Mt. Batukaru (Gunung Batukaru)
Kecamatan Penebel, Bali, Bali
While travelers flock to more celebrated Balinese peaks such as Mt. Batur and Mt. Agung (when volcanic activity permits), it’s likely you’ll have the wild and unspoiled slopes of Mt. Batukaru to yourself. Even if you don’t choose to summit this 7,467-foot-high (2,276-meter-high) peak, admire majestic views from Pura Luhur Batukaru temple below.
The Basics
Most organized Mt. Batukaru tours either focus on the lower slopes and scenic foothills, view the peak from the pretty highland town of Bedugul, or visit the thatched shrines of Pura Luhur Batukaru temple.
If you’d like to hike, your best option is to arrange a private guide, either online or on arrival at the Pura Batukaru temple office. Expect the guided trek to the summit and back to last a full day. An even more scenic route leads up from near Jatiluwih; you’ll need a private guide and driver to find it.
Things to Know Before You Go
A must for nature-lovers, the slopes of Mt. Batukaru are home to deer, macaques, palm civets, and more. There are even rumors of big cats.
Wear comfortable shoes—sneakers are sufficient—and bring layers as it can get cool at the top, especially at sunrise.
If you plan to stop at Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, dress respectfully, with shoulders and thighs covered.
Adventurers will find space to set up a tent at the summit of the mountain.
How to Get There
If you’re aiming to reach the summit of Mt. Batukaru, you can start from either Pura Luhur Batukaru temple or near Jatiluwih, famous for its scenic rice fields. Neither is accessible by public transport, so most travelers arrange a tour package that includes a guide and driver.
When to Get There
As with other Balinese volcanic peaks, Mt. Batukaru is best climbed during the dry season (roughly May to September). Leeches can be a particular trial during the wet season. Sunrise from the summit rewards the early morning start with views across to the volcanoes of East Java, the south and north coasts of Bali, and, if you’re lucky, Lombok’s Mt. Rinjani.
Bali’s Sacred Mountains
Bali’s most sacred mountain is its highest peak and most active volcano, Mt. Agung (Gunung Agung). Yet Mt. Batukaru, its second-highest peak, also plays an important role in local beliefs, and the route up from Pura Luhur Batukaru is lined with temples and pilgrims. For people seeking a quieter climb than the ever-popular Mt. Batur, though, rewards go beyond the spiritual.
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