Gunung Batur

The ascent of Gunung Batur (also known as Gunung Lebah, the "Mountain in the Depths") is a great scenic experience, and is not too difficult a climb: the summit can be reached, even by less experienced climbers, in about three hours. Stout footwear is essential for walking on the loose lava rubble and scree. Since the hill is frequently shrouded in dense cloud even in the morning, an early start is advisable.

Leave Penelokan on the road which runs down to Kedisan, and at the village of Toya Bungkah on the west side of Lake Batur, which is noted for its hot sulphur springs, take a well waymarked path which runs up Gunung Batur through magnificent scenery. It is important not to leave the path, since there may be danger from fumaroles. From the summit there are superb views of the barren landscape with its bizarre lava formations, the valley below and Gunung Abang on the opposite side of the crater.

Great care is necessary in walking round Gunung Batur. A good head for heights is essential, since at some points there are arêtes with deep abysses on both sides.

Gunung Batur can also be climbed in about three hours from the village of Pura Yati.