It's A Discovery Of Epic Adventures And Breathtaking Sights With These Top Mountains In Malaysia

There's no need to travel across oceans to get a taste of adventure as a local hiker. Not with the treasure trove of culture, food, vibrant attractions, and exciting adventures of wonder through the mountains in Malaysia. 

Malaysia is densely populated with mountains for hikers of every level, from beginners to seasoned climbers. From iconic peaks in Borneo to Penang Island, we've compiled the best summits to scale from seasoned local hikers across different Malaysian states, so you don't have to drive far from Kuala Lumpur or wherever you are. 

The mountains in Malaysia are teeming with lush flora and fauna that allow you to disconnect from your phones and enjoy the outdoors. Whenever ready, lace up your hiking boots, and let's conquer these peaks together!

15 Must-Visit Mountains In Malaysia For Adventure Seekers And Nature Lovers

 

1. Mount Kinabalu

Of course, we're starting off this article with the iconic Mount Kinabalu, also known as Gunung Kinabalu. Located in Kinabalu Park near Kota Kinabalu, this mountain has the highest point in Southeast Asia. 

The park has made it mandatory for hikers to engage the services of a registered guide. As limited climb permits are issued daily, we recommend booking guides and your slots as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. There's also a chance that the guides will close the summit trail if weather conditions aren't favourable. 

It attracts many hikers from all over the world to take on this rewarding adventure that spans at least 2 days and 1 night. Some even opt for the 3-days-2-night package so they can get used to the climate and fully immerse themselves in the rich biodiversity that Mount Kinabalu has to offer.

Many locals believe that the mountain is a sacred resting ground for their ancestors. That is how the mountain got its name from the Kadazan phrase, "Aki Nabalu", which means "the revered place of the dead".

Hiking at Mount Kinabalu on the first day involves trekking through different types of vegetation, from oak to mossy and alpine, before arriving at the rest house in the afternoon. The hike resumes the next day around 2:00am, so hikers can catch the sunrise at Low's Peak in time. If weather permits, you'll even be rewarded with a lovely view of the South China Sea.  

It is recommended for hikers to have a good level of fitness so they can navigate the challenging slopes that lead to the peak. Warm clothing and gloves are a must since it can get rather cold in the mountains. Opt for proper hiking shoes with good grip to ensure safety while trekking in slippery terrain. A hiking stick will also provide extra support and stability, helping you navigate uneven ground with more confidence.

Package Fees: Starting from at least RM1,300

Hiking Time: 2 days and 1 night or 3 days and 2 nights

Trail Distance: 22.4km

Elevation Gain: 4,095m

Opening Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, daily

Address: Jalan Kundasang Kauluan, Kundasang, 89308 Ranau, Sabah

2. Gunung Mulu National Park

If you're planning a vacation to Sarawak, Gunung Mulu National Park is one of the best places to experience natural wonders. It is home to several trails, including trekking up Mount Mulu and the iconic Pinnacles. 

The ascent up Gunung Mulu takes 4 days. Due to the challenging trail and duration of the hike, the trek is only recommended for seasoned hikers who wish to challenge themselves. The terrain does get rather challenging toward the end of the hike, so a good hiking stick will help you navigate tricky areas. The trail gives a great insight into the rich biodiversity of Sarawak, where you'll see lovely orchids and rare pitcher plants along the way.

If you wish to witness the stunning Pinnacles, be prepared for a 3-days-2-night hike. The trek to view these 45-metre-high sharp limestones can be quite demanding. It starts off with a 1-hour boat ride to Kuala Litut jetty before navigating through lowland forests and crossing streams. But your efforts will all be worth it once you see the stunning Pinnacles for the first time, which honestly looks like a scene fresh out from a fantasy film.

Due to the unpredictable weather in the ancient rainforest, it is recommended that you bring a raincoat and use a waterproof backpack. If you have the time, you should also check out the caving excursions that go to Sarawak Chamber or Racer Cave, where you'll come across underground rivers and spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. 

Duration: 4 days 3 nights (Gunung Mulu) or 3 days 2 nights (The Pinnacles)

Opening Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, daily

3. Cameron Highlands (Mossy Forest)

Aside from tea estates and scenic highlands, Mossy Forest is a lovely place to add to your itinerary if you're visiting Pahang. As its name suggests, the trees and ground are covered with moss everywhere, making the place seem cool and mysterious. 

