Cameron Highlands Hill Climb Challenge 2026

The Cameron Highlands Hill Climb Challenge is a pure test of climbing ability on one of Peninsular Malaysia’s most legendary ascents. The 38km route from Tapah to Tanah Rata gains approximately 1,400 metres of elevation through 66 numbered corners, passing through lowland rainforest, indigenous Orang Asli settlements, and eventually emerging into the cool, misty tea plantations that Cameron Highlands is famous for. It is a climb that every serious Malaysian cyclist must tackle at least once.

The road surface is generally good, with some rougher patches through the middle section where landslide repairs have been made. Gradients average 4-5% but kick up to 8-10% on several corners, particularly the infamous hairpins between km 15 and km 25. The final 10km through the tea estates offers some welcome relief with gentler gradients and spectacular views across the BOH Tea Plantation terraces.

The event operates as a timed hill climb with staggered starts, so riders are competing against the clock rather than each other. Categories include Men’s and Women’s Open, Masters divisions, and a new e-bike category for 2026. The start in Tapah is at 6:30am to beat the heat at lower elevations. At the finish in Tanah Rata, hot drinks and steamboat await riders who have earned their right to enjoy Cameron’s famously cool climate. Shuttle buses transport riders and bikes back to Tapah after the event.