Ranau is well known for the backdrop of the iconic Mount Kinabalu and Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site. It is situated in the West Coast division of Sabah, the hilly district of Ranau is located 1,176 meters above sea level. The majority community is of Dusun ethnic and is on the highway connecting Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. Just 20 kilometres away from Kinabalu Park, it is one of the gateways Poring Hot Springs, and Sabah Tea Garden.

Kundasang, home of the luminous Mount Kinabalu lies in Ranau. Ranau was also the terminus of the notorious Sandakan Death March during the World War II. The Kundasang War Memorial serves to commemorate the sacrifices and bravery of the fallen heroes.