North Borneo Railway Train Ride from Kota Kinabalu to Papar

Sabah, Malaysia

Board the North Borneo Railway to discover the lush landscape of the coastal and rural regions of Sabah. Experience the nostalgic romance of an old steam train and relive the memories of a bygone era. Pass through villages, coastal towns, paddy fields, rainforests, and rubber and coffee plantations on this North Borneo rail excursion.

Ride the North Borneo Railway train from Kota Kinabalu to Papar to experience the days of the British Colonial Office, when people traveled by steam train into the heart of Sabah. The trains are refurbished to re-create the atmosphere of stepping onto a train in the 1900s. The North Borneo Railway runs for 36 miles (60 km) between Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah, and Papar, an agricultural town, known as the rice bowl of Sabah.

Board the train at Tanjung Aru Station. As the train pulls out of the station, travel into the countryside and admire the pastoral landscape. Continuing to the coast of Lokawi Bay, take in the picturesque views of the South China Sea. Stop at Kinarut, a traditional trading village, then visit Tien Shi Temple, a Buddhist temple at the foot of the hill, and explore the local shops nearby.

Reboard the train and pass through Kawang, home to the Kawang Forest Reserve. Cross the Papar River over a steel bridge to arrive in Papar, where you can visit the local wet market to get a taste of simple rural life in Sabah. Meander around the area and meet the friendly locals. Then, hop on board the train for a scenic ride back to Kota Kinabalu and enjoy a typical tiffin colonial lunch.