Gunung Tampin 10 Apr 2010

Despite the heavy thunderstorm since 5 a.m. in PJ, we still decided to go ahead with our plan to hike Gunung Datuk. It was raining heavily throughout our road journey but we hoped the rain would stop when we approached G Datuk. True enough the rain did stop, but we our hope was dashed when we realized that there was on going G Datuk Challenge event. Judging by the numerous vehicles (including buses), the crowd must be big. So we decided to head for G Tampin. Luckily, our car was fitted with a GPS – a mighty useful tool which led us towards G Tampin and a nice local resident took time to show us the way to the trail head which is located in Kg Seri Tampin.

Starting at 9.40 a.m. we did a slow walk up the winding tar road to the summit. Along the way, there were several covered rest areas. After about 30 minutes, we reached a recreation spot equipped with a changing room and a pool. At 11 a.m. we were greeted by a huge satellite dish carrying the Telekom logo at the peak. The walk was uneventful but pleasant given the thick canopy which provided much shade and the cool weather after the morning shower. We only met 3 hikers along the way.

After a short photography session at the peak, we left at about 11.30 a.m. and hit the base at 12.15 a.m. We then headed for Melaka for some shopping and to savour the famous chicken rice balls for lunch.

The return car journey was horrendous for our car was caught in 1-hour jam before the Sg Besi Toll Gate. After paying the toll, we were allowed to make a U-turn to find another exit from Seremban Hwy via UPM. We attributed the jam to the numerous vehicles (buses and cars with N9 banners) ferrying fans to the Malaysia FA Cup final between N9 and Kedah.

NB: For location of G Tampin, see http://travelingluck.com/Asia/Malaysia/Negeri+Sembilan/_1741882_Gunong+Tampin.html#local_map. Take the road that turns off the main road into Kampung Seri Tampin. The trail head is located at the end of this road.

Trekking buddies: Nicole, Mee Hong, Xiung, Aun Pein and Sziang Meng.

For the photographs, please refer to http://happytrekker.shutterfly.com/pictures/7939.