New Heights: 8 Fulfilling mountain hikes to try in Southeast Asia

New Heights: 8 Mountain hikes in Southeast Asia to include in your travel bucket list

Shelina Assomull

21 Feb 2018

If you’re one for climbing to new heights, you need to try these!

1/8
Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
This UNESCO heritage site is a great spot for an easy to moderate difficulty hike. It will take you around 2 days and is agreeable with anyone of relatively sound fitness.

Photos: Mount Kinabalu
2/8
Mount Bromo, East Java, Indonesia
A mere two to five hour hike depending on how far you go, and suited for beginners with good fitness levels. This hike is not very steep and doesn't take long either. We recommend setting off at 3AM to catch the sunrise!

Photos: Indonesia.travel
3/8
Mount Rinjani, Lombok, Indonesia
Beginners, it's time to take a backseat: Mount Rinjani is definitely not for the fainthearted. The summit can take between 3-5 days depending on the chosen route and is well known for its grueling but rewardingjourney. If you are up for a challenge, this testing trek will provide breathtaking views when you reach the top. Tip: A guide is most definitely a must.

Photos: Mount Rinjani (Facebook)
4/8
Mount Fansipan, Vietnam
There's something for everyone at Fansipan due to its 3 available routes of varying difficulty. The one day hike is recommended for early starters with good fitness whereas the 2-day and 3-day hikes are far more testing and recommended for experienced climbers. Look out for the large triangle when you reach the top!

Photos: Lonely Planet
5/8
Mount Apo, Phillipines
Experienced climbers brace yourselves: this 3-day hike is seriously tough stuff. It's not all grit, however: you can expect waterfalls, hot springs and super green grasslands along the way, and of course, breathtaking views when you reach the top. Definitely worth it, but do prepare yourself - both mentally and physically!

Photos: Mt. Apo Adventures
6/8
Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand
A great choice for less experienced climbers. This relatively easy summit will take you around 5 hours and has awesome views awaiting you when you reach the top - probably without breaking too much of a sweat!

Photos: Summitpost
7/8
Mount Ophir, Johor
A good choice for those who enjoy mountain-hiking but have not done it a lot. This 5 hour journey has occasional steepness and requires a good level of fitness. Don't be alarmed however; it is not overly treacherous.

Photos: Johor Tourism
8/8
Mount Kerinci, Sumatra, Indonesia
Kerinci is the tallest volcano in Indonesia and a guide is highly recommended in climbing this one too. The journey averages 2 nights and can consist of muddy jungle terrain to climb through. Expect a moderate to difficult level of climbing.

Photos: Explore Kerinci

Hiking up a mountain is a fantastic exercise of physical ability, mental strength and patience – for whoever is keeping you company along the way especially.

Journeys up a mountain often require a lot of cardio and leg strength – always a plus to tone your butt! However, beyond its physical benefits, you’d be surprised at how emotionally and mentally gratifying a hike can be.

A mountain-climbing trip can often be a great way to clear your mind and take a complete pause from life. As you get focus on and get distracted with making it to the peak, your everyday problems may weigh a little less heavier and – who knows – even disappear?

Lucky for us, Southeast Asia is brimming with scenic mountainous spots perfect for hikers of varying abilities. One thing they all share in common however is the gorgeous views from the top. We’ve collected our favourite mountain summits in Southeast Asia of varying difficulties for you to find the perfect summit for you – check them out above!

Shelina Assomull

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