Kintamani Village Tour with Besakih Temple

Exploring Bali’s Cultural and Scenic Gems: A Review of the Kintamani Village Tour with Besakih Temple

Bali’s landscapes and spiritual sites are among the most captivating in Indonesia, and this Kintamani Village and Besakih Temple tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into both. Priced at around $57 per person, it includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it a convenient way to see some of Bali’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing transport. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, packed with memorable views, cultural experiences, and opportunities to connect with local traditions.

One aspect we truly appreciate about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and spiritual heritage. From the panoramic vistas of Mount Batur to the intricate temples of Besakih, it’s a package designed for those eager to soak in Bali’s essence. The inclusion of an experienced driver and guide adds value, ensuring you gain insight into each stop. However, the tour’s pacing means you’ll be on the move for most of the day, which might be tiring for some travelers. It’s ideal for those who love exploring with a structured itinerary and prefer a guided experience rather than venturing solo. If you want a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and convenience, this tour could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The highlight is definitely the panoramic vistas of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, which are especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
• Cultural Insight: Visiting Besakih Temple offers a rare peek at Bali’s largest and most important Hindu temple complex, with up to 18 temples on the slopes of Mount Agung.
• Convenience: With private transportation and hotel transfers included, there’s no need to worry about navigating Bali’s busy roads.
• Guided Experience: The driver also acts as a guide, providing useful context and answering questions along the way.
• Value for Money: For just under $60, you get full-day transport, entry tickets to Mount Batur and Besakih, and a chance to see Bali’s top highlights.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is fixed, so if you prefer spontaneous exploration or a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with air-conditioned private transport picking you up from your Bali hotel. The comfort of private transport cannot be understated, especially after a long flight or a night out in Seminyak. The driver, who also serves as your guide, Gede, is praised for being helpful and thorough, making the journey enjoyable rather than just a transfer.

First Stop: Mount Batur and Kintamani Village

The first major highlight is the visit to Mount Batur and the nearby Kintamani Village. Here, you’ll get a chance to admire the semi-active volcano and the spectacular views of Lake Batur. Visitors generally find the scenery at Penelokan very photogenic, with the volcanic backdrop creating a perfect setting for memorable photos. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur from the road in Penelokan are unbeatable.”

This stop is about an hour long, giving you enough time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and perhaps snap some shots of the smoky volcano with the lake below.

Mount Batur and Lake Batur

Next, you’ll visit Mount Batur itself, which is a semi-active volcano. The tour includes an admission ticket and about an hour to appreciate the landscape. This is an ideal spot for those interested in Bali’s volcanic origins and natural beauty. The panoramic perspective from this vantage point is often described as breathtaking, especially when the clouds drift away or during early mornings.

Lake Batur is the third stop, where you can see the volcanic caldera lake that’s nestled inside Mount Batur’s crater. It’s a free stop, allowing you to observe the tranquil water and perhaps spot local fishermen. The highlight is the stunning contrast between the calm lake and the rugged volcanic terrain.

Kintamani Village

The tour then takes you to Kintamani, a village famous for its spectacular views. Here, you can stroll around and take in the scenery from various vantage points. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy some local snacks, or chat with locals about their life near the volcano. Many travelers mention that the views here are truly memorable, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Visiting Besakih Temple

The last major stop is Besakih Temple, the largest and most significant Hindu temple complex in Bali. Often called the “Mother Temple”, it is set on the slopes of Mount Agung and comprises up to 22 temples. The temple’s architecture and spiritual atmosphere are captivating, and the admission ticket is included.

Expect about an hour at this site; the guide will likely share some insights into the temple’s spiritual significance and architecture. Visitors frequently comment on the peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to witness locals offering prayers. One reviewer highlighted, “Feeling at peace once at Besakih Temple, I realized how important religion is in Balinese life.”

Practical Aspects

The entire day is structured to maximize sightseeing while maintaining comfort. The transportation is air-conditioned and private, which is a considerable perk, especially during Bali’s hotter months. The guides are noted for their helpfulness and knowledge, enhancing the experience with cultural context.

Since lunch and dinner are not included, travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food at stops like Kintamani or near the temples. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the walking and steps involved at some sites.

Authenticity and Additional Insights

From reviews, we learn that Gede, the driver-guide, is appreciated for his thorough explanations and helpful attitude. One guest mentioned, “He was very helpful and thorough with his work,” which adds to the overall value of the experience. The tour also provides a chance to see Bali’s spiritual life in action, especially at Besakih, where locals perform prayers and rituals.

What’s Not Included and Considerations

While the tour offers great value, it does not include lunch or personal expenses, so travelers should budget accordingly. The cancellation policy is flexible — free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance — which is helpful if plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who are interested in scenic landscapes and Balinese culture but prefer a structured, guided experience. It’s perfect for those who want to see Bali’s volcanoes, lakes, and temples without the hassle of arranging transport or tickets themselves. The full-day format ensures a rundown, but it might be a bit long for those with limited energy or mobility.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Bali’s iconic sites, or travelers who appreciate a good value — especially given the inclusion of entry fees, private transport, and a knowledgeable guide.

Final Thoughts

This Kintamani Village and Besakih Temple tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty and spiritual depth. The stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur alone make it worth considering, but the added opportunity to explore Bali’s largest temple complex elevates the experience. The professional guidance and comfortable transport help you focus on enjoying the day rather than stressing over logistics.

While it’s a somewhat full-on day, the experience rewards travelers with authentic sights and cultural insights that are hard to match. Whether you’re into photography, spirituality, or simply want a reliable way to see Bali’s highlights, this tour provides good value for money and memorable moments.

This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to explore Bali’s volcanic landscapes and spiritual sites with ease and comfort. It’s particularly great for first-time visitors who want an organized, comprehensive overview without sacrificing authenticity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers staying in Seminyak and surrounding areas.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending later in the afternoon.

What are the main attractions?
You will visit Mount Batur, Lake Batur, and Besakih Temple — Bali’s largest and holiest Hindu temple.

Are tickets included?
Yes, admission tickets for Mount Batur and Besakih Temple are included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for those with moderate physical fitness; some walking and steps are involved, especially at the temples.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a sunhat are recommended. Bring some cash for additional snacks or personal expenses.

This detailed, balanced review hopes to help you decide if this Bali tour aligns with your travel style. With its combination of stunning vistas, culture, and convenient logistics, it offers a memorable way to experience Bali’s most impressive sights.