Kintamani

The Basics

Explore Kintamani’s main attraction—the sacred Mt. Batur—on a sunrise trek to the peak, often complete with breakfast cooked in volcanic steam. Alternatively, cycle through UNESCO-listed rice terraces, soak in the hot springs on the shores of Lake Batur, tour a coffee plantation, watch a traditional barong dance performance, or visit one of the island’s most important directional temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur. Many island tours stop for lunch at a restaurant overlooking Mt. Batur and Lake Batur.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Kintamani is a must-see for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Bring a warm layer of clothing if climbing Mt. Batur; the temperatures here are significantly cooler than the coastal towns.

• Experience the region by volcano trekking, downhill cycling, or Balinese cultural sightseeing.

• Kintamani village is not wheelchair accessible, although limited stretches of the lakeside are.

How to Get There

Kintamani sits at least two hours from the beaches of south Bali, so many travelers visit on a day trip from Ubud. It takes time, patience, and a good handle on Indonesian to manage the infrequent “bemo” minivan services that connect the villages in the area, so most travelers opt to hire a private driver or join an organized tour.

When to Get There

If Mt. Batur is on your Kintamani agenda, it’s best to climb early in the day, before cloud cover obscures the views—you have the best chance of a spectacular sunrise during Bali’s dry season (roughly May through October). Lake Batur can get surprisingly choppy in the afternoon.

Other Sacred Sites in Bali

Alongside the imposing Mount Batur, Bali is home to a number of other sacred sites—there's Mount Agung, the highest Balinese peak which you can hike with a local guide; Lempuyang Luhur Temple, one of the oldest in Bali which gets especially crowded at full moon; and Ubud Monkey Forest, which houses three temples alongside its many inquisitive primates.