The incredible hiking mission of 2006!! - Part 2

Before we started off for the climb of Mt.Kinabalu, we were firstly impressed by the scenery of Kinabalu National Park. Kinabalu National Park is located some 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu rises from the Kinabalu National Park at 4,092 metres above sea level (though previously thought to have an elevation of 4,101 metres). Mount Kinabalu is actually still growing by about a few centimetres every year.

In all, the Crocker Range is considered to be an active mountain system, although the possibility of earthquake or volcanic eruption is very remote.The journey takes on meandering mountain road with spectacular views of the Crocker Range.

One thing to highlight is - even if you are not climbing, there are definitely plenty of activities to do in Kinabalu National Park. The park headquarters boast quite a number of short hiking trails to enjoy the variety of plant species of the park. Besides, you can get to the charming highland town of Kundasang, some 5 minutes away from the park HQ(refer to the previuos map for the exact location). There are many roadside stalls selling fresh vegetables and fruits around the rolling hills of this cool mountain town.

Apart from that, you can get to Mesilau Nature Park, some 30 minutes away through partially paved roads. At 2,000 metres above sea level, Mesilau showcases a superb collection of mountain forest trees, wild ferns, etc.

As we took the Mesilau route to climb up to the mountain, we stayed overnight at Mesilau nature resort before the departure. The resort was so cozy and we wished to have more days to fully enjoy the atmosphere around it.


On the way to Mesilau Nature Park... spectacular view of Crocker Range!!


Some local fruits and vegetables stalls along the roadside


Mesilau Nature Park - a very cozy and relaxing stay!!


Ready?? Here we start our amazing journey to conquer the highest mountain in SE Asia!



Need more travel information on Mt.Kinabalu? Visit my bookstore for the great books recommendation!!