The North Borneo Railway is one of Malaysia best tourist product....but no one seems to know about it! It is a rail excursion from Kota Kinabalu to Papar and back in a one of the last wood burning steam engines left in the world. There are 2 services a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It's managed by The Sutera Harbour Resort and Sabah State Railway.
You know you are in for a very special time when you arrive at the Tanjung Aru station and see a platform with period deco, old music in the background and staff dressed in colonial uniforms.
So I quickly explore the train and discover beautifully restored rail coaches done with an eye for detail.
My excitement goes up a notch when the Vulcan Steam engine appears all huffing, puffing and hissing!
Once everyone arrives (it's a full load), we set off on our journey. Soon the staff appear with a simple but delicious breakfast, one of two meals that we enjoy on our trip. The other is lunch served "tiffin" style on the way back.
After a few stops we are in Papar where we have time to walk around as the Vulcan steam engine is turned around and the train all set up for our return journey
It all ends too soon back at Tanjung Aru around 2pm and the wonderful staff stand-by to say goodbye to us.
Go do it if you have the time in Kota Kinabalu. For more information visit their web site :
North Borneo Railway
It's a short trip back in time.
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