If your idea of paradise is scaling the great heights of grand mountains, then Sabah is the place to be. We list down three amazing mountains for those seeking a holiday that sets your adrenaline flowing and your eyes enraptured.
Mount Kinabalu
This majestic icon does not need much introduction. Many have visited Mount Kinabalu to conquer its summit. But there’s so much to do here, than just mountain climbing.
The new Kota Belud trail brings climbers from Panalaban to Sayat Sayat then continues on to the summit trail to Low’s Peak. Photo: Sabah Tourism/Murphy Ng
For extreme sports enthusiasts, try out Via Ferrata, Alpine rock climbing and paragliding is the aim here. Of course, scaling those great heights should still top your itinerary. Sabah Parks has developed two new summit trails.
The current trail to the summit is Ranau Trail, which will take climbers on an easterly route. The new Kota Belud trail brings climbers from Panalaban (previously known as Laban Rata) at 3,272m to Sayat Sayat (3,668m) then continues on to the summit trail to Low’s Peak at 4,095.2m.
If you’re debating on the more scenic route, fret not. Both trails offer spectacular views of the district of Ranau; Kundasang; and even the coastal line of Kota Kinabalu’s west coast.
While special skills aren’t needed to climb, you must at least have the basic fitness level. Advance booking is recommended, as there is a limit to the number of climbers each day (135). There is a long queue as demand is high.
Once you’re at the summit, post a postcard from the country’s highest post box! Yes a post box – we kid you not!
Mount Trus Madi
The Nepenthes x trusmadiensis pitcher plant is native to the area of Mount Trus Madi. Photo: Sabah Tourism Board/David Michael
Love the high terrains and have a thirst for adventure? If you’re looking for a challenge, look no further than Mount Trusmadi.
Located about 70km southeast of Kota Kinabalu within the district of Tambunan, the second highest peak in the country stands at 2,642m tall and offers a thrilling climbing experience.
Climbers have the option of taking three trails. Wayaan Kaingaran starts from Tambunan while Wayaan Mastan and Wayaan Manaan both begin from Keningau.
But an adventure is not the only thing on offer here. Mount Trus Madi’s forest reserve borders four districts – Ranau up north, Tambunan on the west, Keningau down south and Sook in the east. So brace yourself to be enveloped by lush greenery.
An interesting thing to spot is the unique pitcher plant. The Nepenthes x trusmadiensis is native to the mountain alone.
But the real reward comes when you reach the summit. Up there, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking vista of Mount Kinabalu over in the north.
Mount Tambuyukon
This twin peaked mountain may lose out to Mount Kinabalu and Mount Trus Madi in terms of height (2,579m). But scaling Malaysia’s third highest mountain is actually a much tougher feat due to the terrain and distance to the trail.
A view of the gorgeous sunset around the summit of Mount Tambuyukon. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The hardcore 14km journey to the summit takes at least four days and three nights. Climbers begin their journey from Monggis Substation. The venue has camping ground facilities as well as bunk beds, toilets and kitchen.
It’s a two-hour drive to Monggis Substation from Ranau, and the journey is best made with a 4WD. Expect to see an amazing selection of Sabah’s beautiful flora and fauna while hiking up.
Climbers need to obtain permission from Sabah Parks to ascend this mountain.
The iconic Mount Kinabalu is just one of the many mountains that you can climb in Sabah. Photo: Sabah Tourism Board
This article is brought to you by the Sabah Tourism Board. Discover more at www.sabahtourism.com.
