These mountains in Bali play a profound role in shaping the island’s physical, cultural, and spiritual landscape. As natural wonders that inspire awe and reverence, they are cherished by the Balinese people and hold a deep connection to the island’s rich heritage and beliefs.
Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Bali’s landscape, a remarkable and mystical presence emerges – the volcanoes. These majestic peaks, both active and dormant, stand as timeless guardians, shaping the island’s geography, culture, and spiritual beliefs. From the revered heights of Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest and most sacred volcano, to the captivating allure of Mount Batur’s fiery beauty, each volcano weaves a tale of myth and majesty that captivates the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Yes, you can visit Bali’s Mountains and climb Volcanos. You might have heard in the news, that Bali’s former Governor Koster issued a decree, forbidding climbing Bali’s mountains. This came as a response of several social media posts, were tourists gravely misbehaved, disrespecting the holy sites and Bali’s cultural integrity overall. Yet, this decree has not been enforced and as it turned out, was not based on legal ground. There is no ban on visiting the mountains and volcanos. Some mountains might be temporarily closed at times, but the reasons will be usually weather conditions, volcanic activities, or ceremonies.
Throughout the ages, these volcanoes have been more than just geological wonders; they have been the epicenter of ancient rituals, mythical legends, and spiritual reverence. Pura Besakih, the “Mother Temple” perched upon the slopes of Mount Agung, stands as a testament to the deep spiritual connection between the Balinese people and these volcanic peaks. The legends of deities residing within Mount Batukaru’s serene embrace, and the balance of natural elements symbolized by Mount Abang, echo through generations.
The volcanoes of Bali are not just geological features; they are living embodiments of the island’s identity and a source of inspiration that shapes its traditions and cultural heritage. As adventurers scale their peaks to witness the rising sun or explore their lush forests and serene lakes, they too become a part of Bali’s age-old narrative.
In this enchanting tale of fire and fertility, the volcanoes of Bali beckon explorers to delve into their enigmatic depths, to immerse themselves in the timeless stories that have shaped the island’s soul. Embrace the allure of these geological wonders and uncover the mysteries that lie within, for the volcanoes of Bali are a treasure trove of myths, majesty, and timeless wonder waiting to be discovered.
Mount Batukaru is a great destination for trekking and hiking, as the trek to the summit offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush rainforests, rice terraces, and waterfalls. The summit of the volcano is also home to the Pura Luhur Batukaru temple, one of the most important temples in Bali, and it’s considered sacred by the local people.
The volcano is located in the Tabanan Regency of Bali and it’s surrounded by the Batukaru mountain range, which is also known as the “Garden of Bali”. The area around the mountain is a protected area and it’s home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many rare and endemic species.
Bali’s volcanic landscape, with its active and dormant peaks, contributes to the island’s allure, offering a blend of spiritual sanctuaries, stunning vistas, and unique experiences for travelers from around the world.
This volcano is located on the neighboring island of Lombok, but it is visible from Bali on a clear day. It stands at 3,726 meters (12,224 feet) above sea level, making it the second highest volcano in Indonesia after Mount Kerinci. It is an active volcano that last erupted in 2010. Mount Rinjani is also a very popular destination for hikers and trekkers.
