Sandakan, Malaysia is a coastal town located on the east coast of Sabah, the northernmost state of Malaysia. It is the second largest city in Sabah and is home to many stunning attractions, from nature reserves to cultural sites. Here are the top 20 places to visit in Sandakan, Malaysia.
1. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a sanctuary for orphaned orangutans. Visitors can watch the orangutans being fed twice a day, or take a guided tour of the centre.
2. Agnes Keith House: Agnes Keith House is a former residence of the late Agnes Newton Keith, an American author who wrote about her life in Sandakan. The house has been restored and is now a museum, showcasing her life and work.
3. Sandakan Memorial Park: The Sandakan Memorial Park is a memorial to the Australian and British prisoners of war who were held in Sandakan during World War II. The park includes a museum, a memorial wall, and a cemetery.
4. Turtle Islands Park: The Turtle Islands Park is a marine park located off the coast of Sandakan. It is home to green and hawksbill turtles, as well as a variety of other marine life. Visitors can take boat tours around the park, or stay overnight in one of the park’s chalets.
5. Gomantong Caves: The Gomantong Caves are a network of limestone caves located in the Gomantong Hills. The caves are home to millions of bats and swiftlets, and are a popular spot for birdwatching.
6. St. Michael’s and All Angels Church: St. Michael’s and All Angels Church is an Anglican church that was built in 1881. It is one of the oldest churches in Borneo and is still in use today.
7. Tanjung Simpang Mengayau: Tanjung Simpang Mengayau is a cape located at the northern tip of Borneo. It is the northernmost point of Malaysia and is known for its spectacular sunsets.
8. Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary: The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is a sanctuary for the endangered proboscis monkey. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and observe the monkeys in their natural habitat.
9. Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple: Puu Jih Shih is a Buddhist temple located on the outskirts of Sandakan. It is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Sabah and is home to a large collection of Buddha statues and Chinese artifacts.
10. Sandakan Harbour: Sandakan Harbour is one of the busiest ports in Malaysia. The harbour is home to a variety of boats and ships, and visitors can take a boat tour of the harbour or watch the sunset from the waterfront.
11. Sandakan Rainforest Park: The Sandakan Rainforest Park is a protected area of rainforest located just outside of Sandakan. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about the local wildlife.
12. Sandakan Town Mosque: The Sandakan Town Mosque is a beautiful mosque located in the centre of Sandakan. It is one of the oldest mosques in Sabah and is home to a large collection of Islamic artifacts.
13. Labuk Bay Mangrove Reserve: The Labuk Bay Mangrove Reserve is a protected area of mangrove forest located near Sandakan. Visitors can take boat tours of the reserve and observe the diverse wildlife.
14. Sim Sim Water Village: The Sim Sim Water Village is a traditional stilt-house village located in the mangroves near Sandakan. Visitors can take a tour of the village and learn about the culture and lifestyle of the local people.
15. Sandakan Heritage Trail: The Sandakan Heritage Trail is a walking tour of Sandakan’s historical sites. The trail includes stops at the Agnes Keith House, the Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple.
16. Kinabatangan River: The Kinabatangan River is a river located in the heart of Sabah. Visitors can take boat tours of the river and observe the local wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and a variety of birds.
17. Sandakan Crocodile Farm: The Sandakan Crocodile Farm is a farm located on the outskirts of Sandakan. Visitors can take a guided tour of the farm and learn about the breeding and conservation of crocodiles.
18. Puu Jih Shih Nature Reserve: The Puu Jih Shih Nature Reserve is a protected area of rainforest located near Sandakan. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve and observe the local wildlife, including orangutans and proboscis monkeys.
19. Sandakan War Memorial: The Sandakan War Memorial is a memorial to the Australian and British prisoners of war who were held in Sandakan during World War II. The memorial includes a museum, a memorial wall, and a cemetery.
20. Sandakan Central Market: The Sandakan Central Market is a bustling market located in the centre of Sandakan. Visitors can browse the stalls and sample the local food, or take a guided tour of the market and learn about the local culture.