Kota Belud district spreads across the lushly beautiful Tempasuk plain, watered by rivers rushing down from the granite flanks of Mt Kinabalu. Viewed from the west, the mountain is at its most dramatic, rising up almost directly from the plain, with paddy fields and water buffaloes dotting the tranquil landscape. Along the coast, sheltered bays and attractive beaches can be found, while to the northwest of Usukan Bay, the island group, Mantanani, is home to a small dive resort.
In 1906, after the British established an administrative post for the Tempasuk district, the township of Kota Belud or “Fort on the Hill” grew up near the site of the market or tamu which was held every 20 days. Once considered a wild and remote outpost, Kota Belud soon attracted many Bajau, as well Irranun, Obian and a number of Chinese traders. They joined the indigenous Dusun people to make tip the fascinating mixture of peoples that is a striking characteristic of Kota Belud even today.
The road leading north to Kudat passes through the district of Kota Belud, renowned for its colourful Bajau horsemen. The town of Kota Belud is above all, synonymous with its Sunday open market or tamu, the most exciting in Sabah.
Beyond Kota Belud, the road cuts across the scenic Tempasuk plain before climbing a low range of hills, where local stalls selling a range of basket ware, rough-hewn chopping boards, fruit and roasted sweet corn are popular with passing motorists. Further on, shortly before the junction to Kota Marudu, a row of Stalls are famous for their locally grown peanuts, as well as other snacks and bananas.
The road beyond this major junction leads through Kudat peninsula to the town itself, nestling on the bay, while. to the northwest lies the very tip of the island of Borneo, Tanjung Simpang Mengayau.
