Mount Agung Climbing Closed for One Month During Sacred Ceremony at Besakih Temple

The Bali Provincial Government through the Department of Forestry and Environmental Affairs has officially temporarily closed climbing activities to Mount Agung in Karangasem Regency. The closure will last approximately one month, from 28 March to 25 April 2026.

This measure has been taken to honour the observance of the sacred religious ceremonies of Tawur Tabuh Gentuh and Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh at Pura Agung Besakih.

The Head of the Forest Management Unit (KPH) East Bali, Made Maha Widyartha, has signed an official letter numbered B.24.500.4/1352/UPTD.KPHB/DKLH on 10 March 2026 to serve as guidance for the community and tourism operators.

Respect for Religious Ritual

Widyartha explained that this appeal refers to a letter from the General Chair of Prawartaka Tawur Tabuh Gentuh Lan Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh dated 6 March 2026.

“We urge all members of the community to refrain from climbing Mount Agung for the time being from 28 March to 24 April 2026,” he stated in Denpasar.

The ban applies to all segments of society, including travel agencies, nature enthusiast communities, and independent climbers, in order to maintain the sanctity and smooth execution of rituals at Bali’s largest temple.

Upholding Official Integrity

In addition to restricting climbing activities, the KPH East Bali unit has also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of public services. The community is asked not to offer any form of compensation to field officers during the closure period or in other routine services.

“If there are any irregularities committed by our staff when providing services, we urge that complete reports be filed with authentic evidence through www.lapor.go.id. We will not hesitate to carry out further legal proceedings in accordance with applicable regulations,” Widyartha stated firmly.