Mountain Kinabalu is a mountain located at Kadamaian, Kota Belud District, West Coast Division of Sabah, Malaysia. It is protected as Kinabalu Park, a World Heritage Site.The highest mountain in Malaysia.
Mount Kinabalu , Malaysia
Day 1 Pickup from hotel lobby 2 hours journey to Kinabalu Park Headquarter.
Check into Kinabalu Park.
Pine Resort Private Room.
Rest of the day you are free at leisure.Dinner will be served at local restaurant and overnight.
Day 2 You’ll then be transferred to starting point – Timpohon Gate – where your journey and quest to the summit of Borneo’s highest mountain begins!
Guide will arrange for all necessary registrations, assign you a mountain guide and apply for your ID TAG.Remember to wear your ID TAG at all times.
Proceed to the Park HQ to register for the climb
The climb will take approximately 4-5 hours.
A lot of stair in the beginning ,keep on climbing .
Go thru the jungle
Nepenthes
Pass by different vegetation zones from Oak and Chestnut to mossy and eventually to alpine type of vegetations.
Natural tree
Half way of mountain the weather temperatures getting lower .
Porter Orang Asli
Arrive and check in to Panalaban Base Camp @ 3,272m or similar in the late afternoon.
Buffet Dinner at Laban Rata restaurant and overnight.
Nice View from Rata Resthouse
Day 3 (02:00hrs) Wake up for early supper and depart for continuation of journey towards the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
Depending on speed of trekking, you might be able to experience the glorious sunrise over the majestic Mt. Kinabalu if weather permits.
The journey up to the Low’s peak @ 4,095m will test your fitness and determination.
Finally we reach taman kinabalu low's peak (4095.2M)
(07:00hrs) Descend back to Panalaban for late breakfast and check out. Trek down to Timpohon Gate for transfer back to the Kinabalu Park Headquarter (est. arrival 13:00hrs to 15:00hrs).
Congratulations, you can now collect your Certificate of Achievement!
Introduction
Mount Kinabalu’s specialty lies in its location at a renowned World Heritage Site—Kinabalu Park. Nature lovers will be delighted to be able to witness the many variations of flora and fauna that are to be found on the mountain at different altitudes.
Mount Kinabalu, along with other upland areas of the Crocker Range is well-known worldwide for its tremendous botanical and biological species biodiversity with plants of Himalayan, Australasian, and Indo-Malayan origin.
A recent botanical survey of the mountain estimated a staggering 5,000 to 6,000 plant species (excluding mosses and liverworts but including ferns), which is more than all of Europe and North America (excluding tropical regions of Mexico) combined. It is therefore one of the world’s most important biological sites.
Standing majestically at 4,095m (13,435 feet above sea level), Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea. Mount Kinabalu derives its name from the Kadazan word, ‘Aki Nabalu’, meaning ‘the revered place of the dead’. It is one of the safest and most conquerable peaks in the world—provided that you’re reasonably healthy and physically fit.
The Summit of Borneo
Mount Kinabalu (Gunung Kinabalu) is the most dramatic feature in Sabah and the tallest peak between the Himalayas & the New Guinea. Towering at 4,095 metres (13,435 feet), Mount Kinabalu exerts a magical quality that is both indescribable and unbelievable. The granite peaks are constantly veiled in wisps of clouds and at times during a clear day, the summit reveals a distinct glacier carved pinnacles, rising from the smooth granite dome. It is one of the safest and most conquerable peaks in the world—provided that you’re reasonably healthy and physically fit.
Climbing Mount Kinabalu Season
Mount Kinabalu Weather
The best period to climb the mountain is from March to September, as the weather during these months are considered dry. The temperature at the summit of Mount Kinabalu (4,095.2m) drops to freezing 0 °C , Timpohon to Panalaban ranges from 6 °C - 14 °C and Kinabalu Park (foot of mountain) is around 15 °C - 24 °C. Expect passing showers in the mid afternoon as you climb the mountain as it is after all a tropical rainforest and tends to receive several rainfalls.
Mount Kinabalu Sites Map
Mount Kinabalu Park Map
Mount Kinabalu Summit Trail Map
Mount Kinabalu Trail Map
Who Can Climb Mount Kinabalu?
Any Age Limit?
There are no particular age limits for Mount Kinabalu climbers. As long as you are good in health status or you have seek approval from your doctor if you are on any medication. We have served thousands of climbers ranging from 3 years old to 87 years old. However, we suggest young children to be at least 10 years old due to the numerous steps and steep slopes. Similarly, elderly climbers need to be in good health and fitness level to attempt the climb.
For Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata
For Mount Kinabalu Climb via Ferrata routes, you need to be between at least 10 years old (for Walk the Torq) and 17 years old (for Low's Peak Circuit) and not more than 70 years old with a minimum height of 1.3 metres. Additional requirements are that you need to be overall fit, healthy and preferably not afraid of heights. The Via Ferrata option is an experience for anyone who wants to try climbing a mountain in another manner. It allows access to scenic sections of the mountains that are typically available only to experienced rock climbers and mountaineers.
Activities & Things To Do In Kinabalu Park
Trekking
Climbing
Camping
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Plant Spotting
Photography
Cinematography
Climbathon
Golf
War Memorial
Guided Trekking
Follow any of the numerous and interesting nature trails within Kinabalu Park and discover rare and endemic plants today! Follow Park Naturalists or our guide as they take you on a guided trail walks and educate you on the various wonders.
Liwagu Trail (5620 metres)Duration : 2 hours
The trail starts from Kinabalu Balsam Restaurant located at the Park Headquarters. The trail leads to Silau-Silau but does not cross until the Liwagu junction. Follow the Liwagu upstream before reaching the Power Station road near Timpohon Gate. It is a steep, narrow and varied trail through a ridge forest, cool stream valley, rattan palms and Liwagu.
Silau Silau Trail (3057 metres)Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes
Follow the river from its source below Kiau Gap which junctions with the Liwagu River near the overhanging rock of Liwagu Cave. The trail is linked with other trails at various points, including Bukit Burung, Bukit Tupai and Kiau view.
Bukit Burung Trail (1082 metres)Duration : 1 hour
Start from the road, cross the Silau-Silau stream and trail, then proceed up the ridge side to Bukit Burung shelter for a spectacular view of the Park Headquarters, Lower Liwagu Valley and Mount Kinabalu. Attractions include easy access to a hill forest, cool stream valleys and dry ridge tops.
Kiau View Trail (2544 metres)Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes
From the arch at the park entrance, proceed along a wide undulating ridge trail. Finish just after the 1.5 km mark along the Power Station Road opposite the entrance to Silau-Silau Trail. Attractions include scenic views of the west coast and an assortment of local tree species.
Bundu Tuhan View Trail - Sunset (465 metres)Duration : 15 minutes
Take the loop road below the staff quarters near the Conservation Centre. The trail reaches shelter at a ridge top above the main Ranau Highway. Obtain spectacular views of Bundu Tuhan village and southern mountains including Malaysia’s second highest peak, Mount Trusmadi (2,642 metres). Follow the ridge down to Liwagu Trail.
Pandanus Trail (598 metres)Duration : 20 minutes
A broad well graded trail offering refreshing views. The Pandanus Trail opened in September 1999 for the World Mountain Trophy Race, starting near the car park of the Park Headquarters administration building joining the Kiau View Trail at ridge crest.
Bukit Ular Hillside Trail (997 metres)Duration : 30 minutes
A fairly steep trail takes hikers through a journey along a winding road around Bukit Ular from the top of Power Station Road and finally emerging just behind the Power Station. Attempt a challenging 30-minute detour from the top of Bukit Ular for excellent views of a waterfall and mountain.
Mempening Trail (2516 metres)Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes
Start half way up Power Station Road, trek down the ridge through dense oak chestnut forest to Bukit Tupai and Silau-Silau stream. Good view of Park Headquarters and Liwagu Valley.
Bukit Tupai Trail (345 metres)Duration : 15 minutes From Multi-purpose Hall, cross Silau-Silau stream and trail, going straight up to ridge crest and Bukit Tupai Shelter. Splendid view of Park Headquarters and tree canopy area. On clear days, breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu. Ridge crest links to Mempening and Bukit Burung Trail.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
KOTA KINABALU
Pickup from hotel lobby depart on a 2 hours journey to Kinabalu Park Headquarter.
En route passing by villages and a panoramic vista of the valleys of the Crocker Range.
Along the way, take a brief stop at Nabalu. Nabalu is a place where the local natives gather to sell local produce, fruits, home grown vegetables and handicraft souvenirs.
Check into Kinabalu Park / Pine Resort Private Room.
Rest of the day you are free at leisure.
Dinner will be served at local restaurant and overnight.
(Dinner)
Day2
ASCEND MOUNT KINABALU
Breakfast at Park Restaurant. Thereafter, collect packed lunch.
Proceed to the Park HQ to register for the climb.
