- Enjoy a comfortable train ride through Sabah’s stunning countryside
- Discover the vibrant local wet market and other attractions in Papar during the day tour
- Stop by the picturesque Benoni Beach on a sunset tour and soak in the breathtaking coastal views
- Take part in fun activities, such as batik painting and henna tattoo, throughout the journey
- Light refreshments and a delicious meal included
- Hotel pickup / drop off
North Borneo Heritage Train Print
+40
Travel Period: 01 January 2025 till 31 December 2025
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Due to maintenance work, North Borneo Heritage Train will temporarily operate with a diesel engine instead of the steam engine until further notice.
ALL MARKET
| Categories | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
|
Day Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 299 |
|
Day Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 360 |
- Rate Per Person is based on Join-In Tour Basis (shared guide & vehicle).
- All rates displayed are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR).
- All rates are inclusive of 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
CHILD POLICY
- There is no Child Rate for this Tour. Children 4 years old and above will pay adult rates.
- Infant below 3 years old is FOC.
OUTSKIRT HOTELS PICK-UP & DROP OFF SURCHARGES
- Additional charges of MYR 80 per pax are applicable for outskirt hotel pick-ups. Please check with your salesperson for details.
PRIVATE TOUR SERVICE
- Request for Private Tour at a reasonable fee (private guide & vehicle).
Travel Period: 01 January 2025 till 31 December 2025
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Due to maintenance work, North Borneo Heritage Train will temporarily operate with a diesel engine instead of the steam engine until further notice.
ALL MARKET
| Categories | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
|
Sunset Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 299 |
|
Sunset Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 360 |
- Rate Per Person is based on Join-In Tour Basis (shared guide & vehicle).
- All rates displayed are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR).
- All rates are inclusive of 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
CHILD POLICY
- There is no Child Rate for this Tour. Children 4 years old and above will pay adult rates.
- Infant below 3 years old is FOC.
OUTSKIRT HOTELS PICK-UP & DROP OFF SURCHARGES
- Additional charges of MYR 80 per pax are applicable for outskirt hotel pick-ups. Please check with your salesperson for details.
PRIVATE TOUR SERVICE
- Request for Private Tour at a reasonable fee (private guide & vehicle).
Travel Period: 01 January 2026 till 31 December 2026
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Due to maintenance work, North Borneo Heritage Train will temporarily operate with a diesel engine instead of the steam engine until further notice.
ALL MARKET
| Categories | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
|
Day Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 299 |
|
Day Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 360 |
- Rate Per Person is based on Join-In Tour Basis (shared guide & vehicle).
- All rates displayed are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR).
- All rates are inclusive of 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
CHILD POLICY
- There is no Child Rate for this Tour. Children 4 years old and above will pay adult rates.
- Infant below 3 years old is FOC.
OUTSKIRT HOTELS PICK-UP & DROP OFF SURCHARGES
- Additional charges of MYR 80 per pax are applicable for outskirt hotel pick-ups. Please check with your salesperson for details.
PRIVATE TOUR SERVICE
- Request for Private Tour at a reasonable fee (private guide & vehicle).
Travel Period: 01 January 2026 till 31 December 2026
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Due to maintenance work, North Borneo Heritage Train will temporarily operate with a diesel engine instead of the steam engine until further notice.
ALL MARKET
| Categories | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
|
Sunset Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 299 |
|
Sunset Tour
Adult / Child Traveller
|
MYR 360 |
- Rate Per Person is based on Join-In Tour Basis (shared guide & vehicle).
- All rates displayed are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR).
- All rates are inclusive of 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
CHILD POLICY
- There is no Child Rate for this Tour. Children 4 years old and above will pay adult rates.
- Infant below 3 years old is FOC.
OUTSKIRT HOTELS PICK-UP & DROP OFF SURCHARGES
- Additional charges of MYR 80 per pax are applicable for outskirt hotel pick-ups. Please check with your salesperson for details.
PRIVATE TOUR SERVICE
- Request for Private Tour at a reasonable fee (private guide & vehicle).
