If the mountain doesn’t come to me, I’ll go to the mountain (A Guide to Climbing Mount Kinabalu)

Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia and its sole World Natural Heritage site, begins at an elevation of about 1866 meters, with its summit, Low’s Peak, reaching an impressive 4095.2 meters. The forward base camp, Panalaban, is situated at approximately 3272 meters. The entire trek spans two days and one night, offering a thrilling adventure for climbers.

Essential climbing equipment:
– Waterproof hiking shoes (rain is common, so it’s crucial to keep your feet dry)
– Trekking poles (available for rent; if you bring your own, ensure they are checked in as luggage)
– A backpack with a capacity of 40L or more

Other climbing items:
– Quick-dry clothing / hydration bladder / knee pads / phone lanyard / disposable raincoat / sun hat / energy bars and functional drinks

Camp items:
– Multiple pairs of socks / quick-dry clothing and underwear / disposable slippers / compressed towel / travel-sized toiletries / charger

Summit essentials:
– Waterproof gloves / insulated jacket / headlamp / base layer top and bottom / down jacket or thin puffer / thick pants / hydration bladder and energy bars

Remember to pack only what you need and avoid littering. Porters transport supplies and garbage on the mountain, a task that requires significant effort and dedication.

Day 1 itinerary:
1. The first day’s trek covers 6 kilometers, passing through seven rest points. The terrain gradually becomes more challenging, transitioning from man-made steps to rocky paths. My friend and I started around 9:30 AM and reached the camp by 3:40 PM. Everyone’s pace is different, so take time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Arrive at the camp in time for dinner and rest.
2. The mountain is rich in diverse vegetation, and the landscape is stunning. During the day, the forest can be quite warm, so wear short sleeves and shorts or light long sleeves and pants. If it rains and the temperature drops, be sure to put on a jacket.

3. The weather is unpredictable and often rainy, so always have a raincoat handy. It’s best if your hiking shoes are waterproof. I wore KAHA2, and before reaching the camp, I accidentally stepped into a puddle due to the rain.
4. Travel agencies typically provide packed lunches. Bring your own hydration bladder and energy bars.

My friend and I also bought some functional drinks to mix with water, which we purchased in advance at a convenience store.
5. If you arrive early and are lucky, you can catch a beautiful sunset. Enjoy dinner at the camp (the food is surprisingly good), and after a simple wash (be prepared for very cold water), get some rest before 8:00 PM (you might want to bring melatonin).

For those who are more social, there’s plenty of opportunity to chat with fellow climbers from around the world. We met a friendly Malaysian Chinese guy during our stay.

Day 2 Itinerary:
1. Rise and shine before 2:00 AM for a midnight snack, and set off on the summit climb around 2:30. The early start is essential to catch the sunrise and make the most of the day.
2. Be prepared for the chilly night air and high altitude by wearing thick, warm clothing. I was shivering in just a fleece and jacket, so don’t forget to bring a hat and perhaps even an extra layer to stay cozy.

3. The terrain is challenging, with steep stone steps and granite slopes. While trekking poles might not be necessary, you will need to use fixed ropes for support, so waterproof gloves are a must.
4. Make sure to pass the checkpoint (about 1KM) before 4:30 to have your identity tag checked; otherwise, you won’t be allowed to proceed.

After the checkpoint, the path becomes more rugged, with some sections having an incline of over 60 degrees, making it a physically demanding stretch.
5. My friend and I reached the summit at 5:30, among the earlier groups, and were rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks as the sun began to rise.

Adjust your pace according to your physical condition, or you might miss the spectacular sunrise—like the Malaysian guy we met, who gradually fell behind and missed the view.
6. After capturing plenty of photos and savoring the moment, you can start your descent. Head back to the camp for a well-deserved breakfast at 10:00, and then continue your descent.

My friend and I made it back to the foot of the mountain around 3:00 PM, filled with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories.