Monsopiad Cultural Village Tour from Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu , Malaysia

Monsopiad Cultural Village Tour from Kota Kinabalu

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The only cultural village in Sabah. This cultural village was opened in memory of the great and legendary Kadazan Warrior Monsopiad and built on the very land where Monsopiad lived and roamed some three centuries ago

At the Village, visit the Tangkob or Grainery where the padi is housed.Kotos Di Monsopiad or Monsopiad’s Main House is dedicated to the life and times of Monsopiad and his descendants. On display are ceramic jars, padi grinders, bamboo items as well as the costume of Bobohizan Inai Bianti, direct descendant of Monsopiad and very senior high priestess.

Other interesting exhibits include the massive monolith which invokes a dozen legends, the traditional restaurant and of course Siou Do Mohoing, or the House of Skulls, where all 42 ‘trophies’ of Monsopiad hang from the rafters.

Available options

Monsopiad Cultural Village Tour from Kota Kinabalu

Pickup included

What's included

Light refreshment

English Speaking Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Admission to : Monsopiad Cultural Village

Hotel or Cruise Terminal pickup and drop-off (please select the correct pickup point during booking)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Depart from the city hotel for Monsopiad Cultural Village, the only cultural village in Sabah. This cultural village was opened in memory of the great and legendary Kadazan Warrior Monsopiad and built on the very land where Monsopiad lived and roamed some three centuries ago. It is run by the direct descendants of Monsopiad, and so vivid their stories that one can feel the presence of the long gone warrior.

Upon arrival, a welcome drink (local rice wine) is served at the village. Then, join the local guide on a guided tour where the guide will bring you to the House of Skull, where they take care of Monsopiad’s headhunting trophies in the village. They will tell you everything you always wanted to know about head hunting. More than being a museum, the Monsopiad Cultural Village aims at documenting, reviving and keeping alive the culture and traditions of the Kadazan people. You can also enjoy the cultural dances which you may also take part in. Transfer back to the hotel

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

1 Borneo Hotels & Outskirt Hotels Pick up & drop-off additional charges applied. USD 15 per person

Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Guided Tour Timing 1000hrs / 1200hrs / 1500hrs

1 Borneo Hotels & Outskirt Hotels Pick up & drop-off additional charges applied. Additional USD 9 per person

Minimum 4 travelers is required to operate this tour, we have the right to cancel if travelers is not enough

Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel

Meeting point

meeting point for cruise arrival

Important notes

Please wait at Hotel Lobby or Meeting Point 15 minutes before the time specified on this voucher to start.

Please call hotline number at least 24 hours before to confirm your pick up point.

Hotline number : +60 10 777 3860 (Daily : 7:00am - 9:00pm)

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a vibrant city nestled between the South China Sea and the lush mountains of Borneo. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, it's a gateway to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, including Mount Kinabalu and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Top Attractions

Mount Kinabalu

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest peak in Southeast Asia, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking views.

Nature 2-4 days for summit climb Climbing permit: RM300-500, Guided tours: RM1,500-3,000

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

A group of five islands known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.

Nature Half-day to full day Boat tours: RM100-200, Snorkeling gear rental: RM20-30

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

A stunning mosque with a unique architectural design, featuring a pink-domed roof and surrounded by a man-made lagoon.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Sabah State Museum

A comprehensive museum showcasing the history, culture, and natural heritage of Sabah.

Museum 2-3 hours RM5-10

Filipino Market

A bustling market offering a variety of souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, bargaining expected

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hinava

A traditional Sabahan dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, ginger, and chili.

Main Dish Gluten-free, dairy-free

Tuhau

A sweet and savory glutinous rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, often filled with palm sugar and peanuts.

Snack Vegetarian, gluten-free

Kuih Mor

A steamed glutinous rice cake with a sweet and tangy flavor, often served with coconut milk.

Dessert Vegetarian, gluten-free

Laksa Sabah

A spicy noodle soup with a rich, aromatic broth, typically made with seafood, chicken, or beef.

Main Dish Contains seafood, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Mountain climbing Caving Whitewater rafting Beachcombing Spa treatments Hot springs Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

March to October

This is the dry season, offering sunny weather and lower humidity, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malay
Widely spoken: English, Chinese dialects, Indigenous languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kota Kinabalu is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's essential to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Kota Kinabalu International Airport • 7 km from city center

By bus

Kota Kinabalu Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and widely available, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Tanah Runcing Likass

Day trips

Island Hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

3-15 km from Kota Kinabalu • Half-day to full day

Explore the beautiful islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.

Kinabalu Park

90 km from Kota Kinabalu • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of Mount Kinabalu, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and challenging trekking routes.

Poring Hot Springs

100 km from Kota Kinabalu • Full day

A relaxing retreat featuring natural hot springs, lush rainforests, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Festivals

Kota Kinabalu International Fest (KKIF) • July Sabah Fest • May to June Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Visit the Gaya Street Sunday Market for a taste of local culture and cuisine
Take a boat tour to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for a day of snorkeling and island hopping
Climb Mount Kinabalu for a challenging and rewarding adventure
Explore the Sabah State Museum to learn about the history and culture of Sabah
Try local dishes like Hinava, Tuhau, and Kuih Mor for an authentic taste of Sabahan cuisine