You won't have to worry about getting lost as there's a boardwalk that takes you around the forest. There's a watchtower as well, where you can enjoy the scenic views from the top. Since the Mossy Forest is located at the higher elevations in Cameron Highlands, we recommend wearing a jacket to stay warm.

To visit the Mossy Forest, you need to rent a four-wheel drive to take you up the hill for about RM20 to RM30 per person. It is usually closed during the rainy season from November to January.

Entry Fee: RM10 for locals, RM30 for foreigners

Hiking Time: 1 hour

Elevation Gain: 2,000m above sea level

Opening Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm, daily

Address: Gunung Brinchang, Brinchang, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang

4. Bukit Bendera / Penang Hill

Bukit Bendera, commonly known as Penang Hill, is a vibrant attraction located on Penang Island in Peninsular Malaysia. Although it is popular for its historical charm and panoramic views of George Town, many people love hiking Penang Hill as a quick escape from the city's urban areas. 

Contrary to its name, Penang Hill is actually a collection of hills with several hiking routes. If you're looking for a quick but challenging route, Bukit Gantung is the ideal trail to try. You'll come across lots of greenery, butterflies, and wild dogs on the way up the hill. You might even spot a few shanty homes along the way. 

For beginners wishing to build stamina for future challenging hiking routes, Bat's Cave Temple Trail is a fantastic option to go for. The trail begins with hiking a paved road and trekking through the jungle before finally climbing stairs to the peak. Along the way, you'll be treated to a stunning sight of the Golden Stupa, a picturesque landmark for awesome photos.

The Heritage Trail is one of the easier hiking treks in Penang, making it perfect for beginners. It starts off with proper stairs before leading you into the jungle and completing the journey on the tarmac trail. 

Once you've reached the summit, you can check out the viewing decks for panoramic views to take photos or have a cup of coffee in one of the quaint coffees before heading down the hill on foot or via the funicular railway. Remember to buy your train tickets at the foot of the hill before hiking!

Entry Fee: Free

Hiking Time: 1 hour to 4 hours (route-dependent)

Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily

Address: Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, 11300 Bukit Bendera, Penang

5. Genting Highlands

When Genting Highlands comes to mind, most visitors think of its cooler temperatures, cable car rides, and entertainment hubs. But did you know that it also offers several hiking trails? 

The lush mountain landscapes would have any outdoor enthusiast gushing over the wide variety of flora and fauna, such as wild orchids, rare pitcher plants, gibbons, and birds. Its hiking trails are part of the Titiwangsa Mountains, which divides Peninsular Malaysia into the west and east coasts. 

For thrill seekers, the Arara trail that leads up Gunung Bunga Buah is the perfect option to train for mountains with more challenging trails. Along the way, you'll come across the Rocky Garden, a lovely place to rest before continuing your journey. As this trail can be quite muddy and takes about 6 hours, a pair of hiking shoes with good grip and your trusty hiking stick will help you ascend to the peak safely.

If you're looking for a beginner route, Air Terjun Kedongdong is a beautiful hike through the forest that takes you to a waterfall, where you can go for a refreshing dip. Since it involves a steep uphill climb, comfortable hiking shoes are a must for a safe hike to the waterfall.

Entry Fee: Free

Hiking Time: Up to 6 hours (route-dependent)

6. Gunung Tahan

Standing at 2,187m, Gunung Tahan, also known as Mount Tahan, is Malay Peninsular's highest peak. It is located within Taman Negara, the country's oldest national park that is home to a 130-million-year-old tropical rainforest. 

Due to its steep ascents and multiple days of hiking through the mountain forests, many experienced hikers consider Gunung Tahan far more challenging than the iconic Mount Kinabalu. It is also compulsory to hire a guide to assist you throughout this experience to ensure your safety in the wilderness while providing valuable insights into the local flora and fauna in the area.

Expect river crossings, trekking through montane forests, and passing by the cloud forest before finally arriving at the mountain's summit. This area is also home to local wildlife such as the Malayan tigers, sun bears, Asian elephants, and other mammals. Although it takes many days to reach the peak, your efforts will all be worth it once you witness the breathtaking scenery.

Hiking Time: Up to 7 days (Kuala Tahan trail) or 5 days (Merapoh trail)

Trail Distance: 81.5km

Elevation Gain: 4,979 m

Opening Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm, daily

Address: Taman Negara, Pahang

7. Taman Negara (National Park)

Taman Negara is a conservation area, home to mountains from Gunung Tahan to Bukit Terisek and Gunung Gagau. Whether you're an experienced hiker seeking an adventure or a beginner looking to connect with nature, Taman Negara offers an immersive experience for everyone. 

