Mount Kota Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu (Malay: Gunung Kinabalu) is a prominent mountain on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is located in the East Malaysian state of Sabah and is protected as Kinabalu National Park, a World Heritage Site. Kinabalu is the tallest peak in Borneo's Crocker Rangeand is the fourth tallest mountain in the Malay Archipelago after Papua's Puncak Jaya, Puncak Trikora and Puncak Mandala. Mount Kinabalu is also the 20th tallest mountain in the world by topographic prominence.

In 1997, a re-survey using satellite technology established its summit (known as Low’s Peak) height at 4,095 metres (13,435 ft) above sea level, which is some 6 metres (20 ft) less than the previously thought and hitherto published figure of 4,101 metres (13,455 ft).

Mount Kinabalu includes the Kinabalu montane alpine meadows ecoregion in the montane grasslands and shrublands biome. The mountain and its surroundings are among the most important biological sites in the world, with over 4500 species of plant, 326 species of birds, and 100 mammalian species identified. Among this rich collection of wildlife are famous species such as the gigantic Rafflesia plants and the orangutan. Mount Kinabalu has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status.

Low's Peak can be climbed quite easily by a person in good physical condition and there is no need for mountaineering equipment at any point on the main route. Other peaks along the massif, however, require rock climbing skills.

Climbers must be accompanied by accredited guides at all times due to national park regulations. There are two main starting points for the climb: the Timpohon Gate (located 5.5 km from Kinabalu Park Headquarters, at an altitude of 1,866 metres (6,122 ft)), and the Mesilau Nature Resort. The latter starting point is slightly higher in elevation, but crosses a ridge, adding about two kilometres to the ascent and making the total elevation gain slightly higher. The two trails meet about two kilometres before Laban Rata.

 

Accommodation is available inside the park or outside near the headquarters. Sabah Parks has privatized Mt Kinabalu activities to an organization called Sutera Sanctuary Lodges (also known as Sutera Harbour). Sutera is now requiring hikers stay one night at their lodge near the entrance, in addition to a required stay at Laban Rata. The cost to stay is considerably higher than at lodging just outside the park, and includes a mandatory purchase of meals, etc. From there, climbers proceed to the Timpohon gate at 1,866 metres (6,122 ft), either by minibus or by walking, and then walk to the Laban Rata Resthouse at 3,270 metres (10,730 ft). Most people accomplish this part of the climb in 3 to 6 hours. Since there are no roads, the supplies for the Laban Rata Resthouse are carried by porters, who bring up to 30 kilograms of supplies on their backs. Hot food and beverages, hot showers and heated rooms are available at Laban Rata. The last 2 kilometres (6,600 ft), from the Laban Rata Resthouse at 3,270 metres (10,730 ft) to Low's Peak (summit) at 4,095.2 metres (13,436 ft), takes between 2 and 4 hours. The last part of the climb is on naked granite rock.

Given the high altitude, some people may suffer from altitude sickness and should return immediately to the bottom of the mountain, as breathing and any further movement becomes increasingly difficult.

The package of mountain climbing includes:

• One (1) night accommodation at Mesilau Nature Resort or outside Park (whichever is available).
• 1 x Dinner at the Renanthera Restaurant, Mesilau Nature Resort (Day 1) or outside Park (whichever is available).
• 1 x Breakfast at the Renanthera Restaurant, Mesilau Nature Resort (Day 2) or outside Park (whichever is available).
• 1 x Packed Lunch from the Renanthera Restaurant, Mesilau Nature Resort (Day 2).
• One (1) night accommodation at the Laban Rata (Heated/Non-heated) -Dormitory Basis.
• 1 x Dinner at the Laban Rata Restaurant (Day 2).
• 1 x Breakfast at the Laban Rata Restaurant (Day 3).
• 1 x Lunch at the Balsam Restaurant, Kinabalu Park (Day 3).
• Mountain Guide.
• Mountain Permit.
• Mountain Insurance.
• Return Transfer BKI/KNP/BKI.
• Transfer PHQ/PWST/PHQ.
• Transfer in & out airport/hotel/airport.
• English-speaking guide.
• Certificate.

Excludes:

• Porter Fees
• Drinks/meals not specified in package
• Airfare
• Tips
• Items not specified in package

Remarks:

• RM 190 surcharge on transportation if failed to follow schedule departure 1600hrs after the mountain climb.
• Things to bring: Water proof and windbreaker wear warm clothing, drinking water, hat, glove, thick socks, good torch, personal toiletries, towel, good trekking shoes, camera or video recorder (Waterproof).
• It is advisable to book this package 6 months in advance as there's limited room

Read more: Mount Kinabalu Climb Packages D - Sabah Climbing Packages
http://www.visit-malaysia.com/sabah-kinabalu/mt-kinabalu-climb-pkg-d.htm#ixzz1aohXcs52