Mount Agung

Mount Agung is the highest mountain on the island of Bali with an altitude of 3,031 m. It is located in Rendang sub-district Karangasem Regency, Bali, Indonesia. 

The most stunning view of Mount Agung can be seen from Lempuyang Temple, where the 'gate of heaven' can also be found.

Besakih Temple, which is one of the most important temples in Bali, is located on the slopes of this mountain.

Mount Agung is a stratovolcano type volcano, which has a very large and very deep crater that sometimes emits smoke and water vapor.

  • From Besakih Temple, the mountain looks like a perfect pointed cone, but actually the peak is elongated and ends in a wide circular crater.
  • From the top of Mount Agung you can see the peak of Mount Rinjani on Lombok Island to the east, although both mountains are obscured by clouds as both peaks are above the clouds, the islands of Nusa Penida to the south along the coast, including Sanur Beach, Mount Batur and Lake Batur to the northwest.

Climbing routes

The climb to the top of the mountain can be started from three climbing routes, namely:

  • From the south is from Selat Sub-district Karangasem with base camp at Pasar Agung Temple through Selat market.
  • From the southeast is from Budakeling village via Nangka road.
  • From the southwest which is the usual climbing route used by climbers, namely from Besakih Temple, Rendang District, Karangasem Regency.

Due to the number of accidents and the disappearance of several climbers, since May 2009 every climb of Mount Agung through Sebudi and Besakih villages, there must also be a guide to anticipate the possibility of accidents at a predetermined rate.

  • From Pasar Agung Temple, Selat: approximately 4 hours drive to reach the summit (2,850m).
  • From Besakih Temple, Rendang: approximately 6 hours drive to reach the summit (maximum altitude 3,031m).
  • For each hiker, it is recommended to book a guide before the hike.

It is not recommended for climbers as the mountain area is highly sanctified.

[ED/AY]