30/09/2014
We would like to share this with everybody:
A couple of days back, I have just come back from Mt. Kinabalu. Let me briefly explain to you my experience of climbing one of the highest mountains in South East Asia. The journey from Kota Kinabalu to Kinabalu Park takes about 2 hours only. The journey itself is really beautiful with hill, green forest and hazy. We were transported to the starting gate named Timpohon Gate. After getting the permit and confirming the accommodation at Laban Rata, we set off about 8:30 or 8:45 am. The first two km of the climb is quite easy, it then gets quite steep. My guide encouraged me to go slower to get a steady pace. The middle of the climb was starting to be challenging. The peak is extremely hard as it gets steeper and slipperier. At the very end of the 6th km, we could actually see Laban Rata. The whole journey was gorgeous as you can see trees, wild orchids and pitcher plant sand the landscape.
After six hours from Timpohon gate, I finally reached the accommodation at Laban Rata at 2.30pm. After checking in, I took my bath and have a nap. Dinner is served at 5 pm. I was in bed by 8 pm, ready to rise and shine at 1 am.
I woke up at 1.00 am and take time to pack before having supper. At that time, the weather was quite dizzy. My guide told that we have to observe the weather. He said that if the weather is not good, we might need to call off the whole trip. Luckily the rain stops after a while and I begin my journey to climb to the peak of Mount Kinabalu. Climbing 3.5 hours to reach the peak of the mountain was not easy. I went through cold weather, windy condition and dark places. The only thing that kept me motivated was the beautiful scenery. Then, I was there. I reached the peak about 5:30 am just in time for sunrise. The sunrise view was just spectacular.
I was back to my accommodation by 10am for breakfast and have a sit as my legs were shaking. I took my bath later. The water is extremely cold and I felt refreshed. After a shower, I then begin my journey down the hill at 11am. I manage to reach the bottom at 3.50 pm. The descent only took me about four and half hours.
This climb to Mount Kinabalu was so enjoyable. Most importantly; I have managed to conquer the highest mountain in Malaysia. I am proud of myself despite the cold and freezing conditions. The sense of achievement was indescribable after I have reached the peak of Mount Kinabalu. A Mount Kinabalu climb is truly a unique experience, so everybody must try. To all future climbers out there, good luck on your climb.
