Kota Kinabalu, Sabah: North Borneo Heritage Train

The North Borneo Heritage Train offers a unique glimpse into Sabah’s rich cultural heritage. Departing from Kota Kinabalu, this hybrid steam-diesel locomotive takes passengers on a scenic 45-minute journey through lush rainforests and local villages, culminating in the quaint town of Papar. With engaging onboard activities and a delightful culinary experience, the heritage train promises an immersive adventure that celebrates the region’s traditions. Intrigued travelers eager to uncover Sabah’s captivating history won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience.

Key Points

• The North Borneo Heritage Train is a hybrid steam-diesel locomotive that offers a 45-minute scenic journey from Tanjung Aru Railway Station to Papar Town.
• Passengers receive a mission book for cultural interaction with local communities and can engage in activities like stencil henna tattoos and photo opportunities.
• Upon arrival in Papar Town, travelers embark on a cultural mission guided by the mission book, fostering a deeper understanding of the town’s heritage and traditions.
• The culinary experience includes light breakfast, local restaurant lunch, and high-tea snacks, providing a memorable gastronomic adventure.
• The journey involves physical activity and is not suitable for pregnant women or those with limited mobility; comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Train Experience and Highlights

The North Borneo Heritage Train offers a unique tourism experience in Sabah, transporting passengers on a hybrid steam-diesel locomotive.

The 45-minute journey from Tanjung Aru Railway Station to Papar Town showcases scenic rainforests, plantations, and villages. Onboard, passengers receive a mission book to interact with local communities and learn about their culture.

A 45-minute train journey through Sabah’s scenic rainforests, plantations, and villages, with a mission book to interact with local communities.

Vintage carriages add historical charm, and activities like stencil henna tattoos and photo opportunities further enhance the experience.

Lunch at a local restaurant and high-tea snacks are included, providing a well-rounded immersion into Sabah’s heritage and traditions.

Exploring Papar Town’s Cultural Mission

Upon arriving in Papar Town, passengers embark on a cultural mission to explore the local community.

They receive a mission book that guides them to photograph various points of interest and interact with indigenous people.

Passengers can try their hand at stencil henna tattoos, earning rewards for completing the activities outlined in the book.

Through this immersive experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Papar’s rich heritage and traditions.

The cultural engagement provides a meaningful connection between visitors and the local community, creating a memorable and authentic experience on the North Borneo Heritage Train.

Onboard Activities and Engagement

Passengers aboard the North Borneo Heritage Train won’t simply sit back and watch the scenery go by. The journey offers engaging onboard activities to immerse travelers in the local culture.

Upon boarding, passengers receive a mission book to guide their cultural exploration. During the ride, they can try their hand at stenciling henna tattoos, a traditional art form. Completing challenges in the mission book earns rewards, adding an element of fun and interaction.

Throughout the journey, light refreshments and a restaurant lunch provide sustenance. The train ride strikes a balance between sightseeing and cultural engagement.

Dining and Refreshments

Travelers aboard the North Borneo Heritage Train can expect a delightful culinary experience throughout the journey. The train offers a light breakfast, a hearty local restaurant lunch, and high-tea snacks to please all palates.

The breakfast includes:

1. Fresh pastries and tropical fruits

2. Aromatic local coffee or tea

3. A selection of savory and sweet bites

The lunch at a local restaurant provides an opportunity to sample authentic Sabahan cuisine.

Afterward, passengers can enjoy high-tea with tasty snacks as the train glides back to the starting point, creating a memorable gastronomic adventure.

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Health and Safety Considerations

While the North Borneo Heritage Train offers a unique cultural experience, it may not be suitable for all passengers. The journey involves some physical activity and isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with altitude sickness, or those with limited mobility.

Passengers are advised to wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and have cash on hand. Those with disabilities must be accompanied. The train isn’t wheelchair accessible, but the crew can assist passengers as needed.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The North Borneo Heritage Train package includes a souvenir bag, light refreshments throughout the journey, a return train ticket, a mission book for cultural engagement, and a local restaurant lunch.

The North Borneo Heritage Train package includes a souvenir bag, light refreshments, a return ticket, a mission book, and a local lunch.

However, the package excludes:

1. Personal travel insurance

2. Alcohol and personal expenses

3. Hotel transfers, which incur additional surcharges, and an accompanying tour guide, which also has a surcharge.

Dietary requests must be made in advance for lunch adjustments.

Seating is arranged in table settings for 3-4 people, with private tables available for an additional RM200 charge.

Booking and Pricing Details

Passengers can reserve the North Borneo Heritage Train experience and pay later. Prices start from £77.93 per person.

Bookings come with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The train experience runs daily, though availability varies, so visitors should check schedules.

The hybrid steam-diesel locomotive offers a unique tourism package in Sabah, with a 45-minute journey from Tanjung Aru Railway Station to Papar Town.

Passengers receive a souvenir bag, light refreshments, return train tickets, a mission book, onboard crew, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Train Journey Itinerary

Departing at 9:00 am from Tanjung Aru Railway Station, the 45-minute train ride takes passengers to the town of Papar.

The journey offers a unique glimpse into Sabah’s heritage, with scenic views of rainforests, plantations, and villages along the way. The vintage carriages and hybrid steam-diesel locomotive add to the historical charm of the experience.

Upon arrival, passengers embark on a guided tour, with opportunities to:

1. Interact with the local indigenous communities.

2. Photograph points of interest outlined in the mission book.

3. Learn about the region’s vibrant culture.

The excursion also includes a 30-minute lunch stop at a local restaurant, completing the immersive North Borneo heritage experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Train Experience?

The heritage train experience doesn’t have any age restrictions. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with altitude sickness, or those with limited physical activity, as noted in the health and safety information.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks onboard, but the experience includes light refreshments, breakfast, lunch, and high-tea snacks. Bringing outside alcohol is not permitted, as it’s not included in the package.

Is There Wi-Fi Connectivity Available During the Journey?

There is no mention of Wi-Fi connectivity being available during the North Borneo Heritage Train journey. The details provided focus on the train experience, activities, and amenities, but do not indicate if passengers can access the internet on board.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance or Can I Buy Them on the Day?

Tickets can be purchased in advance to secure a spot, but they can also be bought on the day of the tour if availability allows. Reserving in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Train Journey or Make Any Modifications?

The train journey duration and itinerary are fixed, but customers can request modifications like private seating arrangements for an additional charge. Extending the trip length is not an option, as the tour operates on a set schedule.

The Sum Up

The North Borneo Heritage Train offers a captivating journey through Sabah’s lush landscapes and cultural heritage. Passengers can enjoy hands-on activities, savor local cuisine, and discover the charm of Papar Town. This heritage railway experience provides a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich history and traditions, making it a must-try adventure for visitors to Kota Kinabalu.

You can check availability for your dates here: