Laban Rata

Laban Rata, an interchange point to conquer the Low’s peak of Mount Kinabalu.

There are periodic rest stops about a kilometer apart up the mountain. The entire journey is 8.7km, with a stop about 6km up at Laban Rata where most climbers will overnight.

The ascent from Laban Rata upwards is difficult in places, including climbs along steep ledges, and usually starts at around 2:00-3:00 AM. It can also get very gusty in places as the vegetation barrens near the top. The severely unfit will find it almost impossible.

You should bring waterproof and warm clothing including a hat and gloves, with spare, dry clothing packed in waterproof bags. If you get wet at altitude you will quickly get cold. You should also wear proper walking shoes. Bring a good headlamp with extra batteries (a headlamp is preferred over a torch since you will need your two hands for climbing some rocks near the summit), a whistle and plenty of high calorie food such as nuts and chocolate.