The sunrise of 17th October 2009 shone through my bedroom windows, and what great joy it brought me realizing that in a few more minutes i would be embarking on a journey once again to OROU-Sapulot with an English Friend which i had just befriended who is also ever concerned with what Nature is becoming.
Our Journey started at approximately 9.30 am when we left Kota Kinabalu in the direction of Sapulot. Did a few stops along the way and had lunch in Keningau while we did some light shopping for things we might need during the trip. Arrived at the Drop-Off Point in Labang Village following a boat ride to Pungiton Eco-Camp. It was already about 4pm when we arrived the Camp which had a small drizzle. After settling and setting up our Hammocks, and despite of the long journey and drizzle we could not help ourselves but to at least explore at least one of the Cave Levels to end our day with. Upon returning to the camp, we washed up and had one of the most beautiful dinners prepared by the villagers and shared stories afterwards before calling it a night in one of nature’s most serene surroundings.
We started of very early the next day to complete another level of the Legendary Dragon Cave which has a stream running through it. The sight and experience was truly amazing! Quickly after that, we then proceeded to visit the Legendary Batu Punggul via the river, and upon arriving we immediately started trekking towards the foot of Batu Punggul accompanied but at least 4 other villagers. Upon reaching the foot, Alex was so excited that his journey didnt stop there as his desire to conquer Batu Punggul has led him climbing it to the top with the help of a few the villagers acting as guides.
After Batu Punggul, we then made out way to the Romol Eco-Lodge by road and got ourself entertained by traditional musical performances by the villagers. Together to accompany it was the “Tapai” a traditional rice wine and tapioca wine which we purchased by the villagers after a delicious dinner.
The next day, after a good night’s sleep in the Eco-Lodge, we then proceeded to a nearby Jetty for a Rapid Shooting activity on a “Perahu” a traditional wooden boat, which brought us through many big and exciting big river rapids right down to the border of Kalimantan. Just before reaching the border, we made a stop and trek along one of the small streams which has brought us to a beautiful waterfall. After a small picnic lunch, we also made a stop at one of the villager’s houses just by the river and were received by the 5 families staying at the village house alone. We were showered with so much hospitality and literally each family served us their coffee as refreshments.
We then continued our journey back to the Jetty where we continued on with our journey to a different waterfall in the nearby area which requires stream and jungle trekking. After crossing a river with strong currents on a very tiny wooden boat only fit for 2 persons at a time, and a 1 hour fast trek through the jungles and along streams, we finally arrived the Hidden Waterfall of 7 Levels! We just could not resist the beautiful sight and its surrounding which took over us and immediately took a dip in one of the levels.
As they say, time passes exceptionally fast especially when you are indulging, it was time for us to depart as we had to return to Kota Kinabalu on that day itself.
Though it was really a busy weekend which we raced to complete so much activities within a short time, nevertheless it really was one of the most beautiful long weekends which i havent had in such a long time. Both of us left with a smile on our face reminiscing on the great experience we had but also with a sad heart having to leave OROU-Sapulot in such a rush. But we know, that it wouldnt be long from now that we are returning!
