1. What are the best activities to do around Poring Hot Springs?
Some of the best activities to do around Poring Hot Springs are:
1. Soaking in the hot springs: The main attraction of Poring Hot Springs is, of course, its natural hot springs. Soak yourself in the warm and mineral-rich waters for a relaxing and therapeutic experience.
2. Canopy walk: Go on an exhilarating canopy walk high above the rainforest canopy, giving you a bird’s eye view of the surrounding jungle.
3. Butterfly farm: Visit Poring’s butterfly farm where you can see a variety of colorful butterflies fluttering around in their natural habitat.
4. Orchid conservation center: Explore the orchid conservation center to learn about different types of orchids and their conservation efforts.
5. Rafflesia flower: Take a short hike to see the largest flower in the world, the Rafflesia flower, which can grow up to 3 feet wide.
6. Trekking and hiking: Poring is surrounded by lush rainforests filled with various trails for treks and hikes, ranging from easy to challenging levels.
7. Botanical garden: Visit Poring’s botanical garden to see a variety of tropical plants and flowers while enjoying a leisurely walk.
8. Hot spring baths and massage: After a long day of activities, relax your muscles with a hot spring bath or indulge in a traditional massage at one of the spa centers near Poring Hot Springs.
9. Ziplining: For an adrenaline rush, zipline through the rainforest at Poring’s zipline park.
10. Local cuisine: Don’t forget to try some local dishes at the food stalls near Poring Hot Springs, offering delicious Malaysian food such as satay, roti canai, and nasi lemak.
2. How do you get to Poring Hot Springs from Thailand?
There are no direct flights from Thailand to Poring Hot Springs. The best way to reach Poring Hot Springs from Thailand would be to take a flight to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah in Malaysia and then travel by road to Ranau where the hot springs are located. From Kota Kinabalu, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Ranau, which is approximately 90 km away. You can also hire a private transfer or join a tour group that includes transportation to Poring Hot Springs.
3. Are there any hiking trails near Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, there are several hiking trails near Poring Hot Springs. Some popular options include:
– The Poring Orchid Conservation Center Trail, which takes visitors through a lush jungle and past an orchid conservation center.
– The Langanan Waterfall Trail, a challenging hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
– The Poring Canopy Walkway Trail, a 157-meter long suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the rainforest below.
– The Bukit Atur Trail, which takes hikers through mossy forests and offers panoramic views at the summit.
4. Can you go on a wildlife viewing tour in the surrounding area?
Yes, it is possible to go on a wildlife viewing tour in the surrounding area. There are many tour companies and national parks that offer guided tours to spot various types of wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. These tours can be done by vehicle, walking, or even hot air balloon rides for a unique experience. However, it is important to follow all safety guidelines and respect the animals’ natural habitat during these tours.
5. Is it possible to see Mount Kinabalu from Poring Hot Springs?
No, Poring Hot Springs is located about 42km from Mount Kinabalu and does not offer views of the mountain. To see Mount Kinabalu, you can visit the Kinabalu National Park or take a hike along one of the designated trails in the park.
6. What is the recommended time of day to visit Poring Hot Springs?
The recommended time of day to visit Poring Hot Springs is in the morning, before it gets too crowded and the sun becomes too hot. The hot springs are also usually open until late afternoon, so visitors can also plan to arrive in the late afternoon for a more relaxing and quieter experience.
7. Are there any waterfalls nearby that are worth visiting?
Yes, there are several waterfalls nearby that are worth visiting. Some popular ones include Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, Proxy Falls near McKenzie Bridge, Silver Falls State Park near Salem, and Abiqua Falls near Silverton.
8. Can you swim in the hot springs at Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, visitors are allowed to swim in the hot springs at Poring Hot Springs. The hot springs offer both public and private pools for swimming, as well as a nearby river for a refreshing dip. However, visitors should be aware of any pool rules and guidelines set by the management and follow proper safety precautions when swimming in the hot springs.
9. What types of accommodations are available near Poring Hot Springs?
There are several types of accommodations available near Poring Hot Springs, including:
1. Resorts and Hotels: There are a few resorts and hotels located within a short distance from Poring Hot Springs, offering comfortable rooms and amenities such as pools, restaurants, and spa services.
2. Guesthouses: There are also guesthouses located near Poring Hot Springs that offer budget-friendly accommodations with basic facilities such as shared bathrooms and communal spaces.
3. Homestays: For a more local experience, there are homestays available in the nearby villages where visitors can stay with a local family and learn about their way of life.
4. Campsites: There is a campsite located within the Poring Hot Springs area, providing basic facilities for campers who want to be close to nature.
5. Lodges: There are also simple lodges located in the surrounding rainforest areas that offer basic accommodations for hikers or travelers on a budget.
6. Chalets: Some accommodations near Poring Hot Springs offer chalets or cabins that provide a cozy and private space for guests to relax in after a day of exploring.
7. Airbnb Rentals: There may be some Airbnb rentals available in the nearby towns or villages, offering unique accommodations such as traditional longhouses or farm stays.
8. Camping Pods: For a unique experience, some places near Poring Hot Springs offer camping pods which are small dome-shaped structures equipped with basic amenities like beds and electricity.
9. Dormitories: For budget travelers, there are dormitory-style accommodations available in hostels or guesthouses near Poring Hot Springs that offer shared rooms with bunk beds.
10. Is camping allowed in the area?
It depends on the specific area you are interested in. Some public lands, such as state parks and national forests, allow camping with a permit. Camping may also be allowed on private land with permission from the owner. It is important to research the specific regulations and obtain any necessary permits before camping in a particular area.
