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Elevation: 22 ft
GPS: 6.43767, 100.1944
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
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Shared By: Ryan Williams on Aug 18, 2010
Admins: Nate Ball

Description Suggest change



***see comment section below for updated beta***
Bukit Keteri is a small village in the state of Perlis in Northern Malaysia. The area is characterized by spectacular limestone towers surrounded by endless rice paddies. The rock is an extension of the karst limestone that has been made famous by Thailand.

In fact, this area is just a short 5 hour bus ride from Krabi Town, so it provides an excellent break from the madness of Tonsai as well as a convenient border run.

There are two mountains, with most of the climbing on the west face of the southern hill. The northern hill looks to have a lot of potential for multipitch roues, but as of now there has been no development.

There are 50 sport routes on the southern mountain of all grades and style. From vertical pocket pulling to unbelievably overhanging tufa pinching, this wall has it all.

Even better than the climbing is the food and the hospitality. The people of Northern Malaysia haven't been poisoned by the rampant capitalism that can be seen in Southern Thailand. You will most certainly meet the family that lives across from the crag, and you will love them.

Getting There Suggest change

The closest city is Kangar, and Alor Setar is less than an hour away. You could get a bus from anywhere in Malaysia to either of these cities, then get a taxi to BK. The closest Malay airport is Penang, which is a few hours south.

Alternatively, Krabi, Thailand is about a 5 hour bus ride from the border town of Pedang Besar, and Bukit Keteri is about a 20 min taxi ride from there. You'll take a minibus to Had Yai, then get on a local bus to get to the border. Walk across the border and try to get a taxi. You might have to walk a ways before you see anyone so it would be wise to make prior arrangements... see "Where to Stay." The airport in Had Yai in southern Thailand is actually the closest airport.

From Kangar, drive north toward Padang Besar. At the stop light take a right toward Bukit Keteri. When you see the large concrete fatory turn left towards Padang Besar. Drive about a quarter mile until you see the wall on your right and Restaurant Liza on your left.

Local Customs

Suggest change
Malaysia, like southern Thailand, is predominately Muslim. Foreigners, especially Americans, tend to ignore the fact that most people in S. Thailand practice Islam. In Perlis it is important to observe the local customs that are found in any Islamic country. Men should always wear shirts and women should always cover their shoulders and wear longer shorts or pants. When you are climbing, do what you want... but when you are in the company of locals or in public, please observe the customs.

It is also NOT OK to get wasted... not that you would. You might stay in a hotel, but you will probably be staying with a family near the climbing area. They don't mind you having a bottle of whiskey with you, as long as you don't drink in front of the children and don't get loud at night.

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