Seven things to do in Sandakan city!

Sandakan is a small city on the Northeast coast of Borneo. Not only is it full of history, it is also located in prime position for wildlife enthusiasts who are eager to catch sight of Borneo’s Orangutans, Proboscis Monkeys and many species of Hornbills.

Sandakan was Sabah’s capital city before being tragically destroyed during the Second World War. Nowadays, when travellers come to this area they usually seek out the incredible animal sanctuaries located half an hour’s drive away in Sepilok. But what about the city of Sandakan itself, which is still so full of culture and history? We have listed our top seven things to do in Sandakan city!

Sandakan Heritage Trail

The Sandakan Heritage Trail takes you on a journey through the city’s historic past. You can follow the trail to several historic sites. The trail also takes you up the colourful One Hundred Steps and allows you to see beautiful views across the town. See a map of the trail here.

Sandakan Backpackers Hostel

Providing bed and breakfast accommodation, this hostel makes for a perfect cheap stay in Sandakan.

This hostel is close to restaurants and offers a great sea view. Its walls are adorned with writing and art drawn on by travelling passing through, creating a great atmosphere. They strive to provide the best budget accommodation in the city. It comes highly recommended by us!

Sandakan Central Market

When travelling Asia, you are bound to come across numerous markets located in every town you visit. Sandakan Central Market is located directly in the town’s centre. On the ground floor you will find fruit, vegetables and freshly caught seafood. Upstairs, you can grab a bite to eat whilst shopping the souvenir stalls in the Hanging Market.

Anges Keith House

Home to famous author Anges Keith from 1934, this beautiful house standing on top of Jalan Istana Hill has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the author’s incredible life. Learn all about her interesting experiences whilst living in Borneo with husband and forest conservator, Harry Keith.

Entry price is RM15 (approx. £2.50) for international tourists.

Puu Jih Shih Temple

An aesthetically sacred place of worship, this Buddhist temple is a short drive away from Sandakan’s centre. The temple is covered with elegant colours from top to bottom, as well as delicately crafted statues illuminated all around. If you visit during early evening you will get an extremely graceful view as the sun sets.

Put Jim Shih Temple – Credit – https://sabahtourism.com/destination/puu-jih-shih-temple/?locale=en

English Tea House

Whilst on Jalan Istana Hill, why not stop by the colonial style English Tea House which is located right next to the Agnes Keith House. The restaurant serves classic English dishes, such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and scones with cream and jam (as two British travellers, we were thrilled to have some home comforts!)

Eat Seafood

Being a huge fishing town, eating local seafood is a MUST in Sandakan. If you are visiting the Buli Sim Sim Water Village, we recommend going to one of the many seafood restaurants there. We ate at Restaurant 88 which overlooks the coast. The fish were still swimming in tanks and the seafood was as fresh as it gets!

Buli Sim Sim Water Village

Sandakan’s Sim Sim Water Village is located just up the coast from the centre of Sandakan. This traditional Malay village is truly unique… the whole network of shops, restaurants and houses stand on stilts above the seawater, connected by wooden planks. This makes walking through the ‘streets’ a true cultural experience!