Kundasang War Memorial
A solemn tribute to Allied POWs of WWII, featuring serene gardens and historical exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Clearer views of Mt. Kinabalu
Kundasang War Memorial
Best Time
Clearer views of Mt. Kinabalu
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn tribute to Allied POWs of WWII, featuring serene gardens and historical exhibits.
"A poignant reminder of sacrifice, with beautiful gardens offering peace and reflection."
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking is available nearby, making access to the memorial convenient. :car:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
A modest fee (RM5 for Malaysians) contributes to the upkeep of this important historical site. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Australian Garden
Kundasang War Memorial
A serene garden dedicated to Australian soldiers, featuring diverse flora and a peaceful atmosphere.
English Rose Garden
Kundasang War Memorial
A charming collection of roses, offering a splash of color and a fragrant escape amidst the memorial grounds.
Borneon Garden
Kundasang War Memorial
Showcasing native plants of Borneo, this garden connects the memorial to its local environment.
Contemplation Garden
Kundasang War Memorial
A poignant space designed for reflection, offering a quiet spot to remember the sacrifices made.
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Memorial Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking is available nearby, making access to the memorial convenient. :car:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
A modest fee (RM5 for Malaysians) contributes to the upkeep of this important historical site. :moneybag:
🌸 Garden Maintenance
While some gardens are well-tended, others could use more upkeep. Appreciate the effort and beauty present. :flower:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the historical significance and natural beauty, but remember to be respectful. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking is available nearby, making access to the memorial convenient. :car:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
A modest fee (RM5 for Malaysians) contributes to the upkeep of this important historical site. :moneybag:
🌸 Garden Maintenance
While some gardens are well-tended, others could use more upkeep. Appreciate the effort and beauty present. :flower:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the historical significance and natural beauty, but remember to be respectful. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Peaceful Reflection
Take time to absorb the history and the serene atmosphere of the memorial. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kundasang War Memorial a poignant and historically significant site, appreciating the themed gardens and the opportunity for reflection. While some areas could benefit from more upkeep, the memorial's affordability and peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for understanding a crucial part of WWII history. The gardens offer a beautiful setting for remembrance and photography. [^Review]
"Overrated place, charging entrance fee claiming as maintenance fee but not doing any maintenance. It was very obvious this place is lacking maintenance, dirty and everywhere stain of alga or lots of dried leaves. Many photos on google review are old photos, yes, they looked nice but that was many years ago. Now it look totally different and feel like abandoned place, yet they charge entrance fee. There is a small shop there, one of the guy working there has super bad attitude. When asking the direction to toilet he basically stared without answering, but, remember, on top of charging entrance fee they also charge toilet fee. And for the toilet is was super weird that they wrote on the wall asking you to save water DONT FLUSH….. I don’t recommend coming here, for any tourist."
siauhwa tew
"Kundasang War Memorial is a must visit place in Kundasang. It commemorate a horrific event of WWII where 2428 prisoners of war died. The memorial is on a hill behind Kundasang market.
Inside we will find Australian Garden, English Rose Garden and Borneon Garden to mark the origins of the many POW. And the Contemplation Garden offers a poignant reminder of the horrors of war.
Plenty of parking nearby. There is a small entrance fee."
SY Teo
"A place of memorial and tribute to all those lost lives during world war 2. Didn't learn this in Sejarah though. Great opportunity to learn about the real history with the existence of this kinda memorial."
Mohan Raj Kalaiselvi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car. The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You can rent a car or hire a taxi. Some tour packages also include transportation to Kundasang and its attractions. +2
Yes, it's definitely possible to visit as a day trip, but it will be a long day. You'll need to start early to make the most of your time and account for travel.
The roads are generally well-maintained, but can be winding as you ascend. Driving requires attention, especially if you're not used to mountain roads.
Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. Renting a car or joining a tour is generally more convenient for visiting the memorial and other attractions in the area.
Yes, driving your own car is a popular option. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountain driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entrance fee. For Malaysians, it's RM5. Foreigners may have a different fee. The fee helps maintain the memorial. [^Review]
The memorial is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's advisable to check locally or with your tour provider for the most up-to-date information.
Advance booking is typically not required for individual visitors. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. [^Review]
Mornings often offer clearer views of Mount Kinabalu and a more peaceful atmosphere. However, the memorial is a place for reflection at any time.
Information on discounts for specific groups like students or seniors is not widely available. It's best to inquire at the entrance. [^Review]
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the Australian Garden, English Rose Garden, Borneon Garden, and the Contemplation Garden. It's a place for historical reflection and enjoying the natural beauty. [^Review]
Yes, children can learn about history here. The gardens offer a pleasant environment, but the historical context might require explanation. [^Review]
A visit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the gardens and reflect on the history.
Restroom facilities are usually available at the memorial site. [^Review]
The gardens represent the origins of the prisoners of war: Australian, English, and native Borneon. The Contemplation Garden is for quiet reflection. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
The various gardens offer beautiful backdrops, especially the rose garden. The overall serene atmosphere also makes for great reflective shots. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, it's important to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
Drone usage is typically restricted at memorial sites to maintain peace and respect. It's best to avoid flying drones here.
Early mornings often provide soft, natural light and clearer views of Mount Kinabalu in the background, weather permitting. +1
While not explicitly stated, avoid intrusive photography that disturbs other visitors or disrespects the memorial's purpose.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider explaining the memorial's purpose in age-appropriate terms. Focus on the bravery of the soldiers and the importance of remembering their stories. The visual elements of the gardens can help make the experience more tangible for children. Ensure you allocate enough time for them to wander and ask questions. [^Review]
🤔 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in Kundasang that also offer good value, such as the Desa Dairy Farm or local markets. Many tour packages also include the memorial, which can be cost-effective if you're planning to visit multiple sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance
The memorial is thoughtfully laid out with distinct gardens representing the soldiers' homelands. The Australian Garden, English Rose Garden, and Borneon Garden each offer a unique ambiance, filled with flora that evokes a sense of place and remembrance. The Contemplation Garden provides a quiet space for visitors to reflect on the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit. [^Review]
Visiting the Kundasang War Memorial is more than just sightseeing; it's an opportunity to connect with a significant historical event and pay respects to those who lost their lives. The stories, pictures, and letters displayed within the memorial's cabins offer a deeply moving glimpse into their experiences, touching the hearts of many visitors. [^Review]
Exploring the Gardens
The Borneon Garden highlights the unique biodiversity of the region, showcasing local flora that connects the memorial to its immediate surroundings. This garden serves as a reminder of the land where these soldiers made their final stand. Together, these themed gardens create a diverse and engaging landscape that complements the memorial's historical narrative. [^Review]
While some visitors note that certain areas of the gardens could benefit from more maintenance, the overall beauty and serenity are undeniable. The presence of flowers and well-kept paths contribute to a peaceful atmosphere, making it a pleasant place to wander and reflect. [^Review]
Social
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