Aside from the Canopy Walkway, guides must accompany you on all other hiking excursions. The guides will provide assistance throughout the hike while pointing out the unique wildlife and greenery you'll see along the way. Don't forget your anti-leech spray, as leeches will be out in hordes after a rainy day!

Address: 27000 Kuala Tahan, Pahang

8. Mount Ophir (Gunung Ledang)

If you find the name "Gunung Ledang" to be rather familiar, you've probably heard of the ancient Malay folklore that tells the story of Puteri Gunung Ledang. Yes, this is the same mountain mentioned in the story!

Gunung Ledang, also known as Mount Ophir, is one of the many mountains of the Titiwangsa range located near the border of Johor and Melaka. Due to its intense difficulty (the hike can go up to 11 hours), Mount Ophir is highly recommended for seasoned adventurers only. 

But what makes the trail so challenging? For one, the steep rock slabs toward the end of the hike is almost 90 degrees. This is where being physically fit will help get you to the mountain summit while hanging onto the knotted ropes. Certain areas involve scrambling over gnarly tree roots and climbing ladders as well. 

Since it's a rather gruelling hike, remember to bring enough snacks to keep you nourished as well as at least 2L of ice-cold water in Montigo's Ace Bottle Massive.

Hiking Time: Up to 11 hours

Trail Distance: 10.5km

Elevation Gain: 1,295m

Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily

Address: Gunung Lambak Water Park, Kampung Dato Abdul Rahman Yassin, 86000 Kluang, Johor

9. Mount Jerai

If you're planning to conquer peaks in Kedah, Mount Jerai is a must to hike. As it is one of the highest peaks in Kedah, you can actually spot Mount Jerai from Penang Hill!

Mount Jerai is located rather close to Southern Thailand, making it a prominent landmark in northern Malaysia. Look out for the Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum's parking lot since that's where the trailhead begins. 

Expect to see tree roots and fallen trees cluttered throughout the trail, which can be rather tricky to navigate, especially if the path is muddy. The good thing is there are knotted ropes throughout the trail that you can rely on at tougher spots. 

Since insects and leeches are rampant throughout this trail, your insect repellent and anti-leech socks will definitely come in handy during the hike. 

Hiking Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours

Trail Distance: 15.3km

Elevation Gain: 1,184m

Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily

Address: Mount Jerai, 08300 Yan, Kedah, Malaysia

10. Maxwell Hill

Maxwell Hill, also known as Bukit Larut, was formerly a British Hill Station before it was turned into a resort. Due to the steep roads, anyone who wishes to reach the summit would have to take a government-owned four-wheel drive up or go by foot. 

The trail is a combination of jungle trekking and tarmac road, where the first part can be rather steep, so it's best to wear proper hiking shoes to ease your climb. Maxwell Hill is also a hotspot for biodiversity, where you might spot dusky-leaf monkeys, fork-tongued frogs, and much more. Remember to bring your own food and water since there are no stalls along the trail.

Once you've reached the peak, you can admire a bird's eye view of Taiping and look around the summit as well. The peak has several colonial-style bungalows, which were once built for the European planters to escape the heat and are now available for anyone to rent for the weekend.

Entry Fee: Free

Hiking Time: 6 hours

Trail Distance: 13.7km

Elevation Gain: 1,063m

Address: 34000 Taiping, Perak

11. Mount Trusmadi

Mount Trusmadi is one of the mountains in Malaysia that is located in Northern Borneo. It is also one of the highest peaks in the country, right after Mount Kinabalu. If you're a nature lover, you'd have a blast here since the mountain is home to many unique pitcher plants, orchids, magnolias, and pitcher-plant bats.

For those seeking a thrilling ascent, Mount Trusmadi provides a challenging route, including climbing several ladders propped against 90-degree rock faces and navigating muddy terrain filled with leeches (wear anti-leech socks and apply eucalyptus essential oil to your legs!). 

As part of the climb involves trekking in the dark, opting for a headlight instead of a torch to light the path ahead will keep your hands free to grip onto branches, rocks, or ladders for stability. Wearing hiking gloves would be ideal as well to prevent injuries while holding onto rocks or branches with a better grip. 

