A hiker navigating the remote, seldom-travelled trail to Mount Tambuyukon, facing a challenging journey through rugged, uncharted terrain that promises both endurance and solitude.
Towering Mount Kinabalu may dominate the landscape in Sabah. But in the rugged terrain of the Bornean state, there is another hidden gem for intrepid trekkers.
Rising at 2,579m, Mount Tambuyukon ranks as the third-highest mountain in Malaysia, overshadowed only by Mount Kinabalu and scenic Mount Trusmadi.
Unlike its neighbours, which have popular and frequently used trails, Tambuyukon offers untouched wilderness, an experience few adventurers will be willing to explore due to its challenging terrain and remote setting.
This formidable climb begins at the Monggis substation, some 60km from Kinabalu Park Headquarters.
The trailhead at Monggis, a quaint yet isolated spot, marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey that immerses climbers in Sabah’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
A spectacular view of Mount Kinabalu and Mount Nungkok or Anak Kinabalu, a lesser-known peak standing at 1,652m, along the hiking route to Mount Tambuyukon.
The substation has basic camping facilities, toilets and a small roofed shelter for trekkers before they embark on the raw trail.
Although a 4WD vehicle is recommended for the rocky road leading to Monggis, careful drivers can still manage the trip with a standard vehicle.
The climb to Mount Tambuyukon is a short one-day hike.
Sunrise looming over Mount Tambuyukon, offering a breathtaking view from the trekking trail.
Still, it requires at least four days and three nights to finish, although some fit and determined trekkers can do this in three days and two nights.
The journey from base to summit and back is about 16km each way.
Although it may look short, the route itself is difficult, with constant inclines and rugged terrain that make it feel significantly longer.
At various points, hikers must navigate sharp rocks, muddy paths and thick jungle foliage, which requires careful footing and a measured pace. The trail takes hikers through diverse habitats, each with a unique charm.
Morning hues reveal the layered contours of the terrain along the trail to Mount Tambuyukon, the peak far behind.
The trail gradually ascends from lowland forests of altitudes of about 200m through montane forest, rich with flora and fauna.
Tambuyukon is home to several species of Nepenthes, the carnivorous pitcher plants that give the landscape a surreal quality.
Hikers can also expect to encounter Nepenthes edwardsiana, known for its huge pitchers, and Nepenthes villosa, discovered in 1858 by Sir Hugh Low, a British administrator and naturalist.
Both these pitchers are endemic to this region.
Photo: LEON KUAN – Instagram: @sesat_in_malaysia
As the altitude increases, the vegetation becomes shorter and more sparse, transforming into dwarfed montane flora that clings to the rocky soil, creating a stark and beautiful landscape.
Due to the mountain’s limited accessibility, only nine climbers are allowed on the trail at any one time.
This restriction helps preserve the mountain’s pristine environment and enhances the experience of solitude and wilderness.
To climb Tambuyukon, one must get a permit from the Kinabalu Park authority. Due to its challenging nature and raw terrain, hikers must also hire a licensed guide to lead them through the trail.
Hikers making their way towards the towering peak of Mount Tambuyukon, rising majestically in the distance.
The climb from the Monggis starting point requires good stamina to handle the challenging terrain. The journey itself is filled with discoveries, making it an adventure of both effort and exploration.
The first campsite, next to a water source along the way to Kopuakan, is a well-known one-night spot for climbers to rest at and for those who plan to scale the summit the next day.
From Kopuakan, the trail ascends steeply to a section known as Rock Garden. This area requires careful manoeuvring due to its sharp, exposed rocks and narrow ridges.
As the trail narrows, the pace slows down.
Next up is the small rest stop at General Camp, at 2,000m high, where hikers can catch their breath and marvel at the changing landscape.
From the rugged terrain of Mt. Tambuyukon, hikers can view the distant peak of Mt. Kinabalu. The journey here is long and demanding, spanning 4 days and 3 nights through untouched wilderness.
Further up, the dense vegetation begins to thin, offering glimpses of the sky above and occasional views of Mount Kinabalu in the far distance.
Despite the summit’s limited views, the sheer sense of accomplishment and the serene silence of the mountains make the journey worthwhile.
For those lucky enough to encounter clear weather, the vistas from higher points reveal Sabah’s sprawling forests and valleys.
After reaching the summit, the descent to Monggis begins, often taking another day or two.
Strong hikers can complete the return journey within a day, although the steep, slippery sections demand patience and sure-footedness.
The journey down offers a chance to revisit the landscapes traversed earlier, allowing one to appreciate details they might have missed on the way up.
Thanks to the smaller number of climbers, Mount Tambuyukon remains one of Sabah’s natural, raw and untouched wilderness.
Although it lacks the comfortable accommodations of its neighbouring mountains, it compensates for that with its wild, unspoiled beauty.
From the call of forest birds to the striking colours of Nepenthes plants, hiking along Tambuyukon’s trails feels like stepping into nature’s sanctuary.
With its solitude, serenity, and stunning biodiversity, this challenging trek is not for the faint-hearted.
But for those willing to take it on, Mount Tambuyukon offers an adventure like no other, deep in the heart of Borneo’s natural splendour.
