Let’s discover the world of Bali’s volcanoes! These mountains are more than just pretty views. They’re key to Bali’s landscape and culture. Bali’s volcanoes shape the weather and land. They’re also sacred in Balinese Hinduism. We’ll explore Bali’s famous volcanoes like Mount Agung, Mount Batur and Mount Batukaru. These giants tell stories of nature and faith. So, get ready to learn about Bali’s volcanic wonders and their role in the island’s life!
The three main volcanoes of Bali
In Bali, three main volcanoes stand out: Mount Agung, Mount Batur, and Mount Batukaru. Each has its own story and importance.
Mount Agung is the tallest in Bali. It’s over 3,000 meters high and located in East Bali. The Balinese see it as a holy mountain. It’s also an active volcano with a tough hike, taking about six to seven hours. The view from the top at sunrise is stunning.
Mount Batur is famous for its sunrise hikes. It’s an active volcano too, but the hike is easier, taking about three hours. It’s over 1,700 meters high and has a peaceful lake at its base. The Balinese believe Mount Batur and Mount Agung bring balance to the island.
Mount Batukaru is the second highest in Bali. It’s over 2,200 meters high and not active anymore. This mountain is great for beginners who want to hike. There’s a temple, Pura Batukaru, on its slopes. It’s used for prayers and is a calm place in central Bali.
These volcanoes are more than just mountains. They’re special to Bali’s culture and people. They’re part of local beliefs and stories, making them key landmarks on this beautiful island.
Mount Agung: The Sacred Giant
Mount Agung in Bali is 3,142 meters tall and is the highest mountain there. It’s in the Karangasem area in East Bali. This mountain is very important and sacred to the people in Bali. They believe a giant moved it from Java. On Agung’s side, you’ll find the Besakih Temple, a key place for Hindu worship in Bali. This temple didn’t get destroyed in Agung’s big eruption in 1963. That eruption did a lot of damage and more than a 1000 people became a victim. The mountain erupted again in 2017 and 2019.
Despite the volatility the people like to hike up Mount Agung. The trails are tough and take about six to seven hours, but you get great views at the top, especially at sunrise. There are two main paths for hiking. You need a guide because Agung is still an active volcano. When you climb Agung, it’s more than just a hike. It’s a way to connect with Bali’s nature and its spiritual side.
Mount Batur: The Adventurer’s Choice
Mount Batur, over 1,717 meters high, is known for adventure in Bali. It’s an active volcano near the Kintamani hills. Batur has erupted many times, the last in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It’s popular for its sunrise hikes, which take about three hours. The trails are good for beginners and start from nearby villages.
Local people think Batur is like a woman, while Mount Agung is like a man. They believe these mountains bring harmony to Bali. Around Batur, there’s a calm lake, Danau Batur. Near the mountain, you can find places to stay and eat. People enjoy the views and learn about the volcano and the area.
Mount Batur is not just about the climb; it’s also about what you see and experience. As you hike, you’ll pass through different landscapes, from lush forests to rocky paths. The top of the volcano gives you a panoramic view of Bali. You can see the caldera, a huge crater formed by past eruptions, and Lake Batur, which adds to the scenic beauty. Early mornings are the best time for this hike, as you can watch the sunrise from the summit. It’s a breathtaking sight that makes the early start worth it.
I have hiked Mount Batur myself multiple times. It’s an amazing (but also busy) trail that is an experience of worthy for those who can wake up at 3am to travel to the Volcano.
Mount Batukaru: The Serene Peak
Mount Batukaru, the second-highest in Bali, is a serene and less-traveled peak. It stands over 2,276 meters tall in the Tabanan region. This mountain is not active and is known for its dense forests, creating a peaceful environment. It’s a key spiritual site for the Balinese, housing the Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple, one of the island’s nine directional temples.
The temple, set amidst the forest, is often used for prayers by central Bali residents. It adds to the mountain’s sacred feel. Trekking here means walking through lush greenery and spotting local wildlife. The paths are beginner-friendly. From the top, you get great views of Bali’s landscape. This makes Batukaru a special place for both nature lovers and those seeking spiritual peace.
Mount Batukaru’s trekking experience offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. The trails, winding through the dense forests, provide a cool and refreshing hike, different from Bali’s other volcanic treks. Hikers often find themselves enveloped in mist, adding to the mystical ambiance of the journey. The climb to the summit, while challenging, is manageable for most, making it an inclusive destination for a variety of adventurers.
Additionally, the viewpoint from the top of Mount Batukaru is nothing short of breathtaking. From here, trekkers can gaze upon the expansive beauty of Bali, including the nearby rice terraces and distant mountains. This panoramic view, combined with the spiritual aura of the Pura Luhur Batukaru Temple, makes a trek to Mount Batukaru a fulfilling experience, not just physically but also spiritually and emotionally.
Lesser known Volcanoes in Bali
In Bali, beyond the famous Mount Agung and Mount Batur, several lesser-known volcanoes offer unique experiences.
Mount Abang: The Overlooked Marvel
Mount Abang, over 2,100 meters high, sits between Mount Agung and Mount Batur. It’s known for its breathtaking views of both these volcanoes and Lake Batur. The trails to Mount Abang’s summit are perfect for capturing stunning scenes of Bali’s volcanic landscape.
Mount Catur: The Tranquil Trek
Mount Catur, reaching over 2,000 meters, is famous for its hiking trails. These trails offer panoramic views of Bali’s mountains and lakes. The summit hosts the Pura Puncak Mangu temple, adding a spiritual aspect to the trek.
Mount Adeng: The Hidden Gem
Mount Adeng, a bit south of Lake Beratan, is a peaceful spot for hikers. It’s known for scenic trails through green landscapes and natural hot springs, perfect for a relaxing post-hike experience.
Mount Pohen and Mount Sanghyang: The Beginners’ Delight
Both Mount Pohen and Mount Sanghyang are great for beginners in hiking. They offer easy trails with plenty of opportunities for photography, showcasing Bali’s natural beauty.
Mount Lesung: The Scenic Route
Mount Lesung, famous for its scenic route, passes through Tamblingan Village. This trek is a journey through ancient buildings and lush greenery, leading to stunning views of Lake Tamblingan from the summit.
Each of these volcanoes offers a unique glimpse into the less-traveled paths of Bali, perfect for those seeking tranquility, spiritual connection, and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Bali’s volcanoes are amazing, each one different. From high Mount Agung to peaceful Mount Lesung, they show Bali’s beauty and culture. When you visit, please remember to respect nature and local traditions and hire a guide. Thank you for exploring Bali’s wonderful volcanoes with me!
Hi I am Dwi. I am a blogger, travel agent and a mom of a lovely daughter and wife to a supportive husband. I customize and plan tours in Bali and islands nearby for a living and have been doing this for more than 14 years. Get in touch via contact [at] taletravels.com