Ascent of Mount Agung

Trekking to the Sacred Summit: Mount Agung in Bali

Mount Agung, towering at an impressive height of 3,142 meters, is the holiest peak in Bali, holding great significance for the island’s Hindu residents. This sacred mountain, revered by the Balinese people, is not only a physical landmark but a spiritual one. As a gesture of respect, many local people align their mattresses so that their heads face the mountain while they sleep. Though the mountain’s last major eruption occurred in 1963, Mount Agung is still an active volcano, regularly emitting plumes of smoke and ash.

One of the most revered sites on the slopes of Mount Agung is the Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih. This impressive temple complex sits high on the mountainside, and the fact that the lava flows from the 1963 eruption bypassed the temple has only further cemented the mountain’s revered status among the Balinese. It’s said that the mountain is the source of spiritual power, and a trek to its summit is considered a pilgrimage by many.

If you’re an adventurous traveler and seek to experience the beauty and spirituality of Bali in its most raw form, then a trek up Mount Agung should be at the top of your list. The journey begins in the middle of the night, as your guide arrives to pick you up from your hotel lobby around midnight or 1 AM (the exact timing may vary). The drive up to the slopes of Mount Agung takes you to Pasar Agung Temple, just north of Selat, where the real adventure begins.

As you step onto the mountain trails, you’ll enter a steep pine forest, where the path is steady but challenging. After about an hour of hiking, the forest thins out, and you will begin the final ascent. This part of the hike is rugged, involving a two- to three-hour trek over hardened lava, making it a challenging but rewarding climb. The terrain can be loose and slippery, especially when wet, so it’s important to follow your guide’s instructions carefully and wear appropriate footwear.

Reaching the summit of Mount Agung before dawn is nothing short of an accomplishment. As you stand at the peak, you’ll witness a truly awe-inspiring sight: the sun rising over Lombok, with the island’s shadow sweeping gently across the crater. The colors and scenery are breathtaking, making this moment a photographer’s dream. Whether you take time to meditate or simply enjoy the view, the experience is one that will stay with you forever.

After taking in the sunrise and soaking in the majestic view from the summit, you will begin your descent back down to Selat. Your vehicle will be ready to transport you back to your accommodation. Along the way, you’ll be provided with snacks and essential hiking gear, including a headlamp, a trekking pole, and a warm jacket to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trek.

This adventure is not just a physical challenge, but a spiritual journey, offering an opportunity to connect with Bali’s natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of trekking with the serenity of Bali’s most sacred mountain.