If you’re traveling along the picturesque mountain route from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang, you’ll likely encounter one of Sabah’s most charming roadside gems, Pekan Nabalu Market. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu, vibrant handicraft stalls, and local produce, this lively market is more than just a pit stop.
Pekan Nabalu Market embodies the essence of Sabah’s highland culture that colorful, community-driven, and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs, trying local delicacies like tuhau or bosou, or just stretching your legs while admiring the mountain panorama, this small-town marketplace is worth every minute of your journey.
What Is Pekan Nabalu Market?
Location & Background
Pekan Nabalu is a quaint roadside town situated at the border of Kota Belud, Tuaran, and Ranau districts roughly 12 km before Kinabalu Park when traveling from Kota Kinabalu (KK) toward Kundasang. The market serves as a rest and viewpoint, offering one of the best panoramic spots for capturing Mount Kinabalu on camera especially in the early morning. Established decades ago, by local villagers, it evolved from a small produce stop into a lively marketplace for Sabah handicrafts, fruits, and souvenirs. Its strategic location has made it a must-visit stop for tour buses and self-drive travelers heading to the highlands. Beyond commerce, it plays a key role in sustaining local livelihoods and preserving indigenous arts.
Fun fact: The name “Nabalu” originates from the Kadazan-Dusun language, meaning “spirit of the mountain”, referencing the local reverence for Mount Kinabalu.
What You’ll Find at Pekan Nabalu Market
Fresh Highland Produce
The market is famous for its fresh fruits and vegetables, grown in the cool highlands of Kundasang and Ranau. You’ll find:
- Crunchy cabbages, carrots, tomatoes, and potatoes
- Sweet pineapples, bananas, avocados, and passion fruits
- Locally grown ginger, herbs, and nuts
These goods are harvested daily from nearby farms and sold directly by the farmers, ensuring quality and freshness at unbeatable prices. If you love cooking or want to sample something local, pick up tuhau, a wild ginger stem delicacy or hill rice, known for its nutty aroma and chewy texture.
Local Snacks & Traditional Foods
Beyond the fresh produce, Pekan Nabalu Market offers a glimpse into Sabah’s culinary culture. Try these local favorites:
- Tuhau — A pungent wild ginger dish often pickled or fried.
- Bosou — Fermented fish mixed with rice and salt, a Kadazan-Dusun specialty.
- Hinava — Marinated raw fish with lime, chili, and ginger (available at nearby stalls).
- Kuih cincin and amplang — Traditional snacks perfect for souvenirs.
Many stalls sell ready-to-eat fruits, roasted peanuts, and even local honey, which makes an excellent travel gift.
Handicrafts & Souvenirs
If you’re searching for authentic keepsakes, Pekan Nabalu Market is a treasure trove of locally made handicrafts.
You’ll find:
- Beaded jewelry and bracelets crafted by Dusun women
- Woven baskets and rattan bags
- Wood carvings depicting wildlife or tribal motifs
- Miniature Mount Kinabalu replicas
- Traditional musical instruments like the sompoton
Prices are typically more affordable than in Kota Kinabalu city souvenir shops. Bargaining is acceptable but always approach with politeness, it’s part of the fun and cultural exchange!
Viewpoint & Watchtower
One of the most memorable parts of Pekan Nabalu Market is its iconic viewing tower. Standing about 15 meters tall, it offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding valley and, on clear mornings, an unobstructed view of Mount Kinabalu. This spot is a photographer’s paradise, especially between 7 AM and 9 AM when the mountain is bathed in golden light. There are also multiple roadside platforms where you can pose with local handicraft decorations or scenic backdrops.
Tip: Cloud cover increases after 10 AM, so plan your visit early to capture that postcard-perfect shot.
How to Get to Pekan Nabalu Market
From Kota Kinabalu
Pekan Nabalu is located about 40 km from Kota Kinabalu along the KK–Ranau highway. If you’re self-driving, just follow signboards toward Kinabalu Park or Kundasang.
