Mount Agung
Volcano Bali's highest volcano and Hindu sacred mountain
On Bali’s eastern spine, Mount Agung is a stratovolcano and island focal point: sacred temples like Besakih sit on its slopes, and experienced hikers aim for pre-dawn climbs to watch sunrise above Bali’s lowlands.
.jpg?width=1200)
.jpg?width=1200)
Mount Agung is the dominant volcanic peak on the island of Bali and is the island’s highest point and principal sacred mountain for Balinese Hinduism. It is an active stratovolcano that shapes eastern Bali’s landscape and cultural geography.
The slopes are home to important temples, most notably the large Pura Besakih complex which is considered Bali’s mother temple and sits on lower flanks of the volcano. Treks to the summit are popular with experienced hikers and require guides, as routes are steep and conditions can change with volcanic activity.
The volcano has a history of significant eruptions in the 20th and 21st centuries which have caused local evacuations and ashfall; monitoring and temporary closures occur when activity increases. Mount Agung is situated in eastern Bali, rising above surrounding towns and rice terraces and visible from much of the island.
- Highest peak and sacred site: The mountain is considered the highest point on Bali and is a sacred site for Balinese Hindus, with the major temple complex Pura Besakih located on its lower slopes.
- Climbing conditions: Climbs to the summit are steep and often undertaken at night by guided groups; access can be restricted during periods of volcanic activity.
How to Get to Mount Agung #
Most trips to Mount Agung start from eastern Bali towns such as Amed or from the southern tourist hubs (Ubud, Candi Dasa). The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai (Denpasar); organized treks include transport to trailheads (e.g., Pura Besakih area). Summittreks typically begin very early (pre-dawn) to reach the top for sunrise.
Tips for Visiting Mount Agung #
- Respect the sacred shrines-Besakih and other temples on Agung's slopes are active; dress modestly if visiting temple sites.
- Check local advisories-Agung is an active volcano; eruptions in 2017-2019 disrupted flights and required evacuations.
- Hire an experienced local guide for summit attempts; the climb is steep, scramble-heavy, and can be dangerous in bad weather.
Best Time to Visit Mount Agung #
Best climbed in Bali's dry season (roughly May-September) when the trails are more stable and views are clearer.
Weather & Climate near Mount Agung #
Mount Agung's climate is classified as Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) - Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 7°C to 17°C. Abundant rainfall (1962 mm/year), wettest in January with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (378 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (361 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (299 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Significant rainfall (154 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Regular rainfall (87 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Moderate rainfall (50 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the coolest month with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. The driest month with just 29 mm and mostly sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Moderate rainfall (64 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (150 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cool with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (317 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
