Whereas the longhouse is a feature of the major tribal groups in neighbouring Sarawak state, it is not as commonly found in Sabah. Besides the Murut people, the only other tribe that stays in longhouses are the Rungus of the Kudat area.
However, even among the Rungus, it is becoming less and less common to be able to find the longhouse, especially the traditional form of the design.
In Kampung Bavanggazo or Bavanggazo village, you will find the traditional longhouses still in existence. As one of the four villages in the Kudat peninsula which specialises in one type of craft or skill, in this case, the Rungus Longhouse; Bavanggazo is a must visit if you have an interest in seeing how the old longhouses used to look like.
To get there is pretty simple. From the main road between Kota Marudu and Kudat, you will see the above signboard, about 40km before reaching the town of Kudat. Take the turning and follow the road for about 2.5 km to get to the Bavanggazo longhouse.
Buy your entrance tickets from the two chickens manning the ticket counter. RM5 for an adult, RM3 if you are a MYKAD holder. RM3 / RM2 for children under 12.
There are two longhouses here, both done in the traditional style. The longhouses do not house any families but are more tourist attractions than actual houses.
After visiting the Bavanggazo longhouse, you can also visit the Maranjak longhouse down the hill. The Maranjak longhouse is longer and better maintained.
The Maranjak Longhouse Lodge is also a homestay lodge. You can actually chose to stay here and if you book in advance you can actually partake in cultural performances and other activities.
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