Hiking Mount Agung: How to Climb Bali’s Highest Volcano

If you’re looking for an epic sunrise hike in Bali, Mount Batur is the one.

This active volcano stands at 1,717 metres and offers jaw-dropping views at the top. The trek isn’t too tough, making it perfect for beginners and adventure seekers alike.

You’ll start in the dark, climb under a sky full of stars, and reach the summit just in time for an unreal sunrise.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Here’s everything you need to know.

Hiking Mount Agung: An Overview

Hiking Mount Agung is no walk in the park – it’s an adventure that pushes your limits and rewards you with views that feel like something out of a dream. This is Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano, standing over 3,000 metres tall, and climbing it is no joke.

The path is steep, sometimes more than a 45-degree incline, and the final stretch has you scrambling up rocks on all fours.

You’ll start your trek in the dead of night, climbing under a sky full of stars, and if you time it right, you’ll reach the summit just as the sun rises, lighting up the entire island below.

It’s a tough climb, no doubt about it – your legs will scream at you, and your knees will take a beating on the way down. But the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top?

Unbeatable.

Clouds swirl around you, and you can see all the way to Mount Batur and even Lombok on a clear day.

Just be prepared: this is not for beginners, and it’s best to go with a guide (unless you fancy getting lost in the dark). If you’re up for a real challenge and want a Bali experience beyond the beaches, Mount Agung is calling.

Where is Mount Agung?

Mount Agung is Bali’s highest and most sacred volcano, towering at 3,031 metres. It dominates the island’s skyline and is visible from eastern Bali, Nusa Lembongan, and even Lombok.

Locals believe it’s the spiritual centre of Bali, and important temples like Besakih, the Mother Temple, sit on its slopes.

The mountain plays a huge role in Balinese culture, with villages and homes often oriented towards it.

If you’re looking for an adventure with cultural significance, this is the ultimate climb in Indonesia.

How Difficult is the Mount Agung Hike?

This is a tough climb – no sugarcoating it!

The trails are steep, rocky, and often over a 45-degree incline. You’ll need solid fitness, endurance, and mental grit to make it to the top.

Scrambling over rocks and tackling loose gravel makes both the ascent and descent challenging. The altitude can also make breathing harder.

If you’re new to hiking, this isn’t the best place to start. But if you’re up for a gruelling but rewarding adventure, the sunrise views from the top make every aching muscle worth it!

How to Get to Mount Agung

Most people arrange transport through a trekking tour, but if you’re going solo, there are a few options.

Bemos (shared minivans) run to villages near Besakih, but they’re slow and unreliable. Hiring a private car with a driver is the easiest and most comfortable choice.

If you’re staying in Sidemen or Tirtagangga, renting a scooter is a fun way to get there, but be ready for winding mountain roads.

Whatever you choose, aim to arrive early and rest before the midnight trek.

How Long Does it Take to Climb Mount Agung?

It depends on your chosen route and fitness level. The shorter but still tough Pura Pasar Agung route takes around 3 – 4 hours up and 3 – 4 hours down. The more challenging Besakih route takes around 5 – 7 hours up and at least 5 hours down.

Some trekkers camp overnight on the lesser-known north-side route. Regardless of which you take, the climb starts in the middle of the night to reach the summit for sunrise – so get ready for a long, exhausting, but unforgettable journey.

Hiking Mount Agung: The Route

There are two main routes to the summit, and choosing the right one depends on your fitness level and how much of an adventure you’re after.

Route 1: The Besakih Route – The Hardest and Highest Summit

This is the toughest but most rewarding climb. It starts at Pura Besakih, Bali’s most important temple, sitting at around 1,200 metres above sea level.

From here, you’ll hike all the way to the actual highest summit of Mount Agung at 3,142 metres.

This is the only route that reaches the true peak, making it the ultimate challenge for experienced trekkers.

Duration: 6–8 hours up, 5–6 hours down (total 12–14 hours)
Difficulty: Very hard – long, steep, and technical
Terrain: Starts in the jungle, then turns into exposed rock and steep volcanic slopes
Best for: Experienced hikers looking for a real challenge

You’ll begin hiking late at night (between 10 PM to midnight) to reach the summit by sunrise. The first few hours are through dense jungle, so expect a humid and sweaty start.

After clearing the tree line, the terrain becomes steep and rocky. You’ll need to scramble with both hands at some points. As you climb above 2,500 metres, the air gets thinner, and the hike feels even harder.

The last stretch is pure volcanic rock, with a near-vertical climb in some sections. Be prepared for an exhausting final push.

Then finally, you made it! At 3,142 metres, you’re standing on Bali’s highest point. The views stretch across Bali, Lombok, and even Java on a clear day.

Going down is just as tough, if not tougher. Your knees will take a beating, and the loose volcanic gravel makes slipping a real risk. Take your time and use trekking poles if you have them.

Route 2: The Pasar Agung Route – Shorter and Easier (But Not Easy!)

If you’re looking for a slightly easier climb, the Pasar Agung route is a popular choice. It starts at Pura Pasar Agung temple at around 1,700 metres, meaning you have less elevation to gain.

However, this route does not take you to the actual summit. Instead, it reaches the crater rim at 2,866 metres, which is around 276 metres lower than the true peak.

Duration: 3–6 hours up, 3–4 hours down (total 6–10 hours)
Difficulty: Challenging but easier than Besakih
Terrain: Forest at first, then rocky slopes and volcanic scree
Best for: Hikers who want a challenging climb without the extreme length

The route starts at a higher altitude than Besakih, cutting down the overall elevation gain. The first part of the hike is through the jungle, but it’s not as long as the one on the Besakih route.

After leaving the trees behind, you’ll be hiking on volcanic scree and loose rock. This part is steep but not as technical as the Besakih climb. You’ll arrive at the crater rim in time for sunrise, where you’ll have stunning views of Bali, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, and the surrounding ocean.

Unlike the Besakih route, you won’t reach the very top. However, the views are still incredible, and for many hikers, this is enough.

The way down is faster but still tricky. The loose gravel makes footing unstable, so go slow and steady.

Which Route Should You Choose?

If you want to reach the TRUE summit and are up for a brutal challenge, go for the Besakih Route.

If you want a tough but slightly more manageable hike and don’t mind stopping at the crater rim, pick the Pasar Agung Route.

Both routes require a good level of fitness, and neither should be taken lightly. If you’re not an experienced hiker, the Pasar Agung route is the better option.

When is the Best Time to Climb Mount Agung?

The best time to climb Mount Agung is during the dry season, from April to mid-October. This is when the trails are drier, making the hike safer and more manageable.

July and August are particularly good months, with clearer skies and incredible sunrise views from the summit.

During the rainy season (November to March), the paths become slippery and dangerous, making the climb much riskier.

Also, always check the volcano’s activity status before planning your hike, as Mount Agung is an active volcano.

If there are any religious ceremonies at Besakih Temple or Pura Pasar Agung, climbing may also be prohibited.

What to Bring on Your Mount Agung Hike

Climbing Mount Agung is no joke – it’s a tough, steep, and long hike. You’ll need to be well-prepared to make the trek as safe and comfortable as possible.

Essential Gear:

Good Hiking Shoes – Trainers work, but avoid flip-flops or sandals (seriously, don’t even think about it). Bringing proper hiking boots can seriously improve your climb.
Layers of Clothing – It’s freezing at the top, so bring a windbreaker and warm layers. Consider a lightweight down jacket.
Headlamp – Since you start the climb in the middle of the night, a good headlamp is a must.
Backpack – To carry all your essentials comfortably.

Food and Hydration:

Energy Snacks – Bring energy bars, nuts, or chocolate to keep your energy levels up.
Water and Electrolytes – At least 1.5L of water and something like Pocari Sweat to stay hydrated.

