Kintamani is known to be one of the most fertile areas in Bali. This area surrounds Mount Batur, including the caldera with its panoramic lake. Kintamani area consists of three villages; Panelokan, Batur, and Kintamani.
Kintamani is about three hours’ drive from Kuta, and the road access is excellent. There are several attractions you can enjoy at Kintamani, from lovely lake, majestic mountaintop, hot springs, to challenging treks. Here are some of the most awesome things you can find in the Kintamani area.
Lake Batur
This lake is located in the caldera of Mount Batur, a volcano that has been dormant for a quite long time. This lake is 13-square kilometers wide and a rather popular freshwater fishing destination. Many people come to this lake to eat in the floating restaurant on one of the lake’s shore.
Panelokan
Panelokan is the best place for you to enjoy the vista of the whole area. This village is the best point to climb Mount Batur. You can enjoy the best view of the whole Kintamani Area from one of its rugged peaks. Green rolling hills, scenic lake, and other peaks in the area combine to be a spectacular view.
Toya Bungkah
Toya Bungkah is the best place to enjoy hot springs in Kintamani. The volcanic hot water here is known for its curative attribute due to its mineral contents. Many people enjoy a relaxing bath in Toya Bungkah’s lakeside hot springs before and after hunting for sunrises in Mount Batur. However, soaking in one of its lakeside hot springs is a bliss regardless of your traveling plans.
Trunyan Village
Trunyan Village is known for its burial sites. People of Trunyan don’t bury or cremate their dead like in other parts of Bali. They lay the remains under a legendary Trunyan tree which mysteriously neutralize any odor of the decomposing bodies. If you are courageous enough to explore the graveyard site, you will see lots of human skulls and bones.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur
Unlike Pura Ulun Danu Bratan that’s built on the side of the lake, the one in Batur is located away from the Lake Batur. Both temples are dedicated to Goddess Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers that govern many aspects of Balinese agrarian life. The Ulun Danu Batur Temple is also unique with its Chinese ornaments dedicated to Kang Cing Wie, the Chinese queen of King Jaya Pangus.
Mount Abang
Another peak to climb in this area is Mount Abang. You will find a calming, almost spiritual trek to the top. Indeed, many locals climb this mountain as a pilgrim. Tourists can enjoy a relatively light hiking experience for about three hours. The ascent usually starts at 3:30 in the morning at Suter Village.
Kintamani is a highland packed with different tourist destinations. You can enjoy a scenic lake, wonderful treks to several hilltops with spectacular panorama, or enjoy a relaxing bath in the hot springs. If you are into cultural tourism, you can also see the unique burial site and an ancient sacred temple.