By Tour or Shared Van
Most organized Kinabalu Park or Kundasang tours include a stop at Pekan Nabalu Market for about 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a shared minibus from Kota Kinabalu’s Padang Merdeka Terminal bound for Kundasang or Ranau and ask the driver to drop you at Pekan Nabalu.
If you are looking for transportation, you can look at Sabah Car Rental and make a booking
Opening Hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
While open all day, the market is most vibrant in the morning hours, with fresher produce and clearer skies.
Tips for Visitors to Pekan Nabalu Market
Bring Cash & Small Change
Many vendors don’t accept credit cards or QR payments, so carry Malaysian Ringgit in small denominations (RM1–RM20).
Bargain Gently
Negotiating is common but keep it respectful. A friendly smile and light conversation often get you a better deal than aggressive haggling.
Be Hygienic
When sampling fruits or snacks, choose those freshly prepared or sealed. Bring wet wipes or sanitizer.
Weather & Photography
- Best time: 7 AM – 10 AM (clear skies)
- Avoid: 12 PM – 3 PM (thick cloud cover)
- Photography gear: Camera or smartphone with a polarizing filter to reduce haze
Pack Light but Smart
Carry a reusable bag, sunscreen, hat, and bottle of water. The market area is small but can get sunny by midday.
Nearby Attractions Around Pekan Nabalu Market
| Destination | Distance | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Kinabalu National Park | 12 km | UNESCO World Heritage Site, nature trails, mountain museum |
| Kundasang Town | 20 km | Vegetable market, cool air, scenic valley views |
| Desa Dairy Farm | 25 km | “Little New Zealand” with cows and rolling hills |
| Poring Hot Springs | 45 km | Natural thermal pools, canopy walkway, butterfly farm |
| Kota Belud Sunday Market | 40 km | Traditional open-air market showcasing Bajau culture |
By combining Pekan Nabalu with these spots, you can create an amazing one-day or weekend highland adventure.
The Cultural Heartbeat of the Highlands
The charm of Pekan Nabalu Market lies in its people. The vendors are primarily Dusun villagers which are friendly, hardworking, and proud of their craft. Conversations here often lead to cultural insights about farming traditions, highland lifestyles, or stories about Mount Kinabalu’s folklore. If you’re lucky, you might visit on a festival day, when local music or small cultural performances take place. Even without events, the market atmosphere itself feels festive, full of laughter, chatter, and vibrant color.
Facilities & Amenities
Pekan Nabalu Market has ample parking spaces, public toilets, and a few food stalls and cafés. Small homestays and guesthouses are nearby if you wish to stay overnight. There’s also a petrol station about 2 km down the road toward Kinabalu Park, convenient for travelers on self-drive trips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Pekan Nabalu Market worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s a cultural stop, a photography spot, and a great place to shop for authentic Sabah souvenirs.
Q2: Can I see Mount Kinabalu clearly from Pekan Nabalu?
Yes, but only if the weather is clear — usually early in the morning.
Q3: What are the must-try foods at Pekan Nabalu Market?
Tuhau, bosou, hinava, local fruits, and handmade snacks like amplang and kuih cincin.
Q4: Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available on-site, though it gets busy around 9–10 AM when tour buses arrive.
Q5: Is the market child-friendly?
Yes, but keep an eye on kids as the market area can be crowded and uneven in some places.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Pekan Nabalu Market
Stopping at Pekan Nabalu Market transforms an ordinary road trip into a cultural discovery. You’ll experience Sabah’s warmth, taste its highland produce, and enjoy one of the most scenic mountain viewpoints in Borneo. It’s not just a pit stop it’s a place that connects travelers to the heart of Sabah’s local life.
Embrace the Spirit of Pekan Nabalu Market
Whether you’re an adventurous backpacker, a photographer chasing Mount Kinabalu’s silhouette, or a family exploring the highlands, Pekan Nabalu Market is an unmissable stop that captures the essence of Sabah’s charm. Here, every smile from a vendor, every handmade bead necklace, and every fruit basket tells a story of community, heritage, and pride. So next time you’re journeying to Kundasang or Kinabalu Park, slow down, take a break, and soak in the sights at Pekan Nabalu Market, a humble yet unforgettable highlight of your Sabah adventure.
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