Our guide will arrange for all necessary registrations, assign you a mountain guide and apply for your ID TAG.
Remember to wear your ID TAG at all times.
You’ll then be transferred to starting point – Timpohon Gate – where your journey and quest to the summit of Borneo’s highest mountain begins! The climb will take approximately 4-5 hours.
The trek will pass by different vegetation zones from Oak and Chestnut to mossy and eventually to alpine type of vegetations.
Arrive and check into Panalaban Base Camp @ 3,272m or similar in the late afternoon.
Buffet Dinner at Laban Rata restaurant and overnight.
(Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Buffet Dinner)
Day 3
(02:00hrs) Wake up for early supper and depart for continuation of journey towards the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
The journey up to the Low’s peak @ 4,095m will test your fitness and determination.
Depending on speed of trekking, you might be able to experience the glorious sunrise over the majestic Mt. Kinabalu if weather permits.
(07:00hrs) Descend back to Panalaban for late breakfast and check out. Trek down to Timpohon Gate for transfer back to the Kinabalu Park Headquarter (est. arrival 13:00hrs to 15:00hrs).
Congratulations, you can now collect your Certificate of Achievement!
Buffet Lunch will be served at the Balsam restaurant in Kinabalu Park.
Transfer back to Kota Kinabalu City. Journey takes approx. 2 hrs.
(Early Supper, Breakfast, Buffet Lunch)
~ END OF TOUR ~
Waterproof backpack to store your items
Trekking or running shoe with good grip
Warm clothing/Long sleeves shirt/Hiking pants
Jacket/Wind breaker
Extra clothing and socks
Small towel
Hand gloves and winter hat
Disposable raincoats
Head torch (compulsory)
Personal toiletries
Refillable water bottle (0.5 – 1 Litre)
High energy food such as chocolates, nuts, biscuits, sweets, energy bars
Your extra luggage can be stored at Kinabalu Park HQ at a nominal fee of RM12 per piece prior climb.
Things You Wish To Bring:
Medication such as headache tablets or altitude sickness tablets
Tissue paper / Toilet roll
Sun block lotion, lip gloss, plasters
Insect repellent / Mosquito Oil
Camera with water proof bag
Sandals / Slippers
Plastic bags
About Climb Transport Arrangements
Friendly guide will meet you at your hotel lobby / greet you at the Airport arrival hall with a placard bearing your good name. Should you encounter difficulties in locating our guide, you can call our hotline number/s stated in your itinerary for further assistance.
We do not recommend climbers to catch your flight on the same day you descend the mountain due to possible delay from injuries, tiredness and/or bad weather and traffic conditions.
For 2-Day 1-Night packages, transportation will be arranged for Pick-Up from your Hotel between 06:00hrs - 07:00hrs. Our team will advise your Pick-Up time one (1) day before your departure. Kindly request your hotel for early or packed breakfast on the day of your tour.
For 2-Day 1-Night packages with ferrata, transportation will be arranged for Pick-Up from your Hotel between 06:00hrs - 06:45hrs. Our team will advise your Pick-Up time one (1) day before your departure. Kindly request your hotel for early or packed breakfast on the day of your tour
For 3-Day 2-Nights packages and beyond, our transport can pick you up from either Airport OR your Hotel. Time is dependent on your arrival flight schedule. Please provide us your flight details.
Add MYR 30 nett per person per way for transport to/from locations outside Kota Kinabalu city (e.g. Beringgis Beach Resort/Langkah Syabas Beach Resort / Papar / Kinarut Area).
All transportations are based on Seat-In-Coach. This is a transfer service in which clients share their vehicle with other clients. This is a door-to-door service with multiple pickups & drop-offs throughout the journey. Do expect some short waiting time.
After descending to Kinabalu Park HQ, climbers are subject to pre-determined pickup time set by Amazing Borneo Tours with the last transport returning to Kota Kinabalu city latest by 1800hrs. We will ensure your possible wait of not more than 2 hours at Park HQ. However, if you missed the last transport (which is unlikely) or wish to depart at your own preferred timing, we can arrange a vehicle for private transfer for you (Subject to availability). Please understand that the surcharge for any private transfer will have to be borne by you.
Private Transfer Surcharge:- MYR 250/vehicle/way
Our group rates are quoted without deviation, which means we provide only one return transfers for your group. If your group requires more than one return transfers, additional transfer charges may apply.
Important Note:
Climbers who reach Timpohon Gate after 16:30 Hrs will be imposed a fee of MYR15.00 per hour per guide and need to pay directly to mountain guide on the spot.
