15 Things to Do in Kintamani: Your Guide to Bali’s Highland Escape

What’s the best things to do in Kintamani? Nestled in the cool highlands of Bali, Kintamani offers a refreshing escape from the island’s bustling beach towns. With its stunning panoramic views of the majestic Mount Batur and its volcanic landscapes, Kintamani has become a haven for travelers seeking a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure.

Whether you want to explore fiery volcanoes, visit ancient temples, or relax in charming cafés overlooking serene lakes, there are countless things to do in Kintamani that will fill your days with unforgettable experiences.

The region’s fresh mountain air and lush surroundings make it an ideal destination for those wanting to unwind away from the beaches’ heat. It’s also a hotspot for outdoor adventurers, cultural enthusiasts, and wellness travelers who appreciate the tranquility and beauty of Bali’s uplands. 

If you’re wondering what are the best things to do in Kintamani, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit.

15 Best Things to Do in Kintamani

1. Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

Standing tall at 1,717 meters, Mount Batur is the magnet that draws adventurers to Kintamani. Watching the sunrise from this ancient volcano, formed 25,000 years ago, is an experience like no other. 

Think of a sea of white clouds blending with an orange and slightly rosy sky, with the majestic Lake Batur in the background—it’s like a painting coming to life! The best part? This sunrise hike is relatively easy and safe for beginners, taking only about 1.5 to 2 hours. Just be sure to hire a local guide to avoid getting lost; packages usually start from just Rp150,000.

Also Read: Chasing Sunrise: The Ultimate Guide to Mount Batur, Bali

2. Mount Agung Trekking

Feeling up for a bigger challenge as one of the things to do in Kintamani? Try the Mount Agung trek, Bali’s tallest volcano. This one’s not for the faint-hearted, though. Climbing Mount Agung is a more extreme adventure, taking about 3.5 to 4 hours of hiking. 

But trust us, the breathtaking sunrise and the unparalleled view of the crater make it all worthwhile. You can expect to pay around Rp600,000 per person for guided tours.

3. Visit Lake Batur

While you’re soaking in the mountain vibes, don’t forget to explore Lake Batur. Apart from its stunning crescent-shaped shoreline, you can also enjoy water activities here. Don’t miss a photo-op with this unique lake as your backdrop!

Plus, plenty of restaurants and warungs along the lakeside offer authentic Balinese cuisine with fresh catches from the lake. Maybe you would find one of the best restaurants in Kintamani there.

Aside from the entrance fee (Rp15,000), bring some cash for various water activities like boat rides, kayaking, and soaking in hot springs. The rates vary, but it will typically cost you between Rp25,000 – Rp100,000. Renting a boat will set you back around Rp500,000.

4. Relax in the Hot Springs

Around Lake Batur, you’ll find numerous natural hot springs perfect for unwinding after a mountain hike, as one of the things to do in Kintamani. Choose from Batur Natural Hot Springs, Toya Devasya, BMAS Natural Hot Spring, and more. 

Picture yourself in these mineral-rich volcanic hot tubs, gazing at the mountains and the beautiful lake. You won’t want to leave! 

Be prepared to shell out from Rp190,000 – Rp250,000 for the entrance fee, which typically includes facilities like restaurants, bathrooms, lockers, towels, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary juice.

Also Read: 6 Must-Visit Hot Springs in Kintamani for a Relaxing Escape

5. Cycling Tour

Want to get some exercise while taking in the highland beauty of Kintamani? Opt for a cycling tour as one of the things to do in Kintamani.

You’ll find various tour packages catering to different routes, so you can choose one that suits your preferences. Prices can range from Rp300,000 to Rp700,000 depending on the package.

6. Explore Trunyan Village

Trunyan Village, also known as Terunyan, sits on the eastern shore of Lake Batur in Bangli Regency. The adventure there is not for the faint-hearted people, as you’ll be greeted by a row of human skulls! 

Trunyan Village is famous for its unique burial customs. Instead of traditional burials, the deceased are placed under a special tree called the “Taruman”.

What makes this tradition exceptional is that it doesn’t emit a foul odor despite the bodies being exposed, thanks to the specific tree and environmental conditions. This distinct practice draws tourists interested in Bali’s cultural and traditional aspects.

Trunyan Village also offers scenic beauty, located near Trunyan Hill, with hiking areas and the Hindu temple of Pura Ratu Sakti Pancering Jagat Trunyan. 

To take a glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage and the fascinating customs of the Bali Aga people, you can take a packaged tour starting from Rp500,000.

7. Learn Balinese Hinduism in Pura Segara Ulun

Pura Segara Ulun is a floating temple on Lake Batur, and it’s a sight to behold during sunrise when the temple’s beautiful reflection shimmers on the golden lake. 

Visiting the temple will cost you about Rp50,000, but consider bringing some cash for donations and renting a sarong for Rp10,000 if needed to cover your shoulders or knees. This temple offers a less crowded alternative to Pura Ulun Danu Batur, another popular spot for tourists finding things to do in Kintamani.

8. Luwak Civet Coffee Plantations Tour

Coffee lovers, listen up! Kintamani is famous for its distinctive coffee production, and you can visit Luwak Civet coffee plantations. 

Witness the entire process, from bean to brew, and savor a cup of the world’s most expensive coffee as one of the popular things to do in Kintamani.

