Kintamani Highlands, Bali: Complete 2026 Travel Guide to Bali’s Volcanic Mountain Escape

The Kintamani Highlands are found in Bangli Regency, Bali, and lie at an elevation of about 1,500 metres above sea level.  It is a raised land and part of the Mount Batur Caldera, one of the most visually striking double calderas in the world. It is a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised for its unique 'caldera within a caldera' structure.

The most remarkable thing about the Kintamani Highlands of Bali is the voluntary combination of volcanic landscape, greenery and Balinese villages.  The location is a UNESCO Global Geopark, a designation that protects its geological heritage while integrating the local Balinese 'Tri Hita Karana' philosophy—balancing the relationship between humans, nature, and the divine. It is a must-see for those looking to explore Bali’s volcanic heart. 

The Kintamani Highlands deserve a spot on your Bali itinerary for several compelling reasons:

● Provides views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur.

● Colder climate than the Bali coast.

● Paradise of nature and photographers.

● Traditional mountain village with rich culture.

● Quick excursion out of Ubud and main Bali.

The Kintamani Highlands in Bali are a part of the island that would give depth and balance to your entire travelling experience in the place, as well as enhance the scenery.

Volcanic Landscapes & Scenic Views: The most interesting aspect of the Kintamani Highlands is the volcanic landscape, which is awe-inspiring. Travellers are able to capture the magnificent Mount Batur, its black lava fields, and the sparkling Lake Batur that is located in the caldera, at specified points of observation.

Cool Mountain Climate: The Kintamani Highlands in Bali are cooler throughout the year and therefore more comfortable and refreshing to sightsee, unlike the Bali humid lowlands.

Traditional Villages & Local Culture: Traditional Balinese mountain villages like Penenokan and Toya Bungkah can give a glimpse of the traditional Balinese village setting, with much of their local markets, temples, as well as cultural practices being an intrinsic part of their daily lives.

Coffee Plantations & Cafés: Coffee plantations are also prevalent in the Kintamani Highlands, where travellers can have freshly brewed Balinese coffee and have unbeatable views of the volcanoes.

This is best suited to be during the dry season, which runs from April to October and is the best time to visit the Kintamani Highlands in Bali. These are the months when the skies are clear, visibility is good, and the travelling conditions are good for sightseeing. Seasonal weather patterns in the Kintamani Highlands are influenced by their volcanic caldera geography, which often causes cloud formation later in the day, making early morning visits more favourable for clear views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur.

Ideal Time of Day

● Early Morning: Clear volcano views, fresh air, fewer crowds
● Late Morning to Noon: Best lighting for photography
● Afternoon: Cloud cover may increase, but still scenic

The entrance fee for the Kintamani Highlands in Bali is IDR 50,000 (₹260) per international adult and IDR 30,000 (₹155) per international child. It can be paid via an official online e-ticket system (no longer cash at roadside booths). This fee supports local infrastructure, with special rates for Balinese residents. 

Kintamani Entrance Fees (2026):

• International Adult: IDR 50,000 (₹260)
• International Child: IDR 30,000 (₹155)
• Balinese Adult: IDR 10,000 (₹52)
• Balinese Child: IDR 5,000 (₹26)

From Ubud

● Approx. 1–1.5 hours by car
● Best reached via private taxi or self-drive
● Scenic countryside route

From Seminyak / Canggu

● Approx. 2.5–3 hours
● Ideal as part of a full-day Bali sightseeing tour

Tips: Road access to Kintamani is well-established but involves winding mountain routes, so private vehicles or organised tours are generally considered safer.

1. Enjoy Mount Batur Viewpoints: Several viewpoints across the Kintamani Highlands offer breathtaking panoramas of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

2. Visit Lake Batur: Lake Batur is the largest lake in Bali and a serene spot for relaxation, scenic walks, and lakeside dining.

3. Explore Local Villages: Interacting with local communities adds cultural depth to your Kintamani Highlands visit. Observe daily life, temples, and local craftsmanship.

4. Coffee Plantation Visits: Sampling Balinese coffee while overlooking volcanic landscapes is a signature experience of the Kintamani Highlands in Bali.

● Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking
● Toya Devasya Hot Springs
● Tirta Empul Temple
● Penglipuran Village
● Ubud Countryside

Combining these attractions with the Kintamani Highlands creates a well-rounded Bali sightseeing experience.

Due to the region’s higher altitude and cooler climate, travel conditions in the Kintamani Highlands differ significantly from southern Bali, requiring slightly different preparation and timing.

● Use light jackets because it is colder.

● Begin in the morning to escape cloud cover.

● Have comfortable walking shoes.

● Bring cash to the local cafes and markets.
 

• The Morning Window: Arrive by 9:00 AM. By midday, clouds often roll into the caldera, which can completely obscure the view of Mount Batur.
• Dress for Altitude & Altars: Bring a light jacket or hoodie, as it is 5-10°C cooler than Seminyak. Also, carry a sarong if you plan to visit local temples like Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
• Cash vs. Card: While high-end “volcano-view” cafes now accept credit cards and QRIS, the entry checkpoints and local markets remain strictly cash-only (IDR).
• Photography: For the best lighting without harsh shadows on the crater, the "Golden Hour" between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM is unbeatable.

The Kintamani Highlands in Bali are a cool getaway to the land of nature, providing with it volcanoes, a rich culture, and a relaxing environment. This is a place where even more adventurous travellers are likely to miss out on a more scenic, cooler and quieter side of Bali.

The Kintamani Highlands are a destination that can be included in a day tour or in a bigger itinerary that will enhance the richness and authenticity of your trip. Discover this beautiful place with carefully designed Bali tour packages by Pickyourtrail, which are customised to comfort, flexibility and interesting experiences.