Bali and its splendour are undeniable, whether you are diving into its beautiful sea or exploring the land. If you are an adventurer and need an adrenaline boost during your trip, then you can try Mount Agung, which is known as Bali’s “roof,” as it is the highest mountain on the island and also the 5th highest mountain in Indonesia.
Mount Agung, located in the region of Karangasem, stands majestically on Bali’s eastern seaboard, with the top standing at 3,142 metres above sea level. Mount Agung, also commonly known as Bali’s holiest mountain, is believed to be God’s residence.
Mount Agung is an active volcano with a big and very deep crater that occasionally spews smoke and ash. Due to its height, this mountain really dominates the surrounding area, especially the weather and soil fertility. This mountain usually absorbs all the moisture from the clouds that come from the west side of the mountain. It results in leaving the west area lush and green, while the east area is more dry and barren.
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Here is everything you need to know about hiking Mount Agung
Heaven for mountain hikers and trekkers
Due to its height and beautiful surroundings, Mount Agung usually attracts many hikers, both local and international tourists. People usually aim for sunrise trekking on Mount Agung because you can see a breathtaking view of the sunrise from the peak. Not only the magnificent sunrise view, but you can also take a glimpse of Mount Rinjani, which is the highest mountain on Lombok Island, next to Bali.
Although you will be able to enjoy many amazing views during the hike or even at the top, the trek you have to hike is definitely not easy at all. There are two trek routes up to the summit: the first one is from Besakih Temple, and the second one is from Pasar Agung Temple. Both are indeed challenging.
The routes are challenging but worth it!
The route via Besakih Temple is longer and has more elevation, or uphill, compared to the Pasar Agung Temple, but you can reach Mount Agung’s higher point or real summit at the western peak. The other is a shorter Mount Agung Sunrise Trek via Pasar Agung Temple to the last summit’s southern peak.
The path via Pasar Agung is not as difficult as the route through Besakih. However, it comes to an end around 100 metres below Mount Agung’s top, so you can’t really get up to the peak of the mountain. But there is no need to be disappointed because the views are still breathtaking and you can still see the crater clearly.
If you are a fit hiker, you can reach the summit in 5 to 7 hours from the Besakih Temple. Meanwhile, the journey takes 3 to 4 hours from the Pasar Agung Temple.
You must be prepared because you are already aware that the two common climbing routes up the mountain are all difficult. For starters, you must be physically healthy and have prior trekking experience. Second, make sure you have properly prepared for this hike, as it is not the same as hiking Mount Batur in Bali. The route is much longer and more difficult.
Hire a guide for your safety
As the most sacred mountain in Bali, Mount Agung is highly protected. For this reason, you cannot climb Mount Agung alone; you must use the services of a guide on your trip. This is done to prevent accidents, especially if a climber goes missing. If that happens, the mountain must be closed for several days, and then a mountain “cleansing” ritual ceremony would be held, which requires a lot of money and energy. For this reason, climbing Mount Agung using the guide services is mandatory.
You can find the guide at the Besakih Temple or Pasar Agung Temple. All the guides are certified, very experienced, and have fully memorised the climbing routes. They will ensure your safety and recommend the best route to ascend Mount Agung. Listen to your guide about what you can and cannot do during the walk.
The best thing about hiring a guide is that you can take more than the safe routes. They will assist you in discovering the ambience of the spiritual ground and seeing more things up close than just about anything else. They are also equipped with a first aid kit, medicine, and other tools needed to ensure your journey goes smoothly and safely.
What you should prepare before the hike
You already know that Mount Agung is a sacred place in Bali. So, if you are a woman, during the menstruation period, you are not allowed to climb up. We also recommend that you fully behave during the trekking, focus on your guide so you won’t get lost, and listen to his guidance really well. Don’t do something reckless or stupid that could endanger your safety or damage the nature of Mount Agung.
The activity level for climbing Mount Agung is high to extreme. The estimated hiking duration to go up and down is approximately 12–14 hours. The temperature at the summit is around 6–12 °C. Considering the information, we recommend you wear hiking boots, long pants, and a warm jacket, and maybe use a tracking pole if needed. Other suggestions are to only bring what you need in the bag so you won’t be burdened by the backpack’s weight. You are also advised not to camp on Mount Agung because the location is less supportive and there is no water source.
A visit to Mount Agung in Bali is a truly remarkable and awe-inspiring experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the breathtaking sunrise views atop its majestic peak to the sense of wonder as you witness the powerful forces of nature at work, this volcano offers a unique opportunity to connect with both the beauty and the raw, untamed energy of the natural world. So, as you plan your next journey, consider including this iconic Bali landmark on your itinerary, and prepare to be captivated by the allure of Mount Agung’s timeless beauty.
Address: Jungutan, Bebandem, Karangasem, Bali [MAPS]
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