Is a physical and challenging hike what you are looking for? Then stop searching, because climbing this highest peak with an altitude of 3,031 meters above sea level in Bali is something for you. The climb of this volcano is more challenging compared to Mount Batur, so it’s advisable to hire a local guide during this hike.
Mount Agung is Bali’s highest and holiest mountain as it is believed as the home of the gods. Located in Karangasem Regency, the Mount Agung hike is typically done at sunrise with hikers often heading out even before midnight so they can enjoy the stunning views from the volcano’s summit at sunrise. Here, you are rewarded with crystal clear views of Bali, Lombok and Nusa Penida.
Routes
To reach the top before sunset, it is important to bear in mind that you are hiking at night. There are 2 routes to reach the top of this volcano:
– From the Besakih Temple
This route takes about six to seven hours to reach the highest peak of the volcano. This is the only route there is to reach this highest peak. It’s ideal to start this route at around 10 pm so that you will be on the peak before sunrise. It’s is a harder climb, but the views are better and you will meet fewer people during the hike and at the top.
-From the Pura Pasar Agung
During this route, you’ll start already in the south at an altitude of 1600 meters and this route takes you to about 2900 meters. This route takes approximately four hours. Therefore this route is slightly less demanding than the first. It’s ideal to start this route around 1 am so that you are at the top before sunrise.
Preparation
In order for the hike to run smoothly, it’s important that you can trust your condition is good enough. A high level of fitness is important for this hike. So it is advisable to do this hike if you know you already have some experience in hiking and good condition. The best season to do this hike is in the dry season, between April to October. However, it’s important to keep checking the weather because the weather in Bali sometimes has its own ideas about if it’s going to rain or not. In addition, many routes are sometimes closed in April due to religious ceremonies, so this must also be taken into account.
The cost of the hike is approximately between the IDR 400K and IDR 1000K for a guide and hike supplies. What you have to bring yourself are good running shoes with a grip, a walking stick, warm clothes, possibly gloves, a scarf and hat, water, sunscreen, some food for the road and not to forget: a good mood, otherwise it will be a very long tour.
How to get there
Usually, when you book a tour, It’s a private tour and you can be picked up from Kuta, Denpasar, Ubud or one of the surrounding villages. You will be picked up from your hotel and they drop you back off after the climb. Often a minimum of two participants is needed for climbing Mount Agung.
Ready?
So are you in for a tough climb after which you will be rewarded with the most beautiful and fantastic view of the entire island? Definitely add this experience to your bucket list!
