Kota Kinabalu, Sabah: North Borneo Heritage Train

Travelers seeking a journey that combines history, culture, and stunning scenery will find the North Borneo Heritage Train a captivating choice. This tour takes you aboard a hybrid steam-diesel train, offering a nostalgic ride through some of Sabah’s most picturesque landscapes, including lush rainforests, sprawling plantations, and traditional villages. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply longing for a unique way to explore Sabah, this experience promises memorable moments.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to ride in vintage, meticulously restored carriages that echo a bygone era. Second, the engaging stopover in Papar Town, where local culture and hands-on activities bring the journey alive. However, a potential consideration is that the steam locomotive is currently undergoing maintenance, so the tour might operate with the diesel engine temporarily. This shouldn’t detract from the overall charm, but it’s worth knowing upfront.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic outings, cultural interactions, and authentic experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. It’s especially appealing to those interested in Sabah’s railway heritage, family groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet enriching day out from Kota Kinabalu.

Key Points

• Scenic train ride through lush rainforests and rural landscapes of Sabah.
• Historical charm of vintage carriages restored to highlight Sabah’s railway past.
• Cultural immersion through activities in Papar Town, including local sights and hands-on fun.
• Flexible itinerary with stops for photos, sightseeing, and a delicious local lunch.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides sharing historical insights.
• Good value at $106 per person, including meals, souvenirs, and activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, cultural engagement, and vintage charm. Starting at Tanjung Aru Railway Station in Kota Kinabalu, the journey kicks off early in the morning, giving you a full day of exploration. The highlight is the train itself — a hybrid of vintage steam and diesel, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and interest to the ride. Even if the steam engine isn’t operational during your visit, the diesel locomotive still preserves the nostalgic feel, and the wooden carriages with brass fittings evoke a true sense of history.

The train traverses some of Sabah’s most gorgeous landscapes. As you glide through rainforests, plantations, and rustic villages, the views are guaranteed to be a feast for the eyes. The train ride lasts about 45 minutes each way, giving enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The journey itself feels like stepping back in time, especially on the vintage carriages, which are carefully restored to their original look, with traditional liveries and polished wood interiors.

The Papar Town Stop

The real heart of the tour is the stop in Papar Town, where guided activities add a layer of engagement. Here, passengers receive a mission book, prompting them to photograph points of interest and interact with local communities. This hands-on approach is a hit with reviews, with travelers appreciating the chance to learn about the local way of life and capture authentic moments.

The guide or crew leads a short sightseeing walk, revealing the town’s charm and educating visitors about its history. The warm weather in Papar can be quite hot, so dressing comfortably and bringing a hand fan is recommended. One traveler noted, “Walking through Papar is quickly handled,” underscoring that the visit is manageable and well-paced.

Onboard Activities

On the train, you’ll find a simple activity — stencil henna tattooing — allowing passengers to choose a pattern, which is painted on hands and dried. It’s a fun, light-hearted addition that adds to the cultural flavor. At the end of the visit, the crew distributes a small reward for completing the activities, giving a satisfying sense of participation and accomplishment.

Dining and Refreshments

Included in the tour is a delicious local lunch at a nearby restaurant, which has garnered praise for its taste and authenticity. Vegetarian options are available upon request, showcasing the tour’s attentiveness to dietary needs. The onboard refreshments also include light snacks for high-tea, ensuring guests stay energized throughout the day.

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The Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins at Tanjung Aru Railway Station, from where the train departs at 9:00am (or check specific times upon booking). The 45-minute ride to Papar provides ample opportunity to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Upon arriving in Papar, you’ll spend about an hour exploring, participating in activities, and visiting points of interest.

Following this, a 30-minute stop for lunch in a local restaurant introduces you to Sabah’s regional cuisine. Afterward, the train makes a second 45-minute trip back to Kota Kinabalu, giving you a fresh perspective on the landscape from different angles.

The day wraps up back at Tanjung Aru, leaving plenty of time afterward for other activities or relaxation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $106 per person, the tour offers significant value. Included are your souvenir bag, onboard light refreshments, return train transfer, the mission book for Papar’s activity, a guided tour of Papar, lunch, and light snacks for high-tea. These inclusions cover your main needs and provide a well-rounded experience.

Extras like personal travel insurance, alcohol, and personal expenses are outside the package. Optional surcharges apply for private tables, hotel pickups, and guided accompaniment, which can enhance comfort and convenience if desired.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring a sun hat, water, and comfortable clothes for a day outdoors. Since the weather can be hot, especially in Papar, dressing in lightweight, breathable fabrics makes the visit more enjoyable. Don’t forget cash for any souvenirs or extra purchases.

Note that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with limited mobility — the itinerary is quite manageable, but mobility considerations are important. Also, private table requests incur an extra fee, so plan accordingly if you prefer a more intimate setting.

Authentic Elements That Shine

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who share interesting tidbits about Sabah’s railway heritage, local culture, and the landscape. The combination of vintage train travel and cultural engagement creates a genuine sense of connection to Sabah’s past and present.

Reviews highlight the stunning views—one traveler noted, “Train trip gives a different view of Borneo,” emphasizing how the scenery makes this trip special. The staff’s friendly and attentive service also leaves a positive impression, with comments about gift bags and catering to specific dietary needs.

Why It’s a Great Choice

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, cultural interactions, and scenic rides. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to add a touch of nostalgia and authenticity to their Sabah adventure. The inclusion of activities and local cuisine also makes it a well-rounded, memorable day that’s worth the price.

The North Borneo Heritage Train offers a chance to step back in time and discover Sabah’s landscapes and communities in a gentle, engaging way. The vintage train, scenic vistas, and local stopover combine to create a unique experience that captures the essence of Sabah’s heritage. It’s a slower-paced, culturally rich outing that rewards patience with authentic sights and stories.

For travelers eager to explore Sabah beyond the usual sights, this tour provides a delightful blend of history, scenery, and local charm. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic rides, cultural activities, and authentic experiences that aren’t overly commercialized. The thoughtful touches, like the henna activity and local lunch, ensure you leave with more than just photos — you’ll carry memories of Sabah’s warm spirit and scenic beauty.

Is the train ride suitable for all ages?
The train ride is relatively gentle and suitable for most ages. However, it involves some walking and standing, so travelers with limited mobility or pregnant women should consider this.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a sun hat, water, comfortable clothing, and cash for extra expenses. A hand fan is recommended because Papar can be quite hot.

Can I request a private table?
Yes, private table requests are possible but cost an additional RM200 per table. The standard setup accommodates groups of three to four people.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes a souvenir bag, onboard refreshments, a return train ticket, activities like the mission book and henna tattoos, lunch, and a guided visit to Papar.

When does the tour operate?
The tour starts at 9:00am from Tanjung Aru Railway Station, but you should check availability for specific starting times.

Is the steam locomotive operational during all tours?
The Vulcan Steam Engine is currently under maintenance, so the train may operate with a diesel engine instead. The train still uses vintage carriages, maintaining the nostalgic feel.

In essence, the North Borneo Heritage Train is a charming, well-organized way to enjoy Sabah’s landscapes and culture without rushing. It combines the allure of vintage travel with authentic local experiences, making it a worthwhile addition to your Sabah itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: