Penelokan Viewpoint Kintamani
Iconic roadside viewpoint offering mesmerizing panoramas of Mount Batur, Lake Batur, and often a magical 'sea of clouds'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the sunrise & sea of clouds
Penelokan Viewpoint Kintamani
Best Time
Catch the sunrise & sea of clouds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic roadside viewpoint offering mesmerizing panoramas of Mount Batur, Lake Batur, and often a magical 'sea of clouds'.
"The views of Mount Batur and the lake are absolutely worth it, especially during sunrise!"
🎯 Arrive for Sunrise Magic
Aim for 6 AM to witness the stunning sunrise and potential 'sea of clouds'.
🧥 Dress Warmly
Kintamani's altitude means cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Batur Sunrise
Penelokan Viewpoint
Witness the majestic Mount Batur emerge from the dawn, often shrouded in a magical sea of clouds.
Lake Batur Panorama
Penelokan Viewpoint
Gaze upon the serene expanse of Lake Batur, nestled beside the volcanic landscape.
Sea of Clouds
Penelokan Viewpoint
Experience the breathtaking 'lautan awan' (sea of clouds) that often blankets the valley in the early morning.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Views
Navigating Vendors and Bargaining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for Sunrise Magic
Aim for 6 AM to witness the stunning sunrise and potential 'sea of clouds'. +1
🧥 Dress Warmly
Kintamani's altitude means cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning.
🚗 Consider a Scooter
Rent a scooter for flexibility to explore viewpoints and nearby attractions.
💰 Bargain with Vendors
Be prepared to negotiate prices for souvenirs and local produce.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for Sunrise Magic
Aim for 6 AM to witness the stunning sunrise and potential 'sea of clouds'. +1
🧥 Dress Warmly
Kintamani's altitude means cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning.
🚗 Consider a Scooter
Rent a scooter for flexibility to explore viewpoints and nearby attractions.
💰 Bargain with Vendors
Be prepared to negotiate prices for souvenirs and local produce.
☁️ Check Weather Forecast
Clouds can obscure views; check visibility before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, especially during sunrise and when the 'sea of clouds' appears. The scenic beauty is the undeniable highlight. However, some find the persistent local vendors and their high prices to be a drawback, advising caution and bargaining. The experience is often described as a memorable stop, though some caution against trekking in foggy conditions. +1
"A stunning roadside viewpoint offering mesmerizing views of Mount Batur and the surrounding landscape. Perfect for a quick stop to soak in the beauty especially during clear weather. Be mindful though, clouds can quickly roll in and cover the mountain.
The view is absolutely worth it, but be cautious of local item sellers nearbythey can be quite persistent. It's mostly just a viewpoint, not a hike or full stop, but a memorable spot for photos and a quick bit of shopping if you're interested.
Definitely a great memory if you're passing through!"
VamshiKrishna Ankamgari
"We hiking itself was quite difficult in complete darkness, and on very sandy and rocky roads which gets very busy with tourists. There is a better road but it’s only for motorbikes who try to sell a ride for everyone. We got up at 2 AM, travelled for 2 hours and hiked up to the top (took 2 hours, for 2.7 km with 700 m height difference). It was very foggy and we couldn’t see anything from the sunrise or the view. We could see it from the valley that it’s very foggy and rainy but the guides didn’t say anything. It was a waste of our time and money. We of course know that it’s nature and nobody is at fault, but I would like to warn people that it can happen, and recommend to check the weather forecast and visibility beforehand and cancel if it’s foggy. If you go during the day there is less chance that this will happen and you don’t need your do the hike in darkness."
Rebeka Zolyomi
"Beautiful view point on the way to Batur hotbsprings!! You can spend max 30 mins.
There were a lot of vendors selling fresh clementine orange 🍊. It was so sweet.
There are a lot of people selling fancy gift and jewellery .
Word of caution-- they price it toooo high and you should bargain .
There was a good veg indian restaurant nearby as well."
Abi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Penelokan Viewpoint Kintamani from Ubud is by renting a scooter, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or join a guided tour.
Yes, there are designated parking areas available, especially near cafes and restaurants along the main road.
Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab may have limited availability for drop-offs in Kintamani, and pick-ups can be challenging. It's often more reliable to arrange transport in advance or rent a scooter.
Hiring a private driver for the day is a comfortable option if you prefer not to drive yourself. This allows you to stop at various viewpoints and attractions at your own pace.
