Kota Belud Hotels from RM50

Kota Belud is a town in the West Coast Division of Sabah, Malaysia. As the midway point between Kota Kinabalu and Kudat, this area makes for a great place to stay as it is easily accessible to both major cities. Many consider the area the gateway to the heartland of the indigenous Bajau people. This brilliant region has a lot to offer, let’s take a closer look at Kota Belud.

About Kota Belud

Kota Belud is a great holiday destination that allows you to escape the noise and haste of modern cities. Within this region you can find great natural beauty and grand exhibitions of culture. Within the rainforest lies many tribes who have inhabited the area since it was first settled.

Best Place to Stay in Kota Belud

Central Kota Belud is the place to shop for accommodation which is both convenient and comfortable. Everything from budget hotels to 3-star establishments are found here. There are even 4-star lodges and hotels scattered around the town centre.

The outlying region of Kota Belud should not be overlooked as it has some great hotels at reasonable prices. The quality of accommodation is outstanding and the rates are typically better than in the town centre. However, public transport will be harder to access.

Top Attractions in Kota Belud

Usukan Cove is a great place to go snorkelling but you are advised to swim carefully, as the coral reefs here are among the most beautiful in the area. It is a great place to learn to snorkel and is a favoured choice for students who are looking to discover the underworld world of this region. Great camping areas are supplied as well as a range of water activities from the nearby lodge. From banana boats to kayaking and volleyball, there is a lot to do.

Mantanani Island is a great getaway location which is just a short distance northwest of Kota Belud. You will struggle to find crystal clear waters which can compare in beauty, nor marine life. The white sand beaches which are fringed by coconut trees, offering great shade from the heat. The scuba diving and snorkelling here is excellent, while tourists may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the sea cows which reside on the island. A nearby backpacking lodge is available for those who want to spend the night.

Mount Kinabalu is an adventure which all visitors to the area need to undertake. As the 20th most prominent mountain in the world, Mt. Kinabalu has both a low summit taking two days and one night to climb, and a more taxing challenge for those wishing to ascend the total height of the mountain, 4095 meters, or 13,535 feet above sea level. Yet for families or those looking for a light-hearted excursion, give the Walk-The-Torq route a try.

There are two places in the area surrounding Kota Belud which you can’t miss. The Mari Mari Cultural Village and the Monsopiad Head Hunter Village are available as tours and make for an exciting adventure granting the opportunity to be truly immersed in the local culture. Dusun tribe houses with a human skull hung at the threshold are waiting, a sign to ward of potential thieves. Enjoy the opportunity enjoy rice wine with the locals while tasting cuisine cooked over an open fire. Rungus longhouses are also along your stop, as are the Sea Gypsie Bajau houses. You are also taken to the Murut tribe who are steeped in traditional spirituality. This is one adventure that you’ll never forget.

Food in Kota Belud

Local dishes such as Tauran Mee and Tom Yum noodles are always tasty, while the Laksa in and around Kota Belut is said to be the best. A range of rotis are also served up by the locals, each having its own unique ingredients. There is no better way to wash a meal down than with a glass of rice wine, that is if you drink of course. If not, try the local coffee.