Poring Hot Springs

Sulphurous spring water in open-air tubs at the foot of Mount Kinabalu.

Stefan Fussan

Bathing: Outdoor
Established: 1929

Poring lies in lowland rainforest on the eastern flank of Kinabalu Park, in Sabah. Sulphurous hot water is piped to open-air tiled tubs, which visitors fill and mix with cold water to their own liking, set among tall trees. A canopy walkway, waterfalls and an orchid garden share the site.

Balnevia view

Why visit

It is the classic end to a Mount Kinabalu climb — hot sulphur water in the rainforest, with a canopy walk and waterfalls a few minutes away.

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The water

Thermal water

Source: Poring springs
Mineralisation: Sulphurous mineral water
Character: Hot sulphur water piped from the springs into open-air tubs, which bathers temper with cold water to taste.

History

The springs were developed by Japanese forces during the Second World War, who built the first bathing tubs here; after the war the site was absorbed into Kinabalu Park, part of a UNESCO World Heritage area, and run by Sabah Parks.

Practical information

Park entry and tub fees apply, with individual tubs and enclosed baths available. Bring a towel; the water is strongly sulphurous, and leeches and rain are part of the rainforest setting.

Official website