Public transport is not a common or convenient option for reaching Penelokan Viewpoint. Renting a scooter or hiring a car with a driver are the most practical choices.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no specific entrance ticket required to access the main Penelokan Viewpoint area. It's a roadside viewpoint.
The viewpoint is accessible 24/7 as it's a public roadside area. However, the best views are typically seen during sunrise and daytime.
No advance booking is necessary for the viewpoint itself, as it's a free-access area.
While the viewpoint is free, some cafes or restaurants might charge a small parking fee if you patronize their establishment.
Yes, the area is accessible at night, but the iconic views of Mount Batur and the lake are best seen during daylight hours, especially sunrise.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise (6-7 AM) offer spectacular light for capturing Mount Batur and the 'sea of clouds'. Daytime provides clear views of the volcano and lake. +2
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on Mount Batur. Don't forget a tripod for low-light sunrise shots.
Many cafes and restaurants along the road offer elevated platforms or balconies with excellent panoramic views. Look for spots with unobstructed sightlines. +1
Arriving very early for sunrise is your best bet. During the day, explore slightly further along the road to find less crowded vantage points.
Rapidly changing weather, including fog and clouds, can be a challenge. Also, be mindful of vendors who might enter your frame.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, numerous restaurants and cafes line the road at Penelokan, offering stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. Many are known for their Instagrammable settings. +2
You'll find a mix of Indonesian cuisine, local Balinese dishes, and international options. Many places offer buffet-style meals with a view.
While not always explicitly advertised, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. Some reviews mention finding good vegetarian Indian restaurants nearby.
For many, the experience of dining while overlooking Mount Batur and Lake Batur is a significant part of the Kintamani visit. The views often justify the slightly higher prices. +1
Absolutely! Many cafes offer coffee, tea, fresh juices, and light snacks, allowing you to enjoy the view without committing to a full meal. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the area is roadside, so keep a close eye on young children. While the vendors can be persistent, engaging them briefly or politely declining is usually sufficient. Consider visiting during the day for clearer views and a less rushed experience, avoiding the very early morning trek which might be too demanding for little ones.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
To get the best shots, arrive before dawn and set up your tripod. Look for cafes with elevated balconies or terraces that offer unobstructed panoramic views. While the main viewpoint is popular, exploring slightly further along the road might reveal unique angles. Be prepared for changing light conditions and potential vendor interruptions.
🚗 Day-Trippers from South Bali
Allocate about 30-60 minutes for a quick stop to admire the view and perhaps grab a fresh orange. It's a good opportunity for photos and a brief respite. Combine it with a visit to a local restaurant for lunch to fully appreciate the landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the 'Sea of Clouds'
To maximize your chances of witnessing this spectacle, aim to arrive at the viewpoint before dawn. The cooler temperatures at Kintamani's altitude contribute to cloud formation. While it's a natural occurrence and not guaranteed, the possibility of seeing this ethereal landscape adds to the allure of visiting. Many travelers share videos and photos of this magical sight, highlighting its unique beauty.
Pro Tip: While the sea of clouds is stunning, be aware that it can also obscure the view of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. If your primary goal is to see the volcano clearly, a daytime visit on a clear day might be preferable. However, for a truly unique and memorable experience, the sea of clouds is unparalleled.
Navigating the Kintamani Experience: Views, Vendors, and Value
However, visitors should be prepared for the presence of local vendors who are often quite persistent in selling souvenirs, clothing, and fresh produce like the sweet Kintamani oranges. While these interactions can be part of the cultural experience, reviews suggest that prices are often inflated, and bargaining is essential. Some travelers advise caution to avoid feeling cheated.
Despite the vendor interactions, the natural beauty of the location is undeniable. Many visitors find the views to be the highlight of their trip to Kintamani, making it a worthwhile stop. The experience can be enhanced by choosing a cafe with a good vantage point and enjoying a local meal while soaking in the panorama.
Beyond the Viewpoint: Accommodation and Activities
For the adventurous, the Mount Batur sunrise trek is a popular activity. This often involves an early morning hike in the dark to reach the summit for sunrise. However, it's crucial to check the weather forecast, as fog can completely obscure the views, leading to disappointment. Some reviews highlight the difficulty of the trek and the potential for poor visibility.
Alternatively, after enjoying the viewpoint, you can head to the Batur hot springs for a relaxing soak with a view, or explore the unique black sand beaches along Lake Batur. These activities offer a different perspective on the volcanic landscape and provide a more immersive experience of the Kintamani region.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit