Mount Kinabalu — Attraction in Borneo

Mount Kinabalu, a climb for a lifetime ❤

• The highest mountain on Borneo and Malaysia, 4095 metres

• Can be climbed as a 2D1N or 3D2N package, but not allowed as a day trip. It is mandatory to spend the night on the mountain, as the ascent starts ~2-3am based on each person's stamina with the purpose of reaching the peak in time for sunrise

• Due to meteorological conditions, the peak can close anytime for everyone's safety (with no reimbursement), so keep your expectations in place

• There is a limited number of people that can climb Mt Kinabalu daily, mainly restricted by the number of beds / rooms from the huts.

• Many people decide to book even 1 year in advance of this trip, but you can get a last minute deal if you are lucky (when places become available they go on sale the day or the evening before the trekking or even the morning of the ascent). Keep your eyes open and remain flexible if you decide on a last minute chance.

• Booking in advance with an agency is more costly than booking by yourself. But you can get a last minute deal through an agency which can sometimes go even lower than booking alone. You must check your options on the spot.

• There the is an option to hire a porter to help you with the luggage if needed. The minimum weight is 10kg and it costs around ~15 RM / kg.

• At Latan Rata there is the highest post office in Malaysia, so don't forget to send a postcard to the loved ones after successfully reaching the peak. It will be such a nice memory!

• For emergencies, there are several things you can buy at Latan Rata shop including post cards, socks, gloves, caps, trousers, etc. - cash only

• The official website to book your accommodation is https://suterasanctuarylodges.com.my/laban-rata/

• There are several agencies providing this tour, I personally got a last minute deal with Borneo Encounter Tours & Transportation S/B (they have a FB page and you can reach them directly on Whatsapp as there is a phone number displayed).

• There was a man in our dormitory who paid only 1080 RM for a last minute deal with an agency called Seek Sophie. So you may even gen a better deal than the one I got!

• As we were 3 people in the group, we paid 1730 RM each, including 》Return transportation from KK 》Guide, entrance fee, climbing permit, insurance, certificate of achievement 》1 night of accommodation in mid-range hut, dormitory (there is no heating at all no matter the accommodation you chose) 》1 packed lunch, 1 dinner, 1 light breakfast, 1 breakfast, 1 lunch 》Free hot water available at Laban Rata only

• Prepare your gear accordingly and expect any type of weather, including a lot of rain and slippery paths 》Headlamp is mandatory as you ascend during the night 》Gloves are vital for cold but also for the last portion when you must use the rope 》Waterproof boots are highly recommended if not mandatory 》Bring dry clothes for change, as there's no heating and chance for anything to get dry on the mountain 》Mosquito spray and solar cream are highly recommended 》Waterproof backpack or cover are necessary 》No leeches on the path 》Bring your own toiletries as nothing is provided (even a bath towel if you're ok with a very cold shower) 》~ 1.5l of water until you reach the hut 》Energy food

• Keep an eye on the pitcher plants!

More details incl pictures and videos on my Instagram,...

This is one of the best things I have done for myself. It made me realise that anything is possible.  Consistency, determination, and mental strength are crucial for this!  The view at the top is breakfasting, and no video or photo can ever do it justice. If there's just one challenge in your life, perhaps this would be it ✌️

Porters are available at MYR14 per kg. I had the porters carry my stuff as I was just exhausted. Carrying more load will only reduce timing further. My aim was to reach the summit, and I did. Many thanks to my porter and guide, Ubi.

Oh! Point to note. There are 3D2N and 4D3N packages, so you don't have to push yourself so hard! While I knew of them, I was under the impression that it was tied to the via Ferrata, BUT it's not!

I signed up for the 2D1N, and it was gruelling! I'm neither the fittest nor the most athletic.  I took 2 hrs twice a week off my schedule for 3 months to train for this. Was it enough? Perhaps I should have started training sooner.

Day 1 0800 - Briefing, getting ready 0900 - Start off from Timpohon Gate 0917 - Carson Falls 0924 - 0.5km mark 0945 - London Kandis 0947 - 1.0km mark 1008 - Pondok Ubah 1021 - 1.5km mark 1041 -  2.0km mark 1058- Pondok Lowii 1105 - Summit Trail sign 1112 - 2.5km mark 1137 - 3.0km mark 1202 - Pondok Mempending 1229 - 3.5km mark 1302 - Layang Layang for lunch 1331 - 4.0km mark 1427 - 4.5km mark 1456 - Pondok Villosa 1506 - 5.0km mark 1536 - Pondok Paka 1548 - 5.5km mark 1600 - 5.6km mark 1615 - 5.7km mark 1631 - 5.8km mark 1642 - 5.9km mark 1645 - Pana Laban 1703 - Dinner 1800 - Rest/Sleep

Day 2 0115 - Rise & Shine 0130 - Supper 0215 - Briefing, set out 0437 - Sayat Sayat 0609 - 8km mark 0647 - 8.5 km mark 0726 - Summit 1810 - Timpohon Gate

Didn't want to take my phone out for photos in the dark. This is why the updates towards the summit are far apart. Took some pictures on my way down from the summit.

Would I do it again? I don't know, BUT it was worth every drop of perspiration! The feeling is second to none! For all who's thinking of climbing Mt Kinabalu, my advice is to train well and set your mind to reach the summit. Do it once and do it well....

My recent climb to the peak of Mount Kinabalu was an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure that left me in awe of nature's splendor and my own capabilities. As I embarked on the journey to conquer Southeast Asia's highest peak, I was filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation.

The climb began at Timpohon Gate, where I was greeted by the lush rainforest enveloping the trail. Each step brought me closer to the summit, with the trail winding its way through a diverse landscape of towering trees, moss-covered rocks, and cascading waterfalls.

As the altitude increased, so did the challenge. The steep ascent tested my physical endurance and mental resilience, pushing me beyond my comfort zone. Yet, with each passing milestone, I found renewed determination to press on, fueled by the breathtaking scenery and the camaraderie of fellow climbers.

Reaching Laban Rata resthouse marked a significant milestone in the journey, offering a well-deserved respite and a chance to refuel before the final push to the summit. As night fell, I set out under a blanket of stars, guided by the light of my headlamp and the anticipation of what lay ahead.

The final ascent to Low's Peak was both grueling and awe-inspiring. Battling fatigue and altitude sickness, I pushed myself to the limit, drawing strength from the stunning sunrise painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. With each step, I felt a sense of accomplishment and wonder, knowing that I was standing on the roof of Borneo.

Reaching the summit of Mount Kinabalu was a moment of triumph unlike any other, a testament to perseverance, courage, and the power of the human spirit. As I stood at the highest point in Southeast Asia, surrounded by panoramic views of the Sabah landscape, I was overcome with a sense of humility and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty.

Descending from the peak, I carried with me not only memories of the journey but also a newfound appreciation for the magnificence of Mount Kinabalu and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to conquer it. It was an experience that challenged me, changed me, and will forever hold a special place...