Magical Mount kinabalu
We traveled to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, to hike Malaysia’s tallest mountain, Mount Kinabalu. The experience was literally breathtaking, with exquisite views that words and photos cannot fully capture.
Our journey began in Kuantan, where we took a flight to KL, followed by a short layover before heading to Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival, we stayed overnight at a local apartment, and our adventure started on Day 2.
We spent one night at the prestigious Kinabalu Lodge before embarking on our hike. The first part of the hike was quite manageable for those who were well-trained. It was a long journey, starting at 9 am and lasting about 4-6 hours, depending on your pace. There were rest stops with toilets almost every kilometer. It’s important to reach Laban Rata, also known as Panabalan, before 5 pm, or you may not be able to summit the next day or might incur additional charges.
The view began as a typical rainforest from Timpohon Gate, but as we ascended, it gradually changed. The tall, greenish trees gave way to smaller trees composed of ferns and other foliage. I can’t describe it.
As the trees grew shorter, we encountered more rocky, mountainous views. If you’re lucky and there are no clouds or fog, you’ll catch a glimpse of the summit.
The first part of the journey ends at Panabalan, where a buffet-style dinner is served from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Afterward, you sleep from 7 pm to 1:30 am. At 1:30 am, you have supper before starting the summit attack to Low’s Peak.
At 2:30 am, you begin your journey to the summit, which is about 2 km away. This is when I noticed the air was really thin, and each step felt like running a mile. There’s a time limit to reach the Sayat-Sayat checkpoint, which I think is before 5 am. If you arrive after, you won’t be allowed to summit.
After Sayat-Sayat, the trail becomes even more challenging, with rock climbing and streams of water trickling down from the summit. Be cautious, as the rocks can be slippery, compounded by the thin air.
If you’re fast enough, you’ll witness the sunrise from the top of Malaysia. It’s a magnificent view that words can’t describe; you just have to experience it.
The descent is where the real pain begins. Your legs will scream and feel like jelly, but it’s all worth it for the experience and memories. Doing it with friends adds to the fun.#travel #hiking #thingstodo #mountkinabalu