Bali and the volcano

When it comes to nature, Bali offers a spectacular volcano mountain view as well as calm and pristine lake. Among the famous volcano mountains in Bali are Gunung Agung (highest point in Bali) and Gunung Batur. Gunung Batur is located at the center of two concentric calderas, north west of Gunung Agung. It is a caldera within a caldera due to its multiple explosions in the past years. From the outer rim, one can view the spectacular Gunung Batur from Kintamani, a touristy place with row of restaurants and cafes.

We attempted to ascend the Gunung Batur in the early morning, while it was still dark. Such an early climb reminiscence the climb of the Kinabalu peak ten years ago. The sky was clear that morning with multitude of stars above. It was cooling too. The climb began with easy walk through the flat plain land. Then slowly we have to struggle to ascend the steep slope of the volcano ash all the way to the top. This should serve as training ground for Kinabalu climb.

We reached the top around 6am and it was freezing cold (I was wearing a thin clothing only). The height was about 1,700 meters. Sunrise was great.

Note that Gunung Batur is an active volcano. Hot steam is still coming out from the mountain crater. The last eruption was in year 2000.

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