The most popular route is the one that starts in Pura Besakih.
9 pm to 11 pm: Your hotel to Pura Besakih
This hike starts at Pura Besakih, the holy Hindu temple at the base of Mount Agung's western peak. No matter where you are staying in Bali, you will likely have to arrange to be picked up late in the night if you want to experience the sunrise from the summit. Most tour operators will collect you from 9 pm so you can start your trek around 11 pm.
When you arrive at Pura Besakih, your guide will give you an introduction to Mount Agung, its spiritual significance, and what to expect on your hike. If you have time, you can also explore the Besakih temple. Otherwise, feel free to have a look around after your descent.
Note: If you really don't want to be picked up that early, or if you feel a single night's hike would be too difficult for you, some hikers chose to spend the night at Gunung Agung (Kori Agung). This campsite is found at the midpoint of the Pura Besakih trail. With this option, you would typically start your hike on the morning of day one, reaching the camp around noon and setting up camp. Then, on day two you would set off for the summit around dawn. This option is rare but possible.
11 pm to 6 am: Pura Besakih to Mount Agung summit
Upon leaving Pura Besakih at around 11 pm, your hike will begin through a dense jungle area, so be prepared to weave your way through the trees. After the jungle, there is a rocky area with large boulders where you'll really have to watch your footing. The most challenging part of the hike is the last hour, just before reaching the summit, where the path becomes very steep. You may even have to climb on all fours.
It will be a steady ascent to the summit with no major sights along the way — just a shifting landscape (however, if you need to rest just ask your guide).
It will take anywhere from 5 to 7 hours to reach the summit of Mount Agung from Pura Besakih, meaning you will reach it by 6 am — just in time to watch the sun rise over the clouds. We recommend staying at the summit for about an hour and a half so you can fully experience the sunrise and maybe even enjoy a packed breakfast.
7:30 am to 12 pm: Mount Agung summit to Pura Besakih
Your descent will be quicker than your ascent. Be careful and take your time as you will need to pass steep slopes.
If you leave the summit at around 7:30 am, you should reach the temple by noon. From there, either head back to your hotel or spend some time discovering Pura Besakih.