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Wondering where the Mount Batur starting point is? Let’s break it down

If you’re headed for the Mount Batur sunrise trek, you’re going to need to know where it all begins. Whether you're headed for the sunrise tour, bouncing along in a 4WD jeep, or making your way to those steamy hot springs afterward, your day starts at the base of the mountain. Depending on the tour you have chosen, it can be the village, temple, or car park. Most of these entry spots are tucked around Toya Bungkah or the southern caldera rim and each has its own vibe, difficulty level, and scenery.

Main starting points for Mount Batur sunrise treks

Toya Bungkah Village

This is where most sunrise treks begin. It's close to the lake, has parking, toilets, and hot springs nearby. The trail starts from around 1,200 meters elevation and is well-maintained, making it ideal for first-timers or guided groups. You’ll usually check in with your guide here before the 3–4am start.

Mount batur trek

Pura Jati Route

Located a little south of Toya Bungkah, this starting point begins near the temple of Pura Jati. The route is a bit steeper and rougher in parts, with loose lava rocks near the top. It’s a good choice if you’re fit, want fewer crowds, but still want to start from the southeast side.

Serongga Village

This entry is east of Toya Bungkah and a bit quieter. You’ll need to get here earlier, as it’s farther out. The trail is sandy and slippery in sections, but it gives you a peaceful, less touristic ascent. There are fewer viewpoints on the way, so this one’s for people who want solitude and don’t mind a longer walk.

Pasar Agung Temple

This is the steepest and shortest option. It starts from the south side of the mountain and is mostly used by experienced hikers or those looking for a quicker but tougher route. Expect a steep climb over loose rock with minimal signage. Not great for beginners but perfect if you want a direct and fast route to the peak.

Starting points

Starting pointDifficultyDistance/Time to summitFeatures

Toya Bungkah

Easy–Moderate

~5.5 km / 2 hours

Hot springs, shady trees, popular

Pura Jati

Moderate–Hard

~12 km (round trip)

Lake Batur views, group tours

Serongga Village

Moderate

Further, time varies

Quiet, sandy, one viewpoint

Pasar Agung Temple

Hard

~30–40 min to peak

Shortest, steep, challenging

How to get to the starting point

Mount Batur sunrise tours start well before dawn typically between 1:30am and 3am. And if you’re staying in Ubud, you’re already in the best place to begin. Here’s how to get from Ubud to the base of Mount Batur (and what to expect along the way).

Organized tour with hotel pickup: The most convenient option

Why it works so well:

  • You get picked up directly from your hotel in Ubud.
  • You don’t have to deal with driving at 2am.
  • The guide, permits, and entry logistics are handled for you.

Details at a glance:

  • Pickup time: Between 1:30–2:30am (varies by location)
  • Drive time: 1–1.5 hours to Toya Bungkah or Pura Jati
  • Start of trek: Around 3:30–4am, just before dawn
  • Return time: Back in Ubud by 10–11am
  • Cost range: From IDR 400,000 per person (group), more for private tours
  • What's included: Hotel pickup/drop-off, licensed guide, flashlights, sometimes a light breakfast

Drive yourself or hire a private car

  • Book through apps like GoJek, Grab, or ask your hotel to help find a local driver.
  • Departure time: Plan to leave around 1:30am from Ubud.
  • Drive time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
  • Cost: IDR 330,000–400,000 one-way
  • Pros: Door-to-door service, comfort, and flexibility
  • Cons: You’ll still need to pre-book a guide separately unless you're joining a tour at the base

Public transport & shuttle options

Bus or Shuttle to Kintamani

  • Operator: Services like Perama Tour run to Kintamani
  • Cost: Around IDR 320,000–450,000
  • Timing: Buses don’t run before sunrise; you’ll need to go a day before and stay overnight nearby
  • Final leg: From Kintamani, take a short taxi or motorbike ride to the trailhead

2. Bemo (local minibus)

  • Extremely limited and unpredictable.
  • No fixed schedule, especially at night.
  • Super cheap, but not for first-time visitors or sunrise missions.

Frequently asked questions about the Mount Batur starting point

Most treks begin at Toya Bungkah Village, which is the official and most developed starting point. Other routes like Pura Jati, Serongga, or Pasar Agung Temple are also used, but they vary in difficulty and terrain.