Do take note that your passport will be required for verification during registration at the Kinabalu Park office. Please bring it along with you.
Effective as of 1st September 2017, the Tourism and Culture Ministry of Malaysia will be implementing a Malaysian Tourism Tax (TTX). Foreign tourists will be required to pay a flat rate of MYR 10 per room per night regardless of accommodation star level. The TTx is to be paid upon check-in. Malaysians or permanent residents residing in Malaysia are exempted from TTx and is required to present a valid identification upon check-in for the exemption.
Friendly Note From Sabah Parks: It is recommended that all climbers should have themselves medically checked before attempting any mountain climb. If you have a history of suffering from the following ailments, it is highly recommend that you should refrain from climbing: Hypertension, Diabetes, Palpitation, Arthritis, Heart disease, severe anemia, Peptic ulcers, Epileptic fits, Obesity (overweight), Chronic asthma, Muscular cramps, Hepatitis (jaundice); or any other disease which may hamper the climber. Children below 15 years old must fill in the indemnity form upon registration at Park Headquarters.
Image courtesy of https://www.mountkinabalu.com/
WHAT TO WEAR Recommended Mount Kinabalu Climbing Attire
1ST ASCENT – TIMPOHON GATE TO PANALABAN / PENDANT HUT
(Day 1 Climb / Weather: Usually Warm & Sunny)
Wear lightweight clothing like t-shirts and track pants.
Wear covered walking/hiking shoes with good grip. (Sports shoe is adequate).
Waterproof backpack to store your items. (If not, buy a rain cover for your backpack. Try to limit it to less than 6 kg. It would be a burden for you to bring more than that).
A small lightweight towel.
Trekking / Hiking Pole (can be purchased at Kinabalu Park at MYR 45/pole, simply inform our staff)
2ND ASCENT – PANALABAN / PENDANT HUT TO LOW’S PEAK SUMMIT
(Day 2 Climb / Weather: Usually Cold & Windy)
Warm clothing is essential.
Waterproof Wind breaker
Fleece jackets, long sleeves shirts, thick trousers/hiking pants, thick socks and good shoes.
Head Torch. (Head torch is necessary as most of the time you have to hold the rope in the dark).
Cap / Beanie / Head Scarf /Balaclava mask. (It will keep warm and protect your head and face from the cold wind).
Gloves. (Waterproof gloves is the best, It will protect your hands from rope burn and cold).
Ponchos or Disposable raincoat or waterproof jacket in case of rain.
Temperatures from Kinabalu Park to the Low’s Peak Summit can vary throughout the climb.
Fun Facts : Average Temperatures at Mount Kinabalu
AreasTemperatureKinabalu National Park15°C - 24°C (59.7°F – 75.2°F)
Timpohon Trail to Summit Trail / Kota Belud Trail6°C - 14°C (42.7°F – 57.2°F)
Mount Kinabalu Summit4°C or lower (39.2°F or lower)
HOW TO PACK
Packing Like A Pro for Mount Kinabalu
The most important rule in packing for a mountain climb is – travel light. Decide on the things that one may want to bring up the mountain and then halve it.
As you will need to carry your own packed lunch with you during the climb, we suggest you to reserve some space in your backpack to store your packed lunch. Otherwise it might not be a good idea to hand carry it along as you climb.
The Essentials for Mount Kinabalu
Waterproof Backpack (or for non-waterproof bags, pack a Rain Cover).
Lightweight Clothing.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes.
Change of Clothes.
Warm Clothing.
Waterproof Wind-breaker.
Fleece Jacket.
Head Torch for night climb.
Cap, Beanie, Head Scarf or Balaclava Mask.
Gloves.
Ponchos or Disposable Raincoat.
1.5L Drinking Water.
500ML Isotonic Drink.
Energy Food such as chocolates, nuts, biscuits, sweets, energy bars.
Personal Toiletries such as soap, toothbrush & toothpaste.
Socks.
Sunglasses, Sunblock Lotion, SPF Lip Balm, Plasters (Band Aid).
Small Towel.
Trekking / Hiking Pole.
Medication such as Painkillers or Altitude Sickness Tablets
Camera & Waterproof Camera Bag.
Waist Pouch or Smaller Bag for Summit Ascent.
Optional
Toilet Tissue Papers.
Flip Flops / Sandals (for use in wet bathroom).
Insect Repellent (to keep creepy crawlies away).
Extra Plastic Bags.
Small Water Bottle
NOTE: Sleeping Bags are not needed for a Mount Kinabalu Climb.