5D4N Mount Kinabalu Gurkha Hut Expedition

5 Days
Availability : Jan 2025’ - Dec 2025’
Kota Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu
Min Age : 18+
Fitness LevelHigh
Difficulty LevelHigh
Trail LevelGood

Rates: Jan - Dec 2025

Single Traveler
MYR 7,500.00 per person
2 to 3 pax
MYR 6,800.00 per person
*Applicants must provide proof of good physical fitness to obtain the expedition permit.
Maximum of 3 participants per trip
Tour Details

Step into the wild side of Mount Kinabalu with this exclusive 5D4N Gurkha Hut Expedition—an off-the-beaten-path adventure for seasoned hikers and nature lovers. Unlike the standard summit route, this expedition brings you to Gurkha Hut, one of the most remote and rarely visited locations on the mountain. Originally built for the British Gurkhas and perched at approximately 3,300 meters, the hut offers an unmatched vantage point and a historical glimpse into Mount Kinabalu’s legacy.

The route traverses lush jungle, challenging terrain, and untamed trails under the guidance of experienced mountain guides. With time allocated for acclimatization and exploration, this expedition is ideal for those seeking a deeper, more rugged mountain experience.

Departure & Return Location

Kota Kinabalu

Pick-up Time

6.30 am

Price Includes

  • Mountain Guide
  • 4 Nights Accomodation
  • Climbing Permits
  • Entrance Fees
  • Meals
  • Insurance
  • Certificates
  • All transportation in destination location
  • Expedition Permit

Price Excludes

  • Tipping
  • Additional Beverages (Alcohol)
  • Any Private Expenses
  • Personal Travel Insurance
  • Porter Service
What to Expect
  • Venture along a remote and challenging trail to the historic Gurkha Hut

  • Experience high-altitude trekking through dense jungle and steep mountain paths

  • Spend two nights in the secluded Gurkha Hut, surrounded by pure wilderness

  • Rest for a night at Panalaban Hut before your summit push

  • Enjoy a final night in Kundasang to unwind and recover

  • Take in breathtaking mountain views, unique flora and fauna, and enjoy the serenity of less-traveled routes

  • Be guided by experienced mountain guides and park rangers throughout your expedition

  • An extra day at high elevation allows for proper acclimatization

  • Expect cold mountain weather (5–10°C), basic facilities, and an immersive, back-to-nature experience

 
Things To Bring
  • Layered clothing (base, fleece, windbreaker) – it gets cold at altitude
  • Waterproof jacket or poncho
  • Comfortable hiking pants (avoid jeans)
  • Extra T-shirts and change of clothes
  • Warm hat/beanie and gloves
  • Extra Socks
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Trekking shoes with good grip
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Headlamp with spare batteries (for summit push)
  • Refillable water bottles (at least 2L total)
  • High-energy snacks (nuts, bars, chocolate)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
  • Earplugs (shared dorms)
  • Hiking poles
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Portable Cooking Utensils
  • Food Rations
Itinerary

Day 1Kota Kinabalu – Kinabalu Park – Panalaban

Depart from Kota Kinabalu at 6:30 AM and drive to Kinabalu Park Headquarters. After registration and a short briefing, transfer to Timpohon Gate and begin your ascent. Hike through scenic montane forest and several checkpoints, including Carson Waterfall and Layang Layang, before reaching Panalaban. Spend the night at Panalaban Hut (around 3,270m), allowing your body to acclimatize before pushing further.

Day 2Panalaban – Summit – Gurkha Hut

Begin your summit attempt in the early morning hours, reaching Low’s Peak (4,095m) in time for a breathtaking sunrise. After a short rest at the summit, descend back to Panalaban for breakfast. From here, take a less-traveled route through the forest and rocky terrain to Gurkha Hut—a remote, off-grid shelter rarely visited by most climbers. Overnight at Gurkha Hut.

Day 3Gurkha Hut Exploration & Acclimatization

Spend a full day in the high mountain environment. Enjoy the peace and solitude of the surrounding ridges or, weather permitting, embark on an optional scramble to a nearby peak or lookout point. This day also serves as extra time for acclimatization and rest. Overnight again at Gurkha Hut.

Day 4Gurkha Hut – Descent to Kinabalu Park

After breakfast, begin your descent back through the forest trail, reconnecting with the main path near Layang Layang. Continue all the way down to Timpohon Gate and transfer to Kinabalu Park HQ. Overnight stay at the park accommodation to rest and recover.

Day 5Kinabalu Park – Departure

After breakfast, check out and return transfer to Kota Kinabalu. End of expedition.

Mount Kinabalu Photos

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