When I did my research on the rates for the accommodation in Kinabalu Park, I came across many complaints posted online over the exorbitant rates to climb Mount Kinabalu nowadays.
In 2007, a dorm bed in Laban Rata cost only RM30, but in January 2008, the cost with meals included (a packed box, buffet lunch, dinner and breakfast) jumped to RM188, an increase of some 500%. (Costly stay, long wait to climb Kinabalu)
Seeing the figure, I could imagine their shock and frustration – and it is just as well that I have never seriously considered climbing it.
Actually, if pushed, I could make the effort to attempt this feat.
Surely my daily going up and down the staircase in my house, most times with a 10kg squirming and protesting “barbell” in arm which comfortably takes the place of equipments like a pull up bar, must have help in some ways in terms of stamina and fitness.
But then again, why get stressed over the mountain when one could simply enjoy being near it.
*Picture : Nepenthes Lodge, Kinabalu Park
