I went to Malaysia last summer and spent about 2 1/2 weeks in Sabah. We did lots of great thing while we were there including; Jungle Treking; White Water Rafting; watching Orangutans. But the thing I most enjoyed about Malaysia was my trip up to the top of Mt Kinabalu. The trek itself was reasonably long and steep but the paths themselves weren't that hard to follow even when you are climbing in the pitch black. But, however hard it is getting to the top of the mountain, it is definately worth getting to the top both for the marvellous views and the satisfaction of being able to look back down at all the distance you have climbed.
When I climbed Mt Kinabalu we did it over a two day period climbing to just over 3000 metres on the first day and going onto the top and down again the next day. On the first day, we arrived reasdonably early in the morning and met up with our local guides, who although were very small were also exceptionally strong, as we found out later. Shortly after we set off and at about 6/7 o'clock we reached where we staying, a large perminant port-a-cabin like structure. It was good accomodation for the short time we spent there, however if you want to stay somewhere more luxurious, there is also a hotel (yes, a hotel at 3000 metres). This hotel is supplied with everything they need by a constant stream of locals, carrying everything from coke to cornflakes to the top.
The next day we woke at about 1:30am and then set off in the pitch black at 2:00. although pitch black climbing/walking was suprisingly easy as there was a clear path and a rope to guide the way. We eventually reached the summit at about 6:00am ready for sunrise, which was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. at this point I believe i took somewhere in the region of 100 photos it was so beautiful, also with a 360 degree view. Unfortunately it is hard to stay to long at the top because you soon begin to get freezing cold and have to go down.
Going back down washard but it was another constant oppertunity to take more photos, so you could remember for the rest of your life. We quickly got back to where we had stayed over night and there slept for about an hour and then procceeded to have breakfast and head down, which we had managed by the end of the day.
It was well worth climbing mount Kinabalu, as it was so unbelieveably beautiful and an experience that will last with me for the rest of my life. However there are some important things you need to note. Firstly, although it is easily possible to climb it in one day, this is only suitable for people extremely fit and used to walking at altitude. Secondly, you need to be careful of conditions such as altitude sickness and also things like asthma which can also be affected up at the top. Thirdly, although you may start off in the boiling hot sunshine at the bottom, the top is much colder and you will need several layers of thick clothing.
However, for me climbing Mt Kinabalu is one of the most worthwhile things you can do in Malaysia, and something you will remember for the rest of your lifes, as both an achievement and also for its pure beauty
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