Hiking Mount Batur at Sunrise
It was just past 2:00 a.m. when a van pulled up outside my hostel in Ubud. I had booked a seat with a group hiking tour to Mount Batur, Bali’s second-highest active volcano. Backpacking solo through the island, I had seen enough photos of its sunrise views to know this was something worth waking up for. But what started as a simple summit hike evolved into a full-day experience, one that took me from volcanic ridges to black lava fields and, eventually, into the stillness of geothermal hot springs.
The two-hour journey to Kintamani was mostly quiet. I dozed off between jolts of winding mountain roads, occasionally waking to the sound of the driver shifting gears or another passenger adjusting their seat. By the time we arrived at Batur Base Camp, somewhere within Toya Bungkah village, the air was already several degrees colder than in Ubud. It’s easy to forget how much the temperature drops in the Balinese highlands, especially before dawn.
As there was still some time before setting off, our guides invited us to warm up around a campfire. Someone passed around mugs of watery coffee and a plate of banana toast. A few of us stood quietly, stretching our legs. Others chatted about their travels. As the fire crackled, I learned that we were already at an elevation of around 1,100 meters, something I hadn’t properly accounted for when packing. My thin hoodie, meant for tropical evenings, was clearly going to be a poor match for the altitude. Still, I was eager. This was my first proper altitude hike, and I had hoped it would mark the start of many more.
“It’s time to begin,” our guide called out.
The trail started gently but quickly turned steep, with loose volcanic gravel making the climb more demanding than I’d anticipated. Equipped with flashlights and walking sticks, we formed a steady single file under the stars. The terrain wasn’t overly difficult, but in the dark, each step required concentration. At times, it reminded me of the Do Quyen waterfall I visited back in Vietnam, where the wrong shoes and a series of unfortunate events, starting from wearing the wrong shoes that morning, resulted in me slipping and sliding down the hill, causing a rescue team to find me as I was too injured and lost to climb back. I knew better now, but apparently not enough to bring a proper jacket.
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At several points along the trail, we paused to catch our breath and to take in the growing light on the horizon. After about an hour, I was starting to feel the cold down my <fill in an appropriate word here>. Having never hiked at altitude before, I underestimated how cold it could get. The wind picked up as we gained elevation, and my thin hoodie did little to shield me from the chill. I found myself trembling at every rest stop, trying to generate warmth by stamping my feet and tucking my hands under my arms. By the time we reached the summit, I was exhausted. Not just from the climb, but from how much energy my body spent trying to stay warm. That cold, in a way, defined the rest of the experience.
TRAVEL
The summit, at approximately 1,717 meters, is not the highest point in Bali, but it offers one of the most panoramic views on the island. From the top, you can see the curve of Lake Batur and the imposing silhouette of Mount Abang across the water. Our guide mentioned that, on a clearer day, we might have seen the faint outline of Mount Rinjani in Lombok. The clouds didn’t part for us that morning, but watching the sun rise still gave me some of the best silhouette shots I had captured all trip.
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Hi, I’m Nitisha. I grew up in a world that told me to follow the script, but somewhere along the way I traded the script for a compass. These days, I follow where my feet and heart lead, from sleepy towns to saltwater coves, capturing stories that feel like home even when I’m far from it.
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The sunrise didn’t burst into color so much as slowly unveil itself—starting with soft orange light creeping across the rim of the volcano, then gradually turning into gold as it lit the lake below. We sat on the ridge, legs dangling over the edge, sipping more tea and eating boiled eggs. There was a drone or two buzzing overhead and constant chattering among the many who reached the top with the jeep.
Despite the crowd, it felt strangely peaceful. Maybe because I had finally stopped shivering, or maybe because the cold was being replaced by something more familiar: sunlight.
Rather than hike down, I opted for the jeep route. Fatigue played a role, but truthfully, I was freezing. My fingers were stiff, and my core temperature had dropped enough to dull the thrill of the descent. The open jeep bounced along lava-carved paths, offering expansive views of the mountain and beyond. It was worth it. The warmth of the rising sun on my face felt like a small victory.
We continued on to the Black Lava Camp, a site located closer to the foot of the volcano. The terrain here is striking. Fields of jagged black rock, remnants of past lava flows, spread as far as the eye can see. This was a completely different landscape from the summit, where everywhere we looked was dry, raw, and stark. The lava rocks crunched beneath our feet as we explored the area, and our guide pointed out how the formations had changed over the decades. I purchased a small bracelet made from black lava rock from a local vendor as a little reward for myself for making it to the top.
By this point, the sun was fully up, and the cold from the summit was far more tolerable. Feeling more relaxed, I decided to slip off my shoes and walk barefoot for a brief moment, wanting to directly experience the texture of the volcanic rocks beneath my feet. Before leaving, I fed the remaining boiled eggs from breakfast to the stray dogs wandering around the lava fields, their tails wagging happily as they finished the unexpected treat.
By now, my original transport had left. Not quite ready to end the day, I ended up hitchhiking with another group heading toward the Batur Hot Springs. The open-air ride offered some of the most scenic views of the day. We passed small villages tucked into the hillside, with farmers tending to their rice crops, and mist rising over the lake like a slow exhale.
The hot springs were everything I needed. Nestled beside Lake Batur, these geothermal pools are fed by the same forces that shape the volcano. Entry came with a complimentary fruit punch, and I slipped into one of the hotter pools with the drink in hand. The contrast to my freezing morning was so stark it felt surreal. Maybe I enjoyed it more than most because of that, but soaking in warm water after hours of hiking felt like a reset button had been pressed.
