GUNUNG Baling in Baling, Kedah, is only 420m above sea level. Climbing it has been on my bucket list for quite a while because of its breathtaking view from the top.
To get to the mountain, one has to pass Baling town and go straight until you see a big temple on your left. Go further until you see a yellow house and lots of cars parked at the roadside.
This is the entry point to Gunung Baling.
The trek is a bit steep and slippery. Proper hiking shoes are advisable. There are some ropes at certain steep sections to help hikers ascend and descend.
There are also some steep rocks that require a bit of climbing. But not to worry, it’s not very technical and everyone should be able to pass the obstacle easily.
Once you reach the top, you will be amazed with the view. You can actually see Baling town from here. At the top, the path is mostly rocks. You have to be careful; don’t stand too close to the edge. Safety first!
Azli Wahab is an avid mountaineer who always brings along a camera on his hiking adventures. His works have been used as cover photos for YourShot at the National Geographic website, a Pos Malaysia postcard and published in the AirAsia Inflight magazine and the UK-based Professional Photographer Magazine. Reach him at traveltimes@nst.com.my.