Most visitors to Kintamani come for the famous Mount Batur sunrise trek, but tucked away on the quieter side of the caldera lies Trunyan Hill, a place with a very different kind of energy.
Known locally as Bukit Trunyan, and rising above the mysterious Bali Aga village of Trunyan, the hill is wrapped in dense forest and steeped in traditions that most outsiders only ever hear whispers of.
Hiking here isn’t just a trek through the trees; it’s a journey into a living cultural landscape. Between the hidden trails, tranquil forest, and the sense of history that lingers in the air, Trunyan Hill is one of Bali’s most unforgettable corners.
Where Is Trunyan Hill?
Trunyan Hill is found on the eastern side of Lake Batur, in Bali’s Kintamani region. It rises above Trunyan Village, with sweeping views across the caldera, Mount Abang, and the iconic Mount Batur.
From Ubud, the journey takes about 1.5 hours by car, while Lovina on Bali’s north coast is just over an hour away. Travelling from Canggu or Kuta takes closer to 3 hours, making it a long trip but still doable as part of a full-day itinerary.
Its location, away from the busy tourist areas, gives the hill a quiet, secluded atmosphere that feels far removed from the bustle of southern Bali.
Address: Br. Madia Desa, Terunyan, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
How To Get To Trunyan Hill
Getting to Trunyan Hill takes a bit of planning, since it’s off the main tourist roads. To get to the general area:
- Private Car and Driver – Hiring a private car and driver is the most practical option, whether you’re travelling solo or with a group. You can tailor your visit, stop for photos along the way, and have your driver wait while you explore the trails and viewpoints.
- Guided Tour – Joining a guided tour is ideal if you prefer a hassle-free experience or want some local insights. The itinerary is set for you, which makes logistics easy, but you’ll have less flexibility on timing.
- Ride-Hailing Services – Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek aren’t reliable for this area, so it’s best to avoid depending on them.
- Motorcycle/ Scooter Hire – While it may be tempting to hire a bike, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace, we highly recommend against it. The roads are dangerous, and it’s unlikely you’ll be legal to ride.
Once you arrive, there’s a small parking area at the trailhead, giving you a convenient starting point for your trek up the hill. Alternatively, you can take a boat from the western and southern shores to the nearby village, or even from Trunyan Village itself.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Trunyan Hill?
The optimal time to hike Trunyan Hill is during Bali’s dry season, which typically spans from April to October. This period offers clearer skies, cooler temperatures, and reduced humidity, enhancing the hiking experience.
For those aiming to catch the sunrise, starting the hike early in the morning is recommended. Reaching the summit around 6:00 AM allows hikers to witness breathtaking views of Trunyan Village, Mount Abang, Lake Batur, and Mount Batur. On clear days, Mount Rinjani and Mount Agung are also visible.
Is There An Entrance Fee To Trunyan Hill?
As of 2025, there is no official entrance fee to access Trunyan Hill. However, visitors are kindly asked to make a donation at a small registration booth near the trailhead. The amount is not specified, and contributions are voluntary. Some hikers have suggested a donation of IDR 30,000, but this is entirely at your discretion.
What To Expect At Trunyan Hill
Hiking Trunyan Hill is very different from the well-trodden Mount Batur sunrise trek. The trail here is quiet, steep in parts, and cuts through dense forest rather than open volcanic rock. You won’t find big crowds, just the occasional farmer or forager passing by.
The path leads you to several natural viewpoints overlooking Lake Batur, Mount Abang, and the surrounding caldera. On a clear morning, you can even spot Mount Rinjani across the water in Lombok, and Mount Agung rising in the distance. The atmosphere is peaceful, with only the sound of birds and wind in the trees.
The trail can eventually connect you to Trunyan Village, but it’s not the usual way people reach the settlement. Most visitors still go by boat across the lake, while the hike is more about the scenery and the solitude.
Most hikers take around two to three hours to reach the top, depending on pace and weather conditions. The elevation gain is manageable if you’re reasonably fit, but the trail can be slippery after rain, so good shoes are essential. Bring water, bug spray, and a light jacket for the early-day chill. Unlike Mount Batur, there are no stalls or warungs along the way, so you’ll need to carry your own supplies.
Do be prepared for a bit of confusion; this part of Bali has a reputation for pushy “guides” who may appear along the way asking for money or insisting you need their help. Officially, there’s no requirement to hire a guide, so use your judgement and be cautious if approached.
If you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic experience in the Kintamani area, Trunyan Hill delivers it: raw forest trails, sweeping views, and a sense of stepping into a side of Bali that few travellers ever get to see.
Trunyan Village – Skull Island
Just below the slopes of Trunyan Hill lies the mystical Trunyan Village, home to one of Bali’s most unusual and sacred traditions.
Unlike the rest of the island, where cremation ceremonies are the norm, the Bali Aga people of Trunyan place their dead beneath a sacred tree. Known locally as the Taru Menyan tree, it releases a natural fragrance that masks any odour, leaving the remains exposed in woven bamboo cages.
Over time, the skulls are carefully arranged on a stone platform, which has led many travellers to call this spot “Skull Island.”
Most visitors reach the site by a short boat ride across Lake Batur, but if you’re coming from Trunyan Hill, then you have several options. It can also be accessed by foot if you continue down the trails from the hill; in fact, many people start the trail from the village and work the other way.
The easiest way would be to take a short boat ride from the shores near Trunyan Hill. Driving is also an option if you’re with a driver, but you have to drive all the way around the lake, as there’s no connecting road!
Whichever way you arrive, the combination of cultural mystery, natural setting, and the raw reminder of mortality makes this place a pure wonder.
