1. Where is Mount Stong State Park?
Mount Stong State Park is an off the beaten track forested gem with several prominent mountain peaks, pristine rivers, multi-tier waterfalls and limestone caves located in the Malaysia State of Kelantan. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna like deer, elephants, tapirs, tigers and Rafflesia – the largest flower in the world etc.
2. When is the best time to visit Mount Stong State Park?
The best time to visit Mount Stong State Park is during the non-monsoon season from March to October. The incidence of rain is much higher during the monsoon season from November to February.
3. How to get to Mount Stong State Park?
The gateway to Mount Stong Park is the small town of Dabong (~7km to the Park Entrance) which can be reached by an overnight train from Johor Bahru. Alternatively our guide can also pick you up in a private transport from either Gua Musang (reachable from KL via coach) or Kota Bahru (reachable via flight from Singapore).
4. What does the typical hiking itinerary look like?
Day 1: Explore limestone caves (~ 2 hrs exploration) followed by a hike (~2 hrs) to Camp Baha where you will set-up camp for the night.
Day 2: Hike to the summits of Mount Stong (1422m), Mount Baha (1309m) and Mount Ayam (1504m). Depending on your fitness level and interests, you can climb one or two summits in one day. It is possible to climb three summits within a day but this is only recommended for very experienced and very fit hikers.
The typical routes and hiking durations are:
- Camp Baha → Mount Stong → Camp Baha: ~ 6-8 hrs return hike.
- Camp Baha → Mount Baha → Mount Stong → Camp Baha: ~ 10-12 hrs return hike.
- Camp Baha → Mount Baha → Mount Ayam → Mount Stong → Camp Baha: ~ more than 16 hrs return hike.
Day 3: Hike up the seven-tiered Stong Waterfalls (~4 hrs return hike) followed by a hike (~2 hrs) back to the trailhead for your transport back to Dabong.
5. What is the difficulty level of the hike?
This is one of the most challenging and strenuous hikes in our offerings. Interested hikers should be comfortable with walking on slopes for prolonged hours (up to 10 hrs daily) for 2-3 consecutive days. There will be some river crossing so be prepared to get wet. Please do not underestimate the difficulty.
6. What are the training required to get myself prepared for the hike?
Exercise at least twice a week; comprising of either mid-distance jogging (~5km) or stair climbing (~60 stories height) at least 6 weeks in advance should be sufficient to condition your body for the climb. A longer period of conditioning is required for those who are unaccustomed to physical exercise.
7. What should I do if I cannot catch up with the others during the hike?
While your mountain guide will keep a watch out for everybody, you should not feel embarrass to voice out if you need help. Always stay with the group and stay on trail. Safety is of utmost importance.
8. What should I do if I am injured or feel sick during the hike?
You should stop climbing and inform the guide of your injury or sickness. The guide will assess your condition and determine the necessary course of action. For mild conditions, you may either rest at one of the checkpoints or descend back to the campsite with your guide.
9. What type of accommodation is used during the hike?
You will camping in tent at the Camp Baha campsite. The campsite will sever as your base for the exploration of Mount Stong State Park.
10. Are sleeping bag and mat provided?
Sleeping bag and mat are not provided. They are good to have but not a necessity.
11. Are there shower facilities and toilets at the campsite?
There are simple camp toilets but no shower facilities at the campsite.
12. What clothes should l wear for the hike?
Dri-fit long sleeve T-shirt and pants will be useful to prevent insect bites and scratches.
13. What types of footwear are recommended for the hike?
A pair of covered shoes with good traction and ankle grip to protect your feet from sharp rocks. Sandals and sports shoes are not recommended. Do trim your toe nails before the hike as long nails might rub against your shoes especially when going downhill causing subungual hematoma which is also commonly known as “black toes”.
14. Do I need a trekking stick for the hike?
A hiking stick is especially useful for providing extra stability and balance during river crossing. It also helps to provide additional traction when going uphill and reduce strain on joints when going downhill.
15. What are the other essential hiking gears for the hike?
You will also require a headlight (in case it gets dark before you return back to campsite) and a poncho. Upon booking confirmation, a detailed packing list will be provided to help you pack for your trip.
16. Are rations and water provided during the hike?
Rations (breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be provided by the guide for the whole duration of the hike. Water (either bottled mineral water or boiled water) will be issued by the guide during meal times.
17. Can I hire porters for the hike?
Porters can be hired to carry your personal belongings but have to be hired well in advanced; at least 2 weeks before the trip.
18. Where can I store my extra belongings/luggage which I do not wish to carry up the summit?
You may store your extra belongings/luggage inside the tent at the campsite but do not leave any valuables behind. We are not liable for any loss of belongings
19. How much tips is appropriate for the guide?
Tipping is highly encouraged especially for good services. A ballpark figure would be around 100 MYR to each guide for the whole group for the entire trip.
20. What should I do if I don’t feel well after the hike?
Sore knees and aching muscles are common after the hike, rest for a few days and you should start to feel better and be back to normal. If you still feel unwell, or suffer from other ailments, please consult a doctor immediately.
21. Is travel insurance provided in the package?
Travel insurance is not included in the package. We strongly recommend you to procure your own travel insurance before embarking on the Mount Stong State Park trip. You may also procure travel insurance through us: http://iwannatravel.com.sg/world-nomads-travel-insurance.