommodation

• Public Hot Springs Pools: Visitors can use the public pools that are available at no extra charge. These pools are well-maintained and offer a relaxing soak.
• Private Bathhouses: For a more secluded and private experience, there are private hot spring bathhouses available for rent.
• Accommodations: Poring Hot Springs offers various accommodation options, including:
  • Basic chalets and rooms for those wishing to stay overnight.
  • Camping facilities for those who want to experience a more rustic experience in the surrounding rainforest.
  • Guesthouses and resorts in the nearby areas, providing options for both budget and more luxurious stays.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Poring Hot Springs is during the dry season, which typically lasts from March to October. During this period, the weather is warmer and less likely to have heavy rainfall, making it easier to enjoy the outdoor activities. The rainy season (from November to February) can bring more rainfall, which might affect hiking and outdoor activities, but the hot springs remain open year-round.

How to Get There

• By Car: Poring Hot Springs is about a 2-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, which is around 40 kilometers away. It is easily accessible by car or taxi.
• By Tour: Many travel agencies in Kota Kinabalu offer guided day tours to Poring Hot Springs, which include transportation, a visit to the hot springs, and sometimes additional activities such as hiking or visiting the butterfly farm.

Conclusion

Poring Hot Springs offers a unique experience combining natural hot springs with lush rainforest surroundings, making it a popular getaway for those looking to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Whether soaking in the therapeutic hot springs, hiking through the rainforest, or spotting rare Rafflesia blooms, Poring Hot Springs has something for every type of traveler.