Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and also ranks the 20th place among the highest peaks in the world, in terms of prominence. This and its impressive biodiversity makes Kinabalu one of the most important and far-famed mountains in the world. It is the main attraction in Sabah, along with the Kinabalu National Park- the park surrounding the mountain, which has a variety of flora and fauna that covers not less than 4 climate zones. You can now see why “Mount Kinabalu climbing” is such an imposing phrase. Most people think about is as a dream. But this is a dream that can come true. Below are some tips that can be very useful if you decide to follow your dreams.
Mount Kinabalu climbing preparations for beginners
First of all, you should know that climbers must be accompanied by guides at every moment of their hike. These are the park’s rules and everyone must follow them. Secondly, if you want to have a total experience then you should allocate 3 days to the climbing, meaning you will spend 2 nights on the mountain. The mountain’s physical properties and its abundance in unique species of plants require that.
If you are a beginner, Low’s Peak is not too hard to be climbed if you are in good physical shape. However, other peaks are not that accessible and require more advanced climbing skills.
Mount Kinabalu climbing- starting points
The hike has 2 main starting points:
- Timpohon Gate located 5 km away from the park entrance. The place is also known under the name “Pondok Timpohon”, meaning “Timpohon Shelter”, because of the large wooden shelter that was built here. The place is peaceful and offers a spectacular view. The place has a check point for climbers, where they can file their permits to the stationed ranger. It also has a shop, providing snacks and refreshments.
- Mesilau Nature Resort- a tourist resort built in 1998, which is a great lodging place for ecotourists. It is 30 minutes far from the Kinabalu Park and 2000 meters above the sea level. This is also a peaceful place and its meeting room stands for motivational training, seminars, meetings and retreats for small groups.
The two trails cross two kilometers before Laban Rata.
Mount Kinabalu climbing tales
There are many tales regarding Mount Kinabalu, but one of them is absolutely breath-taking. It claims that “Kinabalu” means “Cina Balu” or “A Chinese Widow”. The story says that a Chinese prince was rescued by the natives of Borneo after his ship sank. The prince fell in love with a local woman and then abandoned her because of his parents. The woman died at the top of the mountain, which she used to climb every morning to see if her husband would return home.
The spirit of the mountain turned her into stone, out of admiration for her great effort. The people of the village decided to name the mountain “Kinabalu” in her memory. Hence, the mountain is a symbol of everlasting love.
So, when you think about the Mount Kinabalu climbing experience, think about great effort and the passion that comes along with it, think about the perseverance needed to fulfill your dreams.
