North Borneo Railway
Journey back in time on a century-old steam train, exploring Sabah's rich history and vibrant local culture in Papar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Papar market day!
North Borneo Railway
Best Time
Papar market day!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Journey back in time on a century-old steam train, exploring Sabah's rich history and vibrant local culture in Papar.
"A wonderful authentic experience on a local train, filled with nostalgia and fun!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking in Papar market and town. Essential for exploring!
👒 Bring a Hat & Sunscreen
Sabah can be sunny; protect yourself during market walks and outdoor exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Steam Train Ride
Kota Kinabalu to Papar
Experience a charming 100-year-old steam train, perfect for OOTDs and a nostalgic journey.
Papar Old Town Exploration
Papar
Discover local culture, history, and delicious food at the Thursday market and traditional eateries.
Cultural and Historical Insights
Onboard and in Papar
Learn about Sabah's rich history, including WWII stories, from knowledgeable guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Comfort is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking in Papar market and town. Essential for exploring!
👒 Bring a Hat & Sunscreen
Sabah can be sunny; protect yourself during market walks and outdoor exploration.
Kota Kinabalu(sabah, Malaysia)- 3 days
😋 Come Hungry!
Plenty of local snacks and food sampling opportunities in Papar.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The vintage train and charming town are great for OOTDs and memorable shots.
Getting around Sabah
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking in Papar market and town. Essential for exploring!
👒 Bring a Hat & Sunscreen
Sabah can be sunny; protect yourself during market walks and outdoor exploration.
😋 Come Hungry!
Plenty of local snacks and food sampling opportunities in Papar.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The vintage train and charming town are great for OOTDs and memorable shots.
📚 Book in Advance
This popular heritage experience can sell out, especially during holidays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Borneo Railway for its authentic vintage experience and the engaging historical and cultural insights provided by knowledgeable guides like Grace. The journey to Papar, especially on market day, offers delightful food sampling and a glimpse into local life, making it a highly recommended day trip from Kota Kinabalu.
"Wonderful authentic a peri en r on local train to Papar. Grace was a great and knowledgable tour guide who kept us informed on really interesting history and culture of Sabah. We spent time at the local Thursday market in Papar - come hungry as there is a lot of snacking on hand! Light lunch was at a 4th gen Chinese Restaurant and delicious. All in all a great day out and highly recommended! Thanks Grace (she even sent us lovely candid shots taken of us throughout the day)!"
Michele Roos
"Our visit to Papar town by the Borneo train was very memorable. Our guide Ms Grace is very knowledgeable so we learnt a lot about the 2nd world war history and all the courageous heroes that defended Borneo . She also treated us with the traditional snacks. Highly recommend to sign up for this trip if you’re in Kota Kinabalu."
Mazni Ramli
"We had memorable weekend in Kota Kinabalu. Our guide, Grace was amazing, she’s the star who made the tour alive, combining historical, cultural & heritage commentary during 1 hr train journey to Papar, made the train ride so much fun. She also gave many types of local food sampling & fruit tasting experience during our market walk at Papar. Before the end of our trip, we had best noodle soup for lunch at the oldest noodle shop (now the chef 4th generation). Highly recommended tour during ur visit in BKI. Thank you once again Grace for such beautiful Papar train ride experience."
Marlinda Lawrence
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Borneo Railway typically departs from Tanjung Aru Train Station in Kota Kinabalu. You can reach the station via taxi or ride-sharing services from your accommodation in Kota Kinabalu.
The train journey from Tanjung Aru to Papar (or Benoni) is approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour each way. +1
While the train itself is a historical experience, accessibility for individuals with mobility issues might be limited due to the vintage nature of the carriages. It's advisable to inquire directly with the railway operator.
Many visitors opt for guided tours that include the train journey and exploration of Papar. These tours often provide a more comprehensive experience with local insights.
Once in Papar, most of the exploration is done on foot, especially during market days. Your tour guide will likely lead you through the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official North Borneo Railway website or authorized tour operators for the most current pricing. Guided tours often bundle the train ticket with other activities.
Tickets can usually be purchased online through the official North Borneo Railway website or through various tour agencies in Kota Kinabalu. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
The railway operates on specific days, often with one departure per day. It's crucial to check the schedule as it can change. Thursday is particularly popular due to the Papar market.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or group bookings. Inquire with the ticket vendor or tour operator when booking.
A standard train ticket usually covers the round-trip journey. However, many visitors opt for guided tours which include the train ride, market visits, food tasting, and historical commentary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
In Papar, you can explore the local Thursday market (if visiting on a Thursday), sample traditional snacks and fruits, visit historical sites, and enjoy lunch at a local eatery.
Some tours may offer light refreshments or snacks onboard. However, the main culinary experience is often enjoyed during the stop in Papar, with opportunities for food tasting and lunch.
Guides often share insights into Sabah's history, including World War II events, local culture, and the heritage of the North Borneo Railway itself.
Absolutely! The vintage train and the scenic route are very photogenic. Many visitors capture great OOTDs and scenic shots.
Many travelers highly recommend taking a guided tour that combines the train journey with a visit to Papar, as it provides context and enhances the cultural and historical understanding.
📸 📸 Photography
The vintage steam engine itself, the interior of the carriages, and the scenic countryside views during the journey are prime photo opportunities.
Yes, the local market, traditional shops, and historical buildings in Papar offer great photographic subjects. Guides often help capture group photos.
Morning departures often provide good natural light for photography. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can also be beautiful if there's an evening service.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for the train interiors and landscapes, and a telephoto lens for capturing details from a distance.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and permissions. It's best to check with the railway operator and local authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Papar, the local market can be a sensory adventure for kids, with colorful sights, sounds, and smells. Sampling local fruits and snacks is often a hit with younger travelers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The destination, Papar, also presents a wealth of photographic subjects. The bustling local market is a vibrant scene, perfect for capturing candid moments, colorful produce, and local life.
🏛️ History & Culture Buffs
In Papar, the cultural immersion continues with visits to local markets and historical sites. Understanding the local way of life, sampling traditional foods, and learning about the town's heritage provides a deep dive into the heart of Sabah.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heritage of the North Borneo Railway
The experience is often enhanced by the guides who share stories about the railway's history, its role in the local economy, and its significance during different periods, including World War II. This historical context adds a rich layer to the journey, transforming it from a simple train ride into an educational and immersive cultural experience.
A Journey Through Time
The train's route takes passengers through scenic rural landscapes, offering a different perspective of Sabah away from the bustling city. The carriages themselves are a point of interest, often featuring comfortable seating and decorative elements that transport you back in time. Some videos highlight the karaoke facilities within the carriages, adding a fun, modern twist to the vintage setting.
Exploring Papar's Charm
The destination, typically Papar, is as much a part of the experience as the train ride. Papar is known for its local market, especially on Thursdays, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, sample traditional foods, and purchase local produce.
Culinary Delights of Papar
Many reviews highlight the chance to try traditional foods, with some tours even including visits to family-run eateries that have been serving the community for generations. The experience of enjoying a meal, such as the 'best noodle soup' at an old, established shop, is often cited as a memorable part of the day.
A Taste of Tradition
The guides play a crucial role in introducing visitors to these culinary gems. They often lead food tasting sessions, explaining the ingredients and cultural significance of each dish.
Practical Foodie Tips
For those planning to indulge, it's advised to come hungry and perhaps bring a bag for any local produce you might want to take home.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit