Poring Hot Spring Guide: Incredible Canopy Walks, Waterfalls & Sulphur Baths (2025)

Q: 1. How much is the entrance fee to Poring Hot Spring in 2025?

The conservation fee is RM10 for Malaysian adults and RM5 for children under 17, while international visitors pay RM50 for adults and RM25 for children. Additional charges apply for attractions like the canopy walkway, butterfly farm, slide pool, and private bathtubs.

Q: 3. Can children enjoy Poring Hot Spring?

Yes! There are kid-friendly pools, butterfly gardens, and easy waterfall hikes.

Q: 4. How far is Poring Hot Spring from Kota Kinabalu?

About 136 km, roughly 2.5–3 hours by car.

Q: 5. What is Poring Hot Spring famous for?

Its natural sulphur hot baths, canopy walk, and beautiful waterfalls.

Introduction

Tucked away in the foothills of Mount Kinabalu lies one of Sabah’s most unique destinations — the Poring Hot Spring. This natural wonder has earned its place on the bucket list of countless travelers because it combines the best of both worlds: relaxation and adventure.

Known for its soothing sulphur-rich pools, towering rainforest canopy walkway, and refreshing waterfalls, the site offers something for every kind of traveler. Families come to bond, couples visit to unwind, and adventurers seek the thrill of nature trails, making it an all-in-one stop that highlights the natural beauty of Borneo.

If you’re planning a holiday to Kundasang, adding Poring Hot Spring to your travel plan guarantees a refreshing and memorable escape.

To learn more about this wonderful attraction, read on and let this Poring Hot Spring guide take you through everything you need to know — from entrance fees and opening hours to things to do, the best time to visit, and nearby stays.

Poring Hot Spring Overview

The Poring Hot Spring is part of Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its biodiversity and natural wonders. Located about 136 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, it offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life.

The name “Poring” itself comes from a type of bamboo that thrives in the area, and the destination has long been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its unique blend of relaxation and exploration.

What sets Poring Hot Spring apart from other attractions in Sabah is the combination of natural hot baths and immersive rainforest adventures.

On one side, you can soak away your fatigue in steaming sulphur pools believed to ease muscle tension and improve blood circulation. On the other hand, you can step into a world of adventure by taking the famous canopy walk or hiking to one of the nearby waterfalls.

This balance between wellness and exploration is what makes Poring Hot Spring an unmissable destination for anyone traveling through Kundasang or Ranau.

How to Get to Poring Hot Spring from Kota Kinabalu

Reaching Poring Hot Spring from Kota Kinabalu is straightforward, though the journey itself is part of the adventure.

By car, it takes about two and a half to three hours, covering a scenic 136-kilometer route through mountain roads and rural landscapes.

Many travelers opt to rent a private car or hire a driver for convenience, allowing them to stop at other attractions such as Kinabalu Park or Pekan Nabalu along the way.

For those on a tighter budget, minibuses and shared vans can be taken from Kota Kinabalu to Ranau, followed by a taxi to Poring.

Joining a guided tour is another popular option for reaching Poring Hot Spring. Many tour operators in Kota Kinabalu offer day trips that include stops at multiple attractions, making it an efficient way to see more in one journey.

These tours often provide added value with transport, entry fees, and sometimes meals included.

Regardless of whether you choose to go independently or with a tour, the drive to Poring Hot Spring is filled with scenic views, making the journey just as rewarding as the destination.

Ways to get to Poring Hot Spring

By Car: 2.5–3 hours (136 km) via Ranau road. Renting a car gives you flexibility.
By Tour Package: Many local operators include Poring Hot Spring in Kundasang day trip itineraries along with Desa Dairy Farm and Kinabalu Park.
By Public Transport: Minibuses from Kota Kinabalu to Ranau, then a taxi to Poring. Less convenient but budget-friendly.

Poring Hot Spring Entrance Fee and Opening Hours

Visiting Poring Hot Spring has never been easier to plan now that we have the latest details from Sabah Parks’ official site.

Currently, entry to the site is based on a conservation fee: Malaysians aged 18 and above pay RM10, while children under 17 pay RM5. Notably, children under 12, seniors over 60, and people with disabilities enjoy free admission.

For international visitors, the rate is RM50 per adult and RM25 per child under 17.

If you’re planning to wander beyond the pools, additional attractions like the canopy walkway come with their own fees—RM5 for Malaysian adults, RM3 for local children, RM10 for international adults, and RM8 for international children.

You can also enjoy the slide pool for RM3 (Malaysian) or RM5 (international) per person for a three-hour session. Meanwhile, the open-air bathtubs cost RM10 per unit for the first three hours, followed by an additional RM10 per subsequent interval, and there are even premium options like deluxe and standard hourly bathtubs available too.

Additionally, the operating hours make it convenient to plan a full day of exploration, with Poring Hot Spring open daily from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM.

The main gate, along with the canopy walkway, closes at 3:00 PM, so arriving early ensures you can enjoy the pools, visit the gardens, or hike to the waterfalls without rushing. The butterfly farm, in contrast, opens slightly later at 9:00 AM and closes at 4:00 PM.

Quick Reference (Fees)

Conservation Fee (Malaysian): RM10 (Adult, 18+), RM5 (Child <17), Free for under 12 / over 60 / persons with disability
Conservation Fee (International): RM50 (Adult), RM25 (Child <17)
Canopy Walkway Fee: Malaysians RM5 (Adult), RM3 (Child); International RM10 (Adult), RM8 (Child)
Slide Pool: RM3 (Malaysian) / RM5 (International) per person (3-hour session)
Open Bathtub: RM10 per unit for first 3 hours; +RM10 per additional 3 hours; Deluxe and Standard hourly options available

Quick Reference (Opening Hours)

Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last Entry (Gate & Canopy Walkway): 3:00 PM
Butterfly Farm Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Things to Do at Poring Hot Spring

1. Relax in the Sulphur Baths & Pools

The highlight of Poring Hot Spring has always been its sulphur baths, which are believed to have natural healing properties. Visitors come to soak in these warm waters, which are said to ease joint pain, relax sore muscles, and rejuvenate the skin.

You can choose from open-air pools where families gather and children splash around, or opt for private cabins that offer a more intimate and quiet soaking experience.

Beyond the physical benefits, spending time in the pools at Poring Hot Spring is a deeply relaxing experience. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, it’s easy to feel connected to nature while enjoying the therapeutic qualities of the baths.

Many travelers even combine their visit to the pools with a trek to the nearby waterfalls, rewarding themselves with a soak afterwards.

Be it for health, leisure, or simple relaxation, the sulphur baths are a must-try part of the Poring Hot Spring experience.

2. Walk Among the Trees at the Canopy Walk

One of the most thrilling experiences at Poring Hot Spring is the canopy walk, which takes visitors high above the rainforest floor.

Suspended on hanging bridges about 40 meters above ground, this attraction allows you to walk among the treetops and admire the rainforest from a completely new perspective.

The sense of adventure combined with sweeping views makes it one of the most popular things to do here, and it offers fantastic photo opportunities for those brave enough to look down.

The Poring Hot Spring canopy walk is also a chance to appreciate the incredible biodiversity of the forest. As you make your way across the walkway, you might hear the calls of birds or catch a glimpse of exotic plants clinging to tree trunks. It’s an experience that blends adrenaline with awe, offering both excitement and education.

For travelers who want a taste of adventure without a long hike, the canopy walk provides the perfect way to enjoy the rainforest in style.

3. Discover Poring Hot Spring Waterfalls

The waterfalls near Poring Hot Spring are another reason travelers love this destination.

The Kipungit Waterfall is the closest and most accessible, requiring only about 20 minutes of walking through the forest. It’s a favorite for families and those looking for a quick dose of nature.

On the other hand, the Langanan Waterfall is one of Sabah’s tallest, towering at 120 meters, and requires a more challenging trek of about an hour and a half each way.

Both waterfalls offer serene surroundings and refreshing pools perfect for a dip after your hike.

What makes these waterfalls truly special is the way they complement the Poring Hot Spring experience. Many visitors choose to spend their morning trekking to the falls and then reward themselves with a hot soak afterwards.

The combination of cool, cascading waters and warm sulphur baths creates a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. For nature lovers, the trek itself is as rewarding as the destination, with plenty of chances to spot butterflies, orchids, and other unique flora along the way.

4. Explore the Orchids & Butterfly Farm

Another attraction that adds to the charm of Poring Hot Spring is the orchid and butterfly farm.

The Orchid Conservation Centre is home to over a thousand species of orchids, including the rare and delicate Rothschild’s slipper orchid, which is endemic to Mount Kinabalu.

Walking through this garden feels like stepping into a living museum of Sabah’s botanical treasures, and it’s a treat for photographers and plant enthusiasts.

Next to the orchids is the butterfly farm, where colorful species such as the Rajah Brooke’s birdwing flutter gracefully in a large enclosure. Visiting this part of Poring Hot Spring is not just relaxing but also educational, especially for children who get to see up close the beauty and importance of these fragile creatures.

These two provide a gentle contrast to the more adventurous activities, making them a must-visit for travelers who want to experience every side of Poring Hot Spring.

5. Family Activities at Poring Hot Spring

Families will find Poring Hot Spring to be a versatile destination with something for all ages. Children can enjoy splashing in the shallow pools designed for younger visitors, while parents can relax in the warmer sulphur baths nearby.

The butterfly farm and orchid center are both family-friendly attractions that allow kids to learn about nature in a fun and interactive way. Short treks to Kipungit Waterfall are also suitable for families and provide just enough adventure without being too demanding.

Visiting Poring Hot Spring as a family is a chance to bond over shared experiences, whether that’s walking the canopy bridges together, spotting colorful butterflies, or soaking in the pools at the end of the day.

