Kota Belud is a town 70km north of KK City along the western coast of Borneo, famous for its weekly 'Tamu' - the largest traditional open-air market in Sabah. It's also an alternative gateway to Mount Kinabalu by road (via Kota Belud-Ranau Bypass), which connects to part of the east coast highway from Tamparuli.
A stronghold of Bajau people - famed for their sea-faring and horse-riding skills - Kota Belud hides a peaceful landscape of paddy fields and meandering rivers behind its cluttered town center slightly overrun by loose cattle. The weekly market occurs on Sundays from early morning till late afternoon - a great place to examine Sabah's cultural fascinations and sights.