Mount Batur Elevation: How High Is Bali’s Most Iconic Volcano?
Mount Batur, or Gunung Batur as it’s known locally, rises to a height of 1,717 metres (5,633 feet) above sea level. While it’s not the tallest mountain in Bali—that title goes to Mount Agung—it’s certainly one of the most popular, especially with travellers looking to catch an unforgettable sunrise without needing to be a seasoned trekker. The moderate elevation makes it a manageable adventure for most people, without compromising on the epic views at the top.
Located in the Kintamani region of central Bali, Mount Batur sits within a massive ancient caldera that stretches over 13 kilometres in diameter—one of the largest and most spectacular in Bali. The volcano itself is active, with its last eruption occurring in the early 2000s, and signs of activity like steam vents and black lava flows can still be seen today as visual reminders of its power. All of this adds to the drama and charm of the Mount Batur experience, especially when you’re standing near the summit, watching the morning mist rise from the crater below.
At 1,717 metres, Mount Batur isn’t an extreme altitude. However, it’s high enough that the weather at the top is noticeably cooler than near the beaches or Ubud. Before sunrise, temperatures can drop to between 10–15°C, so it’s a good idea to wear warm layers, especially since you’ll start the hike in the dark, well before dawn. Once the sun comes up, the temperature rises quickly, making the layers easy to shed during the descent.
While the elevation might sound intimidating to some, don’t let the number put you off—the trek to the top takes around two hours at a steady pace and is totally achievable for anyone with basic fitness. You’ll likely gain around 650–700 metres in elevation during the hike, depending on where you start. The trail is mostly volcanic gravel and rocks, with a few steeper sections near the top. Your guide will lead the way, often stopping for rests along the way, and most tours aim to reach the summit by about 6am so you don’t miss the sunrise.
Because of its elevation and location, the summit of Mount Batur offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Bali. From the top, you’ll see not only the giant Batur caldera and shimmering Lake Batur below, but on clear mornings, you can catch glimpses of Mount Agung, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, and the surrounding ridgelines all lit up in warm sunrise hues. It’s this combination of altitude, accessibility, and scenery that makes Mount Batur such a special place to experience.
In short, the 1,717-metre elevation of Mount Batur strikes the perfect balance—high enough for magnificent sunrise views and a sense of adventure, but low enough that it remains accessible to beginners and casual hikers. Whether you hike it or ride up partway in a jeep, being on the slope of a living volcano at that height, with the rest of Bali still sleeping below, is a feeling you won’t soon forget.
