The prominent Mount Kinabalu is part of the Kinabalu National Park, a World Heritage Site, situated in Sabah state on the tropical island of Borneo. Not only Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in Malaysia, it is also the 20th highest peak in the world in terms of prominence. Mount Kinabalu is a marvelous place to watch a spectacular sunrise from above the clouds at 13,435 feet (4095 meters) above sea level. The mountain and its national park surroundings boast a vast variety of flora and fauna and is deemed one of the world’s most important biological sites.

Whether you are a professional hiker, leisure travellers, a nature lover or someone who is looking for experience something extraordinary once in a lifetime, Mount Kinabalu is an ideal mountain to conquer. In fact, it is very climber-friendly compared to other lower mountains around the world. The main peak (Low's Peak) can be climbed easily by a person with a good level of fitness, and no mountaineering equipment is needed. Other peaks along the massif do require rock climbing skills. Climbers must be accompanied by guides at all times.

The summit trial begins by getting a climbing permit and name tag at Kinabalu park headquarters. Then proceed to the Timpohon gate at 1800 m (5900 ft), either by minibus or by walking, and walk to the Laban Rata hut at 3300 m (10,800 ft). Along the way there will be 7 shelters providing toilets and untreated mountain water source. Most people manage this part of the climb in 4-5 hours. Hot food and beverages, showers, blankets and heated rooms are available at the hut. The last 2 km (2600 ft), from the Laban Rata hut at 3300 m to Low's Peak (summit) at 4100 m, takes between 2 and 4 hours. Climbers will accomplish this final part of the trail on naked granite rock.

Getting There:
Most oversea travellers arrive at Kota Kinabalu via a transit flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Malaysia Airline and Airasia both fly to Kota Kinabalu five times a day and a flight takes approximately 2.35 hours. Kota Kinabalu can also be reached by direct flight from Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila, Brunei and Taipei.

By Bus
Take a public bus to Ranau from the main outstation bus stop in town, the entrance to the Kinabalu Park HQ is on the way. The bus service operates once a day and leaves Kota Kinabalu town at 7.00am reaching the Kinabalu park HQ at 10.00am. Bus fare is RM15 - 20 per person.

By Road
Car rentals can be arranged through major hotels. Taxis normally charge RM80 per taxi to Kinabalu Park HQ and take a maximum 4 passengers. They leave from the same outstation bus stop before 8.00am.