Once you've reached the peak, you'll be greeted by the sunrise and a stunning vista of the surrounding greenery and mountains, making trekking through the tough terrain all worth it. Since the temperatures can get rather cool (as low as 11 degrees) at the mountain summit, a thick jacket is indispensable for your journey. Interested climbers are required to book their permits at least a month in advance from the Forestry Department.

Hiking Time: 2 Days 1 Night (or 4 Days 3 Nights for a bigger challenge)

Trail Distance: 23.5km

Elevation Gain: 2,434m

12. Mount Murud

Mount Murud is the highest mountain in Sarawak, the pinnacle of prayer for many Sarawakians. In the 1980s, a church was built on the mountain, where 600 villagers of Ba'kelalan and Bario attended the first prayer meeting. Ever since then, prayer meetings have been held every two years that welcomes devotees from all around the world. Since Mount Murud is considered a sacred mountain, drinking and smoking is strictly prohibited.

The journey up this sandstone mountain begins with taking a four-wheel drive to Lepo Bunga for an hour before starting your journey on foot to the Church Camp built by the Lun Bawang communities. You'll be trekking through lush montane forests and steep terrains with pitcher plants and rare orchids along the paths. 

Don't forget to check out the Rock Garden, an open area with many fascinating boulder formations, which is half an hour away from the summit. Upon arriving at the peak, you can see stunning picturesque views of Mount Bukit Batu Lawi in the distance and even Mount Kinabalu if there's no haze.

Hiking Time: 3 days 2 nights

Trail Distance: 17.9km

Elevation Gain: 1,098m

13. Mount Sinsing

Despite being the third-highest summit in Malaysia, Mount Sinsing still remains relatively unknown to most hikers. Some adventurers combine their hiking excursion up Mount Sinsing with Mount Kaingaran, the fifth-highest peak in Malaysia, for a challenging multi-peak expedition for 4 days and 3 nights.

You'll start the journey by hopping on a four-wheel drive that takes you along a logging road to the trailhead. The trail begins by trekking through the jungle before continuing up the logging road and crossing a few streams. After spending the night at the base camp, hikers would resume their journey to reach the peak, where they'll see plenty of pitcher plants along the way.

Once at the top, you can easily spot Mount Trusmadi and Mount Kinabalu. The summit is a pretty small area with steep drops on the sides, so be sure to watch your step. Since you'll be sleeping in the mountains, which can drop to around 10 degrees at night, a proper sleeping bag and thick layers are a must to keep you warm. 

Elevation: 2,603m

Address: Tambunan, Sabah

14. Fraser's Hill

Fraser's Hill is a charming hill station that is known for its colonial architecture, cooler temperature, and lush greenery. Although it has lower elevations compared to the other mountains on this list, it still makes for a great hiking spot that will boost your fitness.

For hikers looking to build stamina for conquering Mount Kinabalu and other challenging peaks, Pine Tree Trail is the best place to trek. Don't be fooled by the start of the trail that goes downhill. You'll eventually head uphill, navigating your way across protruding tree roots and a near-vertical rock slab as you get closer to the peak.

If you'd like to start things off at easier trails, Hemmant Trail is a wonderful option that would take less than 1 hour to complete. Ropes are available at sections that are trickier to climb, which would come in handy in the rainy season.

Entry Fee: RM10 for a permit (Pine Tree Trail)

Hiking Time: Up to 7 hours

Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily

Address: 49000 Bukit Fraser, Pahang

15. Gunung Raya

Gunung Raya is the highest mountain located in the centre of Langkawi Island. While the entire trail up the mountain is made up of concrete stairs, be prepared for a gruelling climb of 4,287 steps.

The entrance to the trail is near a park and a river. You'll know you're at the right spot when you see a blue sign at the foot of the stairs. While ascending the stairs, you'll definitely encounter fallen trees that'll block your way. That's why it's really important to wear proper hiking shoes with good grip so you can navigate around these obstacles easily. 

Leeches are also commonly found along this trail, especially toward the top. It's best to keep moving to prevent them from latching onto you. Bloodsuckers or not, you shouldn't let these creatures deter you from getting to the top, where you'll be greeted by an awesome view of the Andaman Sea and dense rainforest.

Entry Fee: Free

Hiking Time: 4 hours 31 minutes

Trail Distance: 7.9km

Elevation Gain: 898m

Opening Hours: 24 hours, daily

Address: 278, Jalan Gunung Raya, 07000, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia