Scooter Ride from Besakih Temple to Lake Batur: Route, Timing, and Tips

Riding a scooter to Besakih Temple and then continuing to Lake Batur is one of the most popular routes in eastern and northern Bali. It combines Bali's largest temple with views of a volcanic lake and Mount Batur.

Overview of the Besakih to Lake Batur route

Besakih Temple sits on the slopes of Mount Agung in Karangasem Regency. Lake Batur is in Kintamani, Bangli Regency, at the foot of the Batur caldera. The two places are roughly 30 to 40 kilometres apart by highland road, depending on your starting point and chosen road. The road rises and falls with sharp bends, so allow more time than a map app suggests.

Estimated times and the best time to go

For the scooter ride itself, plan two to three hours including stops at the temple and viewpoints. This rough guide can help you plan:

Note: Visiting times and opening hours can change. Check the official information from the site managers or the local government before you leave, especially when a traditional ceremony is taking place at Besakih.

Leaving early, around 07.00, means cooler air and lighter traffic. Mist in Kintamani often rolls in during the afternoon, so the clearest views of the lake are usually in the morning.

Checklist before you leave

• A full tank of fuel and a check of your tyre pressure, since the uphill sections are demanding.
• Rain gear, because highland weather can change quickly.
• A light jacket, as Kintamani is cooler than the coast.
• Modest clothing for the temple, including the sarong or sash that is usually provided at the temple area.
• A valid motorcycle licence (SIM) and complete vehicle documents.
• Cash for parking and entrance tickets.

Riding tips for mountain roads

1. Use a low gear on climbs so the engine does not overheat.
2. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, especially on bends.
3. Avoid sudden braking on descents; use the rear and front brakes alternately.
4. Stop in safe spots and do not park where you block the road.
5. Follow road signs and the instructions of officers, and wear your helmet at all times.

Tips for enjoying Lake Batur

In Kintamani, most visitors stop at the viewpoints facing the caldera and the lake. For a more relaxed visit, go to a restaurant on the lakeside after you have enjoyed the view. Avoid riding far at night, as the roads are dark and misty.

Rent a scooter for this route with SiapPergi

SiapPergi rents scooters and cars across mainland Bali, including Denpasar and the surrounding regencies. Scooters are delivered to your hotel, villa, home, or Ngurah Rai Airport with no delivery fee, and the catalogue price is fixed in every area. Scooters start from Rp70.000 per day, and every scooter includes 2 helmets. There is no deposit, your passport or ID is not held, and you pay in Rupiah when the vehicle arrives. The minimum rental is two days, and you can book on WhatsApp at 0818-0800-1102 (open 07.00–23.00 WITA).

See also scooter rental in Bali, scooter rental in Ubud, and how to book. For scooter options, see the Honda Vario or the Yamaha NMAX. If you prefer a car for this route, see car rental in Bali.

Note: Licence requirements for foreign visitors and riding rules are set by the Indonesian government and the national police. Make sure you carry valid documents and check official sources, as rules can change.