The Mighty Mount Agung of Bali

Mount Agung is classified as an active volcano, located on the island of Bali.

It is also the highest point on the island with an altitude of 3,142 meters, featuring a humid and cool temperature. Its cool temperature and fertile soil make Mount Agung the ideal area for farming fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Mount Agung and Its Sacredness

Mount Agung, also known as Agung Volcano or Gunung Agung by the Balinese, is considered a sacred mountain, together with the three other mountains in Bali.

Balinese Hindus highly honor the mountain as the residence of the Gods where Mount Agung is believed to be home to Mahadewa, acknowledged as the most superior of all Gods. Hence, this stratovolcano is known for holding the highest degree of sacredness among all four mountains.

Climbing Mount Agung

Since Mount Agung is honored as a sacred mountain, climbers are only allowed during certain times of the year when no ceremonies take place. The best time to hike this mountain would be during the dry season of May to October.

Having a local guide is not just recommended but is required when you decide to hike up to the summit. With its towering height and challenging route, climbing Mount Agung will need extra caution and preparation.

Great physical health and the correct hiking gear is required. Also, always avoid the wet season since there’s a possible chance of flood and landslides during your trek.

Home to Besakih Temple

With its sacredness, Mount Agung holds a spiritual prominence to Balinese as it is home to the Besakih Temple, the most significant temple in Bali. Besakih isn’t just a singular temple. It is a massive temple compound comprising of eighteen groups of temples. The biggest temple, Pura Besakih, is arranged in levels up to seven ranks.

To reach the entry gate, visitors will need to climb dozens of stairs. Visitors will be fascinated with statues of puppet characters from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, lined up on each side of the gate.

The middle courtyard serves as a ceremonial area, where normally hundreds of Hindu worshipers gather in one place dressed in white pristine clothing – a captivating spiritual scene surely not to be missed.

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