17-05-2025
Seven spectacular mountains in South-East Asia
For those who seek adventure beyond the cities and sandy shores, South-East Asia is the place to be. This is especially true if you're looking to climb some mountains.
The mountains in South-East Asia range from misty summits that graze the clouds, to rugged peaks that challenge hikers and reward them with breathtaking views.
Spanning across the entire region, these seven peaks are a must-visit for seasoned climbers or those in search of a worthwhile trek through nature and to the clouds.
1. Hkakabo Razi (Myanmar)
Standing at a proud 5,881m, the Hkakabo Razi is said to be South-East Asia's tallest mountain.
Hidden deep in the jungles of the northern Myanmar state of Kachin, this mountain is a difficult one to climb. Even reaching the base camp can take two weeks – according to reports – and this involves jungle treks, boat rides, muddy terrain and blood-sucking leeches.
This is what makes it an arduous feat, with only two documented successful summits made. The various expedition attempts faced extreme weather, technical rock climbing and logistical issues.
If you're a hardcore mountaineer looking for the ultimate test, this peak might be worth considering. It is recommended to go between November and April, as there is less rain and the weather is more stable.
The Unesco-listed Kinabalu Park is home to Malaysia's highest peak. — ANTON ZELENOV/Wikimedia Commons
2. Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia)
If Hkakabo Razi is the most elusive, Mount Kinabalu is one of the most accessible to climb.
With a height of 4,095m, this Bornean beauty is not just Malaysia's tallest peak, it is also one of the most biodiverse places in the world.
Located in Ranau, Sabah, the Unesco-listed Kinabalu Park is home to thousands of plant and animal species, including the giant Rafflesia flower.
Though the hike requires not much technical climbing skills, it is a long trek and you would still need to be in fairly good health to conquer this mountain.
You first need to hike to the Panalaban base camp (3,272m) and then stay there overnight. The journey up to the summit, known as Low's Peak, usually begins before dawn from Panalaban and will take about three to four hours. If you reach the summit in time for sunrise, you will be rewarded with a horizon that glows in golden rays and a sea of clouds stretching endlessly beneath you.
Climbers have to be well-equipped with rock-climbing skills to take on Puncak Jaya in Indonesia. — ALFINDRA PRIMALDHI/Wikimedia Commons
3. Puncak Jaya (Indonesia)
Unlike other mountains on this list, Puncak Jaya – also known as Carstensz Pyramid – is a rock-climbing adventure rather than a trek or hike.
At 4,884m, the peak is part of the Sudirman Range in the Papua region of Indonesia. Being equipped with just basic mountaineering skills is not enough to climb this beast, you would also need technical rock-climbing knowledge and proper equipment.
With sheer vertical rock faces, jagged terrain, unpredictable weather and a remote location, it will no doubt be a gruelling journey for those who desire to take on one of the Seven Summits (the highest peaks on each continent; Puncak Jaya is geographically on the Oceania continent).
Reaching the top of Puncak Jaya will grant you one of the most stunning views on Earth – a tropical rainforest merging into snowy ridges.
A statue of the Great Buddha sits atop Vietnam's Fansipan. — Pexels
4. Fansipan (Vietnam)
Nicknamed the 'Roof of Indochina', Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam at a height of 3,143m. Located in the Lao Cai province, it offers a cultural discovery and a glimpse into the beauty of the region.
The six-hour journey – following the Tram Ton trail – cuts through bamboo groves, tranquil streams and views of rolling hills covered in mist.
Upon reaching the top, you will see a dramatic Buddhist pagoda complex and a giant bronze statue of the Buddha, adding a spiritual touch to the breathtaking view.
If you want to experience the summit minus the trek, there are cable cars and a funicular train that can take you up there faster, for a fee.
The twin pagodas on Doi Inthanon commemorate Thailand's former king and queen. — JJ HARRISON/Wikimedia Commons
5. Doi Inthanon (Thailand)
Unlike other mountains that are prized for their height and difficulty, Doi Inthanon is revered for its historical significance.
Just a two-hour drive from the city of Chiang Mai, the mountain stands at an elevation of 2,565m and is part of a national park filled with lush forests, waterfalls and villages of the Karen and Hmong hill tribes.
At the top, you'll find twin pagodas honouring the reign of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. The summit itself is shrouded in mist, and the cool temperature offers a nice respite from Thailand's tropical heat.
You can choose to drive up the winding roads with picturesque stops, or you can hike your way up following any of the various accessible trails.
Mount Apo in the Philippines is a dormant volcano with a lake crater. — Jdeligero24/Wikimedia Commons
6. Mount Apo (Philippines)
The tallest mountain in the Philippines is Mount Apo (2,954m), a dormant volcano that's also a biodiversity hotspot.
Located to the south-west of Davao City, Mount Apo serves as a refuge for the critically endangered Philippine eagle, one of the largest eagles in the world.
The climb is a diverse adventure, taking you through mossy forests, sulphur vents and massive boulders left by previous eruptions. It will take you three days on average to reach the top, with camping spots and rest stops along the way.
Reaching the top feels like standing on a different planet – a barren, rocky summit with sweeping views of Mindanao, and some water-filled craters below.
Timorese often journey up Mount Ramelau as a spiritual pilgrimage. — COLIN TRAINOR/Wikimedia Commons
7. Mount Ramelau (Timor-Leste)
For most climbers, reaching a summit is all about the view and experience, but for locals in Timor-Leste, Mount Ramelau is a site for spiritual pilgrimage.
Situated to the south of the capital city of Dili, this 2,986m-tall mountain – also known as Tatamailau – is crowned by a statue of the Virgin Mary, making it a sacred site for many Christian Timorese.
Mount Ramelau's trek is relatively short (two to three hours) – but no less rewarding.
The best way to experience it? Start before dawn and hike under the stars. By the time you summit, you will be greeted with skies painted fiery orange, and if you're lucky, you can see an unobstructed view of the Timor Sea stretching across the horizon.
The best time to hike here is between June and September as it is the driest period, providing the best chance of a great view at the top.
