Poring Hot Spring

By Anna Vivienne

Poring is small town or village in Ranau area, about 40 kilometres from Kinabalu Park Headquarters. It is located in the lowlands and is therefore a bit different from Kinabalu Park.

It is believed that the place is named Poring because of the abundance of bamboo in that place, as the name poring comes from Kadazandusun word for a bamboo species.

Poring is known for its hot springs. A hot spring is a spring that is produced by the emergence of geo thermally-heated groundwater from the earth’s crust.

The popular recreation and tourist spot is called Poring Hot Springs. The spring is believed to be therapeutic.

Some people believe that the sulphuric water can cure mild skin diseases and yeast.

Be that as it may, the hot spring bath is soothing especially after a strenuous exercise like mountain climbing.

Presently, there are several mini pools built around the hot spring area where one can use the tap to fill it with hot water; very much like a bathtub at home.

You can then immerse yourself in and enjoy a warm sulphuric bath.

There are several interesting sights of Poring other than the hot spring. There are several species of multi-coloured and striking butterflies found there.

Besides that there are more than 1000 species of orchids found there with some rare endemic wild orchids.

Go on a 30 minute trek and you will see Kipungit and an hour after that you will see the Laganan Waterfall.

There are chalets available within the hot spring areas.

Outside the cordoned area are several stalls that offer food to visitors as well as souvenirs.

Courtesy of: New Sabah Times 'In' Sites - Sabah Travel and Leisure Guide