Climbing Mt. Kinabalu can be done in 2 days but a more comfortable climb in 3-days is recommended to acclimatise to the altitude and full enjoy the rich biological diversity - the exotic rare plants, orchids, birds and many more. While it does not require special skills to do the climb, you must have at least have the basic fitness level. Park regulations require climbers have to engage the services of registered mountain guide. The number of guides depend on the number of climbers. Porter services are available and recommended. Book and pay for your mountain guide and porter at Kinabalu Park.
Two trails lead to the top, The Summit Trail and Mesilau Route. the 2 trails meet at Layang Layang at 2740m. The Summit Trail is well trodden main route taken by most climbers, since the beginning. Starting from the park HQ, it used to be that climbers walk 4km up to Timpohon Gate at 1866.4m where the Summit Trail starts. Today most climber opt to take a shuttle transport. Interestingly, the climb actually begins with the decent to Carson's Fall, named after the first Park Warden of Kinabalu Park. From here onward. depending on your fitness level it is about 4 to 5 hours climb for the day.
The trails winds up a steep staircase of gnarled tree roots to a mossy world of drifting clouds and orchids draped trees, where pitcher plants and rhododendrons abound. There are several Pondok (shelters). The first Pondok Kandis at 1981m where on a clear day, a view of the road that links Kota Kinabalu to the park can be seen.
The second shelter is Pondok Ubak at 2081m, the area where on of the Borneo's most unusual pitcher plants grows - the Nepenthes lowii, so do look for this oddly-shaped plants with pitcher container. The Mossy forest continues on past the Sabah Telecoms Station at Komborongoh 2252m interestingly, 'Komborongoh' is a plant that Kadazandusun use to ward off evil spirits and used in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
To be Continued.......
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