There was not much of a appetite prior to the climb. It was all 'butterflies in the stomach' wondering if I can do the climb. But I keep telling myself that I can do it. If I can do Rinjani, I most definitely can do this. Anyway, eat we must to have some energy.
Before the climb, I prepped my knees with the knee guards. My knees are not strong enough. So must take precautionary steps. I foresee an early retirement for me from hiking. So, I must do the hikes and treks while I still can. We got registered and each of us got a number to ensure everyone is safe.
Our trekking guide explaining to us about the trail. He helped us to carry some of our luggage to Laban Rata. It costs RM9 per kg for 2 ways. Our luggage weighed 7.5kg, but he only charged us RM60.
This is the moment! Photos taken before we start our trek. Our guide provided us the sticks too. It is a must-have for me in every trek.
And the following photos show the path, the trail, and the food. Oh yes, I forgot to mention we were provided food upon registration at the National Park. I guess it's part of the package that we paid for. We got an egg, a banana, and an apple. Very energy booster type of food. Each 1km was printed on a signboard, so we can give ourselves some motivation to go further. Plus there was a hut and a toilet at every km. How awesome is that!
We are walking 8km via Mesilau Trail. There are 2 trails. Timpohon Trail was shorter at 6km. But I chose Mesilau Trail because of the scenery we get to see. Of course, we walked down via Timpohon Trail.
I thought we have reached. But it was actually one of the accommodations.
After another 200 metres trekking, we finally reached Laban Rata. Laban Rata is a mini resort on the mountains managed solely by Sutera Harbour Resort. You can imagine the price of the accommodations managed by this monopoly.
Open space in front of Laban Rata for the helipad.
I reached at 5pm, after 8.5 hours of climb. It was tiring and cold. Because it rained. It didn't help because I was wearing my cap and the cold water seeped into the cap.
Because I was trembling from the chill, all I wanted was a bowl of hot soup. And the prices of the meals were - dinner: RM60; supper: RM30; breakfast: RM45. Real expensive but that is because the food has to be carried up, unless they used the helicopter?
The climbathon that is held in Mount Kinabalu. You won't believe the winner took about 1 hour 35 minutes to reach the summit!
Tomorrow, we hike to the summit. That night, it was so cold, I lay down in gloves and socks and shivered so badly. Unfortunately, I did not get to sleep. It was too cold..
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