Getting to Tenom, the ‘Coffee Capital’ of Sabah By Public Transportation
Sabah, Malaysia’s second-largest state after Sarawak, covers 73,631 square kilometres and is renowned for its lush green landscape and rich cultural heritage. Agriculture plays a vital role in the state’s economy, with its fertile lands supporting a wide variety of crops.
Nestled in the southern part of Sabah’s interior, the Tenom district is known as the ‘Coffee Capital’ of Sabah. Coffee plantations thrive in Tenom, making it the birthplace of Sabah’s legendary coffee brands, such as Fatt Choi Coffee and Yit Foh Coffee. Both of these producers reached milestones, from starting as small beverage distributors to becoming Sabah’s leading producers, expanding their factories and farmland as key tourism attractions in Tenom.
With its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Tenom offers a refreshing escape from the busier parts of Sabah. Whether you are sampling its famous coffee, exploring local farms, or learning about the indigenous traditions, Tenom adds a unique and memorable touch to any trip through the state.
Reaching Tenom by public transportation is relatively easy. It is a perfect idea for a weekend road trip for the whole family too! The journey itself is an adventure to the interior region of Sabah. Here are ways you can reach Tenom via two modes of public transportation:
1. Public Bus
The Kota Kinabalu Sentral Bus Terminal (KK Sentral) serves as the hub for buses heading to the Tenom district, as well as other districts in the West Coast region.
Bus tickets can be bought directly from the terminal counter or booked in advance via the Easybook website/application. Tung Ma is the bus operator for the Kota Kinabalu–Tenom route and vice versa. They operate three daily departures from Kota Kinabalu at 8.00 am, 12.00 pm and 4.00 pm.
The bus journey to Tenom will take about 3 hours and 13 minutes along the scenic Kimanis–Keningau route, passing by Crocker Range’s winding and misty mountain road.
There will be one pit-stop before heading up to Kimanis. So, this will be the perfect time to do a little stretch or buy snacks for the bus trip. Along the way, the temperature may drop as it reaches the highlands area with cooler and crisp air fogging the journey.
From Keningau to Tenom, enjoy the beautiful lowland landscape, vast agricultural ground and village lifestyle in the interior town.
The bus will stop at the Tung Ma Nui Luk Express Station in Tenom at Jalan Tun Ahmad Raffai. Conveniently, this bus station is located opposite the Tenom Railway Station.
The returning bus to Kota Kinabalu will depart from the same station.
2. Train
Visitors can also choose to travel to Tenom by train. Although it may take a longer time, it is an incredibly scenic alternative in a nostalgic traditional train. The journey winds through Sabah’s lush interior, offering views of rivers, dense rainforests and remote villages.
This journey is perfect for those who are looking for a relaxed travel experience and a unique adventure that takes you off the usual path.
From Kota Kinabalu, travellers can board the first train at the Sembulan Train Station or from the main hub, Tanjung Aru Railway Station. The first leg of the journey takes about 2 hours to reach the town of Beaufort.
Next, travellers are required to change trains for the second leg of the journey from Beaufort to Tenom. This route is regarded as the main highlight, a picturesque journey passing by the Padas River, which is famously known for white water rafting activity.
The connecting train typically departs at 1.30 pm; therefore, it is important to coordinate the timing of arrival at Beaufort Train Station. Keep in mind, there are two separate tickets required for this trip, one for Kota Kinabalu-Beaufort and another for Beaufort to Tenom.
The train schedule can be monitored from the official Sabah Railway Website.
Unfortunately, due to limited daily train and bus schedules, visitors must plan at least one overnight stay in Tenom before returning. This gives it more reason to visit as many attractions in Tenom.
Within the district, consider visiting the Sabah Agriculture Park, which showcases the diverse plant life of Sabah. The park itself is so big and provides a varied perspective on the region’s flora.
Tenom is also known to have the highest concentration of Murut natives. One must definitely visit the Murut Cultural Centre while in the vicinity, especially for those interested in indigenous architecture, artefacts, handicrafts, music, history, and Murut’s tradition.
For accommodation options, besides staying in a local inn, consider staying at Fatt Choi Coffee Cabin, Yit Foh Coffee Cottage, Tenom Valley, Naluyan Jungle Lodge, Padas Farmstay or Yong Farmstay, just to name a few. Most of these options offer more than just accommodation but also have activities to do.
So take a sip of Sabah’s finest coffee at the ‘Coffee Capital’ of Sabah and explore the surroundings. With all the things to do and places to visit, you will need that boost of caffeine on the go!