This mountain goes by many names and spellings. On road signs, it is sometimes spelt as Gunung Dato’ or Datok, while some maps show it as Gunung Rembau or Gunung Datuk Rembau.
Even so, the information board at the start of the trail details how the site was named after Dato’ Perpatih Nan Sebatang, who in 1372, organised a gathering of leaders here to elect the future Dato’ Lembaga (clan chief).
The Climb
At 855m, Gunung Datuk is slightly higher than Gunung Angsi (824m) but is still dwarfed by the tallest peak in Negeri Sembilan, Gunung Hantu Besar (1,462m). But Gunung Datuk doesn’t disappoint.
The starting point of the climb is probably less than 80m and the distance covered is 4.6km each way as the bird flies, which means that the actual distance is longer. On average, it takes about two hours to reach the top and somewhat less when coming back down.
The path is pretty well-defined all the way except at the beginning. You might find yourself missing the starting point completely and floundering about in the jungle. However, strips of red and white or yellow plastic tape appear periodically to let you know you are on the right track.
The trail starts to climb immediately and the first hour is a fairly brutal ascent over twisted tree roots, rocks and dirt. You will pass a wrecked gazebo and be entertained by the lively whooping of monkeys perched high in the treetops.
Down at feet level were various insects, including a giant red Malaysian centipede (about six inches long)and what looked like monster wood-lice which rolled into a ball when disturbed.
After a while the path becomes less steep and you might feel a refreshing breeze which is a welcome relief from the draining humidity. (Bring plenty of water with you). Eventually, you will arrive at an open area beneath the summit which is presumably used as a campsite.
From here a number of steel ladders enable you to climb up the massive boulders which dominate the peak of the mountain.
On the summit you can rest on the flat boulders, enjoy the magnificent views and feel the cooling breeze. On a clear day, one can actually spot the Straits of Malacca from this vantage.
Look out for a footstep-shaped impression in one of the boulders which is said to have been made by the legendary Malaysian hero, Hang Tuah.
Coming back down is easier on the heart but hard work for the knees and leg muscles. But all in all, it is an easier hike compared to Gunung Angsi.
Facilities and Fees
Gunung Datuk is usually less crowded on weekdays but it packs up on weekends. The park ranger counter opens at 6.30am and a small climbers fee of RM5 is imposed per person. If you come in groups of 20, 50, or more than 50 people, the total entrance fee is reduced to RM60, RM120 and RM 180 respectively.
If you’re looking to camp up there, it will cost you RM3 to pitch your own tent or RM5 to rent a tent that fits four people. There are also chalets up for rental at RM50 per night or RM30 for half a day.
The flat space just below the summit looked quite good for camping although there are no facilities apart from a very rustic toilet. Judging from the sprinkled yellow rat or snake poison around the circumference of the campsite, there is perhaps a rodent or serpent issue at night.
Address
Balai Belia 4B (M) Gunung Datuk
Kampung Batang Nyamor, 71350, Kota
Negeri Sembilan
Contact
Tel: 06-438 1046
Email: [email protected]
This article first appeared on Malaysia Traveller.