Mountain Climbing

Mountain Climbing is a wonderful way to discover the diversity and uniqueness of Malaysia's natural landscape. From the dense tropical rainforests to the montane vegetation in the highlands, and even from easy walks in the cool comfort of the Main Range of Peninsular Malaysia to the more challenging mountains of Sabah and Sarawak, there are mountains to tempt for everyone, regardless of their climbing ability.

Beginners can start with the well-marked trails in Gunung Jerai in Kedah, Gunung Korbu in Perak and Gunung Angsi in Negeri Sembilan. For those with greater climbing skills, they can attempt rainforest-clad mountain ridges like Gunung Gagau or Gunung Tahan in Taman Negara, the highest point in Peninsular Malaysia. Of course, mountain climbing aficionados cannot miss Gunung Kinabalu in Sabah, which is one of the highest mountains in South-east Asia.

Mountains in Peninsular Malaysia

The Peninsula has a range of accessible, scenic yet surprisingly steep mountains.

But for starters, there are less arduous climbs with well-marked trails at popular sites such as the legendary Gunung Ledang in Johor, Gunung Jerai in Kedah or Gunung Angsi in Negeri Sembilan. These climbs are genereally day-hikes and a guide is not necessary. If the idea of sweeping views of tea and vegetable plantations is your, well, cup of tea, then Gunung Berembun and Gunung Brinchang in Cameron Highlands, Pahang will be the ideal destination.

Those who want a more invigorating journey through the wilderness, Gunung Gagau in Taman Negara can be just that. All it takes is a day’s climb, but you’ll have to traverse lakes, rivers, jungles and pass through a cave or two before reaching the peak that will reward you with a scenic view of three states.

For the ultimate challenge, head to Gunung Tahan, the highest point in the Peninsula. The 130km return journey takes up to eight days and will take you through rainforests, across tricky rivers and up steep mountain ridges in the unspoilt heart of Taman Negara. An experienced guide is a must.

Mountains in Sabah & Sarawak

Some of the world’s most unique mountain environments can be found in Malaysia’s part of Borneo.

Gunung Kinabalu, (Gunung means ‘mountain’ in Malay) one of the highest peaks in South-east Asia, is located in the World Heritage Site of Kinabalu Park, Sabah. Accessible to all trekkers, the Summit Trail leading to Low’s Peak has clear paths and ropes at steep rocky sections. You will stumble upon exotic plants found only in the area, such as the Necklace Orchid.

Gunung Trusmadi is the more adventurous week-long trail where you’ll endure mossy forests, steep hills and rain-swollen rivers. The summit will reward you with one of the best views of Gunung Kinabalu and a chance to see the remarkably large and rare pitcher plants found only on the ridges of Trusmadi.

In Sarawak, Gunung Santubong is one of the most popular mountains as it comes with a spectacular view of Kuching. Guides are required to lead the tough trek up another of Sarawak’s famous peaks, Gunung Penrissen, but the 1329m vertical scramble to the top can be completed within a day or two.

The long uphill trek to the sandstone summit of famed Gunung Mulu takes four days and passes through primary jungle, with swampy patches and huge clumps of colorful rhododendrons before the wispy clouds disperse to reveal the massive limestone outcropping of Gunung Api.