Lake Batur
An active volcano's caldera cradles a serene lake, offering breathtaking sunrise treks and stunning volcanic vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for sunrise
Lake Batur
Best Time
Fewer crowds for sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An active volcano's caldera cradles a serene lake, offering breathtaking sunrise treks and stunning volcanic vistas.
"The views are fabulous and many lovely restaurants around too....BUT..if ur a foreigner and have a car or guide,before u getting the top to view the mountain u will be charged 50,000rp or $5 per person just to drive to the top 1 min away."
🎯 Book Guide Locally
Save money by booking your Mount Batur trek guide in Ubud town center, not online. :ticket:
🔦 Bring a Head Torch
Essential for navigating the trail in the dark during the pre-dawn hike. :flashlight:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Batur Sunrise
Summit of Mount Batur
Witness a breathtaking sunrise over Bali's volcanic landscape, a truly surreal and unforgettable experience.
Lake Batur Views
Kintamani Plateau
Admire the serene expanse of Lake Batur nestled within the volcanic caldera, offering stunning panoramic vistas.
Volcanic Hot Springs
Lake Batur shoreline
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs heated by the volcano, a perfect post-trek or scenic activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sunrise
Guide & Gear Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guide Locally
Save money by booking your Mount Batur trek guide in Ubud town center, not online. :ticket:
🔦 Bring a Head Torch
Essential for navigating the trail in the dark during the pre-dawn hike. :flashlight:
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It gets surprisingly cold at the summit, so bring a jacket or hoodie! :cloud:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good grip is crucial for the volcanic terrain. Hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guide Locally
Save money by booking your Mount Batur trek guide in Ubud town center, not online. :ticket:
🔦 Bring a Head Torch
Essential for navigating the trail in the dark during the pre-dawn hike. :flashlight:
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It gets surprisingly cold at the summit, so bring a jacket or hoodie! :cloud:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good grip is crucial for the volcanic terrain. Hiking boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry enough water for the trek, especially during warmer months.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera or phone to capture the stunning sunrise and lake vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Batur offers stunning natural beauty, particularly the iconic Mount Batur sunrise trek and the serene lake views. Visitors appreciate the volcanic landscapes and the relaxing hot springs. However, some find the sunrise trek overcrowded and overpriced, with guides offering limited historical information. Access to the lake shore can also be challenging.
"Walk around the lake. This is real Bali with rare foreigners. Enjoy your trip with wonderful views of Mt Batur and the lake."
LS Orang
"A beautiful lake where there is no access to it because all the surrounding area along the lake is private or i didnt find any public area by the shore of the lake where you can relax and enjoy the view!!"
B G
"Many years ago,I came here in kintamani and it was a dirt track and a few hawkers. Now it has a massive viewing platform along with aggressive hawkers. Now don't get me wrong,the views are fabulous and many lovely restaurants around too....BUT..if ur a foreigner and have a car or guide,before u getting the top to view the mountain u will be charged 50,000rp or $5 per person just to drive to the top 1 min away. I have no objection to pay as long as at the other end there is someone to maybe give a brief history of the area or mnt. All monies go back to the government but nothing for the locals who are struggling!( that's what I was told by the guide).
So,as explained to the guide what I would spent with the hawkers,was spent at the ridiculous "entrance" fee.
Do yourself a favour...buy a postcard instead!
Worst experience on Bali! Let me explain why! And let me show alternatives.
1. Mass invasion of tourists. And with invasion I mean a never ending snake of people from bottom to top and back. No joke! On the top of mt. batur were at least 300 people. I Never expected sooooo much people. While watching sunrise other people walking around all the time, stand up in front of you for selfies etc.
2. Booking a guide, means booking someone showing you the way! Not more! Our guide told us nothing about history and geology of Mt. Batur. I knew more then him after reading Wikipedia article. But the guide never stopped asking us, if we like to have a longer tour (for more money of course).
3. Mafialike trekking agencies try to force you book a guide. (Mine was Arlinas)
4. Breakfast: = a joke, toast with egg and banana.
5. Equipment: another joke! Just a simple torch with not enough power. After 30min walk light was gone! Nothing else of equipment.
6. The price is horraible expensive for the provided service (300k per person) I was in a Group of 4 people after negotiation.
6. Last but not least the view. The view is beautiful that's true. But millions of views are beautiful while sunrise.
Ok, if you still think I want to hike Mt. Batur... please don't or go without guide. The way up is no problem if you have the right shoes, torch and googlemaps. Just start from black lava hostel and follow the way to the Pura penataran agung temple, turn right and head to the Pura Payogaan temple (check Google maps). Follow the trail (5-10min) until you reach a shack where they sell water, etc. From here just follow the masses.
