Hiking Mount Batukaru

This 2,278 meter peak towers over the local landscape, and strongly influences local spiritual beliefs. All local temples have a shrine dedicated to the spirit of the “coconut shell” mountain, and high on its slopes is the public (Kayangan Jagat) temple of Pura luhur Watukaru.

Hiking to the summit of Batukaru is a 6 - 7 hour trip to the summit, and 5 hours to return. A medium to high level of fitness is required - it can be very steep in parts of the climb. A day return trip should be started around 6 am to allow time to return in daylight. Alternatively, an over night stay at the summit in tents or under the stars can make the trip a more enjoyable experience.

The trek to the summit for the most part is shaded by tropical rainforest and the trail is narrow and unsealed. You will climb from 700 m ascending to 2200 m, you will pass small mountain temples on the way, that can only be entered if you are wearing a sash.

On the trek you will see Giant Fig trees, Native Orchids, epiphytes and incredible Pandanas trees. Although this is the home of the small deer (Kijang), wild cats (civet) and Rhesus/Leaf eating monkeys the only likely evidence that you will see is their droppings on the trail. From the summit on a clear day you will see the crater of Batukaru, the lakes of Bedugul, Lombok, Java and Bali.

Source:bali-travels.blogspot.com