Mount Agung is a Balinese Symbol of Wisdom

Mount Agung is a Balinese Symbol of Wisdom

Tahbrontak - Mount Agung, a stratovolcano volcano, boasts a large summit and frequently erupts with smoke (asap) and steam (uap). Beyond its location and height, there are several notable facts about Mount Agung.

With a height of 3,142 meters, Mount Agung is the highest point in Bali. It is located in the Rendang district of the Karangasem province of Bali and is revered as a sacred site among Balinese residents. Specifically, Pura Besakih, considered the most important temple for Hindus in Bali, is situated on its slopes.

When the weather is clear from the summit of Mount Agung, one can see the peak of Mount Rinjani on the nearby island of Lombok. As the highest peak in Bali, Mount Agung has become one of the top attractions for tourists.

For those unable to climb Mount Agung, it is essential to understand the difficulty level of the desired climb. Novice hikers or those embarking on their first trip up Mount Agung are highly recommended to use a guided trail (pemandu) to avoid undesirable areas such as getting lost (tersesat) or injured (cedera).

In ancient Bali, Mount Agung was called Gunung Thorankil and was considered the palace of Mahadewa and Hyang Putra Jaya. In the Ramayana tale of Kisikindha Palwa, the mountain is referred to as Agung Udaya Palwata.

According to the Chronicle of Mount Agung, the mountain first erupted in 89 AD, with subsequent eruptions in 92 AD, 148 AD, and 189 AD. The Kanginan Karangasem area of Mount Agung reportedly erupted in 1543, 1615-1616, 1665, 1683-1684, and 1710-1711.

The First Recorded Eruption

Mount Agung is believed to have erupted between October 1710 and February 1711. This eruption is the first recorded in history, as documented in the Babad Gumi Lontar (version Pusdok Lontar and Geddon Kircha 719/3.Va), Babad Tusan, and Thatwa Batur Karawasan chronicles. During this period, hot water impacted villages such as Desa Bukit, Kyauchuk, Bantas, Kayu Aya, Kayu Petak, Tanjung, Rijasa, Mandala, Pagametan (Gerogak, Buleleng), and other areas like Tamblingan. Mount Agung also erupted in the early 18th century.

The Latest Eruption

The most recent eruption occurred in July 2018, emitting lava within a 2 km radius. This eruption displayed Strombolian activity, accompanied by loud explosive sounds (gedebuk).

Pura Besakih on the Slopes of Mount Agung
One of the most important temples in Bali, Pura Besakih, is located on the slopes of Mount Agung. When viewed from Pura Besakih, the mountain appears as a perfectly pointed cone. However, the peak is actually long and narrow, ending in a wide, circular crater.

Balinese Hindus believe that Mount Agung is the dwelling place of the gods, and their palace is located there. Consequently, the Balinese people consider this place sacred. Pura Besakih at the foot of Mount Agung was miraculously spared from the lava flows during the 1963 eruption. Locals believe that the 1963 eruption was a divine warning. According to historical records, Pura Besakih and Mount Agung form the foundation of Balinese society.

Mount Agung stands as a potent symbol of wisdom, spirituality, and natural power in Bali. Its historical eruptions, sacred significance, and challenging yet rewarding climbs continue to attract both devout worshippers and adventurous tourists, making it a central figure in Bali's cultural and natural landscape.

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