11. Are there any guided tours offered for outdoor activities around Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, Poring Hot Springs offers guided tours for popular outdoor activities such as hiking to the nearby waterfalls or climbing Mount Kinabalu. These tours can be arranged at the Poring Hot Springs ticket counter or through tour agencies in the surrounding area. Prices and availability may vary, so it is best to inquire directly with the hot springs staff for more information.
12. How far is the nearest beach from Poring Hot Springs?
The nearest beach from Poring Hot Springs is about 20 kilometers away.
13. Can you rent equipment for outdoor activities at Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, visitors can rent equipment for outdoor activities at Poring Hot Springs. The rental fees vary depending on the type of equipment and duration of use. Some common equipment available for rent include hiking shoes, rain gear, camping tents, and trekking poles. Visitors can inquire about rental options at the information center or from designated vendors located within the park.
14. Is it possible to go white water rafting in this area?
Yes, it is possible to go white water rafting in this area. There are several rivers that offer white water rafting opportunities, such as the New River Gorge in West Virginia and the Shenandoah River in Virginia. These areas also have companies that offer guided white water rafting trips for visitors.
15. Are there any cultural experiences or local villages to visit near Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, there are several cultural experiences and local villages near Poring Hot Springs that visitors can visit. Some of these include:
1) Kundasang War Memorial: This memorial site was built to commemorate the Australian and British Prisoners of War who died during the infamous Sandakan Death Marches in World War II.
2) Sabah Tea Garden: Located about 2 hours from Poring Hot Springs, this tea plantation offers visitors an opportunity to learn about tea production and sample different types of local tea.
3) Dusun Village Homestay: This village homestay program allows visitors to experience the daily life of a traditional Dusun community, including participating in cultural activities and trying local cuisine.
4) Tana Lot Village: This traditional Kadazandusun village is known for its handicrafts, including bamboo weaving and wood carving. Visitors can also try out traditional cooking methods and taste local delicacies here.
5) Rungus Longhouse: The Rungus people are one of Sabah’s indigenous tribes, known for their distinctive longhouses with intricate wood carvings. One such longhouse can be visited near Poring Hot Springs.
6) Nabalu Handicraft Market: Located at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, this market is a popular spot for buying locally-made handicrafts such as woven bags, beads, bamboo crafts, and traditional musical instruments.
16. Is bird watching a popular activity around Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, bird watching is a popular activity around Poring Hot Springs. The surrounding tropical rainforest is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers. Some of the birds that can be spotted in the area include hornbills, kingfishers, sunbirds, and trogons. Guided bird watching tours are also available for those interested in learning more about the local avifauna.
17. What is the weather like in this region and does it affect outdoor activities?
The weather in this region varies depending on the time of year, but generally it is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching into the high 80s or low 90s Fahrenheit, while winters can be mild with temperatures hovering around freezing. The spring and fall seasons are usually comfortable and mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
The region experiences all four seasons, so there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, and skiing. However, the weather can occasionally affect these activities. Thunderstorms and extreme temperatures in the summer may limit outdoor activities such as hiking or camping. In winter, heavy snow or icy conditions may make it unsafe to engage in activities like skiing or snowshoeing. It is always important to check the weather forecast before planning any outdoor activities in this region.
18. Can you go mountain biking or cycling near Poring Hot Springs?
Yes, there are several mountain biking and cycling trails near Poring Hot Springs in Sabah, Malaysia. There is a cycling route that goes through the scenic Kinabalu National Park, which can be accessed from Poring Hot Springs. Additionally, there are several guided mountain biking tours that take visitors on more challenging routes through the surrounding forests and hills. Visitors can also rent bicycles at Poring Village for a more leisurely ride around the area.
19.Can you recommend any specific restaurants or food stalls near Poring Hot Spring for a post-activity meal?
There are a few options for post-activity meals near Poring Hot Spring that you can consider:
1. The Sakura Restaurant – Located within the Poring Hot Spring area, this restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes at reasonable prices.
2. Kinabalu Jungle Restaurant – This nearby restaurant is known for their delicious Chinese cuisine and seafood dishes. It’s just a short drive from Poring Hot Spring.
3. Warung Mama – If you’re in the mood for some local Malaysian food, head to Warung Mama which serves authentic homemade curries and stir-fries at affordable prices.
4. Mesilau Nature Resort Restaurant – For a more upscale dining option, you can visit this restaurant which is about 10 minutes’ drive from Poring Hot Spring. They serve a blend of Asian and Western cuisines with stunning views of Mount Kinabalu.
5. Street Food Stalls – Finally, if you prefer to try out some street food, there are several food stalls near Poring Hot Spring where you can find traditional Malaysian snacks such as satay, fried noodles, and more. These stalls are usually open in the evenings and offer delicious options at very affordable prices.
20.Can you spot any unique flora or fauna while exploring the surrounding areas of Poringshita?
Yes, there is a wide variety of unique flora and fauna in the surrounding areas of Poringshita. Some popular sightings include:
– Rafflesia: This is the largest flower in the world and can be found in Mount Kinabalu National Park, which is close to Porings Hot Springs. The flower has a very distinct smell similar to rotting meat.
– Pitcher plants (Nepenthes sp.): These carnivorous plants can also be found in Mount Kinabalu National Park and have interesting pitcher-shaped leaves that trap insects.
– Bornean orangutans: These critically endangered primates are endemic to Borneo and can sometimes be spotted in the forests near Poringshita.
– Proboscis monkeys: Another primate species that is native to Borneo, these monkeys have distinctive large noses and can often be seen along riverbanks near Porings Hot Springs.
– Bird species: The surrounding rainforests are home to a diverse range of bird species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and mountain barbets.
It is important to remember to respect these species and their habitats by following all rules and regulations while exploring the area.