As someone traveling alone, I was hesitant at first to enter a public hot spring solo, but not going would have been the bigger regret. It’s rare to find such quiet introspection among strangers. The water calmed both body and mind. It did eventually get crowded, with families and tour groups streaming in around mid-morning, but by then I had already found my rhythm, sitting alone, legs outstretched, feeling the steam rise around me.
I stayed for over an hour before asking the staff to help book a ride back to Ubud. By the time I returned to my hostel around 3 p.m., I was sun-warmed, sore, and a little dazed. My body was tired, but my mind was quiet in a way I hadn’t felt in weeks.
Climbing Mount Batur wasn’t just about chasing a sunrise. It became a lesson in preparation, pacing, and perspective. I had underestimated the cold, but found warmth in unexpected places: around a campfire, inside a jeep, in a thermal spring. It’s an experience that stays with you, not because it was perfect, but because it wasn’t.
Ethical Travel Tip: Be Respectful at Mount Batur—It’s More Than a Viewpoint
Hiking Mount Batur is on nearly every Bali bucket list, and for good reason. The sunrise views are spectacular, the volcanic terrain is otherworldly, and the experience feels almost spiritual. But with popularity comes impact—and Batur is a sacred site for many Balinese communities. Whether you’re summiting on foot or via jeep, it’s important to treat the mountain and surrounding villages with respect.
Too often, visitors unknowingly litter on the trail, wander off designated paths, or treat local temples and hot springs like just another Instagram backdrop. These actions may seem small, but they can erode cultural practices and harm the environment over time.
Why It Matters
- Mount Batur is considered sacred by the Balinese Hindu It’s not just a hiking trail—it’s a holy site.
- Littering, noise pollution, and disrespectful clothing or behavior near local shrines dishonors the cultural significance of the area.
- Volcanic terrain is fragile; wandering off trail can damage natural regrowth and lead to erosion.
- Hot springs, while relaxing, are shared spaces—bathing suits should be modest, and loud or disruptive behavior is discouraged.
Better Ways to Experience Batur Responsibly
- Leave No Trace
Carry out everything you bring in—snack wrappers, tissues, wa just in case.
- Shoot With Sensitivity
Avoid blocking trails or standing on shrine platforms to “get th performing ceremonies in the area.
- Support the Locals
Many guides, vendors, and hot spring staff come from nearby tip, or buying from their small stalls makes a difference.
- Stick to the Trail
The path is marked for a reason. Straying off-trail contributes t preserve the landscape.
- Share the Space Respectfully
Hot springs are often used by locals too. Be courteous—keep n behavior, and cover up when outside the pools.
Pro Tip:
If you’re unsure whether something is appropriate—whether it’s wh photographing, or how you’re interacting with locals—just ask your g share the cultural context and will appreciate your curiosity and care.
Location:
Mount Batur & Kintamani, Bali — an active volcano surrounded by b and sacred temple grounds nestled in Bali’s northeastern highlands.
How to Reach Mount Batur:
From Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar):
Roughly 2–3 hours by car depending on traffic and starting point (Ub Canggu).
- By Private Driver: Most popular and Cost r return day trip, often including sunrise hike coordination.
- By Scooter: Not recommended for sunrise hikes due to pit Better suited for daytime exploration of Kintamani region.
- By Group Tour: Budget-friendly and coordinated. Most pa Ubud), guide, basic breakfast, and optional hot spring visit.
Best Time to Visit:
- April to September: Dry season—cooler mornings, clearer sunrise views, and easier hiking conditions.
- October to March: Rainy season—expect slick trails, misty views, and fewer Hike still possible but may be more challenging.
Ideal Duration for Batur Day Trip: 1 Full Day (2am–3pm):
- Sunrise hike (or jeep ride)
- Post-hike coffee or breakfast
- Explore Black Lava Fields
- Relax at Batur Hot Springs
Hidden Photography Gems:
- Lake Batur at Dawn: Before the sun fully rises, capture the mirror-like water reflecting the first light.
- Black Lava Fields: Shoot in high-contrast daylight—sharp shadows and textures pop against the terrain.
- Steam Vents at the Summit: Catch eggs being cooked in volcanic steam for a candid cultural moment.
- Jeep Trails: Dramatic shots as vehicles kick up dust against the ash-colored ridges.
Pro Travel Tips:
- Bring a Jacket: Even tropical Bali gets cold in the highlands—especially before sunrise.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Hiking shoes with good grip are a must for loose gravel trails.
- Pack Light, but Smart: Bring a flashlight or headlamp, snacks, gloves, and extra layers.
- Respect the Silence: Keep voices low during the sunrise moment—it’s as much about atmosphere as view.
- Don’t Skip the Hot Springs: Bring swimwear and a towel to enjoy the relaxing geothermal pools afterward.
- Book in Advance During High Season: Popular sunrise treks fill up quickly—reserve your spot early.
- Tip Your Guide: A small tip goes a long way in supporting local livelihoods.
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Hi, I’m Nitisha. I grew up in a world that told me to follow the script, but somewhere along the way I traded the script for a compass. These days, I follow where my feet and heart lead, from sleepy towns to saltwater coves, capturing stories that feel like home even when I’m far from it.
