Gunung Agung hike
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Gunung Agung - by Merry Amber from Pixabay
Description
Gunung Agung is an active volcano and Bali's highest mountain, culminating at 3,031m. It is considered sacred as the "abode of the gods" and is certainly important because it directly influences the local climate, rainfall pattern in particular, and has erupted several times with deadly consequences (most famously in 1963 and most recently in 2017-19). This review is for the out-and-back hike to the summit starting just behind Besakih Temple. It is about 15km in total with an elevation gain of nearly 2000m. Whilst it isn't overly technical, the substantial D+ makes it best suited for experienced and fit hikers or trail runners.
Access & Transport
Besakih temple is 30km northwest of Candidasa on Bali's eastern coastline, 40km/1h30 northeast of Ubud, 50km from Sanur and 65km from Kuta-Seminyak (2h15). There are some bemos going there but we would recommend renting a scooter or car + driver.
Instructions & Recommendations
Make sure you wear proper shoes (hiking shoes are not an absolute requirement, trail running shoes will do nicely) and carry enough water for the journey as well as sun protective equipment and a sweater (can be windy and chilly at the top). Like many mountain tops in Asia, it is quite popular to time your start to be at the stop for sunrise, both to enjoy the view and to avoid the heat of the day. In this case, that means a start before 03h00 which may not suit everybody. As long as you are ready for the heat of the sun and carry enough water, you need not start so early.
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity. Socially neutral.
Conclusion
Gunung Agung is the most emblematic mountain in Bali and the views from the top are exceptional. It can easily be done in a day so we would recommend it to outdoor enthusiasts who have brought proper shoes with them on their trip. A guide is exceptional and so is being at the top for the sunrise.
Key positive
Fantastic views of Mount Batur and possibly Rinjani (in Lombok) on a clear day
Good exercise
Key negative
Some tricky sections if ascending at night
Suitability
Requires a good fitness level and preferably some prior hiking experience
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:8h
Monday05:00 - 13:00
Tuesday05:00 - 13:00
Wednesday05:00 - 13:00
Thursday05:00 - 13:00
Friday05:00 - 13:00
Saturday05:00 - 13:00
Sunday05:00 - 13:00