Mount Irau (Gunung Irau)

2,110 m (6,923 ft)

There are two routes up to the true summit of Mount Irau. The most frequented route starts at Mossy Forest, Gunung Brinchang, Pahang. This trail is about 2.2 km (1.4 mi) long and takes 5-7 hours in total to complete including breaks.

The second trail option is much longer, starting near Sempadan Perak Pahang  Border Crossing station; it takes roughly 10-12 hours to complete.

This article focuses on the more commonly trekked route starting at Mossy Forest.

The hike up to the peak of Mount Irau is moderately difficult. It involves some challenging sections, but beginner mountaineers could definitely accomplish it if they are fit and determined. 

The first section before reaching the hike’s trailhead takes you along a wooden boardwalk. Once you reach the starting point you’ll be surrounded by mossy vegetation from there on out. 

Famed for its enchanted mossy forest, you’ll be surrounded by trees and other vegetation completely covered in moss as you climb. The trail is damp, muddy and slippery, often blocked by big tree roots and branches. There are also some steep sections requiring ropes and ladders to climb up. You can also use the branches and roots of the trees on the ground of the steep path ahead of you to help you climb.

As is typical for most peaks in Malaysia, you’ll come across the pitcher plant, ferns, orchids, and other flora. 

The trail is hilly, as you’ll go up and down the summit of Mount Brinchang on your way to Irau Peak. You’ll also go over Mini Irau at an altitude of 2,032 m (6,666 ft), the hike’s midpoint and the false summit of Gunung Irau.

The trail gets more challenging with steep climbs as you ascend. 

On a clear day, you can see a sweeping view of the tea plantations below and the valleys surrounding you at the summit. 

Other trails lead down from the summit on the opposite side to where you came up. You can take these if you plan ahead.

Mount Irau falls within a tropical monsoon climate. The temperature stays fairly consistent throughout the year with an average of about 25°C (78°F) with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region is also consistently humid, especially between late March and early June.

The best time to plan a climb would likely be between January and late March, as this period has a good combination of favourable conditions such as less rain, slightly lower temperatures and humidity, and clear skies. The second somewhat drier period of the year is between June and August.

It is not advisable to climb during the monsoon season between September and December.

You’ll need proper hiking boots for this hike and a hiking pole or stick would be helpful.

Take a raincoat or water-resistant clothing and something warm as the rain can be unpredictable and it can get cooler at the summit. A drybag may also be very useful to protect your electronics in case of afternoon showers.

You’ll need to take your own snacks, food and water. Often tour operators will provide food, so be sure to ask them beforehand if you are going with a tour group.

A porter is unnecessary when hiking up Mount Irau. A guide is not mandatory, though may be helpful as the trail is often shrouded in mist.

A permit is required regardless of whether you go with a guide.

Mount Irau can be found on the border between Perak and Pahang states in Malaysia, about 4 hours away from Kuala Lumpur by road. The closest town of note is Tanah Rata which is 30-45 minutes away by car (to get to Mossy Forest starting point).

You can get to the general area from most major cities in Malaysia such as Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur by bus. You’ll have to either catch a taxi, hire a vehicle or go with a tour group for the remaining distance to the starting point. 

If you decide to drive yourself, take note that the roads are not in good condition. They are narrow, windy, treacherous and prone to landslides after rain, so only take this option if you are an experienced driver and have a 4WD vehicle.

This trail is quite tricky when wet and foggy. Be sure to take care when walking and make sure to leave early to avoid being on the trail in the dark. 

Take a basic first aid kit and a head torch in case of emergency.