Optional but Useful:

Sleeping Bag – If you’re doing an overnight trek, you’ll need a sleeping bag to keep you warm.
Sunscreen – The sun gets intense on the way down.
Trekking Poles – Helps with balance, especially on the steep descent.

Where to Stay for Climbing Mount Agung

Since the hike starts in the middle of the night, it’s best to stay as close as possible to Mount Agung the night before. Here are the best areas to base yourself:

Sidemen – Best for stunning rice field views & local charm. This is a peaceful village with lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and great local trekking guides.

Tirtagangga – Best for budget stays & easy access. It’s close to the famous Tirta Gangga Water Palace and a good base for trekking.

Amed – Best for divers who also want to climb Agung. If you love diving, stay in Amed and combine your climb with some underwater adventures.

If you’re staying in Ubud or Candidasa, you’ll need a 2-hour drive to the trailhead, so plan accordingly.

Hiking Mount Agung: FAQs

How long is the hike up Mount Agung?

The hike takes between 3 to 7 hours, depending on the route. The shorter Pura Pasar Agung route takes about 3-4 hours, while the longer Besakih route takes 5-7 hours. The descent takes nearly as long as the climb.

Is the Mt. Agung hike hard?

Yes, it’s one of the toughest hikes in Bali. The trails are steep, rocky, and physically demanding, requiring good fitness and endurance. The high altitude and unpredictable weather make it even more challenging.

Can you hike Mount Agung without a guide?

Technically, yes, but it’s strongly discouraged. The trail is difficult, the terrain is dangerous, and in case of injury or getting lost, a guide is essential for safety. Many local regulations also require hikers to go with a guide.

What is the hardest hike in Bali?

Mount Agung is the hardest hike in Bali. It’s much tougher than Mount Batur due to its steep, long ascent, unpredictable weather, and rugged terrain. The Besakih route, in particular, is extremely challenging.

What are the dangers of Mount Agung?

Steep and slippery trails, sudden weather changes, rockfalls, and exhaustion are the biggest risks. The volcano is also active, so eruptions are a potential danger. Hikers should check volcanic activity reports before climbing.

How to prepare for Mount Agung?

Train for endurance and strength, as the hike is very demanding. Wear proper hiking shoes, dress in layers, bring a headlamp, food, water, and a windproof jacket. Hiring a guide is essential for safety and navigation.

Other Hikes in Bali

Inspired to add a few more hikes to your itinerary while in Bali? Here are some great options to consider:

Mount Batukaru: Bali’s second-highest peak and a lush, jungle-covered volcano. The hike is long but not too steep, taking you through dense rainforest filled with exotic birds and towering trees. It’s a sacred mountain with a temple at the base, and the summit offers misty, mystical vibes rather than wide-open views. Check out our complete guide to hiking Mount Batukaru for all the details.
Mount Batur: Mount Batur is the easiest and most popular mountain trek in Bali. The sunrise hike is a classic but be prepared to share the trail with plenty of other travellers. The views from the top are stunning, and you can even cook breakfast using the volcanic steam! After the climb, relax in the nearby hot springs at Lake Batur.
Mount Abang: The third-highest mountain in Bali, yet surprisingly underrated. The trail follows a forested ridge, offering a peaceful escape with fewer crowds. It’s dotted with temples and shrines, making it a great mix of nature and culture. You can hike it year-round, and the views of Batur Caldera are fantastic.
Mount Catur: A hidden gem that most tourists miss. The trail is mostly easy, except for a steep climb at the end. The jungle here is full of wildlife, but keep an eye on your belongings – cheeky monkeys love to snatch anything they can!

Wrapping Up

Hiking Mount Batur is hands down one of the best things to do in Bali. The sunrise views, the sense of achievement, and the epic experience make the early wake-up call totally worth it.

Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned trekker, this climb is one for the books. Just come prepared, pack wisely, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget. Now, go chase that sunrise!

Looking for more outdoor fun while you’re there? Check out our detailed Bali surf guide.