Live Your Best Lives
Mount Batur, located in northeastern Bali, and Lake Batur are two of the island's most iconic landmarks. Water accumulated in the crater formed Lake Batur, Bali's largest lake, and is said to be the abode of the goddess Danu.
Nestled beside Mount Batur, Lake Batur is often shrouded in mist and clouds, creating a captivating landscape. The landscape resembles a giant bowl, its lower half filled with water, with numerous volcanic cones rising from the center, a truly remarkable feat of nature.
Mount Batur has experienced three violent eruptions in 1917, 1926, and 1963, after which lava engulfed the entire village of Batur. However, the volcanic ash scattered across the island after the eruption brought mineral-rich soil, and the volcano also blocked the water-rich clouds from the Indian Ocean, resulting in abundant rainfall, all of which provided good conditions for the creation of wealth for the local residents.
The dry season, from April to September, is the best time to visit Bali. Rainfall is minimal, making it the perfect time for surfing, diving, hiking, and cycling. Festivals abound during this period, 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 play time: 3-4 hours
All day
Mount Batur is an active volcano in Bali, Indonesia, with significant geological and cultural importance. It has shaped the local landscape, supports nearby agriculture, and holds spiritual significance for Balinese Hindu communities, often featuring in religious ceremonies.
Mount Batur is in the Kintamani region of Bali, Indonesia. Visitors usually reach it by taxi, private car, or organized tour from Ubud, Denpasar, or nearby towns. Walking is only practical for the hike itself.
Hiking usually starts very early (around 3–4 AM) to catch sunrise at the summit. Best visiting months are during the dry season (April–October) for clear skies and safer trekking conditions.
Entrance fees vary; trekking tours often include park permits and guide fees, averaging 300,000–500,000 IDR per person. Tickets and tours can be booked online through travel agencies or offline directly at the trailhead.
Booking a guided sunrise trek in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, ideally 3–7 days ahead to secure a guide and transportation.
A sunrise trek takes approximately 4–6 hours including travel, ascent, sunrise, and descent. Visiting nearby Lake Batur, hot springs, and villages can take an additional half day.
Guided tours are widely available in English, Indonesian, and sometimes other languages. Local guides provide safety, historical, and cultural context.
Typical itinerary: Depart early from Ubud/Kintamani → Hike Mount Batur summit → Watch sunrise → Descend → Relax at hot springs → Visit Lake Batur and local villages → Return to hotel.
Sunrise treks require pre-dawn night departures. There are no light shows, but some tours include early morning coffee/tea breaks at the summit.
The summit can be crowded during peak season and weekends. Weekdays and off-peak months (April–June, September–October) are less crowded.
Basic facilities at trailheads and villages: toilets, small food stalls, and water. Limited facilities on the trail, so bring snacks and water.
The hike requires moderate fitness; elderly or young children may need support. Disabled visitors cannot access the summit easily, but can enjoy viewpoints and lakeside areas.
Cash is preferred for guides, entry fees, and small local purchases; major hotels accept cards.
Yes, vegetarian and halal food is generally available in villages and tourist spots.
Souvenirs include handmade crafts, traditional Balinese textiles, jewelry, volcanic stones, and local snacks.
