Mount Batur
Mount Batur
An active volcano famous for sunrise treks. A holy mountain known for its stunning double caldera and lake views.
Towering over northeastern Bali, Mount Batur is an active volcano revered by Balinese Hindus as a holy mountain, second only to Mount Agung. Its most defining feature is a dramatic 'double caldera' landscape: a massive caldera (a volcanic crater) nearly 13km in diameter, which cradles a newer, active volcano (the central cone) and the beautiful, crescent-shaped Lake Batur at its base. The mountain captivates travelers worldwide with its 'Sunrise Trek.' Ascending for about two hours in the pitch dark, guided only by headlamps, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking, almost divine spectacle as the sun rises over a sea of clouds, illuminating Lake Batur far below. It's a special power spot where the Earth's raw energy and Balinese spirituality converge.
History: A Volcano of Creation and Destruction
Mount Batur's grand topography was formed by a colossal eruption around 29,000 years ago. This eruption created the first caldera, and subsequent eruptions formed the current volcanic cone and Lake Batur. A major eruption in 1926 engulfed the old village of Batur on the lakeshore in lava, forcing the villagers to relocate to the caldera rim. At that time, the village temple, Ulun Danu Batur, was also moved to its present location. Mount Batur is deeply etched into the lives and faith of the Balinese people as both a source of rich blessings and a terrifying force capable of utter destruction.
Faith: The Lake Goddess and the Sacred Water
Lake Batur is not just a beautiful lake; it plays a critical role as the water source for the 'Subak' irrigation system that sustains agriculture across Bali. Therefore, the lake is venerated as the sacred abode of the lake goddess, Dewi Danu. Pura Ulun Danu Batur, a temple dedicated to Dewi Danu, stands on the caldera rim (formerly by the lake), drawing farmers from all over the island to pray for a bountiful harvest. Ascending Mount Batur is also a spiritual act, bringing one closer to the source of this sacred water.
About the Sunrise Trek
The trek typically begins with a departure from your hotel around 2:00 AM, starting the ascent from the trailhead at the base. The path is covered in volcanic gravel and can be slippery, and since the hike is in darkness, hiring a local guide is mandatory. Guides not only ensure a safe route but also share insights about the mountain's history and nature. Temperatures at the summit can drop below 15ยฐC (59ยฐF), so warm clothing like a jacket is essential. At the top, guides often prepare a warm breakfast of eggs and banana sandwiches cooked using volcanic steam. After descending, soaking in the lakeside hot springs to soothe tired muscles is a popular and rewarding finisher.
Highlights (What to Check Out!)
While the sunrise is the main event, the view after the sun is up is equally spectacular. A 360-degree panorama unfolds, revealing the black lava flows below, the emerald-green Lake Batur, and the distant silhouettes of Mount Agung and even Mount Rinjani on Lombok. On the way down, you can walk along the crater rim and observe fumaroles (steam vents) that still billow steam. Even if you don't do the trek, you can still enjoy the majestic view of the entire caldera from one of the many viewpoint restaurants in the Kintamani highlands.
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