If you want to see the sunset alone and without spending so much money, avoid Mt. Batur, rent a scooter and watch it from the south-west caldera of the volcano. This means nearly same angle to the sunrise and you got Mt. Batur, Mt. Abang, and Mt. Agung on your photos. Which is more impressive! Just give it a try. If you don't like it you can go next day to Mt Batur."
shiven nayyar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Lake Batur is by hiring a private driver or joining a tour from Ubud. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Many tours combine a visit to Lake Batur with the Mount Batur sunrise trek.
Yes, you can visit the Kintamani area for stunning views of Lake Batur and Mount Batur without undertaking the trek. Many restaurants and viewpoints offer panoramic vistas.
Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. Hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour is generally more convenient and recommended for tourists.
Most Mount Batur treks include hotel pick-up and drop-off from popular areas like Ubud. If you're arranging your own transport, ensure it can reach the trek starting point.
Yes, Jeep tours offer an alternative to hiking, allowing you to reach higher viewpoints with less physical exertion. They can be a great option for those with mobility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices can vary, but expect to pay around 300,000 IDR per person for a guided trek, though negotiation is possible. Booking locally in Ubud can offer better rates than online.
While it's technically possible to hike without a guide, it's highly recommended and often mandatory for safety and navigation. Guides can be booked in Ubud or through tour operators.
There isn't a specific entrance fee for Lake Batur itself, but access to viewpoints or certain areas around the lake might incur small charges, especially if you're driving a private vehicle.
Typically, the price includes a guide, a basic breakfast (often toast and banana), and sometimes a head torch. Check with your tour operator for specifics.
Yes, you can book tours and guides in Ubud town center upon arrival, which is often cheaper than booking in advance online.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
You'll need to start your trek around 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM to reach the summit in time for the spectacular sunrise.
The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections. It's a volcanic path, so expect loose gravel and rocks. The ascent takes about 2-3 hours.
At the summit, there are usually small stalls selling water and snacks. You'll also find other trekkers and guides.
The views are breathtaking, with a panoramic vista of Lake Batur, surrounding mountains (including Mount Agung), and often a sea of clouds below.
While the lake is beautiful, swimming is not a common tourist activity. The hot springs near the lake are a more popular way to enjoy the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Kintamani area has many restaurants offering local Balinese cuisine with stunning views of the lake and volcano. Some tours include a basic breakfast.
Yes, many coffee plantations and cafes in the Kintamani region offer Luwak coffee tasting experiences, often combined with other local brews.
Most local restaurants will have vegetarian options, often featuring rice, vegetables, and tofu or tempeh dishes. It's always good to ask.
The breakfast provided by most tours is usually very basic, often consisting of toast with egg and banana, and sometimes coffee or tea.
Absolutely! The Kintamani plateau is dotted with restaurants specifically designed to offer diners spectacular views of Lake Batur and Mount Batur.
📸 📸 Photography
The Kintamani viewpoint offers iconic shots of the lake and volcano. For unique perspectives, consider the hot springs or the less crowded local villages.
A Jeep tour can provide access to different vantage points, including lava fields, which can be great for unique photography.
Sunrise offers dramatic light for Mount Batur. Mid-morning provides clear views of the lake and surrounding landscape, while sunset can also be beautiful.
Yes, but be mindful of the terrain and other hikers. The pre-dawn hike is dark, but the summit views are prime photo opportunities.
Some private trekking tours offer documentation services, which can include professional photos of your hike and the views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure you pack snacks and plenty of water, and be aware that some areas around the lake might have aggressive hawkers, so keeping a close eye on children is advised. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For unique shots, explore the black lava fields accessible via Jeep tours. Consider visiting the less crowded local villages for a more authentic glimpse of life by the lake. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mount Batur Sunrise Trek Experience
Reaching the summit (1,717 meters) just before dawn rewards trekkers with a truly spectacular sunrise. The sky transforms with vibrant colors, illuminating the surrounding volcanic landscape, including the majestic Mount Agung and the serene Lake Batur below. Many visitors describe the feeling as surreal and unforgettable.
Be prepared for crowds at the summit, as it's a very popular spot, but the view is often worth sharing. After descending, many tours offer a light breakfast and a visit to a local coffee plantation, including the famous Luwak coffee. Some also combine the trek with a visit to the nearby hot springs for a relaxing end to the early morning adventure.
Exploring Lake Batur and its Surroundings
A popular activity after a trek or as a standalone experience is visiting the hot springs located along the lake's edge. These naturally heated pools offer a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the volcanic warmth while enjoying the serene lake views.
For those interested in culture, a visit to the nearby Trunyan village offers a glimpse into ancient Balinese traditions, though it requires a boat trip across the lake. While direct access to the lake's shore for swimming or lounging can be limited due to private land, the overall experience of being in the Kintamani region is one of natural beauty and relative peace.
Jeep Tours: An Alternative Adventure
Jeep tours often include stops at scenic lookouts and can be customized with add-ons like visits to coffee plantations or hot springs. This makes them a versatile option for families, older travelers, or anyone seeking a more relaxed way to enjoy the Mount Batur area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit