The Volcanic Mt. Batur is located in Batur village in Bali’s Kintamani region. Considered to be a sacred mountain by Hindus, the mountain is 1,717 meters above sea level. Characterized by a collapsed top known as a caldera, this is one of the most active volcanoes in the regions. And according to estimates, the mountain was formed some 23,670 years ago. The mountain is characterized by two calderas, the biggest one measuring 10×13 km while the inner caldera measures 7.5 km in diameter.
Throughout its existence, the mountain has erupted thrice, with the first documented eruption happening in 1804 and the most recent occurred in 2000. The Kintamani region where Mt. Batur is located is a highland region. As such, the weather in this region differs from the climate that characterizes Bali’s beaches. This area experiences low temperatures and rain. However, despite its dull climatic conditions, the region is rich in tourist attractions. Also, the area offers scenic views of Mt. Batur as well as Lake Batur.
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Given that Mt. Batur is a sacred mountain, the Kintamani area is home to a number of temples. The most important temple in the area is the Pura Ulun Danu Batur temple. Rice paddies and coffee plantations characterize the region. Additionally, numerous eateries serve traditional Indonesian cuisines.
A tour of the Mt. Batur area is never complete without a trek up the volcanic mountain. As one of the most traveled destinations in Bali, the mountain has been hiked by thousands of tourists. The best time to trek up the mountain is early in the morning before sunrise. For purposes of navigating up the mountain, visitors are advised to get a professional guide. Also, since trekking is done at dawn torches are recommended. The cost of a trekking tour is largely based on the tour guide hired.
The Mt. Batur sunrise trek gives tourists an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the area’s volcanic landscape. Also, tourists can explore some of the area’s younger craters as well as enjoy boiled eggs. Eggs can be cooked naturally in the mountain’s volcanic steam. Mountain Monkeys also inhabit the mountain region.
Of worth noting is that trekking up the mountain can have a toll on individuals who are not physically fit. Thus it is advisable to maintain high levels of physical fitness before climbing the mountain. The entire trek up the mountain takes between one and two hours. The top of Mt Batur offers scenic views of the distant Mt. Agung and Mt. Abang.
Also, the mountain’s highest point offers a spectacular view of Lake Batur. The main reason why a trek up Mt Batur is a must is to view the majestic Bali sunrise from atop the mountain. It is for this reason that treks are done at dawn just before sunrise.
From the mountain top, tourists get to soak in the spectacular sunrise as well as enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sceneries and environment. After the trek, tourists can also enjoy a soak in the hot springs located near the mountain.