North Borneo Heritage Train
Tour highlights
The North Borneo Heritage Train (previously known as North Borneo Railway) features a hybrid locomotive in which the engine can run on either steam from a boiler or diesel fuel. Refurbished to create the nostalgic romance of the bygone era of the Colonial days of British North Borneo, the train allows all passengers to experience the beauty of the countryside and the unique sights and sounds of the Sabah landscape on board a vintage train.
You can choose between two unforgettable journeys, the Day Tour or the Sunset Tour, each offering its own special way to see and feel the magic of Borneo.
On the Day Tour, you’ll travel from Tanjung Aru to Papar, soaking up stunning coastal views, peaceful mangroves, and glimpses of local village life. Once in Papar, explore the lively wet market, hunt for hidden landmarks, pick up handmade souvenirs, and taste local treats. On the ride back, relax with a lovely high tea and try fun onboard activities like Henna tattooing, the perfect way to unwind as the countryside drifts by.
If you’re joining the Sunset Tour, prepare to be amazed by the golden glow of Sabah’s evening skies. You’ll stop at Benoni Beach for unforgettable sunset photos before enjoying a delicious packed dinner on board. As twilight sets in, try your hand at Batik painting while the train gently carries you back to Kota Kinabalu.
Whether you choose the sunshine or the sunset, the North Borneo Heritage Train promises a journey filled with charm, culture, and the timeless beauty of Sabah.
More About The Train Route
The North Borneo Heritage Train runs 36 miles between Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah, and Papar, an agricultural town, known as the rice bowl of Sabah.
Tanjung Aru
Passengers board the train at Tanjung Aru Station at the designated platform. At the station, passengers will receive their boarding pass and train passport book (mission book) at the counter before proceeding to the platform. As the whistle blows during departure time, the train will commence its journey while passengers are treated to some of the unique and interesting sceneries in Sabah.
Putatan
As the train pulls out of the station, the development of Kota Kinabalu begins to slip away. Time and history begin to take over. After Putatan, the train veers into the countryside, away from the modern-day trapping of Sabah society. The train hugs the coast of Lok Kawi Bay and offers passengers an opportunity to take in the picturesque view of the South China Sea.
Kinarut
The train then leaves the road and edges towards Kinarut, a traditional trading village. A school stands proudly in the forefront, reminding everyone of the importance of education. A mosque also stands near the station, highlighting the influence of the national religion. An interesting Buddhist temple appears at the foot of the nearby hill.
Kawang
After Kinarut, the train passes through Kawang, home to Kawang Forest Reserve. Gazetted as a Second Class Domestic Forest Reserve, its main purpose is to supply clean water for locals in the vicinity. The centre also offers a myriad of activities, from jungle trekking and camping to cave exploration.
Papar
The train veers again and crosses the Papar River over a steel trestle bridge as Papar town comes into view. A quaint township, Papar is wedged in the valley between the Crocker Range and the coast. Here, everyone is a neighbour and the intimacy is clear with their dispositions and smiles. The local market or tamu is a reflection of life in Sabah—simple and alive with the sounds and smells of recurrent daily routines.
Benoni Beach
Benoni Beach is the highlight of the Sunset Tour, offering a perfect moment to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. As the sky turns shades of gold and crimson, it’s easy to see why this stop is a favourite among visitors. It's a serene and unforgettable way to end the day before continuing the journey back to Kota Kinabalu.
North Borneo Heritage Train - Day Tour
Your journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel lobby, where you will be whisked away for a real feel of a bygone era. Upon arrival at Tanjung Aru Train Station, hop on the train to experience Borneo's historical grandeur.
09:00 Hrs: Your train ride starts now! Take part in the henna tattoo-making activity while indulging in the light refreshments served during the ride. Wind your way through scenic landscapes on the only railway track in Sabah since 1896. This 134 km line stretches south from Kota Kinabalu to Tenom (Pangi Station). Originally used to transport tobacco to the coast, today it serves as a vital public transport for locals.
10:30 Hrs: You have arrived in Papar. Mingle with the locals at the wet market and the vintage shophouses that lace the charming small town. Feel free to explore exciting spots around town as you complete the mission book for your treasure hunt activity.
