ATTACKED BY LEECHES: Bloodsuckers galore in Gunung Belumut, MALAYSIA

Standing at just 1,010m Gunung Belumut in Malaysia may not sound like too much of a challenge, but throw in hot, humid weather, two extremely steep sections and a gang of voracious leeches and it is enough to get any hiker’s blood pumping. So while you may end up exhausted, the leeches will be extremely happy! Join Richard and the gang from SG Trek as they attack another summit. You can now buy prints of some of my best photos on the Website: https://www.asiahikelopedia.com/merch #Hiking #trekking #Malaysia #Gunungbelumut #singapore #belumut #johor #malacca #malaysiamountains #jungle #thetrailsoflife #asiahiking #hiking #leeches SG Trek: https://sgtrek.com/ Follow us:   / asiahikelopedia   https://www.instagram.com/asiahikelop... The Trail Gunung Belumut is similar to most mountain trails in Malaysia in that it involves a lot of clambering over tree roots and sticky clay soil. The trail is around 6.2km one way and there are distance markers every 100m which means it is very hard to get lost. There are two extremely steep sections one between checkpoints 1&2, and the second between checkpoints 3&4. Bring sufficient water (2 litres or more) as the return journey will take at least 7-8 hours. Hiking boots or shoes are recommended, although you could probably get away with wearing running shoes in dry weather. Travel Logistics The Belemut trailhead is around a two-hour drive from Singapore and quite far off the beaten track so getting there by public transport is not an option. You could take a Grab taxi from Kluang town (around 40 minutes) but you would need to arrange a pick up with your driver. A climbing permit (5 Ringgit) is required for Belumut and this can be purchased at the trailhead office. If you climb early the office will be closed, but you can buy it on the way down. There are basic toilet and shower facilities available at the trailhead I made the trip with Singapore-based travel agent SG Trek, who organised everything including transport, permits and guides. Drones There are no known restrictions on the use of drones around Gunung Belumut. For more details on my most recent hike and the logistics involved please check out the Website: https://www.asiahikelopedia.com/