Mountain Climbing in Malaysia

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

Climbing up mountains is a wonderful way to discover the diversity and uniqueness of Malaysia's natural landscape, starting from the tropical rainforest in the lowlands to the mountain vegetation in the high elevation. River crossings and gushing waterfalls along the way add to the adventure.

From easier walks in the cool comfort of Peninsular Malaysia's Main Range to the challenging peaks of Malaysian Borneo, there are mountains tempt every level of climber. Be it high or low, with each ascent you make, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring sights and discoveries that will expand your mind.

MOUNTAINS IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

Peninsular Malaysia has a range of scenic accessible heights as wel as steep shrouded mountains.

For starters, there are less arduous climbs with well-marked trails at popular sites such as legendary Gunung Ledang (Mount Ledang) in Johor, historic Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai) in Kedah or Gunung Angsi (Mount Angsi) in Negeri Sembilan where trips take several hours to a day to complete. These are easily accessible and guides are not compulsory. Gunung Berembun (Mount Berembun) and Gunung Brinchang (Mount Brinchang) in Cameron Highlands offer sweeping views of tea and vegetable plantations and are ideal for those who prefer light trekking. The latter at 2032m is the highest point that can be reached by road in Peninsular Malaysia.

Those who want more than a leisure outing can choose a summit that requires a journey through the wilderness first. Gunung Gagau (Mount Gagau) in Taman Negara is a day's climb, but to reach the base you need to traverse lake, river and jungle and throw in a cave or two along the way before the peak rewards you with a view of three states.

For a bigger challenge, head to Gunung Tahan (Mount Tahan), the heighest point in Peninsular Malaysia. The 130km return journey takes up to 8 days and traverses over rainforests, tricky rivers and mountain ridges in the unspoiled heart of Taman Negara. An experienced guide is a must.

MOUNTAINS IN SABAH AND SARAWAK

Some of the world's most unique mountain environments can be found in Malaysian Borneo.

Gunung Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu), one of the highest peaks in South-East Asia at 4093m is located in the World Heritage Site of Kinabalu Park, Sabah. Accessible to all trekkers, the Summit Trail leading to Low's Peak has clear paths and ropes at steep rocky sections. Exotic plant life found only in the area such as the Necklace Orchid can be seen on the climb.

Nearby Gunung Trusmadi (Mount Trusmadi) is a more adventurous week-long trail through mossy forest, steep hills and rain-swollen rivers. The Summit will reward you with one of the best views of Gunung Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu) and a chance to see the remarkably large and rare pitcher plants found only on the ridges of Trusmadi.

Most other mountains can be reached in two days as long as you are fit enough to tackle any steep terrain.

In Sarawak, Gunung Santubong (Mount Santubong) is one of the most popular mountains with its spectacular view of Kuching. Guides will be needed on the tough trek to Gunung Penrissen (Mount Penrissen), but the 1329m vertical scramble to the top can be completed in a day or two.

The long uphill trek to the sandstone summit famed of Gunung Mulu (Mount Mulu) takes four days and passes through primary jungle, with swampy patches and huge clumps of colourful rhododendrons before the white clouds disperse to reveal the massive limestones outcropping of Gunung Api (Mount Api) just across the valley.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING TIPS

While many mountains, especially those located in the national park, have overnight camping facilities and provide some equipment for rental, it is wise to plan ahead and make inquiries for bookings, weather conditions and other current information. Some remote or protected sites may even require special permits from the authorities.

It is best to hire a guide for the trip, unless the trail is well marked. Besides guiding you to the best campsites and rest spots, local guides know the natural history and folklore of the area and are invaluable when plans change and alternative routes need to be taken.

Th exertion of carrying a heavy pack is compounded by the altitude, so it is always best to choose to climb mountains within your ability. Do not overload yourself with camping equipment. As a rough guide, the weight of your pack should not be more than a quarter of your body weight, the lighter the better for longer journeys.