So last Thursday decided to hike up Penang Hill using the entrance from the Botanical Gardens known as the “Jeep Track”.
Newspaper said it’s supposed to be closed off to public but hey I saw some aunty walk up, nobody stop her, so I followed.
She must’ve taken the “Abandon All Hope Ye Who Enter” signs with her…
0 to 1.3KM (Rest Stop #1) — Very difficult first KM, crazy-steep inclines (am sure it’s around 30 degrees), tempted to throw in towel and walk down at first rest stop because I thought omg is this going to be like this all the way??? Die meh?!
(fyi the total hiking journey from Foot to Peak is 5.0KM)
1.4KM to 2.2KM (Rest Stop #2) — After first rest stop the road levels somewhat and for about 400m you’re tempted to believe it’s smooth walking. Many monkeys along this route, including me (but no alpha male mafia, thankfully).
Hopes dashed at around 1.9KM as slopes return. Second rest stop had tap water; drank like a fish (yes, I forgot to bring water bottle, hero right?).
2.2KM to 3.5KM — Tempted again so many times to turn back; I made a mock “If you get this video I’m dead” recording at around 2.8KM and sent to my daughter.
Tried hitching ride around 3.1KM mark (guy smiled and said his truck was full). Felt surprising burst of energy and motivation (aren’t they the same?) at 3.5KM and began marching onwards (think North Korean soldiers on parade…)
I knew from this point I wouldn’t turn back. Cheh-wah.
3.6KM to Top — around 4.2KM mark there is a bungalow (named Grace something) with two nice white dogs. I called to them but they probably through WTF another tourist trying to prove or kill himself.
Between 4.3KM and 4.8KM ground was generally flat and you feel what can only be described as psychotic heavenly relief. At this point I dah felt like I won an Oscar for Best whatever. Even stopped to take photos of the highland scenery.
Would’ve stayed longer to snap more pics but my throat was parched.
Cheekily the last 200m (4.8–5.0KM) were uphill. Which made seeing the peak feel even greater, I suppose.
