Free Travel to Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia

On the fourth day of our free travel to Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, we embarked on the second day of climbing the mountain. Starting from Laban Rata Resthouse, we challenged ourselves to reach the summit at an altitude of 4,095 meters. This round-trip hiking route spans approximately 5 kilometers. Despite the short distance, the high altitude and steep slopes posed a significant test of physical strength and determination. Early Morning Summit: Witnessing a Magnificent Sunrise At 2:00 AM, we had a simple meal at the resthouse restaurant, accompanied by a cup of hot coffee to energize ourselves for the challenge ahead. At 2:30 AM, we set off from the resthouse (located at an altitude of 3,272 meters), following the steep mountain trail through the dark forest, gradually approaching the summit. Along the way, the headlamps of other climbers resembled stars scattered across the night, forming a glowing trail stretching into the distance. This scene reminded me of my experience climbing Mount Fuji in 2019, filling me with anticipation and excitement. Around 5:20 AM, we successfully reached the summit and were greeted by a breathtaking sunrise at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The sea of clouds rolled beneath us as sunlight bathed the landscape, creating a serene world where only the sound of our heartbeat and breathing accompanied us. This stunning view became the most precious gift for our wedding anniversary. Descent Challenge: A Test of Knees and Willpower After spending about half an hour at the summit, we began our descent along the same route. The downhill sections were even steeper, placing greater strain on our knees and muscles. Despite using knee braces and trekking poles, we had to proceed cautiously. On the way down, we passed Sayat Sayat Hut, an important checkpoint during the climb. Here, we reconfirmed our summit credentials before continuing our descent. By 2:30 PM, we successfully returned to the starting point, completing this challenging climb. Although the total distance was approximately 11 kilometers, the high altitude and steep slopes made it a demanding test of physical and mental endurance. Reflecting on the stunning scenery and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the summit, all the effort and fatigue felt worthwhile. Accommodation Experience: Liwagu Loft Suite at Kinabalu Park Back at Kinabalu Park, we stayed at the Liwagu Loft Suite. This five-star accommodation provided a comfortable environment and excellent service. Here, we were able to relax and reflect on our climbing experience. The Significance of Climbing Mount Kinabalu Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia at 4,095 meters, is a dream challenge for mountaineering enthusiasts. Despite the climbing fees increasing annually, it continues to attract numerous climbers. During this journey, we not only experienced the alpine ecosystem and stunning landscapes but also forged deep friendships with our companions. This adventure will remain a cherished memory in our lives.