Mount 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 which sometimes resemble a graceful woman peeping coyly from behind the veil. At times during a clear day, the summit reveals a distinct glacier carved pinnacles, rising from the smooth granite dome, exuberating tranquility and peacefulness.
The mountain itself represents one of the world’s youngest batholiths: an old magna chamber that was forced through the earth’s crust. Though young, it is the central focus of Kinabalu Park and the legends of the KadasanDusun people, Sabah’s largest ethnic group. The KadasanDunsun believe that the mountain is the sacred resting ground of the spirits of their ancestors.
The rocky climbing path of
Mt. Kinabalu — hiking boots necessary !
While the first day of the climb will likely be very hot and humid, the morning summit of Mt. Kinabalu will be cold and windy. A toque or headband to keep your ears warm is a really good idea, and you will definitely need sturdy mittens (ideally strong wool) to keep your hands warm and to pull yourself up the thick ropes that lead to the summit. I used Thinsulate convertible mittens and they were perfect.
Posts
