[2025 Sandakan Shopping Mall] Travel Guide for Sandakan Central Market (Updated Mar)

Sandakan, a hidden treasure in Malaysia On the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia, Sandakan is like a pearl sealed by time, exuding a mysterious and charming allure, waiting for travelers to unveil its secrets. Stepping into the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is like entering a primeval kingdom forgotten by time. Towering rainforest trees rise from the ground, their thick trunks supporting lush branches and leaves, like giant green umbrellas, completely obscuring the sky. Sunlight can only filter through the gaps, casting dappled light and shadows. The air is filled with moist water vapor and the rich fragrance of vegetation. The thick layer of fallen leaves underfoot is soft and springy, each step a conversation with the earth. The rustling of leaves, occasionally interspersed with clear birdsong, adds a touch of vitality to this tranquil rainforest. Orangutans are the stars here, swinging freely among the trees, their long arms their most powerful tools. Sometimes they hang upside down from branches, swaying leisurely, and sometimes they sit among the branches, meticulously grooming their fur. When tourists approach, they look at them curiously with their deep, intelligent eyes. Their furry faces are full of innocence and naivety, their憨态可掬 appearance making people smile, and giving us a deeper understanding of the magical creativity of nature. For island lovers, Semporna and Sipadan, near Sandakan, are undoubtedly paradise. The crystal-clear seawater is like a huge piece of blue glass, reflecting colorful light under the sun. The fine white sandy beach, like a soft ribbon, winds along the coastline. Walking barefoot on the beach, the fine sand slips slowly between your toes, bringing warmth and comfort. Diving into the sea is like opening a door to a magical world. Colorful coral reefs stretch out in various shapes, some like antlers, some like flowers, red, pink, yellow, a dazzling array of colors. Colorful tropical fish swim happily among them, interweaving with the swaying light and shadow to form a beautiful dynamic picture. Sea turtles swim leisurely, and occasionally you can encounter the vigorous figures of sharks. Every encounter with marine life is like a wonderful encounter, bringing endless surprises and excitement. The Sandakan Central Market is a vivid portrayal of everyday life. Stepping into the market, the noisy voices and the sound of bargaining come one after another. The stalls are filled with a dazzling array of fresh ingredients, plump crabs waving their claws, fresh sea fish gleaming attractively, and tropical fruits exuding a rich fruity aroma: mangoes, rambutans, durians... everything is available, making your mouth water. In the corners of the market, there are unique handicrafts, wood carvings, and rattan weavings, each imbued with the craftsman's effort and wisdom, exuding strong local characteristics. At night, the street food stalls are bustling, the aroma of barbecue filling the air, mixed with the smell of the sea breeze, intoxicating. Take a bite of the fresh and juicy grilled seafood, feel the caress of the sea breeze, and at this moment, the beauty of Sandakan is deeply imprinted in your heart, becoming the most unforgettable memory of your journey. Here, the magic of nature and the vibrancy of life blend perfectly, bringing you an unforgettable travel experience, making you indulge in this charming land, reluctant to leave.

Feeling overwhelmed by work and life? Need a getaway to heal yourself? Sandakan is the perfect choice! This hidden gem in Malaysia offers mysterious rainforests, charming coastal scenery, and unique cultural attractions. You'll be amazed by what you find. As the morning sun shines on the Kinabatangan River, we finish our rainforest adventure and head to Sandakan city. After a two-hour drive, we arrive in the city, eager to start our city tour. We store our luggage and dive into the local cuisine. Sandakan Central Market is a food lover's paradise, especially during durian season. Pick a durian and enjoy its deliciousness on the spot. The sweet and fragrant flesh will instantly refresh you. After a satisfying meal, we head to Harbor Hall. While the interior may not be a must-see, the photo spots nearby are not to be missed. Every shot captures the atmosphere perfectly. Next, we visit the Three Spoons Restaurant for more culinary exploration. Remember, they only accept cash! Scan the QR code to view the menu and order manually. The dishes we ordered were all great, except for the coconut cake, which was a bit too sweet, and the tarts, which took a long time to prepare. We recommend communicating with the staff in advance and being prepared for the wait. After the meal, we take a leisurely stroll along Malaysia Fountain, enjoying the gentle breeze and the slow pace of life. We continue along the Sandakan Heritage Trail, where historical sites and cultural attractions give us a deeper understanding of the city's past. We stop by the William Pryer Monument to learn about the history. Then, we challenge ourselves to climb the 100 stairs. At the top, we are rewarded with a stunning view of the city and a sense of accomplishment. Agnes Keith House is another must-see attraction. For 15 MYR, you can enter and travel back in time. Each exhibit tells a story of the past. Finally, we highly recommend the Sandakan Rotary Observation Pavilion, where the sea and city blend perfectly. On one side, the vast ocean stretches to the horizon, while on the other, colorful houses are scattered, full of life. From the mystery of the rainforest to the vibrancy of the city, Sandakan is captivating in every way. Most places here only accept cash, so be sure to prepare in advance to avoid any awkward situations. Sandakan is a charming city where nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike can find their own happiness. Don't wait any longer. Plan your Sandakan trip and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Sandakan, a hidden gem in Malaysia, offers you a unique travel experience. 1. Transportation To get to Sandakan, you can fly to Sandakan International Airport. There are buses and taxis from the airport to the city center. In the city, you can choose to rent a car for self-driving, which is convenient for visiting nearby attractions. You can also take local buses, which are economical, but you need to pay attention to the operating hours. 2. Attractions - Sandakan Rainforest Discovery Centre: Venture into the rainforest and walk on boardwalks and suspension bridges, as if you are in a green world. There are rich flora and fauna resources here, and if you are lucky, you can see rare animals such as Borneo pygmy elephants and orangutans, as well as exotic tropical plants. It is a must-visit place for nature lovers. - Turtle Islands National Park: During certain seasons, turtles crawl onto the beach to lay eggs. You can participate in turtle conservation projects and observe this magical process of life continuation up close, feeling the magic and greatness of nature. The beach here is fine and soft, and the sea is crystal clear, making it a great place to enjoy the sun and sand. - Sandakan Central Market: A great place to experience local life. The market has a variety of fresh fruits, seafood, and local snacks, and you can also buy some unique handicrafts, feeling the strong local atmosphere. 3. Food - Seafood feast: Using locally caught fish, shrimp, crabs, etc. as ingredients, whether steamed, grilled, or cooked in curry, you can taste the flavor of the sea. - Malay cuisine: Such as nasi lemak, with the rich coconut milk aroma permeating every grain of rice, paired with crispy fried food and special sauces, offering a rich taste. There is also laksa, with its sour and spicy broth combined with noodles and seafood, leaving a lasting impression. 4. Accommodation There are various hotels in the city center, with complete facilities and convenient transportation. If you want to be close to nature, seaside resorts are a good choice, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the sea in the morning. A trip to Sandakan will let you appreciate the beauty of nature, the charm of history, and the fun of food.