Trunyan Village isn’t for everyone, but if you’re curious about Bali’s oldest traditions and want to experience something far beyond the usual tourist itinerary, this is one amazing experience you won’t forget.
Where To Eat Near Trunyan Hill
Food options directly on the Trunyan Hill side of Lake Batur are limited, so we definitely recommend bringing some snacks for the trek.
Once you’re done, or if you want a hearty breakfast to fuel your day, the western shore near the hot springs has a few great spots.
Oemah Kitchen by Men Cip
We stopped here for a late breakfast and were impressed by the mix of local and Western dishes. The coffee was strong, the service was friendly, and the view of the lake made it the perfect spot to refuel before heading out on the trails.
Where Is It? Jl. Pendakian Gn. Batur, Batur Tengah, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
De Laugh Tale Kitchen & Bar
This place has a relaxed vibe and a varied menu, from small plates to hearty mains. We lingered over lunch and appreciated the attentive staff, plus it was a comfortable spot to plan the next leg of our day.
Where Is It? Jl. Pendakian Gn. Batur, Batur Tengah, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
BD Resto and Bar
We found BD Resto on the western shore and really enjoyed the fusion menu, with sushi rolls and fresh ingredients that felt a cut above standard tourist food. The casual, modern setting made it a nice stop after hiking around the lake.
Where Is It? Jl. Pendakian Gn. Batur, Batur Tengah, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Wayan Kitchen And Bar
A simple, local-friendly spot in Toya Bungkah. We tried some traditional Balinese dishes here and enjoyed the no-fuss, homely feel; it felt like a genuine slice of local life.
Where Is It? Jl Songan, Toya Bungkah, Songan A, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Online: Facebook
Where To Stay Near Trunyan Hill
There are countless hotels, guesthouses and homestays around the Lake Batur area – though none in the immediate vicinity of the hill. We managed to check a few of them out:
Ruma Mahavidna
We stayed here for a night and loved the quiet atmosphere. The rooms open onto lush gardens, and the infinity pool has a view straight across the lake.
Breakfast was fresh and filling, perfect fuel before a morning hike.
Where Is It? QC22+CCQ, Jl. Pendakian Gn. Batur, Batur Tengah, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Oemah Batur
This small guesthouse was a gem. The mountain views from the rooms were incredible, and the garden and pool areas made it easy to relax after a full day of trekking.
Breakfast was healthy and included vegetarian options.
Where Is It? Q92W+WC, South Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Batur Volcano Guesthouse
We spent an evening here and were impressed by the peaceful setting. The rooms are comfortable with balconies overlooking the lake, and the hot spring bath was the perfect way to unwind.
Where Is It? Jl. Pendakian Gn. Batur, Batur Tengah, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
Things To Do Near Trunyan Hill
Lake Batur
The caldera lake below Trunyan Hill is worth a stop in its own right.
You can enjoy the calm waters, take a boat ride, or simply soak in the sweeping views of the surrounding majestic peaks.
On clear days, the lake reflects the sky and mountains, making it a photographer’s dream.
Mount Abang
This neighbouring volcano offers a quieter alternative to Mount Batur. The climb is gentler and the scenery equally stunning, with panoramic views over the Batur caldera and beyond.
Many hikers carry on directly from Trunyan Hill for an unforgettable trek.
Hot Springs – Toya Bungkah
The volcanic hot springs at Toya Bungkah sit on the other side of Lake Batur and are a popular starting point for the short boat ride to Trunyan Village.
The mineral-rich waters of the hot springs are naturally warm, making it a relaxing stop either before or after your trekking adventure. Many visitors combine a soak here with the scenic boat trip for a full day exploring the Batur caldera.
Address: Jl. Pendakian Gn. Batur, Batur Tengah, Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali, Indonesia
Floating Temple
No excursion in Bali is complete without a visit to one of the iconic temples. Pura Segara Ulun Danu Batur is the famous one here, and in fact, it’s famous all over the island as one of the most sacred temples.
Address: Jl. Raya Kintamani, Batur Sel., Kec. Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652, Indonesia
Mount Batur
If you haven’t already experienced the iconic Mount Batur sunrise, and you’re spending a few days in the Lake Batur area, then it’s worth a visit.
The early morning climb rewards visitors with a stunning sunrise and views across Lake Batur and the surrounding volcanoes.
Be Aware of Potential Scams
While Trunyan Hill remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, it’s important to be aware of potential scams in the broader Kintamani area.
Some unscrupulous individuals may pose as official guides or demand fees for services that are typically free. Travellers should exercise caution and ensure that any guides or services are officially recognised.
FAQs
Are There Other Creepy Places In Bali?
Yes, actually Bali has a bit of a reputation for creepy and haunted places, and there’s a small subculture of people exploring them.
Think abandoned hotels and theme parks, haunted beaches, and eerie caves. The Skull Island village takes some beating, though!
Can I Swim In Lake Batur?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Batur, but only in certain areas. The lake is considered sacred, and many areas are off limits.
Never swim beyond your limits. This lake is deep, and there are cold spots and some undercurrents.
Are There Tigers In The Forests Of Bali?
No, there are no wild tigers in Bali. The island actually had its own subspecies of tiger, but these unfortunately became extinct in the 1950s.
Final Thoughts On Trunyan Hill
Trunyan Hill is more than a hike; it’s a doorway into a side of Bali that most travellers never see. The views are spectacular, but it’s the atmosphere that stays with you: the silence of the forest, the weight of tradition, and the sense of standing somewhere truly sacred.
It’s not as easy to reach as the usual tourist routes, and that’s exactly why it feels so special. If you’re drawn to places that combine raw landscape with living culture, Trunyan Hill is a journey worth making.
