Sabah, Borneo: The North Borneo Railway has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800’s.
It is therefore little wonder that prior to 2007, when the railway was shut down for extensive rehabilitation of the entire railway system, the North Borneo Railway enjoyed a loyal following of history buffs, locomotive enthusiasts, railfans and trainspotters.
The service interruption was originally going to be only 10 to 12 months, but after a more thorough inspection, it was discovered that the rails and bridges needed much more attention.
In the end, the North Borneo Railway was out of service for 3 years.
Well, now trainspotters can triumph, railfans can rally and hooray for history buffs, because Sabah’s one and only, famous British Vulcan steam locomotive is powering the North Borneo Railway strong as ever.
Twice a week, the historic train plies the railway line – still the only one in Borneo – between Tanjung Aru Station in Kota Kinabalu and Papar some 38km away.
The journey takes you out of the city along Sabah’s rural byways through villages, mangrove swamps and rice fields, whilst you enjoy the historic setting in the carriages renovated to look as they did in the early 1900’s.
Learn more about the the North Borneo Railway on our Sabah Day Trips page and book your journey aboard Sabah’s railway heritage.
The North Borneo Railway journeys to Papar on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Our North Borneo Railway page has more information, and you can book your journey by emailing us.
