My brother-in-law, Dr. Lincoln who is here on holidays and as a prominent cardiologist in Sydney he knows the importance of getting regular exercise; but is not too keen on water sports, so regrettably kayaking was out of the question. Remembering that they love taking walks (they stayed opposite Centennial Park which is a bit like Sydney’s equivalent of New York’s Central Park), I suggested that we go for a Sunday walk at Mount Singai near Bau about 35 minutes drive from Kuching. There is a church at Mount Singai which is a Catholic Memorial and Pilgrimage Center.














It has stopped raining when we arrived at the foothills and we followed one of the lower paths to take a look at a 60 feet high water fall. We turned back and then proceeded to take the few hundreds over steps that would lead to the church at the top. The wooden steps though steep at places make it easy to get up the mountain. Meandering along the way it follows the natural elevation and we marvel at the dedication in constructing them. The steps had now been extended all the way up to the church. This has got to be the premier and most pleasant place to go for a walk in Kuching. As we climbed higher the morning mist became denser and foggier creating a most serene and surreal atmosphere. Lincoln later remarked to my sister that it was a most spiritual walking experience. We stopped occasionally to take in the views and catch our breath but soon we reached the beautiful church at Mount Singai. Lincoln made offerings said his prayers, while I contemplate in silence amidst this natural and beautiful place.
Knowing that the area is famous for their durians we decided to trek further up from the church to see if we can find some durians to buy from the locals who actually camped underneath durian trees during the durians season to collect the fruits. After about 15 minutes of trekking through the jungle paths, Lincoln spotted a small hut up ahead. We reached the hut which has some durians outside, it was empty but an old man soon showed up after we called out if anyone was home. We bought one durian from him and devoured it on the spot! Just what the doctor ordered for good cardiovascular health on a Sunday morning! Durians for the soul!
Stumble It!