Batu Kursi can be found in the North West of Bali overlooking the glorious village of Pemuteran. Topped by a small temple with a trail that is more a series of concrete steps up the side of the hill, it’s a hike that often escapes any of the most popular lists. But this Bali hike is one that is worth stopping by and checking out if you are in the area.
First of all, this Bali hike could be almost called a walk, much in the same way that Campuhan Ridge hike in Ubud would be called a walk. Unlike Campuhan, however, Batu Kursi is all uphill. A series of concrete steps from the very bottom of the hill to the top. The climb itself will take you only about 30 minutes, but our bet is that it will take a lot longer with plenty of stops to take in the views.
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And views there are! This hillside is almost devoid of trees and shrubs, instead covered in glorious green grass in the wet season, or the typical dry grass that Bali sees during the dry season. This Bali hike is one that will get the blood flowing, but not one that will overexert either. Which is good, because that opens it up for more people to do and explore.
To reach Batu Kursi, head along the north coast of Bali until you reach the village of Pemuteran. Once there, locate a gang heading inland called Jalan Pura Pemuteran. As the name suggests, this will lead you directly to the largest temple in Pemuteran. The hike starts here, or at least, directly behind the temple.
Before you start you will sign a register and pay a small donation to the maintenance of the path. The size of the donation is totally up to you. Head off past a string of small warungs (where you can stock up on water if required) and around toward the rear of the temple. At the foot of the hill you will find the beginning of the stairs, which is also the head of the trail.
Take your time as you climb, and don’t be surprised if you encounter quite a few others on the way. Many locals climb the trail to the temple at the top, and it’s not uncommon for several tour buses to arrive throughout the day. To avoid them, climb early in the morning, or even better late in the afternoon. The sunset from the top is to be seen to be believed.
Toward the top of the climb you will find a branch off to the right. This takes you to a small peak where you will find a swing (for those Instagram posts) and the Indonesian flag that stands proudly on nearly every peak in the country. Batu Kursi is no different.
Keep following the main trail and you will arrive at the temple Pura Batu Kursi. It is only small, but you will also find a couple of resting spots on the peak where you can kick back and enjoy the view.
Batu Kursi is not the longest Bali hike you will do, but it certainly will be remembered. In a region of Bali where you wouldn’t expect to be doing much hiking, it’s a pleasant surprise to find that the hills surrounding Pemuteran are actually honeycombed with trails and walks through what might be described as predominately foothills. Batu Kursi offers one of the more popular of these trails, and a brilliant view and sunset as a just reward.
If you are in the Pemuteran area then check it out. Make certain to get up there in the late afternoon, however be warned that a few locals like to make the trek regularly for the sunset as well. Find your place on the peak and settle in early.
Also remember that there is plenty of other things to do in Pemuteran and North West of Bali. You will find more Bali hikes in the West Bali National Park only a few kilometres further down the road, and don’t forget to check out Gili Putih, the cutest sandy island just off the coast of Pemuteran itself.
If you are looking for somewhere to stay in the area, then personally I would recommend Umma Bali. I stayed there and loved every minute of it!
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