Best Time to Visit Poring Hot Spring

When planning your trip to Poring Hot Spring, timing makes a huge difference in your overall experience.

The climate in this part of Sabah is tropical, meaning rain and sunshine alternate throughout the year. The most recommended period to visit is between February and May, when the skies are generally clear, the weather is pleasant, and the trails leading to the waterfalls or canopy walk are less slippery.

During these months, you’ll also enjoy better views of the surrounding rainforest and more time to explore multiple attractions within the park.

Visiting Poring Hot Spring early in the morning is also ideal, especially for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. By starting your day early, you’ll have the pools almost to yourself, fewer crowds along the canopy walkway, and cooler conditions for short treks.

While the monsoon season from November to January brings heavier rainfall and less predictable weather, travelers who don’t mind the showers can still enjoy the baths, though hikes and canopy walks may be less comfortable.

Poring Hot Spring Accommodation Nearby

If you want to spend more time at Poring Hot Spring, staying overnight nearby is a great choice.

There are jungle lodges within the park itself, offering a rustic experience surrounded by nature. These cabins provide basic comforts while keeping you close to the pools and trails, making them ideal for travelers who want a more immersive stay.

For those who prefer modern amenities, Kundasang offers boutique lodges and resorts just a short drive away, combining comfort with stunning highland views.

Homestays in Ranau are another option for those who want a more local experience near Poring Hot Spring. Staying with a local family gives you the chance to learn about Sabah’s culture while enjoying warm hospitality.

Each accommodation choice caters to a different type of traveler, but all provide convenient access to Poring Hot Spring and its attractions. Whether you’re looking for budget, mid-range, or luxury stays, you’ll find something that suits your needs within a short distance of this iconic spot.

Final Tips for Travelers

To make the most of your trip to Poring Hot Spring, a little preparation goes a long way.

Pack light but bring essentials such as a change of clothes, swimwear, towels, and insect repellent. The rainforest setting means mosquitoes are common, and the pools require appropriate attire.

If you’re planning to hike to the waterfalls or take the canopy walk, comfortable shoes are a must. Arriving early also helps you avoid the midday rush, giving you more time to enjoy the attractions without feeling hurried.

Remember that Poring Hot Spring is part of Sabah’s natural heritage, so treating it with respect ensures it remains pristine for future visitors. Avoid littering, stay on designated paths, and follow local guidelines.

Combining your visit with nearby attractions such as Kinabalu Park or Desa Dairy Farm can make your journey even more fulfilling.

By planning ahead and traveling responsibly, you’ll not only enjoy the best of Poring Hot Spring but also create lasting memories of Sabah’s incredible highlands.

Conclusion

The Poring Hot Spring remains one of Sabah’s most fascinating destinations because it blends relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty all in one place.

Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it a rewarding stop, not just for the activities, but for the sense of peace and connection with nature it offers.

Beyond its pools and canopy walks, the real charm of Poring Hot Spring lies in how well it complements a wider journey through Kundasang and Sabah’s highlands, a vital part of understanding the area’s natural and cultural richness.

For travelers who want to plan a complete adventure, we recommend pairing this guide with our main resource, The Top Best Kundasang Attraction Spots 2025, which serves as the ultimate pillar blog to help you navigate all the must-visit places in Kundasang.

By combining both guides, you’ll have everything you need to plan an exciting highland escape.

FAQs: Poring Hot Spring

1. How much is the entrance fee to Poring Hot Spring in 2025?

The conservation fee is RM10 for Malaysian adults and RM5 for children under 17, while international visitors pay RM50 for adults and RM25 for children. Additional charges apply for attractions like the canopy walkway, butterfly farm, slide pool, and private bathtubs.

2. What are the opening hours of Poring Hot Spring?

Daily from 8 AM – 5 PM.

3. Can children enjoy Poring Hot Spring?

Yes! There are kid-friendly pools, butterfly gardens, and easy waterfall hikes.

4. How far is Poring Hot Spring from Kota Kinabalu?

About 136 km, roughly 2.5–3 hours by car.

5. What is Poring Hot Spring famous for?

Its natural sulphur hot baths, canopy walk, and beautiful waterfalls.

Explore Kundasang with Our Team of Local Experts

Exploring Kundasang can feel like stepping into a different world, with its cool highland climate, sweeping views of Mount Kinabalu, and an endless list of attractions waiting to be discovered.

At ExploreKundasang, our mission is to make your journey here effortless and memorable by curating experiences that highlight the very best of the region.

From the iconic Desa Dairy Farm to adventurous treks like Maragang Hill and tranquil escapes such as the Poring Hot Spring, our tours are designed to give you a complete picture of what makes Kundasang truly special.

Our edge lies in our local expertise. Based right here in Sabah, we know Kundasang by heart — from hidden viewpoints and ideal visiting times to the unique stories that make each site come alive. When you travel with our team, you gain insights that only locals can provide.

📩 Reach out to our team today and let us help you plan a Kundasang journey that’s seamless, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Our Top Tours You’ll love: