Introducing Batukaru
Batu Kalu is Bali's second highest mountain, at 2,275 meters above sea level. Largely undiscovered and away from the crowds, this mountainous region offers visitors a fusion of nature, culture, and breathtaking panoramic views.
As a volcanic mountain, its landscape offers Bali's most unique rainforest mountain hiking experience. The mountain's fertile volcanic soil, coupled with abundant rainfall, makes the rainforest home to a myriad of wildlife. Here, you can witness "Kijang" (small deer), "Pangolin" (ant eaters), macaques, leaf-eating monkeys, and "Luwak" (coffee mills) digesting and then passing coffee beans for subsequent roasting.
This is a highly spiritual and sacred place, and there is also a Hindu temple called "Pura Luhur Batukaru" on the hill. If you visit the small hill temple along the way, please enter politely. Women are not allowed to enter the temple during this period.
Climate and best time to travel
Bali boasts a typical tropical rainforest climate, with four seasons year-round. The dry season, from April to September, is the best time to visit, with less rainfall, making it the ideal time for surfing, diving, hiking, and cycling. This period also sees a flurry of festivals, making it a great time to enjoy the cultural landscape. The Bali Arts Festival, held from mid-June to mid-July, is a major draw for visitors.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
The climb to the top takes about 4 hours
Most Popular FAQs for Batukaru
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Pura Luhur Batukaru is one of Bali’s nine directional temples, built to honor the mountain gods. It dates back to the 11th century and holds spiritual significance for Hindus in Bali, serving as a site for ceremonies and offerings to maintain balance and harmony in the region.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Location: Tabanan Regency, Bali, Indonesia, on the slopes of Mount Batukaru.
- By car/taxi: Accessible via Jl. Raya Batukaru from Tabanan or Mengwi.
- Motorbike: Popular for local travelers exploring rural Bali.
- Walking: Short walks are required within the temple grounds; surrounding areas have trekking paths.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: Morning for fewer crowds and cooler weather, dry season from April to October is ideal.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Entrance fee: Approximately 20,000–30,000 IDR per person, payable on-site.
- Tickets: Purchased offline at the temple entrance; online booking is generally not required.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is not required for Batukaru Temple; just arrive during opening hours.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
1–2 hours for the temple grounds, plus additional 2–3 hours if hiking nearby trails or visiting waterfalls.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The main shrine and ceremonial compounds of Pura Luhur Batukaru.
- The moss-covered guardian statues and split gates (candi bentar).
- Surrounding tropical rainforest and rice terraces.
- Nearby waterfalls such as Antugan Waterfall for nature exploration.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in English and Indonesian, often provided by local guides or tour operators; audio guides are limited.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The temple entrance with split gates and moss-covered statues.
- Wide shots of the surrounding Mount Batukaru slopes.
- Forest paths and rice terraces surrounding the temple.
- Nearby waterfalls and jungle trails.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main entrance, explore the outer temple courtyard.
- Walk to the inner temple compounds and main shrine.
- Take a short hike to nearby forest paths or rice terraces.
- Optionally visit nearby waterfalls for an extended nature experience.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not allowed. Special ceremonies may occur during Balinese religious festivals, which can be observed with guidance from local authorities or tour operators.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Moderately crowded, mainly by tourists and local worshippers.
- Least crowded: Early mornings on weekdays, outside major Balinese festivals.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Basic facilities include public toilets, small local warungs nearby, and limited seating/rest areas. No large shops are inside the temple grounds.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
The temple has uneven stone paths and stairs; elderly and disabled visitors may require assistance. Children can explore but should be supervised.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash (IDR) is required for entrance fees and purchases at local warungs.
- Cards and mobile payments are rarely accepted on-site.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Small local warungs serving traditional Balinese food near the temple entrance.
- Cafes in nearby Tabanan or Munduk villages for lunch or refreshments.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local warungs; halal options are common in nearby villages.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and boutique hotels in Tabanan or Munduk villages.
- Eco-lodges and resorts near Mount Batukaru.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Munduk waterfalls and trekking routes.
- Tanah Lot Temple (approx. 30–40 minutes drive).
- Jatiluwih rice terraces (UNESCO site, approx. 1 hour drive).
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handcrafted Balinese offerings and decorations.
- Locally woven textiles and traditional handicrafts.
- Small carvings and souvenirs sold at village shops nearby.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Private car or taxi to Tabanan, Canggu, or Seminyak.
- Motorbike rentals for exploring nearby villages and rice terraces.
- Organized tours connecting Batukaru with Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih, and Munduk areas.
