RISE TO THE GRANITE PEAKS OF SABAH
Mount Kinabalu stands as a spectacular icon in Sabah, East Malaysia, an emblem not only of natural grandeur but also of incredible biodiversity. Located within the UNESCO-designated Kinabalu Park and Global Geopark, it is a refuge for thousands of plant and animal species. In fact, botanical surveys count between 5,000 to 6,000 plant species, including ferns, making the flora of Mount Kinabalu richer than that of all non-tropical regions of Europe and North America combined. The mountain forms part of the Crocker Range uplands and represents a meeting ground for Himalayan, Australasian, and Indo-Malayan flora.
Photo by Bryan Heng
At 4,095 meters (13,435 feet) above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak between the Himalayas and New Guinea. Its granite peaks are often shrouded in drifting clouds, offering dramatic vistas. The summit is accessible to those with reasonable fitness and no need for technical climbing skills, making it both an inspiring and achievable challenge for many. The mountain’s name, “Kinabalu,” originates from the Kadazan word “Aki Nabalu,” meaning “the revered place of the dead,” which reflects the profound cultural significance the peak holds for the local KadazanDusun people.
Legends and myths abound, adding to the mystique of Mount Kinabalu. One story holds that spirits dwell atop the mountain, another, more tragic one tells of a Chinese prince who marries a Kadazan woman, only to abandon her in search of a legendary pearl. The Kadazan woman’s sorrow transforms her into stone in the mountains, offering not just folklore, but a symbolic bond between the landscape and people who have called this place sacred for generations.
Photo by Ong Cheng Zheng
Climbing Mount Kinabalu is an undertaking that blends adventure and respect. Most climbers embark from Timpohon Gate, and the journey generally spans over two days, with an overnight stay at Panalaban (also known as Laban Rata). En route, climbers pass shelters or pondoks, such as Pondok Kandis, Ubah, Lowii, Mempening, and traverse increasingly rugged terrain. The final ascent often begins in the early hours before dawn to reach Low’s Peak in time for sunrise, a highlight many climbers cherish.
Although once there were more trail options, including the now-closed Mesilau route, after the 2015 earthquake, Sabah Parks, local mountain guides, and villagers developed alternate routes. Two newer trails, Ranau and Kota Belud, now converge at the Sayat Sayat huts, and from there climbers continue to the summit via Timpohon Gate. The Ranau trail in particular is considered more “tourist-friendly,” thanks to its gentler gradients, wooden staircases, and manageable rock steps.
For those considering the climb, preparation is paramount. While Mount Kinabalu offers a climb that is non-technical, factors like altitude, weather, and terrain demand good physical fitness and sound gear. Along the ascent, climbers will encounter thick forests, botanical wonders, slippery rock faces, and cold alpine conditions. Proper clothing, gloves, sturdy footwear, and an ability to move at steady pace all contribute to a safe and unforgettable journey. And once you reach the summit, the view amid dawn’s light makes every step worth it.