11:30 Hrs: Get on the train and enjoy a delicious lunch onboard on your return journey to Tanjung Aru Station.
13:30 Hrs: Your adventure concludes as you return to Tanjung Aru Station and are transferred back to your hotel.
Lunch / Light-refreshment
North Borneo Heritage Train – Sunset Tour
Your evening begins with a hotel pick-up, where you’ll be whisked away for a memorable sunset journey aboard the North Borneo Heritage Train. Step back in time as you arrive at Tanjung Aru Train Station, ready to experience the golden hour magic of Sabah’s countryside.
15:30 Hrs: Arrive at Tanjung Aru Station and board the North Borneo Heritage Train. Settle into your seat and enjoy light snacks served onboard before your journey starts.
16:00 Hrs: The train departs from Tanjung Aru, gliding past Kinarut, Papar, and Kimanis stations toward the Benoni Estuary. Take in the changing landscapes bathed in soft afternoon light while joining the fun Henna tattoo activity onboard.
18:00 Hrs: Arrive at Benoni Beach, one of Sabah’s most picturesque coastal gems. Step off the train to capture the breathtaking sunset and feel the gentle sea breeze. Passengers who wish to stay on board can take part in the Batik painting activity for a creative way to experience local culture as daylight fades.
18:30 Hrs: Depart from Benoni Beach and begin your return journey to Kota Kinabalu, watching the countryside transform under the twilight sky.
18:50 Hrs: Enjoy a delicious packed dinner served onboard as the rhythmic clatter of the train accompanies your meal.
20:00 Hrs: Arrive back at Tanjung Aru Station, where your unforgettable sunset adventure concludes. You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel with memories of a truly magical Borneo evening.
Light-refreshment / Dinner
| Meals | 01 Light Refreshments, 01 Lunch OR 01 Dinner |
| Includes | Hotel Pickup & Dropoff (For Option With Hotel Transfers)*, Train Ticket, Train Passport Book (Mission Book), Treasure Hunt Activity, Henna Tattoo Activity, Goodies, Meals as Stated *Note: We will pick you up from your hotel and transfer directly to Tanjung Aru Train Station (seat-in-coach). |
| Excludes | Tour Guide, Alcoholic Drinks, Personal Expenses, Personal Travel Insurance and Any Items Not Mentioned |
- Comfortable walking shoe
- Umbrella/Cap
- Camera
- Baby Car Seats (for infants aged 0-2) and Child Booster Seats (for children aged 3-11) are available for rental. Please check with your tour consultant for availability.
- The train runs every Wednesday only.
- Passengers are offered free seating on one of the five colonial-style train carriages.
- Each carriage provides the amenity of a modern unisex washroom.
- Each carriage accommodates 32 passengers, with a total train capacity of 160 passengers.
- Windows remain open throughout the journey to enhance the overall heritage experience.
- High-powered fans line the ceilings to ensure maximum comfort.
- This package is based on a join-in basis of shared guide and transport vehicle. Private Guide or Tour is available upon request at a reasonable fee. Please inform us when making the bookings.
- Departure time is approximate and varies from different hotels due to traffic conditions, please reconfirm with our staffs. Should the transport be delayed, please call the relevant telephone number as stated on the voucher before making alternative arrangements.
- Amazing Borneo Tours reserves the right to alter routes, timetables, itineraries and accommodation reserved should conditions beyond our control render it necessary.
- Tipping is like giving a hug. Although it’s never expected, it’s always very much appreciated.
Why Travel With Amazing Borneo
Tailored Local Experiences
For once, travel to get out and get real! Be wowed by our unexpected surprises along the way as we design experiences around you. Tell us and we will do it your way.
The Amazing Team
We are your friend in need! We make your adventures unique and unforgettable, alongside our fun-loving guides, sharing insights into the authentic local culture.
Value Price Guarantee
What are you actually paying for? We guarantee unrivalled prices and services, allowing you to pay less and travel more, while keeping the quality you expect.
Eat Like A Local
Particular about food? So are we! We handpick restaurants, including quaint eateries tucked down the alleys, to give you deeply local dining experiences.
