It takes two days to reach the peak of Mountain Kinabalu (Gunung Kinabalu in Malay), so expect to stay overnight in the hostel or huts up on the mountain and continue to climb up the peak early next morning. Choumeizai, will tell you about the accommodation of Mountain Kinabalu.
Laban Rata is the largest hotel with the best facilities in Mountain Kinabalu.
‘Laban Rata’ means ‘A place for sacrifice’, came from the language of the Kadazan-Dusun, the two indigenous tribes of Sabah, Malaysia. According to the legend, the Kadazan-Dusun people travels to Mountain Kinabalu to worship and offer sacrifices to the gods.
Although there are limited supplies up on the mountain, the dinner buffet in Laban Rata has a wide range of choices. Fresh stir-fried vegetables, warm bread, soups, salads, meat, and even desserts. The main dishes are mostly Chinese and Malaysian food.
Every ingredient used in Laban Rata was carried up by the porters on foot every day. So by appreciating the food, we also appreciate the hard work of these porters.
Since Choumeizai has opted to climb the peak down "Via Ferrata", he needs to start at 2am from Pendant Hut.
Pendant Hut is much smaller than Laban Rata, so Choumeizai had to sleep with the ten other people in one room.
Pendant Hut may be small, but the facilities are complete. Basic, but very clean toilets and shower rooms are located on the lower floor.
Please note though, not take a shower when in high altitude places, because you may get altitude sickness.
As the day comes to an end, the view of the clouds moving in fast along with the silhouette of the mountain tops and the glimmer of the sun during sunset is just breathtaking.
The accommodation in Mountain Kinabalu during peak season can be quite limited, so Choumeizai suggests that you book at least six months in advance. Enjoy your adventure!
