Cheap Flights from Kota Kinabalu to Manado

Discover seamless travel between these two captivating destinations. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia's vibrant gateway to Borneo's natural wonders, connects effortlessly with Manado, Indonesia's gateway to North Sulawesi's pristine landscapes, via convenient flights that ensure comfort and accessibility. The non-stop flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bali takes only around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Check the flight schedule from Kota Kinabalu to Manado for your travel dates on AirAsia for other cheap flights to popular routes like Jakarta and Bali.

What to See & Do in Manado?

Manado, the vibrant capital of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is a hidden gem offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures. Here are the top attractions and activities to experience in Manado:

1. Bunaken National Marine Park
   A diver's paradise, Bunaken National Marine Park is renowned for its stunning underwater biodiversity. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life. The park offers crystal-clear waters and excellent visibility, making it perfect for underwater photography.
2. Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve
   Explore the Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve, home to unique wildlife such as the endangered black macaque, tarsiers, and a variety of bird species. Join a guided trek through the lush forest to spot these fascinating animals in their natural habitat.
3. Manado Tua Island
   Visit Manado Tua Island, known for its volcanic landscape and rich marine life. Enjoy diving, snorkeling, or simply relax on its pristine beaches. The island also offers hiking opportunities to the summit of the dormant volcano for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
4. Lake Tondano
   Take a trip to Lake Tondano, the largest lake in North Sulawesi. Surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, it's a serene spot for a boat ride, fishing, or enjoying a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants. The nearby village of Remboken offers hot springs and traditional Minahasan cuisine.
5. Linow Lake
   Discover the enchanting Linow Lake, known for its changing colors due to varying sulfur content. The picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
6. Ban Hin Kiong Temple
   Explore Ban Hin Kiong Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Manado. This beautifully decorated temple is a center of Chinese cultural heritage and hosts vibrant festivals, especially during Chinese New Year and the Toa Pe Kong Festival.
7. Christ Blessing Statue
   Visit the Christ Blessing Statue, one of Southeast Asia’s tallest statues of Jesus Christ. Standing at 50 meters tall, the statue offers spectacular views of Manado and its coastline. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
8. Mount Lokon and Mount Mahawu
   For hiking enthusiasts, the active volcanoes Mount Lokon and Mount Mahawu offer exciting trekking opportunities. Mount Lokon features a challenging hike with stunning views of its crater, while Mount Mahawu offers a more accessible trek with beautiful panoramic vistas.

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What Food Should I Try in Manado?

Manado, located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage influenced by Minahasan culture and its coastal location. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Manado:

1. Bubur Manado
   Start your culinary journey with Bubur Manado, a hearty rice porridge cooked with vegetables, spices, and often topped with crispy fried shallots. It's a comforting dish enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal.
2. Cakalang Fufu
   Cakalang Fufu is smoked skipjack tuna, a staple in Minahasan cuisine. It's often served shredded and mixed with spicy sambal (chili paste) and steamed rice. The smoky flavor of the tuna combined with the spicy kick of sambal makes it a delicious and filling dish.
3. Sambal Roa
   Sambal Roa is a fiery chili paste made from smoked fish (usually mackerel or tuna), mixed with chili peppers, tomatoes, and spices. It's a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to many Minahasan dishes, such as rice and seafood.
4. Pisang Goroho
   Pisang Goroho are fried bananas unique to North Sulawesi. These bananas are fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, often served as a snack or dessert with a sprinkling of powdered sugar.
5. Ikan Woku
   Ikan Woku is a spicy fish dish cooked with a blend of herbs and spices, including lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, and lime leaves. The fish (often red snapper or grouper) is simmered in coconut milk and served with steamed rice.
6. Tinutuan
   Tinutuan, also known as Manado porridge or Bubur Tinutuan, is a nutritious vegetable porridge made with a variety of local greens, corn, pumpkin, and sometimes topped with fried shallots and crispy fried salted fish. It’s a popular breakfast dish packed with flavors and textures.
7. Ayam Rica-Rica
   Ayam Rica-Rica is a spicy chicken dish marinated with chili peppers, shallots, garlic, and spices. It's stir-fried until the chicken is tender and coated in a flavorful sauce. This dish is known for its bold flavors and is often served with rice and fresh vegetables.
8. Klappertaart
   End your meal with Klappertaart, a traditional Indonesian coconut custard dessert. This creamy treat is made with coconut milk, sugar, eggs, and young coconut meat, baked to perfection and topped with raisins and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
9. Brenebon
   Brenebon is a hearty red bean soup cooked with smoked pork ribs, spices, and sometimes diced vegetables. It's a comforting and flavorful dish enjoyed during festive occasions or as a warming meal on rainy days.
10. Es Pisang Ijo
    Es Pisang Ijo is a popular dessert consisting of layers of green banana wrapped in pandan-flavored rice flour dough, steamed until cooked, and served with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. It’s a refreshing and sweet treat, perfect for hot days.

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When is the best time to visit Manado?

The best time to visit Manado is during the dry season, which typically lasts from June to September. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry, perfect for exploring the city and its surrounding natural attractions like Bunaken National Marine Park and Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve. This period also offers ideal conditions for diving and snorkeling due to excellent visibility underwater.

Plan your holiday early from Kota Kinabalu to Manado and find the cheapest flights during these months to enjoy the best of the season only on AirAsia.

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