Mount Benom (Gunung Benum)

2,107 m (6,913 ft)

There are 3 routes to the summit of Mount Benom. Two of them start at Lata Berembun waterfall, a spot near Raub district, and the third starts on the opposite side of the mountain from Ulu Cheka/Jerantut. The first two routes take between 3 and 4 days to complete, and the third route takes about 4-5 days to complete. 

The trail starting from Lata Berembun via Camp Tikus and Camp Periuk is a popular route and takes 7-9 hours one way, and 12-18 hours round trip if there are no unexpected delays (due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances). The distance of the route is 24 km (15 mi) round trip.

The terrain up Mount Benum is dense jungle which turns into mossy forest at higher altitudes. The climb up to the summit is difficult. 

The hike starts by entering the jungle on fairly even ground, but very soon the incline gets steeper and you’ll find yourself using roots and vines to help you climb up banks. The trek is not steep the whole way, but there are enough near-vertical sections to make the climb challenging.

As you climb you’ll catch glimpses of the view, but don’t let this fool you, there is still a long way to go. You’ll have to climb over and under large trees, branches and large boulders in the path as well as cross a river. 

At the higher altitudes, you’ll see the characteristic pitcher plant along with the mossy trees and rocks. There will be vines and trees hanging in the path as well. 

The summit has a dilapidated lean-to of sorts and a sign with the words “Puncak Gunung Benum” and the elevation painted on it. There is also a flat area used to camp at the summit as well.

Malaysia has a predominantly tropical climate. The region in which Mount Benom is found is humid and hot year-round with an average temperature that ranges between 25°C (77°F) and 27°C (80°F) in a year. In general, the actual temperature varies between 22°C and 32°C (72°F and 90°F) throughout the year. 

There is a moderate amount of rain year-round, but there is less rain from late May to early September as well as from late January to late February. June to July is the driest time, but that also overlaps with the most humid period (from late March to early June). 

So, the best time to climb is between late July and early August or from mid-December to mid-March (which also overlaps with the clearest time of year if you are hoping to have a good view while climbing).

If you go without a tour company you’ll need to take your own camping gear. Liaise with your guide to determine whether they will be providing this for you or not. 

Poles and gloves would definitely be helpful as the trek requires quite a bit of climbing, however, poles may become a hindrance as well, so use your discretion on whether they will be worth taking for you. 

Make sure to take plenty of water, and as with most peaks in Malaysia, be sure to take insect repellent and leech socks.

There are no special facilities along the trail – including restrooms. The campsites are just flat clearings where you can pitch your tent. There is one water source at Camp Tikus (Kem Tikus), however you are advised to boil this water before use. So, either take enough water with you for the trek or come prepared with a water bottle filter or a means to boil it effectively. 

The alternate route, also starting from Lata Berembun on the Western side, has a few more water points up to an elevation of roughly 1,370 m ( 4,495 ft). After that, there are no more water points.

Guides are necessary. Porters are necessary for most hikers. Beware of guides who take advantage of unsuspecting hikers by overcharging at obscene rates.

Mount Benom is located close to Raub district in Pahang State of west Malaysia. It takes about 2 hours by road from Kuala Lumpur (the capital of Malaysia) to Raub, and then another 30-40 minutes to the closest town (Sungai Klau). From Sungai Klau you’ll make your way to Lata Berembun, the trailhead, which takes another 45 minutes by 4-wheel-drive vehicle.

The trail is not extremely popular, despite its proximity to Kuala Lumpur, and since it is a multi-day trek it is best to go with a group. Remember to take sufficient water as water is not easily available on this trek, and a first aid kit equipped with suitable medical supplies for the jungle.