East Bali is an ideal holiday location for adventure lovers, offering some of Bali’s most scenic and challenging hikes. With towering volcanoes, lush jungle, and breathtaking viewpoints, it’s a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore Bali’s natural beauty on foot. From the iconic Mount Agung to rolling cliffs and rice paddies, here’s a guide to the best hiking routes in East Bali.

Mount Agung – Bali’s Highest and Most Challenging Trek

Mount Agung, standing at 3,031 meters (9,944 feet), is the highest and most sacred mountain in Bali. Known for its demanding trek, it offers an unforgettable experience for seasoned hikers. The hike usually begins around midnight in order to reach the summit by sunrise, where hikers are rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of Bali and neighboring Lombok and Nusa Penida.

• Starting Point: Pura Pasar Agung or Pura Besakih
• Difficulty: Difficult – requires a high fitness level
• Duration: 6–7 hours (round trip)
• Highlights: Sunrise views, panoramic scenery, spiritual significance
• Tips: Due to its spiritual importance, respectful attire is essential. Weather conditions can change rapidly at higher altitudes, so proper gear is recommended.

Mount Lempuyang – The Path to Heaven’s Gate

Mount Lempuyang is home to the famous Lempuyang Temple, known for its iconic “Gates of Heaven” that frame stunning views of Mount Agung. While many visitors stop at the temple, the more adventurous can continue hiking to the mountain’s summit, which reaches 1,175 meters (3,855 feet).

The trek to the top involves climbing over 1,700 steps, passing by lush forests and multiple smaller temples. This sacred trail offers both spiritual and physical rewards, with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

• Starting Point: Lempuyang Temple
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 4–5 hours – (round trip to the top)
• Highlights: Gates of Heaven, temple complex, panoramic views
• Tips: Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat. Be prepared for a lot of stairs!

Bukit Asah Bugbug: Coastal Cliffs and Rolling Hills

For a less strenuous yet equally beautiful hike, head to Bukit Asah near Bugbug village. This relatively easy trail takes you along Bali’s eastern coastline, offering panoramic views of the ocean, dramatic cliffs, and rolling green hills. The hike is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, with a chance to explore Bali’s untouched natural beauty.

• Starting Point: Bugbug Village
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Highlights: Coastal views, peaceful atmosphere, sunset spot
• Tips: This trail is family-friendly and a great option for those looking for a shorter, more relaxed hike. Sunset is particularly beautiful from Bukit Asah.

Telaga Waja River Valley: Jungle and Rice Terrace Views

Located in the Sidemen region, the Telaga Waja River is one of the most scenic rivers in Bali. The trail follows the meandering river, providing opportunities for swimming in natural pools and exploring local villages.

• Starting Point: Telaga Waja River (various points near Sidemen)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 3–4 hours (depending on route)
• Highlights: Rice terraces, river views, off-the-beaten-path
• Tips: Stay overnight in one of Sidemen’s eco-lodges for a full rural experience.

Ababi to Tirta Gangga: A Scenic Cultural Walk

The trek to Tirta Gangga Water Palace offers a mix of culture and nature. Starting from a nearby village, this walk takes you through picturesque rice terraces, local farming communities, and bamboo forests, leading to the famous water palace, known for its stunning architecture and refreshing pools.

• Starting Point: Ababi Village
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Highlights: Rice terraces, local villages, and the water palace
• Tips: After the hike, relax at the water palace and enjoy a swim in the cool, fresh water pools.

Mount Batur – Sidemen Route Alternative

Mount Batur is generally accessed from Kintamani, but adventurous hikers can take an alternative route from the Sidemen region in East Bali. This lesser-known trail offers a quieter, more immersive experience, passing through rural landscapes before reaching the volcano’s summit. The sunrise view from Mount Batur’s peak is one of the most famous sights in Bali, but this route ensures you avoid the crowds.

• Starting Point: Sidemen Village
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 5–6 hours (round trip)
• Highlights: Quiet trail, sunrise, volcanic landscape
• Tips: Hire a guide for this trail as it can be difficult to navigate independently.

General Tips for Hiking in Bali

The best time to hike anywhere in Bali is the dry season between April and October. In the rainy season trails can be slippery and even dangerous. You’ll need comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket if you are going up Mount Agung or Mount Batur.

You will definitely need a guide for Mount Agung and Mount Batur and it’s a good idea for some of the other hikes as well. Many guides will be knowledgeable about the local culture and spiritual significance of certain areas so are great to have for advice and information on local regulations, and appropriate clothing.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb up Bali’s volcanoes or a relaxing trek through picturesque villages and rice terraces, East Bali offers a diverse range of experiences. With stunning views, spiritual significance, and the chance to connect with nature, these trails are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Bali beyond its beaches.