Kintamani boasts several coffee estates to explore, including Luwak Civet Coffee Farm, Segara Windhu Coffee Plantation, Alas Harum Agro Tourism, and more. You can hunt for tour packages to Kintamani coffee plantations starting at just Rp800,000.

9. Explore Kintamani Highlands with an ATV Ride

If you’re an adventure seeker, explore the beauty of Kintamani in an exhilarating way—by ATV! There are plenty of ATV tour providers with various routes to choose from, including rice fields, serene rivers, and local villages. 

Imagine riding your ATV at the foot of Mount Batur, through fields of black sand and volcanic rocks. Prices can vary, but you can expect to pay around Rp500,000 for a memorable ride.

10. Learn History in Batur Geopark Museum

Located on Jl. Raya Penelokan, the Batur Geopark Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the geological and cultural heritage of the area. This museum plays an important role in promoting awareness about the volcanic landscape dominated by Mount Batur, one of the oldest active volcanoes in the world.

Inside, visitors explore interactive exhibits including a detailed map of the Batur Caldera, volcanic rock samples, and a simulated eruption display that illustrates Mount Batur’s activity over thousands of years. The museum also highlights how local communities have adapted to life in this dramatic environment. It’s an educational spot perfect for families, students, and anyone curious about Bali’s volcanoes.

11. Explore Ulun Danu Batur Temple

Ulun Danu Batur Temple is one of Bali’s most sacred sea temples. Dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, this temple complex comprises nine smaller temples with intricate Balinese architecture. Situated near Lake Batur’s northern edge, it offers a culturally rich experience paired with stunning natural vistas.

Visitors can explore the temple grounds, learn about the religious significance of the site, and enjoy the backdrop of serene water and mountains. The temple is a living place of worship, so respectful visit behavior and appropriate dress (sarong and sash) are required.

The entrance fee is around Rp75,000 per person, with sarong rental available on site. If you’re planning a visit, mornings would be better to avoid the crowds.

12. Kintamani Cafe-Hopping

For coffee lovers and foodies, cafe hopping in Kintamani offers a perfect blend of local flavors, cozy atmospheres, and spectacular views. Popular cafés like Good Karma Waroeng, Paperhills, and Ritatkala Cafe line the roads near Mount Batur, serving quality coffee, local dishes, and international cuisine.

Many cafés feature outdoor seating with sweeping views of the volcano and the caldera lake, making them ideal spots for relaxing and snapping memorable photos. Prices are affordable, and the menus cater to all tastes, from Balinese coffee, traditional Indonesian fare, vegan options, fresh baked goods, to Western comfort food. The price range is about Rp20,000 – Rp85,000 per menu.

13. Trek to Black Lava Fields

One unique and thrilling experience to add to your list of things to do in Kintamani is a tour or trek across the black lava fields left by Mount Batur’s eruptions. Many tour operators offer Black Lava Jeep Tours, where you can explore rugged volcanic terrains aboard a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

The tour includes stops at points of geological interest, including lava balls, eruption sites from 1964, and lava caves. It’s a fascinating way to witness the raw power of nature and learn about volcanic activity from experienced guides.

Each tour roughly takes about 3-4 hours, with a price tag of approximately Rp300,000 – Rp550,000 per pax. 

Also Read: Black Lava Kintamani: Serunya Glamping di Tengah Alam Bali

14. Shop Local at Kintamani Market

For an authentic cultural experience, visit the lively Kintamani Market where locals sell fresh produce, traditional snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The market is a treasure trove of Bali’s agricultural bounty and local artistry.

Here, you can find unique items such as Balinese coffee beans, spices, woven fabrics, and pottery. Early morning visits are best to avoid crowds and see the market at its liveliest. This is a perfect destination for unique souvenir shopping.

15. Join a Yoga Class or Wellness Retreat

For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, Kintamani offers several wellness options. Various yoga classes and retreats capitalize on the area’s tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous natural setting, perfect for meditation and mindful movement.

Yoga studios and retreat centers offer daily classes, meditation sessions, wellness workshops, as well as longer certifications, combining the benefits of exercise with stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced yoga practitioner, Kintamani is a perfect place. These experiences provide a peaceful contrast to Bali’s livelier coastal areas.

Discover, Relax, and Explore with Bobocabin Kintamani

After a day filled with adventure and discovery, unwind at Bobocabin Kintamani, your cozy hideaway in Bali’s uplands. Located strategically near many of Kintamani’s top attractions, Bobocabin offers cabin-style accommodation blending modern amenities with natural beauty.

Each cabin features smart room technology, including smart windows to adjust natural light, air conditioning, and Bluetooth speakers, perfect for comfort and convenience. The resort also includes free WiFi, a huge parking space, hot water showers, communal spaces, a shared kitchen, and outdoor areas with a campfire where guests can gather around a campfire under starry skies.

You can get Mount Batur and Lake Batur views right from your cabin. It’s also just minutes away from the Batur Geopark, cafes, and other cultural spots. Whether you visit for a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a group adventure, Bobocabin Kintamani offers the perfect base to recharge and explore.

Plan your trip now, uncover the wonders of Bali’s highlands, and make your stay truly memorable. Download the Bobobox app today and book your stay at Bobocabin Kintamani for an unforgettable Bali adventure!

 

Featured photo: Aleksandar Pasaric via Pexels

Writer: Syifa Nuri Khairunnisa