Poring Hot Springs (波令温泉)

Explore the Wonders of Sabah Malaysia

A visit to Kinabalu Park will never be perfect without swinging by Poring Hot Springs. It is believed to have been discovered by the Japanese during the occupation, other sources say that it was discovered by a British geologist in the colonial time when Sabah was known as North Borneo. Situated 40 kilometers (25 miles) slightly northeast from the Parks HQ, Poring is located in the lowlands—a contrast to the Parks HQ. De-stress and soak away the sores and aches of your muscles in the spring’s hot sulphuric minerals, deemed to have healing properties and very popular among the locals. Mineral rich and naturally heated, the waters of Poring Hot Springs are said to increase the metabolism, accelerate healing, soothe muscles, improve blood circulation and detoxify the body’s lymphatic system. Aptly named Poring as this is the Kadazandusan word for the species of bamboo that is prevalent in the area. Poring is populated by an abundance of birds including Drongos, Woodpeckers, Leafbirds, Broadbills, Yellow-vented Bulbul, Magpie Robin, Asia Fairy Bluebird and Hornbills. Out of Borneo’s ten Sunbird species, seven are found in Poring, as well as six species of Spider-hunters. Poring possesses several species of snakes; the Green Vine, Bamboo and Racer being amongst the most popular. There are many flying species, such as flying lizards, flying frogs, flying squirrels and flying snakes. Squirrels, lemurs and tree shrews are also abundant. Other than the natural hot spring main attraction at Poring Hot Springs, there are also other interesting areas in the park to be visited such as the butterfly farm, the Poring Orchid Conservation Centre, the tropical garden, the Poring canopy walkway, and the Rafflesia flower site. The Forest Canopy walkway is constructed high up in the forest canopy for use by scientists to conduct research. With magnificent views, tourists can walk on it, seeing new insights into the canopy.