
Kintamani, nestled in the mountainous region of northern Indonesia, is renowned for its majestic and breathtaking alpine scenery. Rising 1,500 meters above sea level, it is home to an active volcano. Its eruption in 1917 destroyed numerous shrines and villages, but it also brought fertility to the land, with crops such as citrus fruits, bananas, coffee, and coconuts growing in the area surrounding the volcano.
The mountaintops are shrouded in perpetual mist, blanketed in lush tropical rainforests and verdant rice terraces. Streams gurgle through the mountains, brimming with vibrant vitality. The lakes are as smooth as mirrors. Along the way, you'll pass by a rustic woodcarving village, a handmade batik workshop, and a gold and silver carving center—the craftsmanship of these handmade batiks is truly impressive.
The customs of the villagers in this area are also different from those of ordinary Balinese people. They do not perform cremation or burial, but sky burial.
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 playing time: about 1 hour
10,000 Indonesian rupiah
All day
Kintamani Volcano, also known as Mount Batur, is an active volcano in Bali, Indonesia. It is culturally significant for the Balinese people, with nearby temples such as Pura Ulun Danu Batur dedicated to spiritual offerings for the volcano and Lake Batur. The area is part of a caldera formed by prehistoric eruptions.
Kintamani Volcano is located in the northeastern part of Bali, near Lake Batur. Visitors usually reach it by car or taxi from Ubud, Denpasar, or other parts of Bali. Organized tours or private drivers are recommended as public transport options are limited.
The area is accessible all day. The best time for hiking and sightseeing is during the dry season, from April to October. Sunrise tours usually start around 3:00–4:00 AM.
Booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure guided treks or tours.
1–2 days are sufficient to hike, explore viewpoints, visit hot springs, and see nearby temples and villages.
Guided tours are widely available, mostly in English and Indonesian. Local guides provide hiking support and cultural insights.
Start with an early morning hike to the summit, descend for breakfast, then visit hot springs, explore Lake Batur, and finish with a temple or village visit in the afternoon.
Night visits focus mainly on early morning hikes for sunrise views. No official light shows exist, but some resorts offer evening dining with views of the volcano and lake.
Peak times are weekends and during the sunrise trekking hours. Visiting on weekdays or during the off-season (November–March) is less crowded.
Facilities include basic toilets, small restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and resting areas at trekking base camps and hot spring resorts.
The volcano summit is steep and challenging; not recommended for elderly or disabled visitors. Lakeside and hot spring areas are more accessible.
Cash is necessary for local vendors, tours, and temple donations. Larger resorts may accept cards, but mobile payments are limited.
Vegetarian and some vegan options are available in local cafes; halal food is offered in many restaurants and resort dining areas.
Souvenirs include Balinese handicrafts, wood carvings, traditional textiles, handmade jewelry, and local snacks.
Private car, taxi, or tour vans are the best for continuing to Ubud, southern Bali, or other highland destinations.