Mount Ophir

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Mount Ophir (Mt. Ophir), also known as Gunung Ledang, is a mountain in the Malaysian state of Johor, near the border with Malacca. It’s part of the Titiwangsa range, and peaks at 1,276 metres (4,186 feet). The scenic beauty of the mountain and the climb, including many lovely waterfalls, and its relative accessibility make it one of the most visited mountains in Malaysia, whether for birdwatching, strenuous exercise or to appreciate the natural beauty.

From the summit, there’s a panoramic view of the Straits of Melaka. On a clear day, you can sometimes see the Sumatran coast.

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Ascents

Several hiking trails lead to the summit. The climb is a non-technical one, but is nonetheless physically demanding.

An ascent can be completed by determined climbers in six hours, making it conceivable to reach the summit and return to the base in the same day. Most climbers, however, will ascend to the campsite one day and complete the climb the next, or will do the full ascend in one day but be met by a vehicle at the summit to return to the base.

You can climb Mount Ophir all year, but it’s generally preferable to avoid the rainy period between December and February.

The Johor Park authorities now limit the number of climbers on the mountain, so you’d do well to book your climb in advance. You will be required to book a guide.

Ascent from Malacca From Malacca, the trail starts at the village of Asahan, near the reservoir. The climb from Malacca is the least demanding option.

Ascent from Johor Begin near Sagil village, at the foot of the waterfall inside Gunung Ledang Resort.

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Accommodation

The Gunung Ledang Resort is located at the foot of the trail, and it offers activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking (bicycle rentals are available), archery, and night treks. Rooms range from complete accommodation to basic shelters.

Inexpensive hotel accommodation is available in Tangkak.

Camping is available near the summit. On the trail from Sagil, there is camping at Puteri Waterfall (CP1). After that, there’s a site at Kolam Gajah (CP4) and Sungai Segi Tigga (CP5).

The Elephant Pool campsite is at the 550m mark on the Sagil Trail.

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Fees

Park Fee: RM10
Climbing Permit: RM10
Insurance: RM5
Camping Permit: RM2
Guide Fee: RM70/day/group

If you’re climbing from Sagil and take the more common route through Gunung Ledang Resort, there’s also a RM4 resort entrance fee. The alternative os to start the climb at the Parks headquarters.

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Getting There

• from Singapore, by car:

• follow the Tebrau Higway to Segamat (two hours). Continue to Sagil (45 minutes).

• from Kuala Lumpur, by car:

• take the PLUS highway south; exit at Tangkak. Continue to Sagil.

From Sagil, the trail is 1 km away.

Buses (RM 12 per person) and taxis (RM 30 per person) are available from Johor Bahru. Transnasional, Merdu Express, Damai Express and Cepat Express run express bus services to Sagamat; then a public bus (South West Bus; RM2.50 per person) to Sagil.

Trains are also available.

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Other Resources

Johor Tourist Information Centre: 607-2242000.